Antonín Dvořák - Symphony No. 9 (Klaus Tennstedt)

Information

Composer: Antonín Dvořák

• Symphony No. 9 in E Minor, Op. 95, B. 178 "From the New World"

Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra

Klaus Tennstedt, conductor

Date: 1984 / 2026

Label: Warner Classics

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Klaus Tennstedt’s frequent guest appearances with the Berlin Philharmonic yielded a highly fruitful collaboration, earning deep respect from the musicians. His conducting approach stood in stark contrast to that of the orchestra’s prevailing artistic director, Herbert von Karajan, offering a distinct and refreshing musical perspective. This artistic synergy is vividly captured in Tennstedt's vigorous performance of Dvořák’s Symphony from the New World, which is now being reissued for the first time. The recording serves as a compelling testament to his unique interpretive style and his celebrated, dynamic relationship with the prestigious ensemble.

Born in Merseburg in 1926, German conductor Klaus Tennstedt began his career in Halle before transitioning from violinist to conductor due to a finger injury. After holding prestigious music director roles in Dresden and Schwerin, he defected from East Germany in 1971, finding initial asylum in Sweden. Tennstedt soon achieved global acclaim, leading major North American ensembles—including the Boston and Chicago symphonies—and debuting at the Metropolitan Opera. He formed a monumental partnership with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, serving as its Principal Conductor and Music Director from 1983 until ill health led to his retirement and eventual death in 1998. An exclusive EMI Classics artist, Tennstedt left behind a definitive discography, most notably his award-winning, celebrated cycle of Mahler symphonies.