Notable Classical Music Box Sets, March 2025

Eugene Ormandy – The Columbia Stereo Collection 1964-1983

Sony Classical’s new 94-CD set documents Eugene Ormandy’s extensive recordings with the Philadelphia Orchestra from the mid-1960s to the early 1980s, following a previous box set that included recordings from 1958-1963. The newer box includes notable digital premieres such as Bach’s complete St. John Passion, Hindemith’s Symphonic Metamorphosis, Schubert’s Sixth Symphony, and Ginastera’s Concerto for Strings.

The collection highlights Ormandy’s broad repertoire, presenting interpretations of works by Beethoven, Brahms, Nielsen, and Bruckner, alongside key Russian symphonies by Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, and Rachmaninoff. The inclusion of Haydn’s Symphonies Nos. 96 and 101, performed with a large orchestra in a traditional, expansive style, contrasts with today’s historically informed practice. Notable concerto performances feature soloists Isaac Stern, Rudolf Serkin, and Leonard Rose, among others. The set also includes Ormandy’s admired Mussorgsky-Ravel Pictures at an Exhibition, along with representative works from American, British, and French composers.

Otto Klemperer – Warner Classics Remastered Edition (Vol. 1+2)

Otto Klemperer’s EMI recordings are revisited in two extensive box sets from Warner Classics, both remastered in high definition. Volume 1, containing 95 CDs, is dedicated to Klemperer’s orchestral recordings, emphasizing his structured and thoughtful interpretations of symphonic repertoire. These recordings, initially made for EMI Columbia, HMV, Electrola, and Parlophone, have been remastered from original tapes and optimal sources to enhance audio clarity.

Volume 2 includes Klemperer’s opera and sacred recordings. It comprises oratorios by Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, and Handel, along with operatic works by Beethoven, Mozart, and Wagner. Additional material includes rehearsal excerpts and playback sessions from Mozart’s “Don Giovanni,” and a bonus disc featuring recollections from collaborating artists. These recordings document Klemperer’s engagement with both opera and sacred music, reflecting his extensive experience and approach during the latter part of his career.

Shostakovich: Symphonies, Concertos, Lady Macbeth – Boston Symphony Orchestra, Andris Nelsons

The Boston Symphony Orchestra and Andris Nelsons’ Shostakovich box set collects all recordings made over the past decade, previously available as individual releases. It features complete performances of the symphonies, concertos, and the opera “Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk District.” Also included are the piano and cello concertos, featuring soloists Yuja Wang and Yo-Yo Ma. These concertos are scheduled for separate release later this year but are already included in this comprehensive set.

Steve Reich – Collected Works

This 26-CDs box set (with 1 DVD), spanning four decades of composer Steve Reich’s career with Nonesuch Records and sixty years of his musical journey, presents a diverse collection of his works. From his early compositions like “It’s Gonna Rain” (1965) to his recent works, including “Jacob’s Ladder” (2023) and “Traveler’s Prayer” (2020), the set offers a comprehensive overview of Reich’s artistic evolution.

Accompanying the music are two extensive booklets featuring new essays by Nonesuch President Robert Hurwitz, conductor Michael Tilson Thomas, Steve Reich himself, percussionist Russell Hartenberger, producer Judith Sherman, and composer Nico Muhly. Additionally, a comprehensive listener’s guide by pianist and composer Timo Andres provides valuable insights and recommendations for enhancing the listening experience.

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