Favorite Classical Conductor Followup

For those interested in a sample of Kleiber's work, his recording of Beethoven's 5th symphony with the Vienna Philharmonic is a must have. The current CD reissue on the DG Originals label (catalog #447400) also has a great reading of the 7th symphony. It is currently on sale at TowerRecords.com for $8.99

And of course the Brahms 4th on DG originals. I had at one time a Beethoven 4th CD on "Orfeo" label that was also quite good by C Klieber. Unfortunately very limited number of recordings available. Why are there so few recordings, any opinions?

The two "New Year's in Vienna" discs (Strauss Waltzes and Polkas) on Sony are examples of how Kleiber can take the commonplace and elevate it several levels. And they're well recorded to boot.

Kleiber is a very exacting perfectionist who works and records when or where he feels like it. His great reputation also allows him to hand pick the repertoire, the orchestra, and soloists. He gives no interviews. He refuses to be tied to any one orchestra. He works at a pace that allows him to always have a top notch performances. All of these things put together makes each concert and recording "an event". He has been compared by critics with an expert art restorer; who takes the time to strip away centuries of "grime" (tradition), and expose the work of art beneath.