Mendelssohn: Concertos for Piano and Orchestra

1. Piano Concerto No. 1 in G minor, Op. 25
Composed by Felix Mendelssohn
Performed by Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra with Ida Cernicka
Conducted by Oliver von Dohnanyi

2. Piano Concerto No. 2 in D minor, Op. 40
Composed by Felix Mendelssohn
Performed by Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra with Ida Cernicka
Conducted by Oliver von Dohnanyi

Mendelssohn: Concertos for Piano and Orchestra,Felix Mendelssohn,Oliver von Dohnanyi,Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra,Ida Cernicka,Ent. Media Partners,Classical,Classical Vocals,Concerto,Piano Concerto

Average customer rating: Superb versions of the violin concerti! Must Have CD

Tchaikovsky & Mendelssohn Violin Concertos Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Perlman, Itzhak | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Perlman, Itzhak | ( P ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Dvorák: Violin Concerto; Romance; Sonatina; 4 Romantic Pieces Chopin: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2 Great Recordings Of The Century - Brahms: Violin Sonatas nos 1 - 3 / Perlman, Ashkenazy Beethoven, Sibelius: Violin Concertos Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto Op35; Brahms: Violin Concerto in D Op77 ASIN: B0000AF1KT Release Date: 2003-10-21

Tracks:

1. I. Allegro Moderato
2. II. Canzonetta (Andante)
3. III. Allegro Vivacissimo
4. Serenade Melancolique
5. I. Allegro Molto Appasionato
6. II. Andante
7. Leadout

Customer Reviews:

Superb versions of the violin concerti!.......2005-03-14

I was familiar with both Violin Concerti before my purchase, but since I am just starting to work on my own collection, did not own any version of either of them. I chose this CD at the store because of the relatively prestigious reputations of all performers and conductors, even though there were cheaper options. I have not been dissapointed! These versions of the Violin Concerti are without a doubt my favorite to date and this has become one of my most played CDs. I would highly reccommend this CD.

Must Have CD.......2005-02-16

This is the one CD that every lover of classical music must have. No greater performance in the genre of violin concertos has ever been recorded. Perlman is at the height of his craft.
Absolutely fabulous!!!

Average customer rating: Mostly Magnificent Menuhin, with a Few Reservations

The Violinist Yehudi Menuhin , Johann Sebastian Bach , Bela Bartok , Ludwig van Beethoven , Alban Berg , Johannes Brahms , Max Bruch , Arcangelo Corelli , Edward Elgar , Franz Joseph Haydn , Edouard Lalo , Felix Mendelssohn , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Carl Nielsen , Niccolo Paganini , Camille Saint-Saens , Jean Sibelius , Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky , Michael Tippett , Henri Vieuxtemps , Antonio Vivaldi , William Walton , Alberto Lysy , Anatole Fistoulari , Antal Dorati , Anthony Bernard , Gaston Poulet , John Pitchard , Mogens Woldike , Pierre Boulez , and Rafael Frühbeck de Burgos Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Bartók, Béla | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Berg | Berg, Alban | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Bruch | Bruch, Max | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Corelli | Corelli, Arcangelo | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Elgar | Elgar, Sir Edward | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Franz Joseph Haydn | Haydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Lalo, Edouard | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Nielsen | Nielsen, Carl | ( N ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Paganini, Niccolò | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tippett | Tippett, Michael | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vieuxtemps | Vieuxtemps, Henri | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Walton | Walton, Sir William | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Concertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Concerto Grossi | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sinfonia Concertante | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet The Glory of Rostropovich: 80th Birthday Tribute Schubert: 8 Symphonies Heifetz Showpieces ASIN: B0000BWTKJ Release Date: 2003-11-04

Tracks:

1. I. Allegro
2. II. Affettuoso
3. III. Allegro
4. I. Allegro
5. II. Andante
6. III. Allegro Assai
7. I. Allegro
8. II. Adagio
9. III. Allegro Assai
10. I. Vivace
11. II. Largo Ma Non Tanto
12. III. Allegro

Tracks:

1. Rhapsody No. 2 (Lassu [Moderato] - Friss [Allegro Moderato])
2. I. Allegro Non Troppo
3. II. Andante Tranquillo
4. III. Allegro Molto
5. I. Andante
6. I. Allegretto (Scherzando)
7. II. Allegro
8. II. Adagio

