July, 2026: Symphony No. 5 / Leon Botstein / London Philharmonic Orchestra / Telarc CD

This month, we end our survey of the Telarc Bruckner recordings. This is Telarc's second recording of the Bruckner Symphony No. 5. The version used was the one prepared by by Franz Schalk. After Robert Haas' "Original Version" was released, this edition fell into disfavor, yet it holds some interest since it provides a glimpse into the performance practices and reception of Bruckner's music during his lifetime. It should be noted that conductor, Leon Botstein, who has been a champion of Bruckner's music and has led several performances with the American Symphony Orchestra, has recently resigned his position as the president of Bard College in New York. In his capacity as president of the college he was responsible for raising funds and that led to a relationship with sex-trafficker, Jeffrey Epstein. While there is no indication that Mr. Botstein had any dealing with the sex-trafficking, he did continue to contact Mr. Epstein after Mr. Epstein's conviction.