I've decided to take the plunge into Rachmaninov's symphonies and already
ordered the first symphony on EMI conducted by Jansons.  The discography
being much larger for the second and third symphonies, I'd appreciate
recommendations.  New, historical, sets of all three - it's all viable.

Also, being a Pletnev fan, how are his recordings on DG? Pletnev seems to
bring forth a wide range of opinions.  Another favored composer of mine,
Gergiev, recorded the second for Philips.

In terms of interpretation, I suppose I'm looking for versions
which highlight the 20th century aspects of the works as opposed to the
romanticism of the pieces.  I likely would not appreciate interpretations
which wallow in syrup, but I might be wrong here.  My familiarlarity with
Rachmaninov's symphonies is basically zero.

Don Satz
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