#37 The Smell of Pride

A very proud symphony. Strong cello lines are noble and vehement, flutes are so urgent. Brasswind instruments sound imperiously, and together, it's a march that cannot be stopped.

And yet, the recording is so plain. Nothing fancy. Pretty fast, totally synchronous, with chamber-like touch. The timpani sound in the beginning is actually made by violas. And the final five chords, oh my–like if they're saying: this is not over, this is not my final word. Well played.

Composer: Antonín Dvořák
Work: Symphony No 8, I. Allegro con brio
Recording: London Symphony Orchestra, Antal Dorati