Jean Smith

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Jean Smith is a published novelist as well as the vocalist for Mecca Normal and 2 Foot Flame, and her sole previous solo recording was a seven-inch record of recited prose. But she doesn't sing much on her uncategorizable long-playing debut. Smith's done some woodshedding during the three years since Mecca Normal's last record came out, developing her guitar and keyboard chops and reacquainting herself with an old love--the saxophone. She isn't a virtuoso on any of these instruments, but she doesn't have to be to obtain striking and novel results. "Root Smooth Sapling Whips," a deliberate piano-and-sax meditation, recalls the work of her former bandmate Peter Jefferies, but most of the album is given over to resonant, loosely wound slide guitar excursions that emerge from textured voice and synthesizer drones like tangled vines tumbling up a many-tiered old edifice. --Bill Meyer

Tracks:

Partita No.2, BWV 1004: Chaconne
Violin Concerto, Op.77: Allegro non troppo (Cadenza - Heifetz)
Violin Concerto, Op.77: Adagio
Violin Concerto, Op.77: Allegro giocoso ma non troppo vivace
Violin Concerto, Op.35: Allegro moderato
Violin Concerto, Op.35: Canzonetta: Andante
Violin Concerto, Op.35: Finale: Allegro vivachissimo

Tracks:

Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46: Introduction: Grave - Adagio cantabile
Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46: Allegro
Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46: Adagio - Andante sostenuto
Scottish Fantasy, Op. 46: Finale: Allegro guerriero
Violin Concerto, Op.47: Allegro moderato
Violin Concerto, Op.47: Adagio di molto
Violin Concerto, Op.47: Allegro ma non tanto
Violin Concerto, Op.82: Moderato
Violin Concerto, Op.82: Andante sostenuto
Violin Concerto, Op.82: Tempo!
Violin Concerto, Op.82: Allegro
3 Preludes: Allegro ben ritmato e deciso
3 Preludes: Andante con moto e poco rubato
3 Preludes: Allegro ben ritmato e deciso

Amazon.com

For many violin fans, Jascha Heifetz (1901-1987) remains, quite simply, the greatest. Heifetz's perfect tone and electric playing weren't always subtle, but you can't deny the awesome power of his virtuosity and precision. Heifetz: The Supreme gathers some of his best-loved works--violin concertos by Sibelius, Glazunov, and Tchaikovsky--along with a few gems (Gershwin's Three Preludes, Bach's Chaconne from Partita No. 2) into one, remastered two-CD package. The Bach may be too intense for some tastes--it's an impassioned, romantic reading--but Heifetz is merely being himself. On the Sibelius and Tchaikovsky violin concertos, though, his skills are undeniable. Fritz Reiner and the Chicago Symphony provide the perfect accompaniment for the violinist, and Heifetz simply lets loose. Heifetz's Gershwin transcriptions are an added, fun bonus. If you haven't been introduced to the glory of Heifetz, here's your chance. With remastered sound, he's never sounded better. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

The Greatest...........2007-07-25

A wonderful CD which nicely showcases the talents of one of the greatest violinists ever. I loved it

A good taste of Heifetz's musical style and technical supremacy.......2006-04-09

As always, Jascha Heifetz shows his technical mastery of the violin in this CD. He plays each note with intent and a precise control unparalleled by other violinists. His tone quality is also quite good.

While the Tchaikovsky showcases Heifetz's finesse, Heifetz's rendition of the Brahms concerto (esp. the first movement) is very moving. He also shows off his musical range in other pieces; for example the first movement of the Sibelius violin concerto has a quiet & mysterious element, while the last movement of the Glazunov is full of energy.

However, Heifetz's rendition of Bach's Chaconne is different than most. For those who enjoy a more traditional interpretation, I would go with Nathan Milstein's version.

This is Great stuff.......2005-03-27

That Jascha Heifetz was a great violinist, no one can quibble;
but if you want only one version of the Tchaikovsky violin concerto it has to be Isaac Stern's for perfection. It must be said, though, that Heifetz and Ricci play a much more difficult version of this concerto than does Stern. Stern's score has more cuts. If you've got enough money to get Heifetz' complete discography, do so. If you want only one disk of the Tchaikovsky, it has to be Isaac's. Nobody did it better. You can get the other Heifetz tracks on other compilations. I would recommend owning both the Heifetz and the Stern recordings because the versions are so different, and Heifetz shows you in this recording the
phenomenal technique he possessed that was made the standard of all violinists after him. You can also see Heifetz perform this
concerto (excerpts) in the video 'Carnegie Hall'. The man was simply astounding.

Long review, but please read........2005-02-16

I am also a violinist myself of 13 years. I have played most of these violin concertos almost a year ago.
Heifetz delivers his interpretation to the audience. I always viewed Heifetz as very stern and a reserved man, that he did not show any emotion.
After listening to this CD, my judgment was suddenly changed.

