"such is the white heat conviction of Zander and his players that they make his tempo arguments convincing in performance. Zander is deeply engaged in the ideas of music and the ideas Beethoven sought to proclaim in the Finale. Zander's tempos are never just speeds; they are character and moods."

"An essential buy for anyone wanting to discern the real Beethoven."

"I can't stress enough that this disc is an absolute must for all who love the Ninth Symphony. Bravo to all concerned with this magnificent achievement."

"Benjamin Zander is deeply concerned with authenticity...."

"The conception is startling. Zander energizes rather than trivializes the music...There's a cheeky, brashly exuberant, youthful flow from beginning to end...What fun - what serious fun - to listen to and think about."

"This is obviously a version of the Ninth that must be heard ( at least three times! ) and studied. And if Zander's thesis is finally accepted and followed by others, this will surely come to be seen as an important pioneer recording"

"I can't stress enough that this disc is an absolute must for all who love the Ninth Symphony. Bravo to all concerned with this magnificent achievement."