Mitropoulos conducts Beethoven and Mendelssohn

In this album, Dimitri Mitropoulos conducts two symphonic masterpieces of different eras and styles. The first part is dedicated to Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67, performed by the New York Philharmonic Orchestra, in an energetic and incisive reading, capable of highlighting the drama and tension that run through the entire score, from the famous opening of the Allegro con brio to the luminous explosion of the finale. The second part features Felix Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 5 in D major, Op. 107 "Reformation", interpreted with elegance and brilliance by the WDR Symphony Orchestra. Here Mitropoulos enhances the noble and spiritual character of Mendelssohn's work, with particular attention to timbral transparency and clarity of lines. The album showcases the interpretive versatility of the Greek conductor, capable of naturally transitioning from Beethovenian intensity to Mendelssohn's melodic freshness and orchestral luminosity.