Anton Bruckner - Symphony No. 8, Version 1887 (Gerd Schaller)

Information

Composer: Anton Bruckner

• Symphony No. 8 in C minor (Version 1887, Ed. Gerd Schaller)

Philharmonie Festiva

Gerd Schaller, conductor

Date: 2026

Label: Profil

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Concluding conductor Gerd Schaller’s monumental Bruckner symphony cycle, this recording features the original 1887 first version of Symphony No. 8. Capturing Bruckner’s unpolished initial conception prior to revisions, this version is distinguished by a powerful, monumental ending to the first movement, a distinct Scherzo trio, and unique structural rhythms. Recorded with the Philharmonia Festiva, the release completes Schaller's comprehensive survey of every symphonic version and variant. Serving as a landmark milestone within his broader Bruckner 200 Project, this performance offers listeners a rare, illuminating perspective on the evolution of one of the composer’s grandest orchestral masterpieces.

Gerd Schaller (b. 1965) is a German conductor recognized as a leading interpreter of Anton Bruckner’s music. After studying conducting and holding positions at major German opera houses, he has worked freelance since 2006, frequently guest-conducting internationally. In 2008, he founded the Philharmonie Festiva, with which he pursues major projects including the ambitious BRUCKNER2024 cycle, recording all of Bruckner’s symphonies in every version, as well as sacred works, organ compositions, and previously unknown variants. Schaller also champions forgotten repertoire, reviving works such as Carl Goldmark’s Merlin, and conducts operas by Wagner, Strauss, and Verdi. He serves as Artistic Director of the Ebrach Summer Music Festival, acclaimed for its performances in the abbey’s exceptional acoustics.

High Resolution 24-bit / 96 kHz