Not enough time to give the subject its due, but, a couple of thoughts:
There is a (mistaken) tendency on the part of many music lovers to be too quick to deem a particular work, performance, performer, or conductor the “best”, “greatest”, “most soulful”, etc. without keeping matters in perspective and context. Think about it, many of the great works being discussed are a direct product of societal/political forces at play at the time of the composition, or performance. That is what artists do. Their work is an expression/reflection of the time, with all of the societal/political forces at play at the time. So, to judge a work or performance through a more current lens only is a necessarily incomplete judgment and ultimately pointless. A performance that is “more romantic” is not necessarily a good thing. The works of Shostakovich, for instance, with all the turmoil in the world at that time are seldom “romantic”; nor should they be.
BTW, while “timing” is a very important element of “interpretation”, it is only one factor. Instrumental balance, tonal color, dynamic detail and contrast are every bit as, sometimes more, important choices that a great conductor coaxes from the orchestra to make a great performance.
Sorry to be so brief.
