Dvorák: Symphony No. 9 "From the New World"; Slavonic Dances Dvorak (Composer), Kurt Masur (Conductor), New York Philharmonic (Orchestra) This sizzling performance of Dvorák's last symphony came as something of a surprise. Kurt Masur is usually a solid but unexciting conductor. It seems that he really loves this symphony, for his performance is as dynamic and passionate as any in the catalog. What's less controversial is the fact that he has the New York Philharmonic playing magnificently, making this also one of the best versions around from the technical point of view. It's up there with the select few.