Weber: 2 Concertos; Concertino

On this CD:

1. Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in F minor, Op. 73 (J114)
Composed by Carl Maria von Weber
Performed by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with Paul Meyer
Conducted by Gunther Herbig

2. Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E flat major, Op. 74 (J118)
Composed by Carl Maria von Weber
Performed by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with Paul Meyer
Conducted by Gunther Herbig

3. Concertino for clarinet & orchestra in E flat major, Op. 26 (J. 109)
Composed by Carl Maria von Weber
Performed by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra with Paul Meyer
Conducted by Gunther Herbig

Tracks:

Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.1 In F Minor, Op.73: Allegro
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.1 In F Minor, Op.73: Adagio, Ma Non Troppo
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.1 In F Minor, Op.73: Rondo - Allegretto
Concertino For Clarinet And Orchestra In E Flat Major, Op.26: Adagio Ma Non Troppo - Andante - Allegro
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.2 In E Flat Major, Op.74: Allegro
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.2 In E Flat Major, Op.74: Andante Con Moto
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.2 In E Flat Major, Op.74: Alla Polacca
Grand Duo Concertant For Clarinet And Piano, Op.48: Allegro Con Fuego - Paul Meyer
Grand Duo Concertant For Clarinet And Piano, Op.48: Andante Con Moto - Paul Meyer
Grand Duo Concertant For Clarinet And Piano, Op.48: Rondo - Paul Meyer

Customer Reviews:

Pleasing interpretations at an excellent price.......2006-11-06

These are not overly flashy performances, just very musical. Boeykens is technically secure, and he makes these works sound easy. His musicality is genial, with dramatic touches as required. His performances naturally delineate the form of the music, while tastefully playing up its early Romantic emotional qualities. Easily the best bargain in Weber clarinet concerto recordings. My opinion of the Meyers performance of the Grand Duo is similar.

good.......2005-08-16

This CD is well recorded and the musicianship is excellent. The compositions seem to me good but not great. A nice listen and good price.

Good Basic Weber CD.......2004-09-06

Boeyken's rendition of the Weber pieces are very good. I may agree with a previous poster that the performances aren't spectacularly exciting. However, as a clarinetist I've played and heard these pieces performed so many times that it would be next to impossible to create a "ground-breaking" recording, no matter how hard the clarinetist tries. That being said, Boeyken's renditions are very pleasant and played with technical perfection. They will not disappoint.

I personally like Paul Meyer's rendition of Grand Duo Concertante. It is quite fast, so many passages that might be intricately phrased at a slower tempo are just torn through by Meyer, but if you are looking for a technically impressive performance, this will do.

At the price, this is a great CD, especially for someone wanting to hear the Concerti played in a conservative style. My favorite Weber Concerti is Sabine Meyer's on EMI (her interpretations are much more daring than Boeykens), so you might check that out also. Any music fan's CD library should have enough room for many renditions of these famous staples from the clarinet world.

Nothing special, but worth a look.......2004-06-16

Walter Boeykens does not have a stand-out, easy-to-identify tone, and does not play with an outward charm. But however, the performance is technically flawless and confidently played. James Conlon, one of the great American conductors today, leads the Rotterdam to a phenominal accompainment.
In the Concertante, Paul Meyer plays his typical fast rendition. Though he pulled it off, this recording of the concertante seems a bit sloppy and unattractive to me. Perhaps it is because this is one of Meyer's earlier recording jobs prior to hitting it big with Denon in the early 90's. Anyway, his tonguing, especially in movement 1 was not quite sharp, and he also takes a long annoying repeat that rarely shows on any other recordings (and for good reason, too!), as a result prolonging the length of the first movement to well over 7 minutes.

Still, this disc is well worth buying. At a measly 6.98 bucks, it contains a lot of music: 4 complete pieces including 2 concertos, a set of variations (the concertino), and the concertante which is really a sonata-like composition. All centerpieces of romantic era solo clarinet literature.

An absolute steal!.......2004-04-15

What you get for $6 is absolutely amazing! Walter Boeykens takes the Weber Clarinet Concerti to new heights. In particular, his playing during the alla polacca of the Concerto in E-flat Major is nothing short of supberb. It is the most effortless version of these pieces that I have ever heard. I am buying more of these for family members; it's probably the best-valued clarinet CD out there today.

Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Concertino; Clarinet Quintet

Average customer rating:

Polished playing, but somewhat aloof
Sabine Meyer - Best clarinetist alive
Just okay
Meyer's Recordings are the Best!

Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Concertino; Clarinet Quintet

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Great Recordings Of The Century - Mozart: Clarinet Concerto, Sinfonia Concertante / Meyer, Vonk
Mozart: Concerto for clarinet in A; Debussy: Première Rhapsodie
Johann & Carl Stamitz: Clarinet Concertos
Sabine Meyer - A Night at the Opera
Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Grand Duo Concertante; Concertino

ASIN: B00008QSCT
Release Date: 2003-04-08

Tracks:

I. Allegro (Cadenza - Heinrich Joseph Barmann)
II. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
III. Rondo (Allegretto)
I. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
II. Andante
III. Allegro
I.Allegro
II. Romanza (Andante)
III. Alla Polacca
I. Allegro - Wurttembergisches Kammerorchester Heilbronn
II. Fantasia (Adagio Ma Non Troppo) - Wurttembergisches Kammerorchester
III. Menuetto (Capriccio Presto) & Trio - Wurttembergisches Kammerorchester Heilbronn
IV. Rondo (Allegro Giocoso) - Wurttembergisches Kammerorchester Heilbronn

Customer Reviews:

Polished playing, but somewhat aloof.......2006-11-06

For masterful clarinetistry and good taste, Ms. Meyer's Weber is first rate. My only issue is that she is often somewhat businesslike in her approach to the music. Weber was an early Romanticist, and much of his musical impetus comes from opera. Therefore, I would have liked to hear more Romantic expressiveness in these performances. Having said that, I still believe this recording is worth having, especially for clarinetists.

Sabine Meyer - Best clarinetist alive.......2006-06-18

She has evrything, extrordinary technique, fabulous intonation, inovative musical ideas that are all her own, and a beautiful, clear, clean, german tone that we all seem to strive for. What more could you ask for?

I saw her perform Mozart's clarinet quintet with the tokyo string quartet last Januery. The performance was unparalled. There was not one squeake, crack, or flaw in the technique, the interpratation was very fresh and new, and the exitment and spontaneity was never lost, even in the most carefully planed out passages.

This CD of Weber's clarinet works is absolutly definitive. These peices are performed so often nowadays that it is hard to give an original interpretation. Most recent recordings sound dry, over practiced, and cautious to the point where one recording sounds hardly different from the next.

The case is quite the contrary with this recording. Ms. Meyer makes each one of these warhorses sound so fresh and vital. The fast movements are played with much flare, drama, and enthusiasm. She tends to rush the ends passages before an orchestral tutti, but the effect just adds to the exicitment, you get the feeling of listening in a live performance. After all, there is nothing in the music that says not to rush, and each one is entitled to his own interpretation. In the slower movments she takes time to showcase her silvery tone and lyrical playing. The second movment of the the second concerto is *sung* as if it were from one of Weber's operas.

This recording belongs in every music lover's library. Very rarely do you hear a soloist play on the level of Ms. Meyer.

Just okay.......2006-05-28

While her technical proficiency is obvious, I don't enjoy the rampant rushing involved on almost every track of this cd. Overall, I will allow my students to listen to this cd once for an idea of the piece, but I would never allow them to study this recording in depth.

Meyer's Recordings are the Best!.......2006-03-13

I am a clarinet student at the CSULB College of the Arts and was referred to this recording by my private clarinet instructor. Meyer's interpretation and execution of the Weber Clarinet Concertos, Concertinos and Quintet are, by far, the most musical and advanced performances I have ever heard. Meyer's sheer technique is something to marvel at. Although she plays in the German school and performs on a German set-up, it gives those who plan to perform this piece a fabulous rendition to emulate. I couldn't be happier with this purchase, and though it is one of the more expensive recordings of the Weber Concertos, it is worth EVERY PENNY. An invaluable addition to any musical recording library.