To start with, the Bach Chacconne deserves much credit. Heifetz recorded this live (I have the video)around the age of 70. Despite his age, he performed this piece with such passion and power. His vibrato was perfect for Bach's baroque style. I have listened to this over 300 times (no exaggerating).

Then, there's the Brahm's violin concerto. Heifetz DID play a little fast, but his interpretation made up for it. I personally loved his 3rd movement, which was flawless. As I listened to it, I could feel his bow contact with the violin string. It was unbelievable.

Then, the favorite of mine, Tchaikovsky's violin concerto was incredibly played. Even Kyung Wha Chung's musical ideas could not compete with Jascha Heifetz's perfection. I loved the musical parts, which was very emotional. It was great. Also, I just want to point out the 3rd movement. In his harmonics (the notes that sound like whistling) it was so pure and neat that I simply could not describe it in words, You must hear for yourself.

The Bruch's Scottish Fantasy was one of my favorites. The introduction was so mellow and sad. Once again, I really cannot describe it in words. I advise you to listen to this right now.

The Sibelius Violin Concerto, one of my favorites, was simply played inconceivably. His tone quality was exceptional, and I could not believe such power that Mr. Heifetz had in him.

His Glazunov Concerto was great too. I loved his tone quality and interpretation.

Finally, his Gershwin preludes added a final jazz touch to the album which would enlighten all the listeners after all those minor keyed concertos.

I encourage, no recommend, no COMMAND you to get this album now. I promise you. You will not regret it.

ok for bargin.......2003-09-20

This two cd set is a good bargin for $16. It has good song selection including the chaconne by Bach, Concerto in D major by Brahms and Tchaikovsky, etc..

The remastering of the concerto's by brahms and tchaikovsky were not as good as what I had expected. If you are only looking for these two concertos, you may want to try the "living stero" version. The Scottish fantasy, chaconne, and sibelius in this recording sounds better than the brahms and tchaikovsky.

Tracks:

Men Of Freedom
The Longest Day
Into The Fire
Rise Up, O Men Of God
On Great Lone Hills
Lest We Forget
Mansions Of The Lord (Interlude)
Mansions Of The Lord
Jerusalem
Via Dolorosa
Non Nobis
The Star-Spangled Banner
Take Me Home (With I Am A Soldier)
America (My Country 'Tis Of Thee)
Men Of Freedom
This Christmastide

Customer Reviews:

bowersreview.......2007-01-04

Exceptional CD. Inspirational and motivational. Highy recommend this for anyone seeking great quality music.

USMA Glee Club scores a real hit.......2006-11-14

This album is awe-inspiring. I bought the album after hearing an out take from "Men of Freedom", the tune is from an old Welsh battle song. You will recognize the tune if you saw Zulu Dawn with Michael Caine. Many of the other songs are equally powerful and mesmerizing. The only songs I didn't like were when the Glee club used guest soloists. They were less impressive and, in my opinion, took away from the strength of the group.

I liked the multiple verses sung from America, I wished they would have given the Star Spangled Banner the same treatment. The Mansions of the Lord is powerful and supremely reverent, as is Rise Up. I would dearly like to hear more from this talented group of soldiers.

Reverent, Full of Love.......2006-09-26

When I saw and heard this music broadcast Veteran's Day on TBN and my friends serving in our Armed Forces in Iraq saw it broadcast on Armed Forces Network, I was so happy to find the stereo CD and companion Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound DVD on Amazon. I cannot stop listening to it! The 60 minute musical program, reminiscent of the great concept albums of years ago, is one of the most reverent, intelligent and passionate portrayals of America's character ever produced. It contains many styles of choral music - all superbly performed by the world famous Cadet Glee Club of West Point arrayed in breathtaking formation on the altar of the massive 100 year old Cadet Chapel. There are richly textured vocal a capella songs such as "Rise Up O Men of God", "Manisons of the Lord", one of the most popular new hymns written, and "America (My Country `Tis of Thee)". Your buttons will burst with pride when you hear the brand new song "Men of Freedom" introduced by a single Cadet then followed by a cascade of additional voices building to a unified and thunderous declaration of defiant freedom in a style reminiscent of the great Welsh Male Choirs. Four songs highlight the power and majesty of the largest church organ in the world. You'll have to fight the urge to stand at attention when you hear and feel its power kick in on "Lest We Forget", "On Great Lone Hills", "Jerusalem" and "This Christmastide". The musical variety is further enhanced by the addition of brass and percussion for the rousing marches, "The Longest Day" and "Non Nobis". When was the last time you heard these two songs - one by world famous singer, songwriter and teen idol, Paul Anka and the other a medieval celebration of thanksgiving sung in Latin! The rich background vocals of the Cadet Glee Club musically frame two songs that underpin the message of this album - Bravery and Sacrifice. "Into the Fire" by NYPD's Daniel Rodriguez made me want to immediately rise up and rush to anyone's aid and when he holds that note at the end - wow! Tony Award Winner Lea Salonga's performance of the classic Christian hit, "Via Dolorosa", (one of the top 50 Christian songs of all time), is "The Passion of the Christ" embodied in a 5 minute song. You will alternate between tears and goose bumps. Her performance of the Spanish stanza will overwhelm you. Finally, Irish song writing master, Phil Coulter's wistful "Take Me Home" is accompanied by beautiful piano and guitar and introduced by a new poem entitled "I Am A Soldier" that is sobering reminder of the oath our soldiers swear to and the actions they are bound to take. God bless them!

