Mariss Jansons gave this glorious performance of Beethoven’s great Choral Symphony in the Vatican, in the presence of the Pope, in 2007—so it dates from some years before his complete, and impressive, symphony cycle with his Munich orchestra. There’s a very special sense of atmosphere about this Ninth, and it builds magnificently to its sung finale with orchestra, chorus, and soloists on top form. A unique performance of a work that, when given on a special occasion and in special surroundings as here, can truly soar to the heavens.