Nature's Symphonies [Box set]

1. Pavane pour une infante défunte, for piano (or orchestra)
Composed by Maurice Ravel

2. Bagatelle for piano in A minor ("Für Elise"), WoO 59
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven

3. Vesperae solennes de confessore for soloists, chorus, & orchestra, K. 339 Laudate Dominum
Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

4. Symphony No. 4 in A major ("Italian"), Op. 90 III Movement
Composed by Felix Mendelssohn

5. Waltzes (16) for piano, 4 hands (or piano), Op. 39 Waltz in A flat
Composed by Johannes Brahms

6. Symphony No. 6 in F major ("Pastoral") Op. 68 II Movement
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven

7. Symphony No. 5 in B flat major, D. 485
Composed by Franz Schubert

8. Symphony No. 94 in G major ("Surprise"/"The Drumstroke"/"Mit dem Paukenschlag"), H. 1/94 II Movement
Composed by Franz Joseph Haydn

9. Suite for orchestra No 2 in B minor, BWV 1067 Badinerie
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach

10. Peer Gynt Suite for orchestra (or piano or piano, 4 hands) No. 1, Op. 46 Anitra's Dance
Composed by Edvard Grieg

11. Symphony No. 3 in F major, Op. 90 III Movement
Composed by Johannes Brahms

12. Romeo and Juliet, fantasy-overture for orchestra in B minor (3 versions)
Composed by Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky

13. Impromptus (4) for piano, D. 935 (Op. posth. 142) No 02 in Ab
Composed by Franz Schubert

14. Liebesträume, notturno for piano in A-flat major No. 3 (O Lieb, so lang du lieben kannst), S. 541/3 (LW A103/3)
Composed by Franz Liszt

15. Clair de lune ("Votre âme est un paysage choisi"), song for voice & piano, L. 32
Composed by Claude Debussy

16. Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune (Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun), for orchestra, L. 86
Composed by Claude Debussy

17. Suite for orchestra No 3 in D major, BWV 1068 Air on the G String
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach

18. Carmen, opéra-comique in 4 acts Flower Song
Composed by Georges Bizet

19. Work(s) Cantata
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach

20. Prelude for piano No. 15 in D flat major, Op. 28/15, CT 180 "Raindrops" Prelude
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin

21. Boléro, ballet for orchestra (or piano)
Composed by Maurice Ravel

22. Piano Sonata No. 14 in C sharp minor ("Moonlight"), Op. 27/2
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven

23. La fille aux cheveux de lin ("Sur la luzerne en fleur"), song for voice & piano, L. 33
Composed by Claude Debussy

24. Nutcracker, ballet, Op.71 Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy
Composed by Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky

25. Symphony No. 9 in E minor ("From the New World," first published as No. 5), B. 178 (Op. 95) II Movement
Composed by Antonin Dvorak

26. Peer Gynt Suite for orchestra (or piano or piano, 4 hands) No. 1, Op. 46 Morning
Composed by Edvard Grieg

27. Romance for violin & orchestra No. 1 in G major, Op. 40
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven

28. An den Frühling (To Spring), lyric piece for piano, Op. 43/6
Composed by Edvard Grieg

29. Violin Concerto ("La Primavera", The Four Seasons) for violin, strings & continuo in E ("Il cimento" No. 1), Op.8/1, RV 269
Composed by Antonio Vivaldi

30. Greensleeves, English folk song
Composed by English Traditional

31. Piano Concerto No. 21 in C major ("Elvira Madigan") K. 467
Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

32. Violin Concerto ("L'autunno", The Four Seasons), for violin, strings & continuo in F major ("Il cimento" No. 3), Op.8/3, RV 293
Composed by Antonio Vivaldi

33. Work(s) Adagio for Clarinet & Orchestra
Composed by Research Composer

34. Scherzo for piano No. 2 in B flat minor, Op. 31, CT 198
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin

35. Romance for violin & orchestra No. 2 in F major, Op. 50
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven

36. Symphony No. 6 in F major ("Pastoral") Op. 68 I Movement
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven

37. Flute Concerto No. 2 in D major, K. 314 (K. 285d) Concerto for flute & orchestra in D
Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

38. Symphony No. 9 in E minor ("From the New World," first published as No. 5), B. 178 (Op. 95) Adagio
Composed by Antonin Dvorak

39. Les Contes d'Hoffmann, opera in 4 acts Barcarolle
Composed by Jacques Offenbach

40. Valse Triste, for orchestra (from Kuolema), Op. 44/1 Valse Triste
Composed by Jean Sibelius

41. Liebesträume, notturno for piano in A-flat major No. 3 (O Lieb, so lang du lieben kannst), S. 541/3 (LW A103/3)
Composed by Franz Liszt

42. String Quintet in E major, Op. 11/5, G275 Minuet
Composed by Luigi Boccherini

43. Oboe Concerto in D minor, BWV 1059r Excerpt
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach

44. Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor ("Pathétique") Op. 13 II Movement
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven

45. Cavalleria rusticana, opera in 1 act Intermezzo
Composed by Pietro Mascagni

46. Christmas Oratorio, BWV 248 Sinfonia
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach

47. Ellens Gesang III ("Ave Maria"), song for voice & piano, D. 839 (Op. 52/6)
Composed by Franz Schubert

48. Horn Concerto No. 3 in E flat major, K. 447 II Movement
Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

49. Kinderszenen (Scenes from Childhood) for piano, Op. 15 No 07, Träumerei
Composed by Robert Schumann

50. Peer Gynt Suite for orchestra (or piano or piano, 4 hands) No. 1, Op. 46 Ase's Death
Composed by Edvard Grieg

51. Serse (Xerxes), opera, HWV 40 Largo
Composed by George Frideric Handel

Nature's Symphonies,Johann Sebastian Bach,Ludwig van Beethoven,Georges Bizet,Luigi Boccherini,Johannes Brahms,Fryderyk Chopin,Claude Debussy,Antonin Dvorak,Edvard Grieg,George Frideric Handel,Franz Joseph Haydn,Franz Liszt,Pietro Mascagni,Felix Mendelssohn,Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart,Jacques Offenbach,Maurice Ravel,Research Composer,Franz Schubert,Robert Schumann,Jean Sibelius,Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky,English Traditional,Antonio Vivaldi,Delta,20th/21st Century Orchestral Music,20th/21st Century Tone Poem/Symphonic Poem,Bagatelle for Keyboard,Ballet,Baroque Suite/Partita for Orchestra,Chamber,Character/Single-Movement/Miscellaneous Work for Keyboard,Choral,Classical,Classical Music,Classical Period Symphony,Concerto,Flute Concerto,French Horn Concerto,French Romantic Opera,Impromptu for Keyboard,Italian Baroque Opera,Italian Romantic Opera,Keyboard,Keyboard Work with Descriptive or Unclassified Title,Miscellaneous,Miscellaneous Music,Music for Four Hands at One Keyboard