Tracks:

1. Romance No. 1 In G Major
2. I. Allegro Ma Non Troppo (Cadenza: Kreisler)
3. II. Larghetto
4. III. Rondo (Allegro) (Cadenza: Kreisler)
5. I. Allegro Moderato
6. II. Adagio
7. III. Finale (Allegro Energico)

Tracks:

1. Romance No. 2 In F Major, Op. 50
2. I. Allegro Non Troppo (Cadenza: Kreisler)
3. II. Adagio
4. III. Allegro Giocoso, Ma Non Troppo Vivace - Poco Piu Presto
5. I. Allegro Molto Appassionato
6. II. Andante
7. III. Allegretto Non Troppo - Allegro Molto Vivace

Tracks:

1. I. Allegro
2. II. Andante
3. III. Allegro Molto
4. I. Andante Tranquillo
5. II. Presto Capriccioso Alla Napolitana & Trio (Canzonetta)
6. III. Vivace

Tracks:

1. I. Allegro Moderato (Cadenza: Menuhin)
2. II. Adagio Molto
3. III. Finale (Presto) (Cadenza: Menuhin)
4. I. Allegro
5. II. Andante Cantabile
6. III. Rondo (Andante Grazioso - Allegro Ma Non Troppo)
7. I. Allegro Maestoso
8. II. Andante
9. III. Presto

Tracks:

1. I. Allegro Non Troppo
2. II. Scherzando (Allegro Molto)
3. III. Intermezzo (Allegretto Non Troppo)
4. IV. Andante
5. V. Rondo (Allegro)
6. I. Allegro Non Troppo
7. II. Andantino Quasi Allegretto
8. III. Molto Moderato E Maestoso - Allegro Non Troppo
9. Introduction & Rondo Capriccioso, Op. 28
10. Havanaise, Op. 83

Tracks:

1. I. Allegro Maestoso (Cadenza: Emile Sauret)
2. II. Adagio Espressivo
3. III. Rondo (Allegro Spiritoso)
4. I. Andante - Moderato - Cadenza
5. II. Adagio Religioso
6. III. Scherzo (Vivace) & Trio
7. IV. Finale (Allegro)
8. I. Allegro Non Troppo
9. II. Cadenza
10. III. Adagio
11. IV. Allegro Con Fuoco

Tracks:

1. Serenade Melancolique
2. I. Allegro Moderato
3. II. Adagio Di Molto
4. III. Allegro Ma Non Tanto
5. I. Praeludium (Largo)
6. I. Allegro Cavalleresco
7. II. Intermezzo (Poco Adagio)
8. II. Rondo (Allegretto Scherzando)

Tracks:

1. I. Allegro
2. II. Largo
3. III. Allegro
4. I. Allegro Non Molto
5. II. Adagio
6. III. Presto
7. I. Allegro
8. II. Adagio
9. III. Allegro
10. I. Allegro Non Molto
11. II. Largo
12. III. Allegro
13. I. Vivace - Allegro - Adagio - Vivace - Allegro - Largo Andante
14. II. Allegro
15. III. Grave - Andante Largo - Allegro
16. Fantasia Concertante On A Theme Of Corelli

Customer Reviews:

Mostly Magnificent Menuhin, with a Few Reservations.......2004-01-06

The recent trend toward classical box sets focusing on the performer instead of the composer (see my reviews of the various DG/Decca "Original Masters" sets) continues with EMI's new "Yehudi Menuhin - The Violinist." Sure EMI's past sets have showcased individual performances by Samson Francois, Eugen Jochum and Rudolf Kempe to name a few, but it was always under the heading of a given composer's works, and in the cases mentioned above, to Chopin's piano pieces, Bruckner's Symphonies and Strauss' Orchestral Works respectively. Therefore, this Menuhin collection is the first of EMI's "Budget Box Sets" to showcase a performer playing the works of a variety of composers.

As Menuhin was an EMI recording artist for an incredible 68 years (1931-99), his performances for the label number in the hundreds. With so much music from which to choose, this 10-disc set aims "to highlight some of those alternative versions, including recordings that have not been easily available since the days of LP and others that have never previously appeared on CD." Therefore, the obvious mainstream, easily attainable recordings are omitted here -- for example, the Beethoven/Mendelssohn VCs with Furtwangler, the Elgar VC with the composer conducting, and the Bruch/Mendelssohn VCs with Susskind and Kurtz.

