This review is from: Paul Van Kempen Conducts Beethoven 3 7 8 Symphonies -Berlin Philharmonic (2 CDs) (Philips) (Audio CD)
The admirable directorial talent of Paul van Kempen still remains in the most absolute mystery. His fame as well as Victor de Sabata was not major just because they were a sort of gypsies conductors, without a fixed Orchestra, they were true wanderers, conducting here and there and being recognized from time to time.
In the particular case of Van Kempen, the main feature was his astonishing ability to transform the sound enriching of clever features I had the opportunity to get (thanks to the infinite kindness of a friend) a live performance with the Concertgebouw of Amsterdam around Brahms Fourth Symphony, twelve years ago and believe me this is the most incandescent and mercurial version I have ever heard.
This set reveals with undeniable veracity, the masterful conduction and accurate phrasing around Beethoven that has nothing to do with previous conductors. Imagination, mercurial breadth and flaming approach are among others, remarkable factors to take into account respect this distinguished director.
Pitifully, this notable director has not received the deserved support through his countless apparitions with this Dutch orchestra. My fervent hope is that someday the priceless files of the Concertgebouw decide definitively to release once for all the enormous amount of treasures that must remain nestled and forgotten; because to my mind this would be the expected chance the people around the world knew more about this neglected genius of the baton