Average customer rating: Heartfelt, passionate versions Great Recording Great set of music! Kertesz or Kubelik in the Dvorak symphonies? Amazing performances

Dvorák: The Symphonies Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Bargain Box Sets | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | 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 Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures Schubert: 8 Symphonies Schubert: The Piano Sonatas Schumann: The 4 Symphonies Johannes Brahms: The Symphonies ASIN: B0000041WV Release Date: 1992-02-11

Tracks:

1. Symphony No. 1 In C Minor 'Zlonicke zvony': I: Allegro
2. Symphony No. 1 In C Minor 'Zlonicke zvony': II: Adagio molto
3. Symphony No. 1 In C Minor 'Zlonicke zvony': III: Allegretto
4. Symphony No. 1 In C Minor 'Zlonicke zvony': IV: Finale - Allegro animato
5. Symphony No. 2 In B Flat Major, Op. 4: Allegro con molto

Tracks:

1. Symphony No. 2: II: Poco adagio
2. Symphony No. 2: III: Scherzo: Allegro con brio
3. Symphony No. 2: IV: Finale: Allegro con fuoco
4. Symphony No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 10: I: Allegro moderato
5. Symphony No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 10: II: Adagio molto
6. Symphony No. 3 In E Flat Major, Op. 10: III: Finale: Allegro vivace

Tracks:

1. Symphony No. 4 In D minor, Op. 13: I. Allegro
2. Symphony No. 4 In D minor, Op. 13: II. Andante sostenuto e molto cantabile
3. Symphony No. 4 In D minor, Op. 13: III. Allegro feroce
4. Symphony No. 4 In D minor, Op. 13: IV. Allegro con brio
5. Symphony No. 5 In F Major, Op. 76 (Beginning): I. Allegro ma non troppo
6. Symphony No. 5 In F Major, Op. 76 (Beginning): II. Andante con moto
7. Symphony No. 5 In F Major, Op. 76 (Beginning): III. Scherzo: Allegro scherzando

Tracks:

1. Symphony No. 5 (Conclusion): IV. Finale: Allegro molto
2. Symphony No. 6 In D Major, Op. 60: I. Allegro non tanto
3. Symphony No. 6 In D Major, Op. 60: II. Adagio
4. Symphony No. 6 In D Major, Op. 60: III. Scherzo (Furiant): Presto
5. Symphony No. 6 In D Major, Op. 60: IV. Finale: Allegro con spirito
6. 'V prirode', Op. 91: In Nature's Realm

Tracks:

1. Symphony No. 7 In D Minor, Op. 70: I. Allegro maestoso
2. Symphony No. 7 In D Minor, Op. 70: II. Poco adagio
3. Symphony No. 7 In D Minor, Op. 70: III. Scherzo: Vivace - poco meno mosso
4. Symphony No. 7 In D Minor, Op. 70: IV. Allegro
5. Symphony No. 8 In G Major, Op. 88: I. Allegro con brio
6. Symphony No. 8 In G Major, Op. 88: II. Adagio
7. Symphony No. 8 In G Major, Op. 88: III. Allegretto grazioso
8. Symphony No. 8 In G Major, Op. 88: IV. Allegro ma non troppo

Tracks:

1. Symphony No. 9 In E Minor, Op. 95 'Z Noveho sveta': I. Adagio - Allegro molto
2. Symphony No. 9 In E Minor, Op. 95 'Z Noveho sveta': II. Largo
3. Symphony No. 9 In E Minor, Op. 95 'Z Noveho sveta': III. Molto vivace
4. Symphony No. 9 In E Minor, Op. 95 'Z Noveho sveta': IV. Allegro con fuoco
5. 'Karneval' Overture, Op. 92
6. Scherzo capriccioso, Op. 66
7. 'Domov muj' Overture, Op. 62

Amazon.com essential recording

For decades, there were only three complete collections of Dvorák's symphonies: this one; Rowicki's with the same orchestra; and Kubelik's with the Berlin Philharmonic. Kertész offers the most rustic, gutsy interpretations of all. Famous for his dislike of rehearsals, he allows the London Symphony to make a much rougher sound than his colleagues tolerate, and though not the last word in polish, the results have a spontaneous charm that's pretty hard to resist. More to the point, Dvorák's early symphonies (Nos. 1 to 5) remain sadly neglected, and each one of them is full of gorgeous tunes cloaked in mellifluous orchestration. At budget price, this set now costs less than it did on LP in the 1960s. How can you do better than that? --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Heartfelt, passionate versions.......2007-06-23

The late Istvan Kertesz continues to amaze, with this spectacular reissue of his 1960s Dvorak symphonies cycle. These versions each compare well with or exceed the legendary recordings by Ancerl, Szell, Talich, et al. Sound quality is excellent, and the mix on the orchestra is almost always just right, balancing strings, brass, and percussion. Compared to some Czech recordings, the woodwinds volumes are a bit weak, which is unfortunate because woodwinds are one of Dvorak's specialties. If you have no other set of Dvorak symphonies, or have 10 copies of "From the New World" and no copies of Symphonies 1, 2 or 3, then this is a must-have set. From the opening bars of Symphony No. 1, you'll agree you're in the presence of greatness.

Great Recording.......2007-06-03

Friends and CD-guides told me this was the best. And they were right.

Great set of music!.......2007-05-24

Along with Piotr Tchaikovsky, Antonin Dvorak was probably the most prolific composer of the Romance period. He composed for just about every genre of classical music except ballet, and is known for a wide variety of works. Some of his most famous are his symphonies. He wrote 9, out of respect for Beethoven, and like the German master, the last one is the most widely recognized. But like Beethoven, all 9 symphonies are incredible pieces of music in their own right. This set has all 9 symphonies, along with several other popular orchestral works. The sound quality is good, the orchestration is great, and the choice of music is great. All the pieces are dramatic, with melodies that range from powerful to awe-inspiring to melancholy. Every piece of music in this set is purely in the Romantic style; full of emotion, and many are inspired by folk tunes from Eastern Europe. All in all, a great set, and for a great price.

Kertesz or Kubelik in the Dvorak symphonies?.......2006-05-03

Although decades old, the two analog sets of Dvorak symphonies from Kertesz and Kubelik remain the front-runnters. From the mid-Sixties onward Decca has been so satisfied with the groundbreaking Kertesz cycle, the first to bring Sym. 1-6 to the general listening public outisde Czechoslovakia, that the company has rarely re-recorded any but the last three, most famous symphonies. DG, on the other hand, didn't release Kubelik's Sym. 1-6 until the digital era (1988, I believe), keeping them in the vualts and out of competiiton with Kertesz.

Now both sets are offered at basically the same price on 6 mid-line discs, with deep discounts on the used market. The difference between the two is quite marked musically, however. Kertesz comunicates the thrill of discovery in the early symphhonies. Amazingly, he had never conducted them before, and their vibrancy and inner life lift my spirits every time I hear them. The LSO didn't know these pieces, either, but play with rousing commitment and vivacity.

