Sony Classical is excited to release the full cycle of Bruckner’s symphonies recorded by the Vienna Philharmonic under Christian Thielemann on CD.

The box set, featuring the composer’s nine numbered symphonies, his ‘Study Symphony’ and his ‘Nullified’ Symphony, incorporates 11 CDs and a 172-page booklet.

This release constitutes the first complete recording of the Austrian composer’s symphonies from the orchestra under a single conductor. Christian Thielemann enjoys a strong rapport with the Vienna Philharmonic and has established himself as one of his generation’s most esteemed interpreters of the Romantic Austro-German repertoire.

The release of Bruckner’s complete symphonies on Sony Classical comes in advance of the 200th anniversary of the composer’s birth in 2024. Few orchestras can boast a proximity to Bruckner like the Vienna Philharmonic. The orchestra premiered four of his symphonies and has enjoyed a unique relationship with his music since 1873, when it gave the first performance of his Symphony no.2. In 1892, the premiere of Symphony no.8 under Hans Richter handed the composer one of his rare triumphs.

Bruckner’s cycle of nine numbered and two unnumbered symphonies is one of musical literature’s great spiritual autobiographies. These 11 scores appear to link ancient and modern sound worlds, expressing both mysteries and truths in their monumental structures. They demand patience from performers and listeners while inspiring rare dedication in music lovers and record buyers.

German conductor Christian Thielemann’s interpretations of Bruckner’s music are distinctive, rooted in deep expertise and sympathy and are characterised by solemnity and patience.