Donald Scarinci asked for opinions of Gardiner's Beethoven symphony set.
There's a wide range of opinion concerning this set, and that's a good
indication that Gardiner does not supply "mainstream" interpretations.
Some basic differences from the traditional performance include
significantly faster speeds, greater highlighting of brass/winds,
and more propulsion/less warmth.

I had listened extensively to Beethoven's symphonies when growing up,
and I was pretty much burnt-out on them until Gardiner came along.  His
recordings rejuvenated my interest in the works.

I think that in order to enjoy Gardiner's Beethoven, a seasoned listener
has to temporarily abandon all previous perceptions of how the works sound
best and start from scratch.

Don Satz
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