[log in to unmask] writes:

>Where then is the perfect St. Matthew to be found? I thought you would
>never ask!  It's Klemperer!!!!

Heartfelt and moving, yes.  Perfect . . . there's no such thing.  I just
re-purchased the 1985 Herreweghe (someone said it's out of print, so I
didn't want to miss having it again); sweet instrumental and choral sounds.
And Rene Jacobs isn't as abrasive as I remembered.  My favorite recording
(intensely devotional, spiritual, unlike Gardiner), I think, overall.  But
it's so different from the Klemperer (which I have and love) that it's hard
to compare.  The Klemperer is nearly an HOUR longer!

I'm glad none of these performances are perfect . . . we'd have nothing to
discuss on this forum!

Regards

Jim Saunders
Portland, OR