Karajan/Philh: Beethoven Sym No 1, Ovs Egmont, Leonore No 3 - Columbia FCX 250

Jacket VG / LP EX

This lovely LP from French Columbia (33 FCX 250, French pressing, blue/silver label, mono – no stereo edition exists) features Herbert von Karajan and the Philharmonia Orchestra’s magnificent account of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 1 in C Major Op. 21 and the Overtures Egmont Op. 84 and Leonore No. 3 Op. 72a

All three works were richly recorded in the warm acoustics of Kingsway Hall, London – Op. 21 on 21 November 1953, Op. 84 on 20 July 1953, Op. 72a on 13 July 1953.

For this listener at least, Karajan’s first commercial cycle of the Beethoven Symphonies remains his most interesting, and most daring. Whatever the Philharmonia players thought of Karajan, they imbued their performance with a life-affirming radiance that lingers in the memory long after the music has stopped. 

The reverse side of the jacket carries insightful liner notes by Stewert Deas, printed in French only. he striking cover art makes use a drawing by Gabriel Huquier, done in the style of François Boucher.

CONDITION – PLEASE READ VERY CAREFULLY:

The gradations of condition I use are as follows: MINT, Near-Mint, Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor.

The condition of the jacket is VERY GOOD. There is edgewear and discoloration, more so to the rear panel. However, there are no seamsplits, bends, owners’ markings, or other defects, and the whole remains solid, bright, and highly attractive – overall, a very good collector’s copy.

The condition of the LP itself is EXCELLENT. Although the surfaces are not perfectly silent, and there are a few tics, playback remains enjoayble. If you must have a flawless or near-MINT copy, then please do not buy this LP. Overall, rates as an excellent collector's copy.