However, a lot of this material has been on disc before on titles which the serious collector most likely already owns. Most of the Bach is currently available as part of the Bach "Budget Box Series" title. The Bruch, Mendelssohn, Brahms and Vivaldi VCs were all available in the now out-of-print 2CD EMI Seraphim series. The Elgar and the Walton are still available in the "British Composers" series. And perhaps most annoyingly, the previously unpublished Beethoven VC and Tchaikovsky "Serenade melancolique" (available as a single disc), and the Beethoven Romance No. 2 (available on an EMI Encore title) were both reissued just a few months back.

But let's focus on the positive, which are the other rare performances, the most significant being the never before reissued 1954 performance of Mozart's Violin Concerto No. 4 with John Pritchard and the Philharmonia. Other elusive recordings include Viuextemps and Paganini VCs with Fistoulari, Lalo and Saint-Saens works with Goossens, and excellent Berg and Bartok accounts with Boulez. Though I'm delighted at their inclusion, of lesser importance is a 1965 Bartok VC No. 2 with Dorati -- his mono EMI with Furtwangler and an earlier account with Dorati on Mercury Living Presence are far superior. Also, neither the Sibelius (Boult, 1955) nor Nielsen (Woldike, 1952) Concertos are truly Menuhin's cups of tea.

My last complaint has to do with the packaging. I know I'm being rather trite but it seems that EMI has taken the "slim" out of slim, paper-sleeved box sets with their latest batch of releases. Both this title and the new box of Liszt Orchestral Works by Masur are noticeably thicker than previous EMI sets featuring a similar number of discs. A minor point, but us serious classical collectors need every centimeter of space on our increasingly crowded CD shelves, not to mention the amount of wasted packaging.

Overall though, despite the fact that "Yehudi Menuhin - The Violinist" is not as essential a reissue as its counterparts in the "Original Masters" series, it is a delightful set that most collectors will thoroughly enjoy.

Average customer rating: Triumphant return of Flor's Mendelssohn

Mendelssohn-Bartholdy: Symphonies; Overtures; Concertos Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Incidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Sibelius: The 7 Symphonies; Finlandia; Kullervo; etc. Dvorák: Symphonies Nos. 1-9; In Nature; Serenade for Winds; Serenade for Strings, etc. Vaughan Williams: The Nine Symphonies Elgar: The 2 Symphonies; Enigma Variations; Overtures; Serenade; Violin Concerto; Cello Concerto Schubert: Symphonies Nos. 1-6, 8 & 9 ASIN: B0009A1AJG Release Date: 2005-05-31

Tracks:

1. Merce, Diletti Amici - O Tu, Che L'alma
2. Scena, Coro E Brindisi
3. Mamma...Quel Vino E Generoso
4. Lamento Di Federico
5. Improvviso
6. Come Un Bel Di Dimaggio
7. Oh! Fede Negar Potessi
8. Fontainebleau, Foresta Immense
9. Amor Ti Vieta
10. Cielo E Mar
11. Epilogo
12. Vesti La Giubba
13. Dio, Mi Potevi Scagliar
14. La Danza

Customer Reviews:

Triumphant return of Flor's Mendelssohn.......2005-06-01

At last Claus Peter Flor's Mendelssohn symphonies, overtures and piano concertos (with Edelmann) have returned. On the basis of these recordings (all previously issued) Flor, who is probably in his early 50s now, is still one of the better Mendelssohn conductors out there.

In particular, his Symphonies Nos. 2 and 5 have been hailed by critics on this side of the Atlantic for their beauty, proportion and Mendelssohnian sensibility. His other symphonies are also good and his collected overtures have been revered on both sides of the Atlantic by critics from Gramophone (which gave the overtures a rosette) to American Record Guide (which continued to promote his works even after they were out of print).

Flor's regualr partner in these performances, the Bamberg Symphony Orchestra, is a European band of the second rank. While not being confused with the more well-known orchestras in Vienna, Berlin or London, they perform universally well in these CDs in recordings that sound better than ever.

