I was fortunate enough to hear Beethoven's "Missa Solemnis" live at Disney Hall. I think Dudamel was conducting, but I was really taken by it. I bought a CD with Bernstein conducting. I have no idea how it rates in the universe of conductors on that piece.
You can change the subject. I've noticed that a lot of people have dropped out of the conversation about classical music. I was thinking about changing the subject myself, although staying with women. I have recordings of many fine women who most people have probably not heard of.
Recordings are absolutely important. Although, @stuartk kind of got me back into listening to my old CDs. Some well-recorded CDs sound better than badly recorded albums. But a well-recorded album is the best. I think my best recorded album is a jazz record by the Isao Suzuki Trio, called "Black Orpheus." They paid very careful attention to the recording. There's a drawing on the back of where the mikes were placed. It's a great record and very hard to find at a reasonable price.