Sinfonie Nr. 2 D-dur Op. 36 / Sinfonie Nr. 9 D-moll Op. 125 (Mit Schlußchor Über Schillers Ode „An Die Freude“)

Released in 1966 by the East German state-owned label ETERNA, this two-LP set features the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig under the direction of conductor Franz Konwitschny. The recording captures a significant period in the orchestra's history, showcasing the formal rigor and stylistic continuity preserved by the ensemble during the mid-twentieth century. Konwitschny, who served as Gewandhauskapellmeister until his passing in 1962, was highly regarded for his traditionalist interpretations of Beethoven, often characterized by a focus on structural clarity and balanced orchestral textures.

The album serves as a definitive example of ETERNA’s commitment to capturing the high-fidelity sound of the German classical tradition during the Cold War era. Featuring a minimalist cover design consistent with the label's aesthetic of the time, the release highlights the Ninth Symphony's 'Ode to Joy' alongside the earlier, more classical Symphony No. 2. It was well-received by regional audiences and critics for its technical fidelity and the orchestra's disciplined approach, cementing Konwitschny’s reputation as one of the definitive Beethoven interpreters of his generation.