A great bonus of the CD and DVD is that they both include a stylish lyric booklet as well as commentary by the producer on why he chose each song.

On the back cover of the CD and DVD cases is the statement that this production was created to honor the men and women of our Armed Forces, past and present, and the great values of America that they defend. This it surely does!! Also, it states that the producer is contributing a portion of his wholesale proceeds from its sale to organizations assisting our wounded soldiers. Bravo, Mr. Coppi.

Good CD.......2006-07-19

Wonderful songs and wonderful renditions of the songs. I must say, though, that the numbers would have been better if they were performed with more "ooomph" (for instance, "The Star Spangled Banner" could have been sung with more power and the arrangement could have used more creativity). The wisest decision on this CD was the inclusion of the numbers from Ms. Lea Salonga (whose hauntingly beautiful voice is able to effectively draw listeners in) and Daniel Rodriguez, one of America's newest tenors. Overall a good CD.

A real disappointment..........2006-06-10

I was so excited to stumble upon this album when a local music store was going out of business and selling CD's at great discounts. I love Glee Club music, I love patriotic music, and I love cathedral/chapel accoustics. Unfortunately, this album did not live up to its billing.

My primary complaints with this recording are twofold: the overuse of unison singing and the unnecessary inclusion of guest soloists. The beauty of glee club music is the rich chords, which are thankfully heard in many songs. To my dismay, though, there are many songs that mostly or entirely omit the beautiful harmonies that make glee clubs great.

As for the guest soloists, I don't understand why a singing group which obviously has many wonderful voices would bring in outsiders for an album like this. Actually, I do know why they would do it, and it's obviously a marketing thing that has financial implications. As reasonable as this may seem, it just cheapens the experience for me. Another great feature of glee clubs (and college choirs more generally) is the lack of polished, perfect, professional singers. There is something raw, authentic, and refreshing about a bunch of college kids singing together. Why bring in random people with no particular connection to the group?

To be fair, "Rise Up, O Men of God" and "Mansions of the Lord" are fantastic. I'll continue to play this album to listen to those songs. However, much of the remainder is somewhat forgettable.

Offenbach - Orphée aux Enfers / Dessay, Naouri, Fouchécourt, Beuron, Podles, Petibon, Smith, Gens, Cole, Minkowski

Average customer rating:

Should be illegal - way too much fun
...is but to fall in love with Offenbach himself!
BEST EVER
BRAVI TUTTI
Never tired to listen to

Offenbach - Orphée aux Enfers / Dessay, Naouri, Fouchécourt, Beuron, Podles, Petibon, Smith, Gens, Cole, Minkowski
Jacques Offenbach , Marc Minkowski , Natalie Dessay , Jean-Paul Fouchécourt , Choeur et Orchestre de l'Opéra , Orchestre de Chambre de Grenoble , Laurent Naouri , Patricia Petibon , Yann Beuron , Lydie Pruvot , Ewa Podles , Etienne Lescroart , Jennifer Smith , Virginie Pochon , Véronique Gens , and Steven Cole
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Podles, Ewa | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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Monteverdi: L'Orfeo
Offenbach: Orpheus in the Underworld / Burgess, Watson, etc (Highlights)
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ASIN: B00000I3U8
Release Date: 2002-11-11

Tracks:

Orphee aux Enfers: Ouverture
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Qui suis-je? Du theatre antique... (L'Opinion Publique)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Chanson: La femme dont le coeur reve (Eurydice)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Dialogue: Il est sorti! (Eurydice, Orphee)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Duo du concerto: Ah! c'est ainsi! (Orphee, Eurydice)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Dialogue: Oh Venus, belle deesse (Eurydice, Orphee)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Monologue: J'ai peur... (Eurydice)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Ballet pastoral
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Chanson d'Arist?e: Moi, je suis Aristee
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Dialogue: Voila! Voila ce que je dis... (Aristee, Eurydice)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Dialogue : Allons ! Allons ! (Aristee, Eurydice)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - Couplets: La mort m'apparait souriante (Eurydice)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Premier tableau: la campagne aux environs de Thebes - M?lodrame: Crac! c'est bon! (Aristee)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Final - Libre! o bonheur! (Orphee, Choeur)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Final - Couplets de l'Opinion Publique: C'est l'Opinion Publique
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Final - Viens! a l'Opinion (L-Opinion Publique, Choeur, Orphee)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Final - Duettino: Viens! viens! c'est l'honneur (L'Opinion Publique, Orphee)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Entr'acte et choeur du sommeil: Dormons, dormons (Choeur)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Les Heures
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - R?veil des dieux et couplets de Diane: Par Saturne, quel est ce bruit (Jupiter, Choeur, Diane)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Dialogue: Ah! Pauvre Acteon! (Diane, Cupidon, Junon, Jupiter, Venus)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Rondo-saltarelle de Mercure: Eh hop! Eh hop!
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Dialogue: Et Pluton? (Jupiter, Mercure, Junon)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Entr?e de Pluton et des Furies: Salut au puissant maitre
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Air en prose de Pluton: Heureuses divinites
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Dialogue: As-tu bientot fini (Jupiter, Pluton)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Choeur de la R?volte: Aux armes (Diane, Venus, Cupidon, Choeur des dieux, Jupiter, Pluton)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Dialogue: Une sedition! (Tous)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Rondeau des m?tamorphoses: Pour seduire Alcmene (Minerve, Choeur, Diane, Cupidon, Venus, Pluton)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Deuxleme tableu: L'Olympe - Dialogue: Je suis a bout de forces! (Junon, Pluton, Mercure)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Final - Il approche! Il s'approche! (Pluton, Les dieux, L'Opinion Publique, Jupiter, Orphee, Mercure, Cupidon, Diane, Venus)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte I - Final - Gloire! gloire a Jupiter (Tous)

Tracks:

Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Entr'acte
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Couplets des regrets: Ah! quelle triste destinee (Eurydice)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Dialogue: Voila deux jours que je suis seule (Eurydice, John Styx)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Couplets du roi de B?otie: Quand j'etais roi de Beotie (John Styx)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Dialogue: Va-t'en, je te dis, tu sens le vin (Eurydice, John Styx, Pluton, Jupiter, Cupidon)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Couplets des baisers: Pour attirer du fond de sa retraite (Cupidon)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Dialogue: A la une... a la deux... a la trois (Cupidon)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Duo de la mouche: Il m'a semble sur mon epaule (Eurydice, Jupiter)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Dialogue: Ah, je le savais bien (Eurydice, Jupiter, Pluton, John Styx, Cupidon)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Ballet des mouches: galop
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Troisieme tableau: Le boudoir de Pluton - Entr'acte
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Quatrieme tableau: Les Enfers - Choeur infernal: Vive le vin! Vive Pluton
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Quatrieme tableau: Les Enfers - Allons, ma belle bacchante (Cupidon, Venus, Choeur)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Quatrieme tableau: Les Enfers - Hymne ? Bacchus: J'ai vu le dieu Bacchus (Eurydice, Diane, Cupidon, Venus, Les deesses)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Menuet, galop infernal et choeur - Maintenant, je veux (Jupiter, Pluton)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Menuet, galop infernal et choeur - Menuet: La la la. Le menuet n'est vraiment si charmant (Tous)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Menuet, galop infernal et choeur - Galop infernal: Ce bal est original (Tous)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Menuet, galop infernal et choeur - Dialogue: Et maintenant, fuyons (Eurydice, Jupiter, Pluton)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Menuet, galop infernal et choeur - Dialogue: La position se tend (Pluton, Eurydice)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Menuet, galop infernal et choeur - Dialogue: Oui, je suis convaincu (Orphee, Jupiter, Pluton)
Orphee aux Enfers: Acte II - Menuet, galop infernal et choeur - Final: Ne regarde pas en arriere! (L'Opinion Publique, Tous)

Amazon.com

The myth of Orpheus and Eurydice is one of opera's most potent archetypes, the subject of the earliest experiments in the genre by Peri and Monteverdi. But Offenbach's wickedly witty operetta uses it as a vehicle to lampoon stuffy artistic conventions as well as the social and political realities of Paris in the Second Empire. In this sublimely ridiculous scenario, Eurydice is a flighty flirt only too happy to be separated from husband Orpheus, a dullard violin teacher, when Pluto kidnaps her into his realm. At the promptings of the moralistic figure Public Opinion, Orpheus reluctantly plays out the prescribed mythic pattern of trying to reclaim his wife, while a depraved assortment of gods intervenes. The collision here of sacrosanct myth with opera buffa seems almost to anticipate aspects of Strauss's Ariadne auf Naxos; there is, to be sure, no mistaking an artistic lineage that leads to the romps of Gilbert and Sullivan. Marc Minkowski teases Offenbach's over-the-top parodies (an irreverent quote of Gluck's "Che faro senza Eurydice," for example) and stylistic gear-changes into an irresistibly fizzy concoction, using essentially the original 1858 version with additions from the expanded score of 1874. The orchestra brings out the exuberance of Offenbach's persistent dance rhythms--whether waltz based or in the famous can-can galop of the bacchanalian finale--as well as the tune-rich nature of the score. And the cast sparkles, featuring the crystalline acrobatics of Natalie Dessay's Eurydice, Ewa Podles in dusky, scornful contralto as Public Opinion, and Laurent Naouri as a horny Jupiter--to mention just a few of the treats in store here. --Thomas May