By comparison, Kubelik sounds rather correct and staid. He often chooses marginally slower tempos, and his enthusiasm for letting the dance rhytyms become exciting is limited. The Berlin Phil. seems not to catch on to the Slavonic folk idiom, which gets played far too straight (Dvorak had the same problem with Greman orchestras in his lifetime and was only accepted in Vienna and Berlin at first as a kind of naive, folk-flavored Brahms). As to sonics, the Decca set holds up well, being a bit bright at times but otherwise detailed and forward. DG, unforunately, gave Kubelik's later symphonies (#7-9) harsh, glaring sound that makes his readings sound brash; there's an unpleasant sting to the sound at higher volumes. This problem seems less in the earlier symphonies (the cycle was recorded over a longer period than Kertesz's and thus has more variable sound). I do not know if the current re-issue also includes remastering.

It's regrettable that in the interest of economics Decca has cut out several of Kertesz's most interesting fillers, such as the Hussite Over., though they can be found on other CDs from him. We get the Carnival Over. on both sets, after which Kertesz gives us the "My Homeland" and "In Nature's Realm" Over., while Kubelik offers the Scerzo capriccioso and The Wild Dove tone poem, both performed by his Bavarian State Orchestra rather than the Berliners.

As msut be obvious by now, I don't feel the two sets are competitive artistically. Kubelik was a major conductor and dedicated to Dvorak, but his best work isn't here. Kertesz, though not native born to the composer as Kubelik was, found a special affinity for Dvorak, and his cycle is one of the small miracles of Sixties recording. Perhaps not so minor considering that no one has bettered him in the early symphonies for forty years.

Amazing performances.......2005-03-28

This orchestra really has a rich, powerful sound, but can still give deep emotional sounds, all of which are needed to perform Dvorak. I doubt one can find finer performances of these symphonies, and the other works included in the set are very well chosen. The performances of each symphony are incredible, the sound quality is very good, and as I said before, the orchestra is wonderful. Highly recommended.

Average customer rating: Great value!

Dvorák: Symphonies Nos. 1-9; In Nature; Serenade for Winds; Serenade for Strings, etc. Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Divertimentos | Serenades & Divertimentos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | 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 Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | 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 Similar Items: Sibelius: The 7 Symphonies; Finlandia; Kullervo; etc. Mendelssohn-Bartholdy: Symphonies; Overtures; Concertos Elgar: The 2 Symphonies; Enigma Variations; Overtures; Serenade; Violin Concerto; Cello Concerto Schubert: Symphonies Nos. 1-6, 8 & 9 Wiener Musik ASIN: B000A6T2KI Release Date: 2005-09-06

Customer Reviews:

Great value!.......2007-06-01

I think this 7 cd set is totally worth the low price.
I can't find any review of this set of CDs online, so I did some research after I bought it.
It is the first CD release of Sir Andrew Davis's complete Dvorak's symphonies.
These recordings were made between 1978-1982 by CBS. (ADD/DDD)
SONY DSD remaster eliminated most of the early digital sound problems.
PO players produced warm and dramatic sounds.
The still young Andrew Davis did a great job adding his personal reading of the scores. I like his slower tempo treatment of Symphony No. 9.
Symphony no.1,3 and the Carnival overture are also great.
Only down side is the linear notes is too short, and lack of detail.
Dvorak's music always bring me the love for life. I hope you will enjoy it too.

Average customer rating: 5 stars for the syms Beautiful and comprehensive compilation of Sibelius works excellent collection A must for Sibelius lovers A terrific and near-perfect set

Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies & Tone Poems Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Incidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Similar Items: Bruckner: The Complete Symphonies Strauss: Orchestral Works Debussy, Ravel: Orchestral Works Symphonies 1-3 / Piano Concerto 1-4 / Isle of Dead Liszt: Works for Piano and Orchestra ASIN: B00005MIZT Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

1. I: Andante, Ma Non Troppo - Allegro Energico
2. II: Andante (Ma Non Troppo Lento)
3. III: Scherzo: Allegro
4. IV: Finale (Quasi Una Fantasia): Andante - Allegro Molto
5. I: Allegretto
6. II: Tempo Andante, Ma Rubato
7. III: Vivacissimo - Lento E Suave - Tempo Primo - Largamente -
8. IV: Finale: Allegro Moderato

Tracks:

1. I: Allegro Moderato
2. II: Andantino Con Moto, Quasi Allegretto
3. III: Moderato - Allegro (Ma Non Tanto)
4. I: Tempo Molto Moderato, Quasi Adagio
5. II: Allegro Molto Vivace - Doppio Piu Lento
6. III: Il Tempo Largo
7. IV: Allegro

Tracks:

1. I: Tempo Molto Moderato - Largamente - Allegro Moderato
2. II: Andante Mosso, Quasi Allegretto
3. III: Allegretto Molto - Un Pochettino Largamente
4. I: Allegro Molto Moderato
5. II: Allegretto Moderato - Poco Con Moto
6. III: Poco Vivace
7. IV: Allegro Molto - Allegro Assai - Doppio Piu Lento

Tracks:

1. Adagio -
2. Un Pochettino Meno Adagio - Vivacissimo -
3. Poco Rallentando Al Adagio - Allegro Molto Moderato - Allegro Moderato - Vivace -
4. Presto - Adagio - Largamente Molto - Affettuoso
5. Cantata: Oma Maa, Op.92: 'Our Own Land'
6. Tulen Synty, Op.32: The Origin Of Fire

Tracks:

1. I: Introductione: Allegro Moderato
2. II: Kullervo's Youth: Grave
3. III: Kullervo And His Sister: Allegro Vivace
4. IV: Kullervo Goes To Battle: Alla Marcia
5. V: Kullervo's Death: Andante

Tracks:

1. The Oceanides, Op.73
2. I: Intermezzo
3. III: Alla Marcia
4. I: All'overtura: Grave - Allegro/II: Scena: Tempo Di Menuetto - Allegro Moderato/III: Festivo: Tempo Di Bolero
5. Tapiola, Op.112
6. Finlandia, Op.26
7. Serenade No.1 in D, Op.69a
8. Serenade No.2 in g, Op.69b (Lento Assai)

Tracks:

1. Luonnotar, Op.70
2. Pohjola's Daughter, Op.49
3. En Saga, Op.9
4. I. Nocturne
5. II. Elegie
6. III. Musette
7. IV. Serenade
8. V. Ballade
9. The Bard, Op.64

Tracks:

1. Spring Song, Op.16
2. III. The Swan Of Tuonela
3. IV. Lemminkainen's Return
4. I. At The Castle Gate
5. II. Melisande
6. IIa. By The Seashore
7. III. A Spring In The Park
8. IV. The Three Blind Sisters
9. V. Pastorale
10. VI. Melisande At The Spinning-wheel
11. VII. Entr'acte
12. VIII. The Death Of Of Melisande
13. Valse Triste
14. Scene With Cranes
15. II. The Harp
16. III. The Maidens With Roses
17. IV. Listen, The Robin Sings
18. VI. Swanwhite And The Prince

Customer Reviews:

5 stars for the syms.......2006-03-18

with the Helsinki
3 Stars for the Bourgemouth on the poems.
But truth be told, no matter how EMPHATIC statements that his syms are not programmatic, that is fall into a logical step by step order, they are just that, very predictible.
I've given these syms 30 yrs, and lately I've lost interest.
While Schonberg, Berg, Webern, Varese were scoring creative new atonal/poloytonal works of new genius, here was Sibelius struggling with old forms, that fail to deliver anything really new. And he knew it, and bothered him to no end.
I feel there is way too much Beethoven/Bruckner(I like neither) influence in the syms for me to become a fan of the syms. I like the 1st sym "somewhat" that is I never listen to it, and small parts of the 4-7 syms. But I'm afraid I only like Sibelius pre 1905, the Kullervo, VC, tone poems. Here is where the genius of Sibelius truly lies.
The syms long ago held some interest, but lately i've moved on to Schnittke and Pettersson.
I also much prefer Vaughan Wialliams syms to all of Sibelius.
Sibelius was a genius in his element, that of representing the folk ideas of his land. His syms are like a string of ideas that lack the connective passages. IOW the whole is less than the few interesting parts.

Beautiful and comprehensive compilation of Sibelius works.......2005-09-29

For me, this has been the year of Sibelius. Previously, I had listened to (and enjoyed) Finlandia. I also had a couple of the symphonies but hadn't listened too them but once or twice. After listening to Finlandia again, I decided to seek out more SIbelius to sample. After some searching through reviews, I settled upon this compilation of works because it offered a large variety of Sibelius and seemed to be well-received. I have been very happy with this purchase! Not only have I spent countless hours listening to each of the 8 disks in this set, the enjoyment of the music has led me to many other wonderful performances of Sibelius by other worthy conductors such as Ashkenazy and Vanska. Still, this boxed set will always be fondly remembered as the one that introduced me to the wonders of so many of these pieces.

I was immediately captured by the haunting clarinet solo that begins the first symphony. All of the symphonies, performed by the Helsinki Orchestra, are recorded in very clear digital sound -- so the solo and the pecussion accompanyment were perfectly captured. I was hooked by the first symphony, but all of the symphonies are presented clearly and with outstanding interpretations. The Helsinki Philharmonic has always had a strong affiliation with Sibelius's music, and Paavo Berglund is a renowned Sibelius conductor who has recorded three separate symphony cycles (once with the Bournemouth Symphony orchestra, the 2nd time with these recordings, and a third time with the Chamber Orchestra of Europe). The commitment felt by the conductor and orchestra comes through in these performances.

In addition to the complete symphony cycle, there are a number of other treasures. A fine version of Finlandia is accompanied by a number of truly delightful tone poems such as Tapiola, the haunting Swan of Tuonela and Lemminkainen's Return (from the Lemminkainen Suite). These tone poems were inspired by the Finnish Kalevala. Other tone poems such as the Oceanides and Spring Song were inspired by Sibelius's love of nature. All receive strong performances by Berglund conducting the Bournemouth Symphony (in analog sound that is still quite good). The violin serenades (especially no. 2) were unexpected delights. The version of Kullervo is magnificent, as is the singing in Luonnotar and Oma maa. This set is a treasure trove of Sibelius treats!

excellent collection.......2004-06-28

This box set includes Sibelius' all symphonies, with Kullervo and his almost complete tone poems. The Symphonies are performed by Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, Kullervo and tone poems with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. All of them conducted by Paavo Berglund, who always a champion on performer of Sibelius.

Even so there are his incidental musics: Pelleas et Melisande, Swanwhite, Kuolema and King Christian II.
Especially Pelleas and Kuolema (which includes ever famous Valse triste) are the most beautifuls. Pelleas et Melisande is a very impressive music, and the best "Pelleas" music with Debussy's Pelleas (opera).

Kullervo is symphony-cantata for two soloists, men-chorus and orchestra, which be constitued in 5 movements, comparable in artistically with Mahler's 2nd Symphony "Resurrection". Especially the last movement "Kullervo's Death" is very effective, pathetique.

And one more a vocal work, a tone poem for soprano and orchestra: Lounnutar. This is based on Kalevala again, and Luonnotar is creator of nature in this poem. It is a very radical work, like his darkful 4th Symphony and The Bard. I think, The Bard is one of the best works of the composer, with it's harmonis, dark colours, contemplative mood. Still, this was written in tragic E-flat minor. It is based on a mythologic creature which plays an harp, like lyre in Greek mythology. And in the last minutes there is a dramatic climax and then music slowly fades out.

And there is the best Tapiola recording, I've ever heard (with Petri Sakari's version at Naxos). This is based on Kalevala, again. Tapio is the name of the forest god, according story. There are very impressive contrasts between hypnotic, a little hesitated, light colours and dramatic darkful colours. The orchestration is marvellous again. Especially, in last minutes there is a terrific storm scene and it's very spine chilling. Climaxes (which played by brass) are very powerful...

This is a very good addition to collectors of Sibelius fans and any classical music lovers. Highly recommended.

A must for Sibelius lovers.......2003-01-07

Jean Sibelius is one of those composers who I feel that even on his off days he did well. While I certainly can't say I enjoy all of his music enough to buy (Sacaramouche for instance), most of his music is highly pleasureful. All of the pieces on this set, conducted by Paavo Berglund, save maybe one or two, are part of the later catagory.


This set consists of most of Sibelius's major orchestral music, with the notible exceptions of Night Ride and Subrise, the first two sections of the Lemmenkainen Suite, and the Violin Concerto. It also contains such rarities as Origin of Fire, Our Own Land, and excepts from Swan White.

Berglund, I believe, was the first to fully record a complete cycle of Sibelius symphonies. The recordings here are not from his first set (which I have not heard), but the second cycle recorded in the mid-80s. The symphonies and two canatas mentioned above are recorded in digital, while the rest is analog. It's all in very good sound, though not perfect. That they wanted to keep the D and A recodings on seperate discs is the only possible reason I can see for why they left out the Violin Concerto (there's plenty of room on disc 4).

Now of course, contents are one thing, but what really matters is performance. And suffice it to say, they for the most part shine. This has easily the finest Symphony 1 I've heard, and the finale of Symphony 5 (truly one of the greatest works of the 20th century) shines with brillance. Symphony 3 makes its mark nicely, and Symphony 2, while perhaps a bit on the fast side, is certainly up to par. The only disappointment is Symphony 7, which falls totally flat compared to Davis/BSO.