This is a very good collection of Mendelssohn's symphonic music and piano concertos that will rank with the best recorded boxes including Abbado and Karajn. In musical terms is far exceeds the collections led by Masur, Ashkenazy and the newer Naxos cycle of mixed quality.

Collectors that have never heard Flor conduct (or have never heard of him) can rest assured that this is a worthy alternative collection in this music. If this grouping and this price are attractive, go for it.

Average customer rating: Cheer and Pleasure Amazon's Classical music CD's Virtuoso of virtuosos... Greatest Tchaikovsky Ever! Greatest of All Time

Tchaikovsky & Mendelssohn: Violin Concertos Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Divertimentos | Serenades & Divertimentos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Heifetz, Jascha | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Heifetz: Beethoven & Brahms Concertos (Beethoven: Concerto for violin in D; Brahms: Violin Concerto in D Op77) Heifetz Showpieces Jascha Heifetz: The Supreme Bruch: Concerto for violin in Gm; Scottish Fantasy Fritz Kreisler Plays Kreisler ASIN: B000003FIP Release Date: 1995-05-09

Tracks:

1. Concerto, Op.35, In D Major: Allegro Moderato
2. Concerto, Op.35, In D Major: Canzonetta: Adante
3. Concerto, Op.35, In D Major: Allegro vivacissimo
4. Violin Concerto In E Minor: Allegro molto appassionato
5. Violin Concerto In E Minor: Andante
6. Violin Concerto In E Minor: Allegretto non troppo: Allegro molto vivace
7. Serenade Melancolique, Op. 26
8. Serenade In C Major, Op. 48: Waltz

Amazon.com

The Tchaikovsky offers dazzling technical challenges and heart-on-sleeve emotional ups and downs. The Mendelssohn is Olympian, cool, beautifully formed--music that is immediately recognizable as the work of the composer who produced the magical Midsummer Night's Dream music. Jascha Heifetz is equally at home with Tchaikovsky's fervor and Mendelssohn's calm. --Joe McLellan

Customer Reviews:

Cheer and Pleasure.......2007-06-08

Somehow Heifitz makes it all sound easy, relaxed, and well worth repeating. It is fun, sweet, exciting, sad, and loving. If you really love violin music, this is the best.

Amazon's Classical music CD's.......2007-01-18

This CD was purchased as a Christmas gift from a friend, who was very specific about the recording he wanted. I held my breath, fearing it might not arrive in time ... but it did, beautifully. Thank you, Amazon!

Virtuoso of virtuosos..........2005-07-13

This disk features arguably the two greatest concertos ever written for the violin performed by the hands-down greatest violinist of the twentieth century and recorded in the absolute peak of his career. It really doesn't get much better than this for music lovers. If we all lived in a fair world, which we don't, performances on disks would be priced according to the amount of beauty and power it contains, not how recent it was released or supply-demand. Having said that, when it comes to these two recordings, 16 bucks doesn't seem like that great of a reach anymore.

I've listened to many recordings of both concertos, but out of Perlman, Milstein (second best), Stern, Oistrakh, Menuhin, and ect., Heifetz stands out on top in both. People will always say that the first movement of the Tchaikovsky is played too quickly, but I believe this is only so because no other violinist is ABLE to duplicate this kind of speed, hence Heifetz's recording being separated from the rest. I could certainly understand why a slower tempo is desired if the performer was tripping over the difficult passages and turning the movement into a mudslide, but that is certainly not the case with Maestro Heifetz; in fact, the opposite is true.

I believe Heifetz was a man who above all respected the composers. He also understood the art of "withholding". What do I mean? Here is a perfect example. In the first movement of the Mendelssohn, Heifetz has been infamously accused of playing the main theme using harmonics and flying through the movement with zero sentimentality. This demonstrates ignorance and a strong lack of respect on the modern generation. With the rise of 20th Century music (most of which Heifetz detested), appreciation for professionalism declined and indulgence in emotionalism became commonplace. Heifetz understood that there is no payoff, no climax to any piece of music, unless there is patience and sensitivity. After a slightly withheld first movement and a sweet second movement, Heifetz bursts open the doors in the third playing with more liveliness and accuracy than any other violinist can. The concerto climaxes towards the end when Heifetz passionately pounds through the main theme one last time then finishes with a flourish. This epiphany would not have been possible had he sentimentalized the whole concerto, as many violinists do nowadays.