Customer Reviews:

Should be illegal - way too much fun.......2004-01-21

This CD should be illegal - everyone from the singers to the musicians obviously had way too much fun - and so will you! Natalie Dessay shines as Eurydice and Laurent Naouri is a delightful (if rather roving) Jupiter, while Yann Beuron makes Orphee come alive. Ewa Podles gives Public Opinion exactly the right amount of santimonious self-rightousness.

A truly delightful recording - even if you aren't an opera lover, you owe it to yourself to listen to this wonderful romp to Mount Olympus and the Underworld...a case of Heaven in Hell!

Great performances all around, great sound...doesn't get any better (or more fun) than this.

...is but to fall in love with Offenbach himself!.......2003-08-30

I do not believe there are any cd's in my entire collection that I have listened to as many times as I have listened to this one! Tableaux Troix is nearly worn out! Thanks to a slight taste of the english lyrical versions of Offenbach on Lesley Garrett's 'Soprano in Red' album, I new I had to have more, and if Garrett was a taste then Desay is truly the meal! Everything about this album was great. The preformance of all the cast to the sound quality (which seems always to be of a high caliber with EMI) go beyond excellence! I can not recommend this cd but demand that you hear it and you will know what I am talking about!

BEST EVER.......2003-08-05

I recommend this to everyone I meet who is into music of any kind. I recommend getting the DVD of this performance as well..it's absolutely hilarious. If you're a fan of Dessay, Petibon, Podles, and Fouchecourt like I am, then what are you waiting for? It's time to order, yo!

Love,
Chris

BRAVI TUTTI.......2002-01-11

Excellent all around! Dessay and Podles stand out.

Never tired to listen to.......2001-12-28

I love this opera and this particular CD. For me the highest mark goes to Natalie Dessay for her pure voice and her expression. Against the purists, I really miss the ouverture-pot pourri that you listen sometime on the radio.

High Society: Jazz Masterpieces from the Dixieland Era

Average customer rating:

High Society: Jazz Masterpieces from the Dixieland Era

Manufacturer: Opening Day Ent
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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A Fabulous Introduction to Igor Stravinsky!!

The Essential Igor Stravinsky

Manufacturer: Sony
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ASIN: B00008NGAW
Release Date: 2003-03-25

Tracks:

Fireworks, Op.4 - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Danse Infernale De Tous Les Sujets De Kastchei - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Berceuse (L'Oiseau De Feu) - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Reveil De Kastchei - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Mort De Kastchei - Profonds Tenebres - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Disparition Du Palais Et Des Sortileges De Kastchei, Animation Des Chevaliers Petrifies Allegresse Generale - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Opening - Philharmonia Orchestra
The Shrove-tide Fair - Philharmonia Orchestra
The Charlatan's Booth - Philharmonia Orchestra
Russian Dance - Philharmonia Orchestra
Petrushka's Room - Philharmonia Orchestra
Introduction - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Les Augures Printanieres (Danse Des Adolescentes) - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Jeu Du Rapt - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Rondes Printanieres - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Jeux Des Cites Rivales - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Cortege Du Sage - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Adoration De La Terre (Le Sage) - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Danse De La Terre - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
I. Andante - Members Of The CBC Symphony Orchestra
II. Napolitana - Members Of The CBC Symphony Orchestra
III. Espanola - Members Of The CBC Symphony Orchestra
IV. Balalaika - Members Of The CBC Symphony Orchestra
Ragtime For 11 Instruments - Toni Koves
Marche Royale - Columbia Chamber Ensemble
Petit Concert - Columbia Chamber Ensemble
Piano Rag Music - Igor Stravinsky
Sinfonia (Ouverture) - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Gavotta Con Due Variazioni - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
I. Sinfonia - London Sinfonietta
III. Allegro - Philippe Entremont

Tracks:

Part I. Exaudi Orationem Meam - London Symphony Chorus
IV. Capriccio - Cho-Liang Lin
Chant Sants Paroles - Israel Baker
Premiere Donne - Cleveland Orchestra
I. Tempo Giusto - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
III. Allegretto - London Symphony Orchestra
The Star-Spangled Banner - The Festival Singers Of Toronto
I. Intrada - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Circus Polka (For A Young Elephant) - CBC Symphony Orchestra
Scherzo A La Russe - Philharmonia Orchestra
III. Con Moto - London Symphony Orchestra
I. Allegro Moderato - Benny Goodman
Good People, Just A Moment - Colin Tilney
Tango - Columbia Jazz Combo
Greeting Prelude (For The Eightieth Birthday Of Pierre Monteux) - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
II. Ma Tu, Cagion Di Quella - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Elegy For J.F.K. - Charles Russo
Fanfare For A New Theatre - Robert Nagel
II. Exaudi - Donald Gramm
III. Dies Irae - Donald Gramm
IV. Tuba Mirum - Donald Gramm
The Owl And The Pussycat - Robert Craft
Stravinsky In His Own Words - John McClure

Customer Reviews:

A Fabulous Introduction to Igor Stravinsky!!.......2004-05-19

Sony Music's "The Essential Igor Stravinsky" truly lives up to its title. This double-CD set includes nearly every important piece of work (either in part or in whole) by the great Russian composer. The set also presents the pieces in chronological order beginning in 1908 with "Fireworks" and ending in 1966 with his final piece, the short but simple "Owl and The Pussycat". In between, there are excerpts from Stravinsky's most famous works including the first part of "The Rite Of Spring" and highlights from the "Firebird" and "Petrushka" ballets. There are also lesser-known works included as well as his harmonically rearranged version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" (a rendition which caused a stir in the early 1940's). The entire collection concludes with a rare recorded interview with Igor Stravinsky himself in which he remembers the infamous premere of "The Rite Of Spring".
The CD booklet includes detailed liner notes as well as a written tribute by Trey Anastasio of the band Phish. The sound quality of the recordings is amazing (even on the historic 1934 recording of "Piano Rag Music"). All in all, this an excellent collection of works by the great Igor Stravinsky. In a sense, this compilation gives the composer the 'rock musician' treatment. It's a 'greatest hits' album and a career-spanning retrospective that serves as an ideal introduction to Igor's music. Even if your not a fan of Classical music, it isn't difficult to listen to the works of Stravinsky and not be stirred.
Definitely The Essential Igor Stravinsky!!!

Vaughan Williams: Dona Nobis Pacem and Other Works

Average customer rating:

Vaughan Williams: Dona Nobis Pacem and Other Works

Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Magnificats | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Vaughan Williams: An Oxford Elegy/ Flos Campi/ Sancta Civitas/ etc.
Hodie / Fantasia on Christmas Carols
Vaughan Williams: Sir John In Love
Vaughan Williams: The Shepherds of the Delectable Mountains
Howells: Orchestral Works

ASIN: B00005Q2X8
Release Date: 2005-07-13

Tracks:

Toward The Unknown Region - London Phil Chor/John Alldis
Dona Nobis Pacem: I. Agnus Dei (Lento) - Sheila Armstrong/John Carol Case/London Phil Chor/John Alldis
Dona Nobis Pacem: II. Beat! Beat! Drums! (Allegro Moderato) - Sheila Armstrong/John Carol Case/London Phil Chor/John Alldis
Dona Nobis Pacem: III. Reconciliation (Andantino) - Sheila Armstrong/John Carol Case/London Phil Chor/John Alldis
Dona Nobis Pacem: IV. Dirge For Two Veterans (Moderato Alla Marcia) - Sheila Armstrong/John Carol Case/London Phil Chor/John Alldis
Dona Nobis Pacem: V. The Angel Of Death Has Been abroad (L'istesso Tempo) - Sheila Armstrong/John Carol Case/London Phil Chor/John Alldis
Dona Nobis Pacem: VI. O Man Greatly Beloved - Sheila Armstrong/John Carol Case/London Phil Chor/John Alldis
Fant (Quasi Vars) On The Old 104th Psalm Tune - Peter Katin
Magnificat - Helen Watts/Ambrosian Singers/Christopher Hyde-Smith

Tracks:

Partita: I. Prld (Andante Tranquillo) - LPO/Sir Adrian Boult
Partita: II. Scherzo Ostinato (Presto) - LPO/Sir Adrian Boult
Partita: III. Intermezzo (Homage To Henry Hall) (Andante Con Moto) - LPO/Sir Adrian Boult
Partita: IV. Fant (Allegro) - LPO/Sir Adrian Boult
Con Grosso: I. Intrada (Largo) - LPO/Sir Adrian Boult
Con Grosso: II. Burlesca Ostinata (Allegro Moderato) - LPO/Sir Adrian Boult
Con Grosso: III. Sarabande (Lento) - LPO/Sir Adrian Boult
Con Grosso: IV. Scherzo (Allegro: Tempo Di Valse) - LPO/Sir Adrian Boult
Con Grosso: V. March (A La Marcia) And Reprise - LPO/Sir Adrian Boult
Fant On A Theme By Thomas Tallis - Philharmonia Orch/Sir Malcolm Sargent
Romance in D flat - Larry Adler/Eric Gritton
The Lark Ascending - Jean Pougnet