Average customer rating:

The finest horn album ever

Horn Concertos

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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

Virtuoso Horn
Screamers: Difficult Works For The Horn
Mozart: Horn Concertos Nos. 1-4
Mozart: Horn Concertos Nos. 1-4
The Magic of the French Horn

ASIN: B0007RO59I
Release Date: 2005-05-24

Tracks:

I. Vivace
II. Largo
III. Allegro
I. Largo
II. Allegro Moderato
I. Con Discrezione
II. Adagio
III. Allegro
Horn Concertino In E Minor, Op.45
I. Allegro Moderato
II. Andante
III. Allegro
I. Larghetto
II. Allegro Non Troppo
III. Menuet & Trio

Tracks:

I. Allegro Moderato
II. Adagio
III. Rondo (Allegretto)
I. Allegro Moderato
II. Adagio Cantabile
III. Rondo (Moderato)
I. Allegro Maestoso
II. Lento Cantabile
III. Rondo (Allegretto)
I. Allegro
II. Adagio
III. Menuetto
I. Allegro
II. Adagio
III. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

The finest horn album ever.......2005-08-11

No, this album doesn't include any of the superb horn concerti by Wolfgang Mozart. But it does have some incredible works, played wonderfully by Barry Tuckwell.

Over an hour is devoted to the works of Johann Stich (concerti 5, 6, 10, and 11). There are concerti by Franz Joseph Haydn and by Michael Haydn. And by Leopold Mozart. There's a concerto by Telemann. A beautiful sonata for horn and strings by Cherubini. A concerto by Forster. And the piece I consider the masterpiece of the bunch, the Horn Concertino by Carl Weber. Tuckwell is at his best with this work, including the very difficult chords (!) that have to produced by humming one note while playing another.

I highly recommend these two disks.

Average customer rating:

(untitled)
Shifrin shines in Weber's concertos
Painful Clarinet Concertos

Weber: Clarinet Concertos

Manufacturer: Delos Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Mozart: Clarinet Concerto; Clarinet Quintet
Brahms: Clarinet Sonata In E Flat/Clarinet Sonata In F/Schumann: Fantasiestücke,Op.73
Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Concertino; Clarinet Quintet
Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Grand Duo Concertante; Concertino
Johann & Carl Stamitz: Clarinet Concertos

ASIN: B00000I8GO
Release Date: 1999-02-23

Tracks:

Allegro
Romanza
Alla Polacca
Allegro
Adagio Ma Non Troppo
Rondo
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra In E-Flat Major, Op. 26

Customer Reviews:

(untitled).......2005-01-20

Not being a clarinetist, I cannot fully appreciate this CD, but as a lover of music, I highly reccomend this well done recording. The clarity of the CD is fabulous, the orchestra is very impressive, and the clarinetist, David S., plays the Weber with a fiery intensity that I can not describe to its fullness through words. It is most definately worth purchasing.

Shifrin shines in Weber's concertos.......2005-01-20

I almost didn't purchase this CD due an unfavorable review it received, but I overcame my doubts and purchased it anyway, much to my delight. Weber's clarinet concertos are among the most enjoyable in the repertoire, and David Shifrin provides an equally enjoyable performance. Overall, his tone is, as usual with him, incredibly soft and smooth; and his technique is flawless throughout. Occasionally his intonation is slightly off, especially on some of the high notes, but this by no means mars the performance. Another good thing about this album is that it combines all three of Weber's compositions for clarinet and orchestra on one disc.

The Concerto No. 2 in E-flat is featured first; this is structurally the most straightforward of the three (although out of the three it is most demanding on the soloist), with the first movement written in straight sonata form with the strings dominating the accompaniment. The second movement is very operatic in nature, with sudden register leaps and dramatic declamations; it is here that most of the intonation problems occur, but again they do not hamper one's enjoyment of the music. The finale, a polacca, is dazzling virtuoso writing, some of the most difficult music written for the clarinet, but Shifrin makes it sounds effortless. It's mind-blowing musicianship.

The Concerto No. 1 in F minor is more varied in style and texture than the second concerto. The first movement is very dark and serious, reminiscent of the famous Wolf's Glen scene from Weber's opera Der Freischütz. After a menacing orchestral ritornello, the clarinet enters quietly, alone. After the mysterious opening section, the piece switches to a major key for the development, but before long we are back in F minor as the clarinet runs up and down its range in a sinister, unsettling conclusion. Again, the second movement is a songlike quasi-aria, but this time there is a fast, tempestuous middle section that recalls the darkness of the first movement. In the third movement, however, all shadows are dispelled as the clarinet engages in a playful, scherzo-like romp with the orchestra, some of the most fun of Weber's writing for the clarinet.