As with most listeners, I often conjure up my own opinions on how certain concertos should be played based on my first hearing. After that first hearing, all others are labeled as inaccurate interpretations. I've found out through years of listening that there are only two musicians for which this does not apply: Heifetz and Rubinstein. Even if my first impression has already been set, it is they who play the concertos the way they were meant to be played. My advice on the Tchaikovsky and Mendelssohn is if you have nevered listen to these, listen to Heifetz first, after doing so, all other versions will pale in comparison. If you have already formed first impressions on how to interpret these concertos, give Heifetz a chance. I've found that just about every other violinist (save Milstein) seem to play with AWFUL intonation after listening to Heifetz.

Greatest Tchaikovsky Ever!.......2005-06-08

In my opinion, this is the greatest rendition of the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto that I've ever heard. Heifetz plays the first movement very fast, but every note is audible and clean. There are literally moments where my jaw drops each time I listen to this recording. It would be hard to imagine a more technically and musically superb version of this wonderful concerto, although there are many other good versions (Milstein's in particular is great as well).

The Mendelssohn is great, and like all of Heifetz's work, it's pretty much perfect. While it is great, I wouldn't name this as my favorite version. Hilary Hahn's Mendelssohn is equally good and the sound quality is considerably better (because Heifetz's was recorded a long time ago), so Hahn's is my preferred Mendelssohn.

This disc is a must have. Because of the sound quality of the disc, I would not place this Mendelssohn as my top choice because they are other versions that are technically similar with better sound quality. The sound quality on this CD isn't bad (it's actually pretty good), but it's not as good as modern recordings. The Tchaikovsky is so spectacular, however, that even with better sound quality recordings out there, Heifetz still remains my top choice. Enjoy!

Greatest of All Time.......2005-03-16

If you want to get a feel for who Jascha Heifetz really was, as a musician and as a virtuoso, this recording is a must-have. Yes, as many listeners have noted, Heifetz tends to play his opening Allegro's extremely fast. However, you can hear every single note despite the mind-blowing speed. The combination of incredible technique and flawless intonation and tone-color make Heifetz, in my opinion, among the top three violinists who ever played. This recording is the best classical CD in my collection and a necessity for any Heifetz fan or serious collector.

Average customer rating: Heifetz!! This is a superb cd.

Tchaikovsky & Mendelssohn: Concertos Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Divertimentos | Serenades & Divertimentos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Heifetz, Jascha | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Heifetz: Beethoven & Brahms Concertos (Beethoven: Concerto for violin in D; Brahms: Violin Concerto in D Op77) Sibelius, Prokofiev, Glazunov: Violin Concertos Brahms: Violin Concerto Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto Op35; Brahms: Violin Concerto in D Op77 Great Recordings Of The Century - Brahms: Violin Sonatas nos 1 - 3 / Perlman, Ashkenazy ASIN: B000003EOI Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Concerto In D, Op. 35: Allegro moderato
2. Concerto In D, Op. 35: Canzonetta
3. Concerto In D, Op. 35: Allegro vivacissimo
4. Concerto In E Minor, Op. 64: Allegro molto appassionato
5. Concerto In E Minor, Op. 64: Andante
6. Concerto In E Minor, Op. 64: Allegretto non troppo - Allegro molto vivace
7. Serenade Melancolique, Op. 26
8. Serenade In C, Op. 48: Waltz

Amazon.com essential recording

In Mendelssohn as in everything else, violinist Jascha Heifetz plays with brilliance and an edgy intensity that impart a feeling of urgency to the music even in its most poetic moments. He brings dazzling technique and heart-on-the-sleeve Romanticism to his searing interpretation, and is brilliantly backed up by Charles Munch and the Bostonians. The recording is spacious, clean, and tonally quite accurate, though Heifetz is a bit closely miked. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

Heifetz!! This is a superb cd........2000-09-13

I don't know what Musicfan is talking about, Jascha Heifetz really brings out the soul into Tchaikovsky music. I can't complain about anything. NONE of his notes are out of tune, He DOESN'T play too fast (he plays the notes at the right tempo, but the notes are clipped because it's his style), and he never ignores the dynamics. Since I play the violin, I would say he is very fun to listen to, what every violin player should strive for. The Violin Concerto by tchaikovsky is performed beautifully,the soulful canzonetta and serenade melancholique are played superbly. This is definitely NOT a boring cd. If you want to have fun, you definitely should buy this cd, I listen to it every day

