The conductor Sergiu Celibidache was a legend in his own lifetime, mesmerising orchestras with his intensity and brilliance, both in rehearsals and in performances – which were always conducted from memory. Prokofiev's most important wartime composition, conceived as a symphony of the grandeur of the human spirit, is paired with Strauss's poetic depiction of death and transfiguration. The Celibidache Symphonic Series celebrates the historic release on DVD of rare footage of the few performances ever recorded for television.

RAI's historic black and white master is faithfully restored for this release, with digitally re-mastered 2-track mono. Included is a 32-page booklet in three languages, with a newly-commissioned essay from Misha Donat on the genius of Celibidache together with enlightening notes on the individual works.

Recorded: 1969 Turin

‘He seemed to have the knack of delving deep into the psychology of individual members of the orchestra, and of extracting from them playing of an almost transcendental nature.’ Misha Donat

‘Celibidache always conducted from memory. There was something majestic about his bearing, which was that of a sovereign magician capable of conjuring up the most astonishing musical sounds.’ iclassics.com

‘...Celibidache foregoes the work’s usual sweet, playful charm for a different kind of "classical" grace, serious yet light, and suffused with nobility. In the process he conjures inner voices and intricate rhythms that emerge with both extraordinary delicacy and convincing power. … While transitions are continuous and smooth, Celi creates a kaleidoscope of shifting colours that we don’t often associate with Prokofiev.’ Classical Notes.net

Running time 77 mins

Region Code All regions
Picture format 4:3

Sound format LPCM Mono
Menu languages EN