The Concertino in E-flat is probably the most popular and enjoyable of the three concerto pieces. Written in one extended movement, the piece begins with a slow introduction in C minor, followed by a theme and variations pattern in the home key of E-flat. Capping it all off is a delightful, lilting 6/8 finale that is at once charming and technically impressive.

As for the quality of the recorded sound, I did not find it to be quite up to par with Delos' usual high quality recording standards; it sounds tinny at higher volumes and the orchestral sound lacks defining clarity. However, that does not drastically affect one's enjoyment of the album, and I find myself listening to it again and again, despite its flaws, and loving it every time.

Painful Clarinet Concertos.......2000-08-27

This latest release from Delos promises both to stun and to intrigue. The recording is yet another release of the Clarinet Concertos by Weber that falls very short of the musical mark. This recording falls short in many respects. The first striking blunder of the recording is the terrible orchestral sound in the introduction to the Second Concerto. It is remarkable how fowl the ensemble and balance is maintained. The woefullness is matched only by the entrance of the clarinet. David Shifrin who is known for his warmth and "bel canto" approach to the clarinet demonstrates throughout the recording poor intonation, sense of line, tonal beauty, and musical taste. To his credit, Shifrin is a clarinetist who can not be matched in the number of musical ideas, yet he seems here almost totally incapable of expressing them. Hopefully this is not a representation of the state of David Shifrins current musicianship. Golub and his band maintain a good balance with Shifrin throughout in maintaining the lowest musical stadards yet to be put on recording of the Weber Concerti. I would strongly recommend the Weber Concertos of Jon Manasse or Sabine Meyer as much better alternatives to this distrubing recording.

Carl Maria von Weber: Clarinet Concertos

Average customer rating:

Joie de vive

Carl Maria von Weber: Clarinet Concertos

Manufacturer: Asv Living Era
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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

Weber: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 2
Ravel: The Piano Concertos; Valses nobles et sentimentales
Dvorák: Cello Concerto; Tchaikovsky / Karajan, Rostropovich,

ASIN: B0000030S9
Release Date: 1997-05-20

Tracks:

Clarinet Concerto No. 1 In F Minor, Op. 73: ist Movement: Allegro
Clarinet Concerto No. 1 In F Minor, Op. 73: Second Movement: Adagio ma non troppo
Clarinet Concerto No. 1 In F Minor, Op. 73: Third Movement; Rondo (Allegretto)
Calrinet Concerto No. 2 In E Flat, Op. 74: First Movement: Allegro
Calrinet Concerto No. 2 In E Flat, Op. 74: Second Movement: Andante con moto
Calrinet Concerto No. 2 In E Flat, Op. 74: Third Movement: Alla Polacca
Concertino For Clarinet And Strings, Op. 26: Adagio, ma non troppo - Tema con Variazioni, Andante - Allegro
Grand Duo Concertant, Op. 48: First Movement: Allegro con fuoco
Grand Duo Concertant, Op. 48: Second Movement: Andante con moto
Grand Duo Concertant, Op. 48: Third Movement: Rondo (Allegro)

Customer Reviews:

Joie de vive.......2005-11-16

Emma Johnson is well-known for her joyous readings of romantic era clarinet works and she fulfills that legend very well in this disk of Weber. She is not noted for extreme wonders of passagework and occasionally there is a smudge in her technique. These small moments do little to deter enjoyment of this issue.

I have heard these concertos performed by other clarinetists including Antony Pay, an Englishman that plays a period clarinet. Pay is a better technician than Johnson and performs everything very well. He does not match Johnson is her joyous approach to the music, however.

In particular the support for the two concertos (Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in F minor by English Chamber Orchestra conducted by Yan Pascal Tortelier and Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E flat major conducted by Gerard Schwarz) is highly charged and romantic and suits Johnson's apporach perfectly.