Average customer rating: Fantastic Recording Outstanding Pianist

Mendelssohn: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2 Manufacturer: Chandos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Mendelssohn: Piano Concertos Britten: Lachrymae Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures Mendelssohn: Octet; Quintets Nos. 1 & 2; Quartet No. 2 Strauss & Headington: Violin Concertos ASIN: B000000AT4 Release Date: 1994-01-04

Tracks:

1. Piano Concerto No. 1 In G Minor, Op.25: Molto Allegro Con Fuoco
2. Concerto No. 1 In G Minor, Op.25: Andante
3. Concerto No. 1 In G Minor, Op.25: Presto - Molto Allegro E Vivace - Tempo 1
4. Piano Concerto No. 2 In D Minor, Op. 40: Allegro Appassionato
5. Concerto No. 2 In D Minor, Op. 40: Adagio: Molto Sostenuto
6. Concerto No. 2 In D Minor, Op. 40: Finale. Presto Scherzando
7. Capriccio Brillant, Op.22: Andante - Allegro Con Fuoco

Amazon.com

Mendelssohn's First Piano Concerto is much more popular, and more frequently played, than his Second. When you listen to this disc, you'll find out why. The First is an inspired piece with memorable themes, enjoyable but not ostentatious display for the piano, and a great sense of fun. The Second has unmemorable themes and a similar style without conveying the sense of fun. For that matter, I've never thought much of the Capriccio brillant, a rather empty showpiece. For those who like lesser Mendelssohn better than I do, this disc is very well played throughout, although the piano takes Howard Shelley's attention away from conducting and the orchestral playing isn't as distinctive as the piano playing. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic Recording.......2003-03-03

This stunner is worth the Penguin Rosette and recommendation from Gramophone magazine. The playing is stunning. The orchestra is in finest form. And the digital recording is fabulous - crystal clear, well balanced. No muddy piano parts. The notes are clearly heard and played at a thrilling pace. Very very highly recommended.

Outstanding Pianist.......2000-12-26

Listening to Howard Shelley and Felix Mendelssons Piano Concerto Nr 1 brought back great memories when I was a youth. The sad yearning especially Molto Allegro Con Fuoco is particularly hauntingly beautiful. Give it a try get the kids to bed put your feet up get a bottle of good beer say a McEwans and a glass of good sherry and listen to Howard direct and Play this hauntingly beautiful concerto. It remind me somewhat of some of Mozart's earlier Piano Concerto's .

Average customer rating: Wonderful Music and Excellent Performance

Double Piano Concertos Manufacturer: Chandos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Bruch | Bruch, Max | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Concertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Marriner, Sir Neville | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Bruch: Piano Quintet/String Quintet/Octet Mozart: Concerto for Two Pianos; Sonata for Two Pianos, K448 Bruch: The Complete Symphonies Mendelssohn: Piano Concertos Bruch: The Complete Violin Concertos ASIN: B00000IYMW Release Date: 1999-10-12

Tracks:

1. Concerto For Two Pianos And Orchestra, K. 365 in E flat Major: I. Allegro
2. Concerto For Two Pianos And Orchestra, K. 365 in E flat Major: II. Andante
3. Concerto For Two Pianos And Orchestra, K. 365 in E flat Major: III. Rondeau:Allgero
4. Concerto For Two Pianos And Orchestra, Op.88a in A flat Minor: I. Andante Sostenuto
5. Concerto For Two Pianos And Orchestra, Op.88a in A flat Minor: II. Andante con Moto - Allegro molto vivace
6. Concerto For Two Pianos And Orchestra, Op.88a in A flat Minor: III. Adagio ma non troppo
7. Concerto For Two Pianos And Orchestra, Op.88a in A flat Minor: IV. Andante - Allegro
8. Concerto For Two Pianos And Orchestra, in E Major: I. Adagio - Vivace
9. Concerto For Two Pianos And Orchestra, in E Major: II. Adagio non Troppo
10. Concerto For Two Pianos And Orchestra, in E Major: III. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful Music and Excellent Performance.......2002-01-26

I play this CD almost every day while I am working, driving...

