Rodney Corkin writes: >I'd like some opinions regarding period instrument performace of >Classical period music, especially Beethoven. Beethoven's symphonies lend themselves very well period instruments. For example I have a cycle of them by the Hanover Band (under two conductors) and I find myself playing them quite as often as I put on Furtwaengler, or Wand, or Celibidache,all using modern instrumentation. But there is a definite difference in sound. The funereal parts of the Third or the Seventh sound drier, more neutral, as do the joyous parts of the Sixth. HIP delivers a more matter-of-fact Beethoven. But for those who (sometimes) like a less lapel-grabbin' sound, HIP can be the answer IMO. Denis Fodor Internet:[log in to unmask]