I have conducted and still perform both versions of Bruckner’s Symphony No. 8. The 1887 version (Urfassung) has a longer Adagio, which Bruckner unfortunately cut in the 1890 version. The coda of the first movement in the 1890 version is a beautiful, lyrical, and soft farewell (a different character than the triumphant closing in the first version). Scherzo and Trio are different. Hard choice. However, since I conducted the 1887 version for the first time some 15 years ago, the Adagio in the 1890 version seems to have been “cut” and lacks the proper proportions. Yes, it’s a tough choice. But I don’t want to miss this Adagio of the 1887 version.

Soon, the 1887 version with the NHK Symphony Orchestra in Tokyo.

I also recorded the 1887 version with Philharmonia Zurich.