The lesser items on this disk -- the Concertino for clarinet & orchestra in E flat major and the Grand duo concertante in B flat major for clarinet & piano accompanied by Gordon Back -- fill out a splendid disk of Weber clarinet music. I doubt you could find this much at this high quality in another collection.

Average customer rating:

Decent Recording at Great Price
Fine Concertos by Weber

Weber: Clarinet Concertos - Concertino

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Concertino; Clarinet Quintet

ASIN: B0000013Q4
Release Date: 1994-02-15

Tracks:

Clarinet Concerto No. 1 In F Minor, Op. 73: Allegro
Clarinet Concerto No. 1 In F Minor, Op. 73: Adagio ma non troppo
Clarinet Concerto No. 1 In F Minor, Op. 73: Rondo: Allegretto
Clarinet Concerto No. 2 In E Flat Major Op. 74: Allegro
Clarinet Concerto No. 2 In E Flat Major Op. 74: Andante con moto
Clarinet Concerto No. 2 In E Flat Major Op. 74: Alla Polacca
Concertino For Clarinet And Orchestra In E Flat Major, Op. 26: Adagio, ma non troppo - Tema con Variazioni - Andante - Allegro

Customer Reviews:

Decent Recording at Great Price.......2004-01-23

Here are three of the most renowned solo pieces for clarinet by the most prolific composer for the intrument, Carl Maria von Weber.

While Ottensamer did not play the pieces with the charm that some of the other renditions bring out, such as Meyer and Marriner, I still think this is a worthy disc, especially at the great Naxos price.

Von Weber was a Romantic era composer for the clarinet, which for some reason are pretty rare outside of him and Brahms. All his solo works: the 2 concerti and the concertino (the 3 featured on this disc); and the chamber works: the grand duo concertante, the quintet, and the two sets of variations; are all important high school and college repertoire for clarinetists.

Fine Concertos by Weber.......2001-11-17

Although Mozart's Clarinet Concerto is by all means a masterpiece, these two Concertos plus the Concertino are very good indeed. Ernst Ottensamer plays these demanding works beautifully, and the recording is outstanding. Once again Naxos has provided us with some wonderful music that is certainly more than worth the modest cost.

Carl Maria von Weber: Concertos for Clarinet and Orchestra Nos. 1-2; etc.

Average customer rating:

Well played Clarinet Music

Carl Maria von Weber: Concertos for Clarinet and Orchestra Nos. 1-2; etc.

Manufacturer: Arts Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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

Mozart: Quintet in A; Brahms: Clarinet Quintet in Bm Op115
Legacy of Daniel Bonade
Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Concertino; Clarinet Quintet
Brahms: Clarinet Sonatas & Trio [Hybrid SACD]
French Portraits

ASIN: B00027Y5FC
Release Date: 2004-09-28

Customer Reviews:

Well played Clarinet Music.......2005-08-05

Alessandro Carbonare is one the best living clarinet players. When hearing his works, the most noticeable thing you hear is his beautiful tone. His playing flows seamlessly and his interpretation is among the best there is. Combine this with Weber's clarinet works and you have a very good CD. I highly recommend this and all other CDs by Carbonare.

Mozart, Mercadante, Weber: Concertos for Clarinet

Average customer rating:

Mozart, Mercadante, Weber: Concertos for Clarinet

Manufacturer: Camerata
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00005YFDA
Release Date: 1996-08-01

Tracks:

Clarinet Concerto in A Major K.622: I. Allegro
Clarinet Concerto in A Major K.622: II. Adagio
Clarinet Concerto in A Major K.622: III. Rondo; Allegro
Clarinet Concerto in B-Flat Major Op.101: I. Allegro Maestoso
Clarinet Concerto in B-Flat Major Op.101: II. Andante con variazioni

Tracks:

Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in F Minor Op.73: I. Allegro
Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in F Minor Op.73: II. Adagio ma non troppo
Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in F Minor Op.73: III. Allegretto
Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E-Flat Major Op.74: I. Allegro
Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E-Flat Major Op.74: II. Andante con moto
Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E-Flat Major Op.74: III. Alla Polacca
Concertino Op.26 for Clarinet and Orchestra: I. Adagio ma non troppo
Concertino Op.26 for Clarinet and Orchestra: II. Andante
Concertino Op.26 for Clarinet and Orchestra: III. Allegro
Divertimento for Clarinet and Orchestra