The two cantatas are wonderful rarities, but its disc 5 where the choral aspect is full played out -- Kullervo. If you've never heard this piece, it's a 75 minute long programatic symphony (to use to term losely) with many ups and downs. This was the first ever recording, and most say it hasn't been topped.

The final three discs contain shorter works. Especially noteable are the absolutely beautiful Serenade #2 for Violin and Orchestra, the hauntingly lovely Luonnotar, a very rousing version of Lemminkainen's Return, and a passionate Pelleas and Mellsande.

Of course, it's almost impossible to have this big a set without some disapointments. Beyond the aformentioned Symphony 7, there's also not overly convincing Finlandia, and a WAY too slow Karelia Intermezzo. Thankfully, the rest of the set makes up for it. It's a great deal at only about $7 a disc retail, and if you're like me, on you'll keep coming back to.

A terrific and near-perfect set.......2002-04-05

This release couples Berglund's classic Bournemouth recordings of the Kullervo Symphony and a host of tone poems with his most recent cycle of the Symphonies.

The Bournemouth recordings are legendary, especially the Kullervo, which belongs in every classical music library. There is a real warmth to these readings, which charms me into letting the minor flaws in playing pass. The sound is pretty good, though slightly muddy at times (particularly in Tapiola), and the selections have been excellently remastered.

The Symphonies, recorded with the Helsinki Philharmonic in superb digital sound, are a real peak in the discography. Berglund doesn't play his Sibelius lukewarm; his readings are sharp, neo-classical and very powerful. You won't confuse these recordings with those of Colin Davis to be sure. Very comparable to Maazel's earlier readings with the Vienna Philharmonic, but with less over-dramatization. His First, Second, Third, Sixth and Seventh are as good as any, and his reading of the Fourth, while rather bleak for my taste (I like the idea of some kind of softening at the end) is a coherent vision, almost harsh in it's execution.

I really like Maazel's Pittsburgh Fifth, and Berglund's recording in no way comes close to Maazel's splendor or power as a total conception. But, Berglund's middle movement is the best I've heard by far; the obsessively repeated melody seems to weave in and out of the orchestral fabric very seductively. Berglund's knack for architecture is spot on here.

All in all a wonderful set. An easy first choice for newcomers to Sibelius and a necessary addition for confirmed fans.

Average customer rating: The performances aren't first rate, but the recordings are Fire and ice ... Great Sibelius among much great Sibelius

Sibelius: The Symphonies; Tone Poems; Violin Concerto Manufacturer: Umvd Labels ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Ashkenazy, Vladimir | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Sibelius: The 7 Symphonies; Finlandia; Kullervo; etc. Sibelius: The Symphonies / Blomstedt Rachmaninov: The Symphonies Dmitri Shostakovich: Symphony No.11 ''The Year 1905'' Schumann: Piano Trios, Op. 88, Op. 110; Piano Quartet, Op. 47 ASIN: B00008CLIG Release Date: 2003-10-14

Tracks:

1. (Cd 1) Symphony No.1 Symphony No4
2. (Cd 2) Symphony No.2 Finlandia . Karelia Suite
3. (Cd 3) Symphony No.3 Symphony No.6 . Tapiola
4. (Cd 4) Symphony No.5. Symphony No.7. En Saga
5. (Cd 5) Violin Concerto* 2 Serious Melodies*

Customer Reviews:

The performances aren't first rate, but the recordings are.......2006-09-27

As these recordings appeared from 1979 to 1984, it became apparent that Ashkenazy was making a major bid to shift his career from pianist to conductor. As a star on the Decca label, he was given free rein, the company's engineers supplying him with spectacular sonics that sitll hold up for detail, impact, and wide dynamics. Every movement leaps out of the speakers. But the underlying interpretations, to my ear, are haphazard. Like Rostropovich, another great Russian instrumentalist who couldn't quite translate his mastery to the podium, Ashkenazy's Sibelius works by fits and starts. Sometimes he plunges in vigorously, at other times backs away and loses the rhythmic line. There's a lot of indulgent shaping of melodies--in all he's no cometiiton for great Sibelians like Karajan, Beecham, and Bernstein. Boris Belkin, the soloist in the Violin Concerto, is precise and extroverted but no match for the illustrious soloist--Heifetz, Shaham, Kremer, Oistrakh, etc.--who preceded and followed him.

Even so, the general thrust of Ashkenazy's readings is vigorously energetic, so I prefer hi to latter-day Colin Davis, and the Philharmonia plays much better than the various Scandinavian orchestras that produce most Sibelius recordings today. If you want to be thrilled by sheer sound, this bargain set--all the cheaper on the used market--can't be beat.

Fire and ice ..........2006-01-31

The glorious First Symphony in this Sibelius Cycle for this particular listener immediately sets the scene: bold and full-bodied playing, truly opening up all the warmer and darker sentiments of Sibelius' music, which to my ears has always, underneath a certain 'cool reserve', been deeply emotional and deeply 'human': how very 'Northern' in its sensibilities. Fire and ice. How intensely sweet and sad at the same time the main theme of the andante is played here! Ashkenazy and the Philharmonia Orchestra to my feeling dig deeply into all the emotions, really making the heart-strings of this particular listener resonate. The orchestral playing is both powerful/'muscled' and flowing, with nice legato. The same can also be said for the performances of the other symphonies. I will mince no words: just buy this if you love Sibelius' symphonies recorded in full, wide and directly recorded sound (typically Decca/London?), played in an unabashedly bold (romantic) way, letting bloom to the full all of the emotions.
But if you love this, I urge you to sample the (recent) Sibelius cycle by the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Leif Segerstam (on Ondine). These lively, fresh but sturdy and full-bodied, romantic interpretations by Segerstam and the orchestra that premiered many of Sibelius' works under the composer's own direction, are simply revelatory (well, certainly to the ears of this particular amateur listener) and at least as well played - helped by a typical (for Ondine) crystal clear, perfectly balanced soundpicture.

Great Sibelius among much great Sibelius.......2005-11-11

There is no dearth of great Sibelius cycles - many are very good and all are less controversially regarded as good than most cycles of other symphonists. Small countries have gone to war over which Mahler cycle is the best, families have separated over Bruckner questions along Wand vs. Celibidache vs. Jochum lines... and small arms fire must on occasion decide which LvB cycle is primatur.

No such emotions when it comes to the cool Sibelius symphonies. Wouldn't be prudent. Too much good stuff is out there... and even if it were not the necessary top choice, few lovers of Siblius would claim not to be able to live with any of the three Colin Davis cycles or Osmo Vanska's or the almost-complete Karajan cycle on DG or Berglund's EMI traversal. Some English people might even accept the Rattle cycle as sufficient - and only a few people would sneer at the Barbirolli set of Sibelius' 7... although that's already one step out of the mainstream.