Average customer rating: Dazzling Absolutely brilliant

Mendelssohn: Concertos for Violin, Piano and String Orchestra Manufacturer: Polygram Int'l ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Concertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Robert Schumann: Piano Concerto/Violin Concerto Brahms: Sonata for 2 Pianos; Mendelssohn: Piano Trio #1; Martha Argerich Mendelssohn: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Violin Concerto Martha Argerich and Friends Live from the Lugano Festival 2005: Chamber Music Mendelssohn: Piano Concertos ASIN: B000001GAJ Release Date: 1989-06-01

Tracks:

1. Con for Vn, Pno & Str Orch in d: 1. Allegro
2. Con for Vn, Pno & Str Orch in d: 2. Adagio
3. Con for Vn, Pno & Str Orch in d: 3. Allegro molto
4. Con for Vn & Str Orch in d: 1. Allegro molto
5. Con for Vn & Str Orch in d: 2. Andante-attacca:
6. Con for Vn & Str Orch in d: 3. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

Dazzling.......2006-01-28

If you didn't know these were early works, you'd assume they were the dazzling works of a mature virtuoso. I had never heard them or heard of them before until stumbling on them via a search for Argerich recordings and I was completely bowled over from the first bars. I was so impressed and fascinated that I listened to the CD over and over that weekend. While I have a terrific home theater system, the sound recording on this CD is clearly above average: it's sumptuous and clear at the same time. That also goes for the performances which are crisp, dynamic, seductive, and have a dynamism all their own. They have given me even more respect for Mendelsohn's genius and the artistic excellence of the two soloists. I have rarely enjoyed a new CD so much.

Absolutely brilliant.......2002-03-12

These two youthful works of Mendelssohn's have only recently been rediscovered, and they put forth a fascinating glimpse into his early musical development. More importantly, however, they're just good music. Anyone who doubts the "child prodigy" status Mendelssohn has been given by historians should listen to these two works; how else could a fourteen-year old write music of this depth and virtuosity? The opening movements of both works are intricate and tightly constructed, employing to great effect the fugal technique that Mendelssohn mastered like no other musician, save maybe J.S. Bach. The middle movements are possessed of that airy transparency that characterizes so many Mendelssohn andantes; at the same time, however, they employ deceptively difficult virtuosic passages of the highest order. The finales of both pieces pull out all the stops, with racing tempi, scale passages and runs like very few others I've ever heard, and fatalistic codas firmly entrenched in the minor. Kremer and Argerich are up to the task, with an absolute mastery of the material and a particular emphasis on clarity; this is truly a "hear-every-note" CD recording. In addition, they manage to capture exquisitely the mood of each movement, varying their technique accordingly. The Orpheus Chamber Orchestra backs them up with a tight, powerful, expansive performance. This is one of those CDs that ensures you'll never need another recording of the songs it contains, because it is, by far, the best. If you haven't discovered these early Mendelssohn masterpieces, this is definitely the CD to get to do it. If you're already familiar with them, listen to this CD for a new interpretation that will, in all likelihood, cause you to throw away the old recordings and keep this CD as the definitive performances of these two works.

Average customer rating:

Mendelssohn: Violin Concertos Manufacturer: Bis ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Octets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Concertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music ASIN: B00000DDLM Release Date: 1998-11-01

Tracks:

1. I. Allegro Molto
2. II. Andante
3. III. Allegro
4. Scherzo - Sempre Pianissimo E Leggiero - Lev Markiz
5. I. Allegro Con Fuoco
6. II. Andante
7. III. Allegretto Non Troppo - Allegro Molto Vivace

Average customer rating: Good, not great. A Brilliant Mendelssohn Concerto from Leila Josefowicz Josefowicz is possibly the finest violinist of our time. Vintage Violin Playing by Josefowicz Breathtaking!