Average customer rating:

What can anyone say?
Less than virtuoso
Taking it for what it is...it is perfect
The Rossini is utterly amazing...
Wonderful recording of the weber concerti

Weber: Clarinet Concertos

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Rossini: Overtures; Introduction, Theme and Variations
Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Concertino; Clarinet Quintet
Orchestral Excerpts for Clarinet
French Portraits
Jonathan Cohler: The Clarinet Alone

ASIN: B000001GH6
Release Date: 1993-03-16

Tracks:

Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No. 1 In F Minor, J114 (Op. 73): 1. Allegro
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No. 1 In F Minor, J114 (Op. 73): 2. Adagio ma non troppo
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No. 1 In F Minor, J114 (Op. 73): 3. Rondo: Allegretto
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No. 1 In E Flat Major, J109 (Op. 26): Adagio ma non troppo
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No. 1 In E Flat Major, J109 (Op. 26): Andante
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No. 1 In E Flat Major, J109 (Op. 26): Allegro
Introduction, Theme And Variation For Clarinet And Orchestra In E Flat Major: Introduzione: Andante (sostenuto)
Introduction, Theme And Variation For Clarinet And Orchestra In E Flat Major: Tema (Allegretto)
Introduction, Theme And Variation For Clarinet And Orchestra In E Flat Major: Var. I: Piso
Introduction, Theme And Variation For Clarinet And Orchestra In E Flat Major: Var. II
Introduction, Theme And Variation For Clarinet And Orchestra In E Flat Major: Var. III
Introduction, Theme And Variation For Clarinet And Orchestra In E Flat Major: Var. IV: Largo minore - Piso - A tempo
Introduction, Theme And Variation For Clarinet And Orchestra In E Flat Major: Var. V: Maggiore
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No. 2 In E Flat Major, J118 (Op. 74): 1. Allegro
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No. 2 In E Flat Major, J118 (Op. 74): 2. Romanza: Andante
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No. 2 In E Flat Major, J118 (Op. 74): 3. Alla Polacca

Customer Reviews:

What can anyone say?.......2006-01-19

What can anyone on here say about Charles Neidich that hasn't already been said? Speculation, condemnation (and yes, quite a bit of admiration) seem to follow him wherever he goes!

Everybody's got an opinon: He's a total genius and master of his instrument.... He's tasteless, and he plays too fast.... His interpretations inspire his fellow musicians and fans..... His interpretations antagonize his fellow musicians and fans.... The clarinet world follows his lead.... The clarinet world ignores him.... Get the picture?

Someone who's never actually heard Neidich play wouldn't know what to think. So think about this: If you truly love classical music because it has changed your life and inspired you, then don't you owe it yourself to ignore the chatter of idol minds like ours? I'll give it a rest already, and just say that I hope you enjoy this CD and the both dramatic and operatic musical journey that the soloist takes us on.

Less than virtuoso.......2004-04-14

Charles Neidich is well-known in the clarinet community as a fine technical player. However, he is also often found to be a little too quick on the tempos of many his recordings and performances. Whether his alacrity is intended to promulgate, "Hey, I am the master," or is simply virtuoso TECHNICAL talent exhibited at the wrong times remains to be seen. Anyhow, the Concertino was intended to be a little slower -- the second movement is ANDANTE, but Neidich intentionally speeds up (abruptly), perhaps even 12 metronome markings, when he reaches the long tonguing section (which is supposed to be a leisurely 80-88; yet he double-tongues it at a too fast-too furious tempo). I also noticed that Mr. Neidich swelled some of the important notes in the two Weber pieces, causing a "recycling" of the phrase.

As for the Rossini, Neidich is once again a little hasty, and while some may say his interpretation is the work of a genius, he actually loses some of the joviality and delight that is intended to be exuded. But his technical performance on the last variations of the piece must be lauded -- they may even match Robert Spring's recording of InT&V on his Dragon's Tongue CD (but I doubt Neidich could perform at the level of Spring on the Flight of the Bumblebee...though I could be wrong).