I personally hold Vanska in the highest regards - but Vladimiar Ashkenazy makes a good point in his recordings for those who claim he's a better conductor than a pianist. Indeed, if price is to play an issue, too, I'd place his cycle at the very top of my list. He's improved as a conductor over the years, but in this one he was already ahead of himself. It is solidly played throughout all the symphonies and then some. Not as 'safe' as Jaervi in either of his two cycles, not quite as all-out as Vanska. Cool but with northern fire. Excellent attacks and a lyrical side. In the reissue Decca threw in the tone poems and the violin concerto - all at a great price. These performances might be supplemented in individual symphonies according to ones own taste and preference - but they leave little to desire and I can only wish that I would have had them as my first and basic Sibelius set instead of Maazel. (No offense, Lorin!)

Very much recommended.

Average customer rating:

Nature's Symphonies: Surf & Sea Manufacturer: Delta ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Pavanes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( 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 Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Grieg, Edvard | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Franz Joseph Haydn | Haydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( 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 Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Schubert | Schubert, Franz | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Bagatelles | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Impromptus | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Nocturnes | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | 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 Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music Environmental | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 New Age | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Nature's Symphonies: Rainforest ASIN: B000001V5L Release Date: 1994-05-03

Tracks:

1. Surf & Sea: Pavane For A Dead Princess
2. Surf & Sea: Fur Elise
3. Surf & Sea: Laudate Dominum
4. Surf & Sea: Italian Symphony, 3rd Movement
5. Surf & Sea: Waltz In A Flat
6. Surf & Sea: Pastoral Symphony, 2nd Movement
7. Surf & Sea: Symphony #5
8. Surf & Sea: 'Surprise' Symphony #94, 2nd Movement
9. Surf & Sea: Badinerie
10. Surf & Sea: Anitra's Dance
11. Surf & Sea: Symphony #3, 3rd Movement
12. Surf & Sea: Fantasy Overture From Romeo & Juliet
13. Surf & Sea: Impromptu A Flat Major 142
14. Surf & Sea: Love Dream #3

Average customer rating: ambitious and comprehensive An astonishing bargain on the used market Hard to beat

Dvorak: Symphonies 1-9 / Orchestral Works Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Royal Liverpool Philharmonic | ( R ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Bargain Box Sets | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Similar Items: Beethoven: Piano Sonatas (Complete) [Box Set] ASIN: B00004Z34H Release Date: 2001-04-10

Tracks:

1. The Wild Dove, Op.110
2. Sym No.1 in c: I. Allegro
3. Sym No.1 in c: II. Adagio Molto
4. Sym No.1 in c: III. Allegretto
5. Sym No.1 in c: IV. Finale: Allegretto

Tracks:

1. Sym No.2 in B flat, Op.4: I. Allegro Con Moto
2. Sym No.2 in B flat, Op.4: II. Poco Adagio
3. Sym No.2 in B flat, Op.4: III. Allegro Con Brio
4. Sym No.2 in B flat, Op.4: IV. Finale: Allegro Con Fuoco Alla Breve
5. My Home (Domov Mui) Ov, Op.62: Andante/Maestoso/Quasi Andante/Allegro Vivace

Tracks:

1. Sym No.3 in E flat, Op.10: I. Allegro Moderato
2. Sym No.3 in E flat, Op.10: II. Adagio Molto, Tempo Di Marcia
3. Sym No.3 in E flat, Op.10: III. Finale (Allegro Vivace)
4. Scherzo Capriccioso, Op.66
5. Carnival Ov, Op.92

Tracks:

1. Othello, Op.93: Ov
2. Sym No.4 in d, Op.13: I. Allegro
3. Sym No.4 in d, Op.13: II. Andante Sostenuto E Molto Cantabile
4. Sym No.4 in d, Op.13: III. Scherzo: Allegro Feroce
5. Sym No.4 in d, Op.13: IV. Finale: Allegro Con Brio

Tracks:

1. Czech Ste, Op.39: I. Allegro Moderato
2. Czech Ste, Op.39: II. Allegro Grazioso
3. Czech Ste, Op.39: III. Allegro Giusto
4. Czech Ste, Op.39: IV. Andante Con Moto
5. Czech Ste, Op.39: V. Presto
6. Sym No.5 in F, Op.76: I. Allegro Ma Non Troppo
7. Sym No.5 in F, Op.76: II. Andante Con Moto
8. Sym No.5 in F, Op.76: III. Scherzo: Allegro Scherzando
9. Sym No.5 in F, Op.76: IV. Finale: Allegro Molto

Tracks:

1. In Nature's Realm Ov, Op.91: Allegro, Ma Non Troppo
2. Sym No.6 in D, Op.60: I. Allegro Non Tanto
3. Sym No.6 in D, Op.60: II. Adagio
4. Sym No.6 in D, Op.60: III. Scherzo
5. Sym No.6 in D, Op.60: IV. Finale: Allegro Con Spirito

Tracks:

1. Sym No.7 in d, Op.70: I. Allegro Maestoso
2. Sym No.7 in d, Op.70: II. Poco Adagio
3. Sym No.7 in d, Op.70: III. Scherzo: Vivace
4. Sym No.7 in d, Op.70: IV. Finale: Allegro
5. Sym No.8 in G, Op.88: I. Allegro Maestoso
6. Sym No.8 in G, Op.88: II. Poco Adagio
7. Sym No.8 in G, Op.88: III. Scherzo: Vivace
8. Sym No.8 in G, Op.88: IV. Allegro Ma Non Troppo

Tracks:

1. American Ste, Op.98b: I. Andante Con Moto
2. American Ste, Op.98b: II. Allegro
3. American Ste, Op.98b: III. Moderato (Alla Polacca)
4. American Ste, Op.98b: IV. Andante
5. American Ste, Op.98b: V. Allegro
6. Sym No.9 in e, Op.95 'From The New World': I. Adagio - Allegro Molto
7. Sym No.9 in e, Op.95 'From The New World': II. Largo
8. Sym No.9 in e, Op.95 'From The New World': III. Scherzo (Molto Vivace)
9. Sym No.9 in e, Op.95 'From The New World': IV. Allegro Con Fuoco

Customer Reviews:

ambitious and comprehensive.......2007-01-26

I bought this set because I was looking for early Dvorak, which is surprisingly difficult to find. As a collection of such hard-to-find material, this set of recordings is fabulous. I am already enamored of the fourth, listening to it over and over. The more I listen to this set of CDs, the more I like it. The technical quality of the playing, though overall not quite up to the level of the top world-class orchestras, is nonetheless excellent and in many ways more authentic of Dvorak and his world -- plus there are some really strong performances especially on the woodwind side.

An astonishing bargain on the used market.......2006-07-29

I was listening to Libor Pesek's complete Dvorak symphonies, which unlike most is generously filled with miscellaneous tone poems, overtures, and suites. The Czech Phil. sounds like they are to the manner born, but technical execution is spotty--this is an orchestra to appreciate for its local color rather than virtuosity. Pesek has middle-of-the-road ideas about the symphonies. The thin recorded sound isn't ideal, but the tangy Czech woodwinds are miked very close, which is appealing. There's no single performance to rival the best on CD, but everything is quite agreeable.

