Favourite Brahms Symphony?

[Brahmsian]

My current favourite is # 2.  # 1 was my favourite for such a long time.

Having said this, my favourite movement in all of Brahms' symphonies is the fantastic Scherzo of # 4

[Geo Dude]

I love them all, but my favorite is the third.  I'm happy to see that it's not the dark horse it originally seemed to be.

For what it's worth, I find the Daniel Harding recording to be the 'perfect' Brahms third.

[madaboutmahler]

My current favourite is # 2.  # 1 was my favourite for such a long time.

Having said this, my favourite movement in all of Brahms' symphonies is the fantastic Scherzo of # 4

hehe  Choosing my favourite Brahms movement would be so difficult. Probably either the finale to no.1, the 2nd movement to no.3, or the scherzo or finale to no.4.

For what it's worth, I find the Daniel Harding recording to be the 'perfect' Brahms third.

I shall definitely have to take a listen to the Harding. Shall look into it! My favourite Brahms 3 at the moment would probably be the VPO/Levine.

[Geo Dude]

I shall definitely have to take a listen to the Harding. Shall look into it! My favourite Brahms 3 at the moment would probably be the VPO/Levine.

Just so you know, the Harding recording is HIP-influenced but played on modern instruments by a chamber orchestra (the size Brahms used).  I find it wonderful and not lacking for a 'big' sound, but some may disagree.

[madaboutmahler]

Just so you know, the Harding recording is HIP-influenced but played on modern instruments by a chamber orchestra (the size Brahms used).  I find it wonderful and not lacking for a 'big' sound, but some may disagree.

Great - that sounds wonderful, I am very interested to hear the sound that achieves. Shall add it to the wishlist now!

[starrynight]

For what it's worth, I find the Daniel Harding recording to be the 'perfect' Brahms third.

I like Cantelli in the third.