Symphony No. 1 in C major

Ludwig van Beethoven

Eugen Jochum / Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra / Berlin Philharmonic

Late 1950s

Jochum's top choice for the first two symphonies. There's warmth, elegance, grace, and humanity that really fits the music well. Very charming and elegant.

Label : Deutsche Grammophon

Leonard Bernstein / Vienna Philharmonic

1978

A little bit more of Beethoven 'oomph' and power. A large, warm sound with Bernstein's characteristic rhythmic energy, vitality, and beautiful phrasing.

Nikolaus Harnoncourt / Chamber Orchestra of Europe

1990 Modern instruments, but 'period-like'.

Not technically period, but 'period-like' with modern instruments. More transparent, faster tempos, very elegant, and exciting.