Challenge Classics are proud to present the complete edition of Schubert's symphonies in the interpretation offered by Jan Willem de Vriend conducting the Residentie Orkest Den Haag.

"Even among experts, these symphonies were regarded as second-rate copies of the great Viennese classics. De Vriend's exceptionally fresh and pulsating interpretation, however, decisively corrects the old prejudices and points to Schubert's own emerging symphonic concept." (Crescendo - DE - on CC 72739, vol.1)

"I soon became accustomed to the sheer brio of de Vriend's approach, which included striking variations in volume, decisive accents and many lickety-split finales... combination of delicacy, decisiveness and drive." (Fanfare - USA - on CC 72802, vol.2)

"... the feeling is of musical values leading at every point." (BBC Music Magazine on CC 72863, vol.3)

"The enchanting opening theme of Symphony No. 5 sets what will be the preponderant tone, vigorous and elegant, and that agreeably bracing idiom is maintained throughout both symphonies." (BBC Music Magazine on CC 72803, vol.4)