Then I noticed that on the used market this whole set sells for under $10--bargain alert. One could easily live with thwese readings and enjoy them al the more at such a steal.

Hard to beat.......2002-11-23

This set is a compilation of Pesek's recording cycle for Virgin between 1987-1995.

As a set of the complete symphonies it competes with Gunzenhauser (Naxos), Kertesz (Decca), Kubelik (DG), Jaarvi (Chandos) and Rowicki (Philips) In the UK this set is the cheapest way to buy a complete Dvorak cycle (there is a compilation box from Brilliant slightly cheaper but has the performances split unsuccessfully between three conductors : Paavo Jarvi, Kosler and Menuhin). However, in reviewing the set I took no account of price because, quite simply this set stands up well against all of the above.

First a note on the works. Dvorak's early symphonies are rarely performed and until recently hard to find on record. They dont reflect the maturity of style and understanding of symphonic form that one associates with 7, 8 and 9 but amongst them there are some real gems that it is a pity to neglect. Most notable is how clear Dvorak's orchestral voice is right from the start. Apart from strong and very obvious early influences from Wagner, Brahms and Beethoven what one hears most are pre-echoes of orchestral techniques used more successfully in the later works. Listening to the symphonies chronologically one is aware of the gradual maturing of form with the occasional marked change in approach such as from 4 - 5 when Dvorak's friendship with Brahms has clearly had effect. Needless to say, all the symphonies are orchestrally rich, colourful and dynamic with passages of great excitement and moments of sublime beauty.

Pesek's cycle alternates between his two favorite orchestras, 1,3,7,8 & 9 performed with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic (of whom he is currently conductor in residence) and 2,4, 5 & 6 the Czech Philharmonic (of whom he used to be conductor in residence). This alternation of orchestras adds an extra dimension to the cycle that I found quite refreshing. Pesek's approach has always been to let the orchestra have the freedom to express what he calls its "invisible spirit". "..you can hardly come to any orchestra and make them only play your way - it's a mutual exchange of experience..". Indeed this cycle gives one the chance to contrast the "invisible spirits" of the RLPO and CPO whilst still being aware of a unifying approach from Pesek.

The first 3 symphonies suffer perhaps from having too many ideas jostling for attention. It seems as if Dvorak is so excited with the infintie range of colours his orchestral paintbox can offer that he cant help but try out as many original and unusual scorings as possible. There are also many and frequent changes of dynamic, resulting in a kind of "crescendo-fatigue" Where Jaarvi tries hard to bring out an overall architecture that quite simply isnt there, Pesek, instead, revels in the many different textures and contrasting dynamics spotlighting certain passages for the inherent beauty they contain. I can think of no better approach for these early symphonies. With the fourth symphony however, Pesek now brings out the emerging sense of form as Dvorak reduces his orchestral palette in favour of more thematic development.

With Kertesz and Kubelik (and even the old Neumann on Supraphon) I was always aware of the shortcomings of the "middle" symphonies (5 & 6) feeling that they were "almost there but not quite". Under Pesek however, these symphonies exhibit a depth and maturity that gives me new respect. There is a relaxed confidence in his approach that makes us wonder why these works arent more played. There is much good music here and certainly I would put these particular performances at the top of my list.

When it comes to the "big three" (7, 8 and 9) there is so much competition in the catalogue that it would be impossible to pull out any one version and label it the best. Everyone has their own favorites (mine are Szell for 7, Kertesz for 8 and Barbirolli for 9). All I can say is the performances here are superb and cannot be criticised. Everything I look for in each performance Pesek has in spades. I may prefer Szell's third movement of the seventh or Barbirolli's opening to the ninth but this is countered by other aspects of the Pesek performances that are better in different ways. Most satisfying of all, having listened to Pesek guide me through the earlier symphonies, following his interpretation through into the last ones provides an insight and sense of completeness that any individual performance cannot achieve.

Finally a note on the recording. The CPO recordings (House of Artists, Prague) have slightly more ambience than the RLPO (Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool) which perhaps reinforces their "Czech" sound (memories of Supraphon!) but although the acoustic results in a slightly "fuller" sound it does not muddy the overall clarity of the excellent recording. The CPO recording of Symphony no 2 though was recorded in the Dvorak Hall, Prague and here there is slightly more reverberation. It's still within tolerable limits though. Overall the sound quality is excellent.

This is, all in all, great value for money and if the only Dvorak you know is the "New World" I suggest you go mad and buy this. You also get excellent performances of the Czech and American Suites, Othello, Wild Dove, My Home and Carnival Overtures and Scherzo Capriccioso thrown in as fillers!

Average customer rating: best complete sibelius symphonies Amazing Sibelius Symphonies!! A sincere tribute!

Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies Manufacturer: Sbme Import ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Tchaikovsky: The Complete Symphonies Haydn: The 12 London Symphonies Schumann: The 4 Symphonies Brahms: Symphony 1 / Serenade 2 / Bernstein Beethoven: The 9 Symphonies ASIN: B00008PW43 Release Date: 2003-05-12

Tracks:

1. Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39
2. Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39
3. Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39
4. Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39
5. Symphony No.3 In C Major, Op.52
6. Symphony No.3 In C Major, Op.52
7. Symphony No.3 In C Major, Op.52
8. Symphony No.2 In D Major, Op.43
9. Symphony No.2 In D Major, Op.43
10. Symphony No.2 In D Major, Op.43
11. Symphony No.2 In D Major, Op.43
12. Luonnatar, Op.70
13. Pohjola's Daughter, Op.49
14. Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63
15. Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63
16. Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63
17. Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63
18. Symphony No.5 In E-Flat Major, Op.82
19. Symphony No.5 In E-Flat Major, Op.82
20. Symphony No.5 In E-Flat Major, Op.82
21. Symphony No.5 In E-Flat Major, Op.82
22. Symphony No.6 In D Minor, Op.104
23. Symphony No.6 In D Minor, Op.104
24. Symphony No.6 In D Minor, Op.104
25. Symphony No.6 In D Minor, Op.104
26. Symphony No.7 In C Major, Op.105

Album Details

4CD Box set. Columbia Legends series.