Average customer rating:

It doesn't get better than this.
starting over
starting over
excellence
Cornet Favorites

Cornet Favorites

Manufacturer: Nonesuch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Turn-of-the-Century Cornet Favorites
Herbert L. Clarke: Original Recordings 1907-21
Carnaval
The Legendary Trumpet Virtuosity of Rafael Mendez
The American Brass Band Journal

ASIN: B000005IYD
Release Date: 1992-05-27

Tracks:

From The Shores Of The Mighty Pacific: Rondo Caprice
Sounds From The Hudson: Valse Brillante
Willow Echoes
The Carnival Of Venice: Fantaisie And Variations
At The Beach: Concert Waltz
The Debutante: Caprice Brillante
Slavische Fantasie
The Bride Of The Waves: Polka Brillante
Cousins
Exposition Echoes: Polka
The Maid Of The Mist: Polka
Trombone Family: A) Shoutin' Liza Trombone - One Step (Mose Tombone's Ah-finity) B) Teddy Trombone - A Brother To Miss Trombone (Trombone Solo)
The Cascades: Polka Brilliant

Customer Reviews:

It doesn't get better than this........2001-08-01

I first bought this recording on vinyl back in 1975. Gerard Schwartz has since moved on to a career in conducting, but as this recording shows, he's a true Master of his craft. I'm a trumpet player and I know what a good sound is. This guy's got it!

More than technical perfection, the tunes are delivered with delicacy, grace and power.

starting over.......2001-07-03

This is a very good cd for a trumpet player. Many songs of Herbert L. Clarke and Jean Babtiste Arban are there in their familiar versions. If you get this cd, you ought to get Cornet Favorites also. The solos on both cd's stick to the versions found in Arban's Complete Conservatory Method and Clarke's 24 Charateristic Studies, so you can follow them note for note. Carnaval has wind symphony accompaniment and Cornet Favorites has piano accompaniment.

starting over.......2001-07-03

If you have the Arban Complete Conservatory Method and Herbert Clarke's 24 Characteristic Studies, then you have the versions of the solos that are played on this cd, and can benefit from hearing them played. All songs use piano accompaniment so you will have no trouble hearing the cornet. Carnaval (Winton Marsalis) has some of the same songs, but the cornet is harder to hear because of the wind symphony accompniment.

excellence.......2000-05-30

This is the best verison of Carnival I have heard. Classic Wynton also provides a fantastic interpretation on the most difficult trumpet solo of all time. But Schwarz shows amazing control, fantastic percision, and baffling dexterity. The Debutante and the Bride, etc. are also impressive. Its a shame Schwarz gave up trumpet to conduct. Having played these songs myself, I definitely recommend it to any classical trumpet enthusiast/student

Cornet Favorites.......1999-12-28

I enjoyed the cd because of the literature being performed. However, Schwarz's performance is mediocre and lacks luster. The sound is dull and uninviteing.The tempos were unusal and it felt there was no ensemble with the trumpet and piano performance.
I felt there was not a musical product produced in this recording.

Average customer rating:

another great gerard schwarz cornet album
Not Your Normal Repertoire....but EXCELLENT!
This is Music

Turn-of-the-Century Cornet Favorites

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Marches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

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Cornet Favorites
The American Brass Band Journal
Footlifters: Century of American Marches
Herbert L. Clarke: Original Recordings 1907-21
Carnaval

ASIN: B000AARKVM
Release Date: 2005-08-30

Customer Reviews:

another great gerard schwarz cornet album.......2006-02-02

Once again I am amazed by a great Gerrard Schwarz album. I own all of his albums and bought this one right away. I think he is quite possibly the most musical trumpet/cornet player ever to play alongside Maurice Andre. This album is great, and there are many more albums featuring these great players that should be re-released, such as "Festival of Trumpets" with the new york trumpet ensemble. Nontheless this album is a must pickup for any music enthusiast.

Not Your Normal Repertoire....but EXCELLENT!.......2005-09-27

I didn't know what to make of this CD before I bought it, and still haven't totally figured it out as I was listening to it, but I did find it very enjoyable. "Turn Of The Century Cornet Favorites", as this CD is titled, seems to be a misnomer...I didn't recognize one selection among the 19 tracks contained, but that may be the greatest appeal of this CD for any cornet player, brass player, or aficionado desiring some relatively unknown, but well-played, music from a bygone era. As I was listening to the CD, images of the turn-of-the century came to mind. I imagined sitting near a gazebo, while a community band and soloist performed on a summer's eve, or perhaps at a pavilion at the World's Fair. Having played french horn and other brass instruments in my youth, I was familiar with the names of Clarke and Arban (who wrote a celebrated Cornet Method still used today in many colleges and conservatories), and some of their better known compositions. But I have to admit, this materials was all new to me. For anyone wanting to supplement their brass CD collection with recordings not found anywhere else, this CD will do very nicely indeed. The playing by cornet player Gerard Schwarz in amazing, with technique to burn and a beautiful tone to match. Kudos also goes to the outstanding accompaniment he receives from the Columbia Chamber Ensemble. Also, please see my review of "Footlifters" (another winner), part of the Brass Masterworks series on Sony. Keep them coming.

