Audition: Stravinsky: Petrushka – Lorin Maazel/Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. 1999.

Maazel recorded the work twice first with the Israel PO on Decca, released in 1963 and later in 1999 with the Vienna Philharmonic on RCA.

Late in his career Maazel was partial to re-recording works and so it is here. And, like many of the readings later in his career, Maazel keeps to a very high standard.  He was as ever scrupulously to the score and reveals some glorious details. His Vienna orchestra is accomplished in most areas but as ever in Stravinsky, sounds a little strained at times and complex string passages.

Maazel‘s reading is fine with a score in your hand, but I fear it’s rather hollow in two important aspects.  The reading though intricately observed isn’t really capable of conveying the emotional journey of the story - a murder. The horror/mystery just don't come over. 

The second deficiency is in the RCA sound which robs the Vienna Phil of its central voices.

There is much to admire here but too many things are found to be a little emotionally cold. It's very shallow reading of the score.

There are some highlights, these include the magnificent Vienna horns, the Dance of the Grooms and, as meagre consolation, the final three pages which are exquisitely observed.

Recording 7 out of 10 

Interpretation 7 out of 10 

Performance 7 out of 10.