Customer Reviews:

best complete sibelius symphonies.......2006-01-30

I bought this set on a hunch that if all Bernstein's Sibelius performances were as good as his Pohjola's Daughter on a compilation disc which I've owned for some time, then the risk of a few pounds was worth it. Well I certainly wasn't disappointed! I listened to all four discs in one session through the night and found that LBs is the best complete Sibelius symphonies set I've ever encountered. Individual symphonies can be equalled by other conductors but as a complete survey this has to be the one, and I'm comparing LB to Karajan (who incidentally never recorded the Third Symphony), Ashkenazy, Maazel, Barbirolli, Paavo Berglund's 3 (!) sets, Colin Davis's RCA set, Rattle and Neeme Jarvi plus individual recordings by several others; altogether I'm comparing LBs 4 discs to about 40 'others'. I would be happy to part with most of the 40 in favour of LB. I won't try to describe any particular performance in detail because I think that any attempt to describe music in words is usually pointless. The one thing I would say though is that like all really successful Sibelius interpretations, LB's take you out of the concert hall and land you straight into the open air and the very nature that inspired this wonderful composer. Symphony No. 1 is as good as any. No. 2 I would prefer Barbirolli on Chesky, but LB is as good as any of the rest. No.3 I slightly prefer Jarvi on BIS, but LB is better in the important slow movement. No. 4 Karajan from the 1960s on DG is my preference but LB is pretty close. LB's No. 5 is fabulous, I can't think of a better version. No. 6 Karajan 1960's DG again, with Sakari on Naxos closely behind, but LB's is still a fine version. No. 7 was a revelation; I can think of no other work which has caused me more problems in trying to find a truly satisfying version in all my 35 years of classical music collecting. You wouldn't believe the number of versions I've heard (and got rid of) of this truly unique work of art! Frankly, in my search I really can't say what I was looking for, like with any music you just know when it's 'right'. Most versions fall completely flat and it seems that very few conductors can turn the printed notes into the magnificent paean to nature that is Sibelius's Seventh. That Sibelius wasn't able to successfully write another symphony after this has never surprised me (thank God that his muse lingered long enough for him to write Tapiola).There is only one Sibelius Seven to place alongside LBs - Paavo Berglund with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, recorded by EMI in the early 70s and never, to my knowledge reissued, except in a Royal Classics full set of the symphonies. The Berglund complete set is very good indeed and it's one I wouldn't want to be without. There's a fresh straightforward unfussy honesty about Berglund's earlier versions which I like very much; his later efforts were not in the same league. As an aside, Berglund's BSO recordings of shorter Sibelius works on EMI are true bargains, as is his unsurpassed world premiere recording of Kullervo (with the BSO) on the same label. As for the Seventh though, I would give a joint 'first prize' to Bernstein NYPO and Berglund BSO; Bernstein for the slightly more rugged, dramatic route; Berglund taking the more serene but with eyes-wide-open-in-wonder approach, but both indispensable. The old CBS recordings have cleaned up nicely under Sony's reissue (thanks Sony)and although not up to 'modern digital standards' that's not necessarily a bad thing! The best recording is of the Fifth - better than any other version, and of the Seventh. Of the others, all are excellent for their age- bold and clear, rather warm and with very little harshness or tape-hiss. In any case I wouldn't for a moment let this put you off buying what is an incredible bargain. One final point,; Phylis Curtin, a soprano I've never encountered before is extremely good in Luonnotar; she really characterizes the narrative like no other soloist I've heard before in this work. It's just a pity that LB forces the music along at a pace which is just too fast. But if you like Sibelius what are you waiting for? Buy this set today.

Amazing Sibelius Symphonies!!.......2005-01-02

"The Complete Symphonies" captures definitive interpretations of the seven symphonies by the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius conducted by the late maestro Leonard Bernstein.
Each symphony in this 4-disc set is presented in amazing remastered sound quality displaying full dynamic range and sharpness. The beauty of this music is definitely readily apparent from the opening notes through the very end.
In addition, the CD booklet includes a brief but highly informative essay in which the history behind each symphony is explained in just enough detail to understand its genesis.
All in all, this is a fantastic set of Sibelius's masterful symphonies wonderfully executed by the baton of Mr. Bernstein. Applause also must be given to Sony Music for compiling these symphonies into one complete set. Bravo.
It doesn't get much better than this.
Highly recommended!!

A sincere tribute!.......2004-07-08

This set has peak and lows. The second symphony has a hyper romantic approach ; that's its weak point. The third symphony is well built, besides it lacks the nature blow with its wildful force. The first symphony has always been a hazardous for many conductors. It has too much influence from Tchaikovsky ; and Bernstein knows it ; he avoids it , even the reading is warmth.
The best achievements in the set are the four and the sixth . I've never heard a sixth so well made ; the woodwinds , the strings give that atmosphere that demands this complex work. The fourth is unforgettable , but there's a performance of Beecham in the fifties with the Royal Philarmonic literally unique. The seventh is OK, but there are other options.
The fifth is weak , and my favorite versiona are two: Segerstam and Koussevitzki.
Anyway I bought this set eight years ago under The Royal Edition. I recommend you this set , Maazel Vienna , Segerstam and all you can get from Koussevitski.
If you request me by Anthony Collins - London Symphony (out of stock in the most of stores) I must confess, Collins has no equals in the Second .
The best first to me is Victor de Sabata (New York Philarmonic)(See my review about De Sabata)

Average customer rating:

Nature's Symphonies: Thunder in the Dark Various Artists Manufacturer: Delta ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music Environmental | New Age | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Nature | New Age | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music ASIN: B000007QJB Release Date: 1998-05-19

Tracks:

1. Approaching Storm
2. Evening Fireworks

Average customer rating:

Nature's Symphonies: Tropical Rainforest Various Artists Manufacturer: Delta ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music Environmental | New Age | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Nature | New Age | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music ASIN: B000007QJD Release Date: 1998-05-19

Tracks:

1. Amazon Morning
2. Evening Concert

Average customer rating: The Ultimate Bubble Bath CD

Nature's Symphonies: Amazon Concert Various Artists Manufacturer: Delta ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music Environmental | New Age | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Nature | New Age | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music ASIN: B000007QJG Release Date: 1998-05-19

Tracks:

1. Jungle Fantasy
2. Exotic Bird Concerto

Customer Reviews:

The Ultimate Bubble Bath CD.......2000-07-02

Nature's Symphonie's "Amazon Rainforest" is the ultimate CD for taking that relaxing Sunday afternoon bubble bath. There are only two sets on the CD, but they last long enough to get totally relaxed. "Jungle Fantasy" makes you feel like you're right there with the birds of the Amazon. "Exotic Bird Concerta" is more New Age with a mix of the jungle birds with a soothing background music. This CD will wisk you away to far off lands from the comfort of your home. I wouldn't recommend it while operating machinery, but if you need to escape from daily stress, this CD is perfect!

Music Review:

1. Plaisir D Amour
2. Psalms from St. Paul's, Vol. 1: Psalms 1-17
3. Psalms from St. Paul's, Vol. 3: Psalms 30-40
4. Psalms from St. Paul's, Vol. 6: Psalms 69-78
5. Rachmaninoff: the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom
6. Rejoice! (Messiah Highlights)
7. Roberta [Cast Recording]
8. Romantic Moments (Box Set) [Box set]
9. Schumann: Carnaval Op9; Fantasie in C Op17
10. Sentimentale

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