This is Music.......2005-09-20

You would be hard pressed to find any recording that exhibits greater qualities of lightness, motion, and beautiful phrasing than this one. Add to that Schwartz's beautiful tone and flawless technique, and you have the perfect model of how these cornet solos should sound. I write as a trumpet player who has played quite a bit in this style.

Average customer rating:

Amazing

Art of the Jazz Violin

Manufacturer: Grammercy Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Blues | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Blues | Indie Music | Stores | Music

General | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 Jazz | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

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Hot Jazz Violin: 1930-1940
Jazz Violin Summit
Live

ASIN: B0000C2VS2
Release Date: 2003-08-01

Tracks:

Bowing - Bowing
Golden Green
Memorial Jam For Stuff Smith
Violin Summit No. 2
Valerie
Blues In The Dungeon
Skip It
How High The Moon
This Can't Be Love
Sposin'
Willow Weep For Me

Album Description

This album features three of the most outstanding musicians who turned the violin from classical use to Jazz.

Stephane Grappelli was one of the original members of the famed Django Reinhart Hot Club of France and worked all over Europe playing the top Jazz festivals.

Stuff Smith, who became one of the heroes of the swing era was one of the first to play an amplified violin and landed many Jazz awards.

Jean-Luc Ponty has taken up the mantle from Grappelli and Smith, and his outstanding viruosity can be heard within these recordings.

Customer Reviews:

Amazing.......2007-02-03

This album is amazing. To be honest I was never a big fan of Jazz violin. However I heard some tracks by both Grappelli and Jean Luc Ponty and became intrigued by the concept. So I ended up getting this album. I must say it is quite a listening treat. If you're into Jazz violin you will not be disappointed by this CD. It's a great price for an amazing album.

Rameau - Platée / Ragon, Smith, de Mey, Les Musiciens du Louvre, Minkowski

Average customer rating:

Magic Minkowski
Superb entertainment - frogs' chorus and all

Rameau - Platée / Ragon, Smith, de Mey, Les Musiciens du Louvre, Minkowski
Veronique Gens , Guillemette Laurens , Guy de Mey , Gilles Ragon , Caroline de Corbiac , and Bruno Cocset
Manufacturer: Wea International
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Rameau - Platee / Agnew, Delunsch, Beuron, Naouri, Le Texier, Lamprecht, Minkowski, Paris Opera
Tan Dun - Tea, A Mirror of Soul / Lundy, Fu, Gillet, Richardson, Liang, NHK Symphony Orchestra, Tokyo Opera
Strauss - Daphne / Güden · Wunderlich · King · Little · Schöffler · Böhm
Gluck - Armide / Delunsch, Workman, Naouri, Podles, Beuron, Polegato, Kozená, Les Musiciens du Louvre, Minkowski
Rameau - Hippolyte et Aricie / Fouchécourt, Gens, Fink, Feighan, Smythe, Naouri, Massis, Les Musiciens du Louvre, Minkowski

ASIN: B000009IU9
Release Date: 1992-01-27

Customer Reviews:

Magic Minkowski.......2003-08-23

It seems that Marc Minkowski and his Ensemble Vocal Francoise Herr accompanied by Les Musiciens Du Louvre are incapable of putting on a poor performance. If you have a penchant for Rameau, this recording is one of Minkowski"s best. The soloists are all superb and the music inspired The ensembles are a particular delight. Well recorded.

Superb entertainment - frogs' chorus and all.......2003-07-13

Even the most committed Rameau addict may admit that some of his (mythological, pastoral, supernatural, etc.) plots are less than gripping for today's audiences, however richly he served them in musical terms. Platée, however, is a wicked comedy that has kept its bite, and that Rameau appears particularly to have relished setting to music. It has in abundance everything that's most engaging in this most engaging of composers: invention, colour, pathos, wit, charm and surprise.

Marc Minkowski seems to have something of a Midas touch. He has given us some of the best available performances of Händel and Rameau and - who knows, prompted perhaps by the sending-up of Olympus in Platée - has gone on since to give us an excellent Belle Hélène, indeed with one or two of the same singers in a successful new take on "crossover."

This set is, in my opinion, one of the finest ever recordings of baroque opera and should be snapped up while it's still available. Jennifer Smith's performance as La Folie alone is worth the price, and is just one of an abundance of musical and comic gems, from a love song to an owl ("le plus beau des hiboux" - Jupiter in disguise, of course) to a chorus of enquiring frogs.

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