Here’s arguably the best of Bernstein’s live performances of Beethoven’s Ninth, with the Vienna Philharmonic in top form in the resonant acoustic of the Vienna Musikverein. This is, however, a more refined, polished performance than most. The final movement is a majestic display of unfettered joy, Bernstein summoning blistering singing from a superlative quartet of soloists, including soprano Gwyneth Jones and tenor René Kollo, alongside a chorus that brings Schiller’s triumphant message of hope to electrifying life. The beautifully paced Adagio is a breathtaking reminder of Bernstein’s expressive powers and instinct for dramatic arc.