Mendelssohn & Glazunov: Violin Concertos Felix Mendelssohn , Alexander Glazunov , Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky , Charles Dutoit , Leila Josefowicz , and Orchestre symphonique de Montréal Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto in D/Sibelius: Violin Concerto in D Leila Josefowicz: Solo Bohemian Rhapsodies Prokofiev: Violin Concertos 1 & 2. Tchaikovsky: Serenade Melancholique Leila Josefowicz Plays Beethoven, Ravel, Salonen, Grey, Messiaen ASIN: B00002R2ST Release Date: 2000-02-08

Tracks:

1. Violin Concerto In E Minor, Op.64: I. Allegro molto appassionato
2. Violin Concerto In E Minor, Op.64: II. Andante
3. Violin Concerto In E Minor, Op.64: III. Allegretto non tropo - Allegro molto vivace
4. Valse-scherzo, Op.34
5. Violin Concerto In A Minor, Op.82: I. Moderato
6. Violin Concerto In A Minor, Op.82: II. Andante sostenuto - Tempo I
7. Violin Concerto In A Minor, Op.82: III. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

Good, not great........2007-06-29

The choppy playing of each note detracts from the music. Due to the lack of vocalization and blending the notes, I prefer Joshua Bell's rendition.

A Brilliant Mendelssohn Concerto from Leila Josefowicz.......2005-11-26

Beautiful young Leila Josefowicz is more known on the concert stages of the world for her enduring commitment to contemporary music, being frequently awarded works for premieres by composers who appreciate her musicality, her astounding technical prowess, and her passionate ability to communicate with her audiences. But that is not to say that she ignores the standard repertoire as is evidenced by this outstanding recording.

Josefowicz offers a Mendelssohn Violin Concerto that ranks with the finest. In collaboration with Charles Dutoit and the Montreal Symphony Orchestra this full-bodied performance has all the elegance of line, the heartfelt romance of the melodic inventions, and the amazing facility to toss off the rapid pages with joyful abandon. It is simply a great Mendelssohn interpretation.

Glazanov's A minor Violin Concerto was once a staple of the repertoire but has in recent years declined in performances. Josefowicz adds new freshness to this lovely melodic warhorse and in her hands gives reason to reexamine the work. To round off the CD is Tchaikovsky's much-loved 'Valse-scherzo for violin and orchestra' and here this little bon-bon feels like an appreciated encore offered to her audience. The playing is cleanly articulated and rich in tone. For those unfamiliar with the gifts of Leila Josefowicz this CD is a fine introduction. Grady Harp, November 05

Josefowicz is possibly the finest violinist of our time........2002-04-27

We are currently in a Golden Age of violin playing. In other reviews I have especially praised recordings by Gil Shaham, Sarah Chang, and Akiko Suwanai -- all of whom are outstanding violinists. But, even in this Golden Age of the violin, this recording -- combined with her earlier recordings of the Tchaikovsky and Sibelius violin concertos and Bohemian Rhapsodies -- causes me to conclude that Leila Josefowicz may well be the finest violinist currently recording. Josefowicz has everything: a beautiful tone, flawless technique and intonation, and artistic sensitivity. And, unlike some of the other outstanding young violinists -- who have made some great recordings, but also other recordings lacking somewhat in commitment and artistry -- Josefowicz plays each piece with total dedication and passion. Her performance of the Medelssohn concerto (the highlight of this CD) is simply sublime -- unsurpassed by any I've ever heard. Although the Glazounov concerto and Valse-Scherzo by Tchaikovsky are lesser works, they are quite pleasant and Josefowicz plays them with equal commitment. If you love great violin playing, please get this CD.

Vintage Violin Playing by Josefowicz.......2000-11-09

This is violin-playing of tremendous power and at the same time, finesse. Josefowicz has dazzling technique and interpretive intelligence and taste which place her in the stratosphere of the greatest violinists. (No, I'm not her dad.) Her playing of the Mendelssohn walks the fine line of conveying romance without ever being overly sentimental, and also conveys great inner strength and confidence. Her intonation is perfect. Her vibrato is always appropriate. Her phrasing is intelligent, very musical and interesting, not exaggerated. Her range of color is very appealing; her tone is beautiful. So what else do you want? (A concert video or two of this magnificent artist would be nice!)

Breathtaking!.......2000-07-05

This is an absolutely gorgeous disc. The Mendelssohn is one of my favorite pieces, and Leila does a tremendous job with it. I highly recommend this disc, as well as her other recordings, which are all wonderful. I think it is a shame Leila doesn't get as much public attention and fame as some of her other young counterparts do--she truly deserves it.

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