This SACD release puts into perspective both the studio and live versions of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, recorded in 1957 by Otto Klemperer and the Philharmonia Orchestra. These recordings benefit for the first time of the HD remastering from original tapes made for the Klemperer Remastered Edition and the high performances of the SACD format.

“Otto Klemperer's energy and momentum come not from his tempos but from the way the rhythms are articulated. In the first movement and Scherzo the heroic, teeth-gritted determination are physically gripping, In this Ninth combined urgency with masterly control and spellbinding authority, and a dignity all his own.” – BBC Music Magazine about the Live recording

Recorded: Kingsway Hall, London
- 25.X (Egmont Overture)
- 21 & 25.XI.1957 (Egmont Incidental Music)
- 31.X & 21-23.XI.1957 (Symphony no.9 studio recording)
Producers: Walter Legge & Walter Jellinek
Balance engineer: Robert Gooch

Recorded: 15.XI.1957, Royal Festival Hall, London (Symphony no.9 live recording)
Producer: Walter Jellinek
Balance engineers: Robert Gooch & Christopher Parker

First release as Columbia SAX 2276/7 (matrix YAX 69-72 – Symphony no.9 studio recording & Egmont) & as Testament SBT 1177 (Symphony no.9 live recording)
Remastered in 192kHz/24-Bit from original tapes by Art & Son Studio, 2023
Newly remastered for SACD by Circé Studio
Remastered in 192kHz/24-Bit from original tapes by Circé Studio, 2025

This hybrid SACD can be played on both CD & SACD players