George Szell: The Warner Recordings 1934-1970

George Szell’s commitment to musical truth made him an intimidating figure – even among the other formidable conductors of the 20thcentury. His uncompromising quest for perfection drew performances of exalted quality from soloists and orchestras. In particular, his long tenure as the Cleveland Orchestra’s music director (1946-1970) established it firmly as one of the world’s great ensembles. This 14-disc set encompasses Szell’s entire HMV legacy. Beside such iconic recordings as Strauss’s Vier letzte Liederwith Schwarzkopf, Brahms concertos with Oistrakh and Rostropovich, and the complete Beethoven piano concertos with Gilels, it includes several items making their first appearance on CD. Among these is an audio documentary which features rehearsals with Gilels and interviews with Szell and other distinguished figures.