Neidich's tone is invariable, as expemplified by this CD -- too bright and too springy. Because of this, I often wonder why he has been revered as much as he has, for tone is one of the deciding factors between professional and master. Indisputably though, with a richer and darker tone he may very well become the master he has been prematurely hailed as. He should first take a few hints from someone like Ted Oiens (Detroit Symphony Orchestra principal clarinetist), who has the darkest and most grandiose sound I have ever heard coming out of a clarinet. (If you are a student going to Interlochen this summer, or All-State, you will be very VERY lucky if he visits. One meeting with Mr. Oiens will raise your performance level another notch.)

This CD is good, but could be better. It should be fitting for the casual listener and also for the beginner clarinetist, who needs a goal to strive for (Neidich's technical ability certainly is hard-to-attain, but maddeningly coveted). As for clarinet players such as myself...well it's just another one of those better than normal, but less than great CDs out there.

Taking it for what it is...it is perfect.......2004-03-16

Charley Niedich has perfect technique.
With that in mind, OF COURSE he is going to play this virtuosic music at a virtuosic tempo. If you are looking for virtuosic tone, you came to the wrong place. If you simply want to be amazed at flawless technique played at a tempo not even comprehendible, then this is what you want. I play clarinet and I am pretty serious about it. I have played the Rossini Intro, Theme and Variations, and I can tell you, listening to this recording almost makes me want to build a shrine to Mr. Nieidich.
Yes, it's THAT good.

The Rossini is utterly amazing..........2003-08-26

Most of the reviews concentrate on Neidich's performance of the Weber. I must admit I've hardly listened to the Weber at all as I have been utterly mesmerized by Neidich's performance of the Rossini. The Rossini is so amazingly difficult to play and Neidich makes it sound effortless. He is technically brilliant... unbelievable. And the Rossini is such joyous music - listening to it makes me feel just glad to be alive. So technical wizadry AND beautifully uplifting music - this CD is definitely worth it just for the Rossini!

Wonderful recording of the weber concerti.......2002-08-14

Why blame Charlie Neidich for his technique? If you have the technique why shouldn't you show it. We all know that Baermann was a fantastic virtuoso on the clarinet, he asked weber to write more and more in a show off style. He was not entirely satisfied with the subtlety of the first concerto, so there we have the brilliant fireworks in the second. I think Neidich served the music very well, his phrasing is sensitive and dynamic choices are very thoughtful. Everything he does has a reason behind it. The fast notes are very clear to my ears. There are many many heartbreaking breathstopping moments in the slow movements. For any music lover, not just clarinet players, this inspiring recording is highly recommended. To fully appreciate Neidich's musicianship, check out the Mozart Quintet on Sony Vivarte Label, and if you could find it, the Schumann Violin Sonatas transcriptions.

Average customer rating:

Smashing
Tuckwell, as usual
Wonderful pieces not just for the horn enthusiast
A Horn Classic
A must have cd for anyone who enjoys horn music!

Horn Concertos

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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

Virtuoso Horn
Horn Concertos
Mozart: Horn Concertos Nos. 1-4
Sonatas by Beethoven, Hindemith and Heiden
The London Horn Sound

ASIN: B000002SEL
Release Date: 1996-11-26

Tracks:

Horn Concerto In D: I. Vivace
Horn Concerto In D: II. Largo
Horn Concerto In D: III. Allegro
Sonata No. 2 In F For Horn And Strings: I. Largo
Sonata No. 2 In F For Horn And Strings: II. Allegro Moderato
Horn Concerto In E Flat: I. Con Discrezione
Horn Concerto In E Flat: II. Adagio
Horn Concerto In E Flat: III. Allegro
Horn Concertino in E Minor, Op. 45
Horn Concerto In D: I. Allegro Moderato
Horn Concerto In D: II. Andante
Horn Concerto In D: III. Allegro
Horn Concertino In D: I. Larghetto
Horn Concertino In D: II. Allegro Non Troppo
Horn Concertino In D: III. Menuet & Trio

Tracks:

Horn Concerto No. 5 In F: I. Larghetto
Horn Concerto No. 5 In F: II. Adagio
Horn Concerto No. 5 In F: III. Rondo - Allegretto
Horn Concerto No. 6 In E-Flat: I. Allegro Moderato
Horn Concerto No. 6 In E-Flat: II. Adagio Cantabile
Horn Concerto No. 6 In E-Flat: III. Rondo - Moderato
Horn Concerto No. 10 In F: I. Allegro Maestoso
Horn Concerto No. 10 In F: II. Lento Cantabile
Horn Concerto No. 10 In F: III. Rondo - Allegretto
Horn Concerto No. 11 In E: I. Allegro
Horn Concerto No. 11 In E: II. Adagio
Horn Concerto No. 11 In E: III. Menuetto
Horn Concerto No. 1 In D: I. Allegro
Horn Concerto No. 1 In D: II. Adagio
Horn Concerto No. 1 In D: III. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

Smashing.......2002-11-23

This entire CD is a very enjoyable trip through some of the lesser known works for solo horn (i.e. not the standard Strauss and Mozart concerti). The wizardry that Tuckwell displays is most evident on the 3rd movement of concerto #11 by Punto - some of the slurring and rapid alternating of widely disparate notes is flat out the most amazing technical skill on the horn that I have ever heard. Musically this movement is somewhat contrived and even a bit cheesy but Tuckwell blows through these incredibly difficult passages and at the end hits what sounds like a low C or B flat and every time it is absolutely dead on in pitch and entry. It is hard not to laugh at the technical expertise as it does not sound like it would be possible on a standard horn.

Tuckwell, as usual.......2001-06-27

This is a fine collection of some classic horn repertoire (Haydn, Cherubini, Punto, Telemann, Weber...). Barry Tuckwell is known as one of the best horn player ever, and this recording shows once again his skills, his flawless technique, his wonderful sound. L. Mozart's concerto recording is especially very good indeed. But like in other Tuckwell's work (the W.Mozart concerti, for instance) there could be better performances from the musical point of view, in my opinion. For example, listen to the 1st mov. of the Punto's concerto n 6 (track n4 in the second cd); after about 4'24'' there is an incredible passage. Really difficult, a lot of notes, a decreasing arpeggio...every it's fine...but the last note (the lowest)...so loud...not exactly what I would expected... I find this kind of playing typical of Tuckwell, and honestly I don't like it very much, although he does great things from a technical point of view (an incredible cd is for example the recording of some baroque concerts for London/Decca label, if you are able to find it). In conclusion, a very good set, but it shouldn't be your unique recording of these pieces. Try to compare other performances; for a very good recording of the Weber's concertino I would suggest H.Baumann, coupled with the Strauss's concerti.

Wonderful pieces not just for the horn enthusiast.......2001-06-09

I owned this on LP and was bowled over by the playing. Now to have it on CD is fabulous-I think I wore out the record. Everything here is a pleasure: the music, playing, and recording. NOT background music but great beauty and virtuosic playing by Tuckwell that keeps your attention riveted.

A Horn Classic.......2001-03-17

The performances on this CD (previously on LP when first released in the 1970's) inspired me as a young hornist. The performance of the Leopold Mozart Concerto is particularly beautiful. Barry Tuckwell phrases with grace and style. The last movement of Haydn Concerto No.1 is technically unsurpassed. But don't stop there. The whole collection is amazing. Truly an inspiration.

A must have cd for anyone who enjoys horn music!.......2000-10-02

This two cd set quite possibly contains some of the finest horn playing I have heard on some of the most beautiful and difficult pieces in the horn literature. Tuckwell again demonstrates his command of the instrument with an assortment of concertos ranging in style from purely Baroque Haydn to the Romantic audio-poetry of Cherubini. His technique is flawless, his phrasing beautifully crafted, and his mature sense of musicality shines throughout this collection of masterpieces for horn. This set is definitely a must have for any horn enthusiast!

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

Music Review

Mysteryland 2000 [Limited Edition] [Import]

Rachmaninov: Sonata for cello in Gm; Messiaen: Quatuor pour la fin du temps No1-8

Telephone / Canti Della Lontananza

Tijuana Moods [Original recording remastered]

Seventeen [CD-single] [Import]

Para Bachateros, Vol. 1

Stand on the Word

Spreading The Infection

Sound & Vision: Bailao de Rodeio [Enhanced] [Limited Edition] [Import]

Shostakovich: The Limpid Stream

Snooki-Ing

Pode Relampejar [Import]

Shapin Fluid [Import]

Illuminate

Somewhere In Time