Piano Duets 1

On this CD:

1. Polonaises (4) for piano, 4 hands, D. 599 (Op. 75) No.1 in D minor
Composed by Franz Schubert
Performed by Nina Walker, Adrian Farmer

2. Rondo for piano, 4 hands in D major, D. 608 (Op. posth. 138)
Composed by Franz Schubert
Performed by Nina Walker, Adrian Farmer

3. Polonaises (4) for piano, 4 hands, D. 599 (Op. 75) No 2 in B flat major
Composed by Franz Schubert
Performed by Nina Walker, Adrian Farmer

4. Sonata for piano, 4 hands in B flat major, D. 617 (Op. 30)
Composed by Franz Schubert
Performed by Nina Walker, Adrian Farmer

5. Polonaises (4) for piano, 4 hands, D. 599 (Op. 75) No 3 in E major
Composed by Franz Schubert
Performed by Nina Walker, Adrian Farmer

6. Variations (8) on a French song, for piano, 4 hands in E minor, D. 624 (Op. 10)
Composed by Franz Schubert
Performed by Nina Walker, Adrian Farmer

7. Polonaises (4) for piano, 4 hands, D. 599 (Op. 75) No.4 in F major
Composed by Franz Schubert
Performed by Nina Walker, Adrian Farmer

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
This intelligently programmed CD surrounds a major work, the Sonata in B Flat (D. 617) with a group of slighter but still worthwhile pieces. Since a recital of music for piano four hands is virtually never heard these days, those of us who can't actually play it are nearly shut off from some of Schubert's (and Mozart's) significant music, so any recording of this repertoire is welcome. Walker and Farmer play quite well, expressively, intelligently, and with good tone. It's their misfortune to come up against the competition of Tal and Groethuysen (Sony), whose discs of Schubert four-hand music are the most beautifully played in the current catalogs. The Nimbus disc is superior only if you want exactly the music it contains; otherwise pick Sony. --Leslie Gerber

Tracks:

Brandenbutg Concerto No.3 In G First Movement
Overture No.3 In D Second Movement
Violin Concerto In E First Movement
Prelude In C minor
Jesu Bleibet Meine Freude (Chorus From Cantata No.147)
Overture No.2 In B minor Minuet And Badinerie
Oboe Concerto In D minor Second Movement
Brandenburg Concerto No.4 In G Third Movement
Musical Offering - Fuga canonica
Easter Oratorio - Overture
Minuet In D minor
Kommst Du Nun, Jesu, Vom Himmel herunter(From Choral Prelude BWV 650
Brandenburg Concerto No.1 In F Second Movement
Art Of The Fugue - Contrapunctus 9
Concerto For Flute, Violin, Harpsichord And Strings. Triple Concerto - Third Movement
Overture No.4 In D - Réjouissance
Concerto No. 1 in E: Spring
Concerto No. 1 in E: Spring
Concerto No. 1 in E: Spring
Concerto No. 2 in G minor: Summer
Concerto No. 2 in G minor: Summer
Concerto No. 2 in G minor: Summer
Concerto No. 3 in F: Autumn
Concerto No. 3 in F: Autumn
Concerto No. 3 in F: Autumn
Concerto No. 4 in F minor: Winter
Concerto No. 4 in F minor: Winter
Concerto No. 4 in F minor: Winter
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto Grosso in A minor, Op. 3, no. 8
Concerto Grosso in A minor, Op. 3, no. 8
Concerto Grosso in A minor, Op. 3, no. 8
Water Music - Alla Hornpipe
Xerxes - Ombra Mai Fu (Largo)
Messiah - And The Glory Of The Lord
Concerto Grosso In A Minor, Op. 6, No. 4 - Larghetto Affettuoso
Organ Concerto In F, Op. 4, No. 4 Allegro
Water Music - Air
Messiah - For Unto Us A Child Is Born
Concerto Grosso In B flat, Op. 3, No. 2 - Largo
Salomon - Sinfonia, Act 3
The Choice Of Hercules - While For Thy Arms
Water Music - Allegro (Suite No. 1)
Suite No. 5 In E - Air With Variations
Jephtha - How Dark, O Lord
Organ Concerto In F, Op. 4, No. 5 Alla Siciliana - Presto
Mi Palpita Il Cor (Solo Cantata) S'un Di M'adora
Water Music - Andante Allegro Da Capo
Concerto for Trumpet & Orchestra in E-flat: First Movement
Symphony No. 94 in G: Surprise Symphony-second movement
Concerto for Violin No. 2 in D: Third Movement
Flute Trio No. 31 in G: Second Movement
Symphony No. 31 in D: Hornsignal-First Movement
String Quartet No. 17 in F, Op. 3, no. 5: Serenade Quartet-Second Movement
Sinfonia Concertante in B-flat for Violin, Cello, Oboe, Bassoon and Orchestra-Third Movement
Concerto for 2 Horns & Orchestra in E-flat: Second Movement
Symphony No. 88 in G: Fourth Movement
String Quartet No. 77 in C: Kaiser Quartet-Poco adagio cantabile
Notturno No. 1 in C: Second Movement
Symphony No. 98 in B: Londoner No. 4-Fourth Movement
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik - first movement
Piano Concerto in A - second movement
Flute Concerto in D - Rondeau
Serenade - Minuet
Violin Concerto - first movement
Symphony No. 40 in G minor - first movement
Clarinet Concerto - second movement
Turkish March
Divertimento - Minuet
Horn Concerto No. 3 in E-flat - first movement
Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67-First Movement
Piano Sonata No. 14 in C sharp minor, Op. 27, no. 2: Moonlight Sonata-First Movement
Overture
O welche Lust (Prisoners' Chorus)
Ha, welch ein Augenblick (Pizarros's Aria)
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 3 in C minor, Op. 37: Second Movement
Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in D, Op. 61: Third Movement
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13: Pathétique-Second Movement
Sympony No. 6 in F, Op. 68: Pastorale-First Movement
Fantasy for Piano, Chorus and Orchestra in C minor, Op. 80: Choral Fantasy - Finale
German Dance No. 1 In C
Impromptu Op. 90, No. 3 In G-Flat
Heidenroslein
Ave Maria
Der Lindenbaum
Quintet In A 'Trout Quintet' - Andante
Mass No. 6 In E-Flat - Kyrie
Die Schone Mullerin Des Mullers Blumen
German Dance No. 2 In G
Piano Sonata In B-Flat
Nachtgesang Im Walde
Winterreise - No. 15: Die Krahe
German Mass - Zum Sanctus (Heilit, Heilig Ist Der Herr)
Symphony No. 8 In B Minor 'Unfinished' - Second Movement
Waltz No. 1 in E-flat, Op. 18 Grande Valse brillante
Nocturne in E-flat, Op. 9, no. 2
Etude in G-flat, Op. 10, no. 5
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 2 in F minor, Op. 21-Second Movement
Mazurka in D minor, Op. 33, no. 2
Prelude in D-flat, Op. 28, no. 15 Raindrop
Etude in C, Op. 10, no. 1
Nocturne in D-flat, Op. 27, no. 2
Impromptu No. 4 in C-sharp minor, Op. 66 Fantasy Impromptu
Scherzo in B minor, Op. 20
Piano Sonata No. 2 in B-flat minor, Op. 35-Third Movement
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 1 in E minor, Op. 11 - Third Movement
Piano Concerto No. 1 in B-flat minor - first movement 113.String Seranade - Waltz
Violin Concerto - second movement
The Sleeping Beauty - Waltz
Capriccio Italien, Op. 45
Swan Lake - Waltz
Eugene Onegin - Polonaise
The Nutcracker - Waltz of the Flowers
Orchestral Suite No. 4 - Mozartiana - Third Movement
Swan Lake - Dance of the Swans
Symphony No. 6 in B minor - Pathétique - Third Movement
Hungarian Dance No.5
Lullaby
Symphony No.1 in C minor, Op. 68 - Third Movement
Intermezzo in E-flat, Op.117, no. 1
Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in D, Op. 77 - Third Movement
Waltz, Op. 39, no. 15
Concert for Piano and Orchestra No. 2 in B-flat, Op. 83 - Second Movement
String Quintet in G, Op. 111 - Second Movement
Symphony No.4 in E minor, Op. 98 - Third Movement
Intermezzo in A minor, Op. 76, no. 7
Hungarian Dance No.1 in G minor
German Requiem Selig sind die Toten (Final Chorus)
Die Fledermaus - Overture
Kaiser Waltz, Op.437
Thunder And Lightning Polka, Op. 324
Roses From The South Waltz, Op. 388
AnnenPolka, Op. 117
Vienna Blood Waltz, Op. 354
Eljen A Magyar Polka, Op. 332
Wine, Women and Song Waltz, Op. 333
On The Beautiful Blue Danube Waltz, Op. 134
Die Meistersinger Von Nurnberg - Overture
Tannhauser - Die Pilger sind's (Pilgims' Chorus)
Tannhauser - O du mein holder Abendstern (Wolfram's Aria)
Lohengrin - Act 3 Prelude and Bridal Chorus
The Flying Dutchman - Jo-ho-he Traft ihr das Schiff (Senta's Ballad)
The Flying Dutchman - Steuermann, lass die Wacht (Sailors' Chorus)
Die Walkure - Wintersturme wichen dem Wonnemond (Siegmund's Aria)
Die Walkure - Ride of the Valkyries
Siegfried Hoho! Hoho! Hohei! Schmiede mein Hammer (Siegfried's Forging Song)
Tristan und Isolde - Liebestod
Thus sprach Zarathustra, Op. 30 (excerpt)
Don Juan, Op. 20
Eine Alpensinfonie, Op. 64, I.Nacht
Don Quixote, Op.35, first movement: Introduction
Salome, Op. 54, Dance Of The Seven Veils
Der Rosenkavalier, Op. 59, Finale: Hab' mir's gelobt ihn lieb zu haben
Piano Concerto 2 In C minor, Op. 18 - First Movement
Vocalise, Op.34, No. 14
Prelude In G Sharp minor, Op. 32, No. 12
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G minor, Op. 40 - Third Movement
Symphony No. 2 In E minor, Op. 27 - Third Movement
Piano Concerto No. 1 In F sharp minor, Op. 1 - Second Movement
Rhapsody, Op. 43 On A Theme By Paganini
Hungarian Rhapsody No.2
Liebestraum No.3 in A-flat
Piano Concerto No.1 in E-flat - third movement
Angelus
Mephisto Waltz No.1 (Dance in a Village Tavern)
Prelude and Fugue on B-A-C-H
Dante Symphony - Finale. - Purgatorio - Magnificat
Les Préludes
Boléro
Daphnis et Chloé first movement: Nocturne
Rhapsodie Espagnole
Shéhérazade - first movement: Asie
Ma Mère l'Oye - fourth movement: La Belle et la Bête
Introduction and Allegro for Harp, Flute, Clarinet, and String Quartet
La Valse
Slavic Dance No. 1 in C, Op. 46, no.1
Symphony No. 9 in E minor, Op. 95 'From the New World' - second movement
Humoresque, Op. 101
Slavic Dance No. 8 in G minor, Op. 46, no. 8
Serenade for String Orchestra, Op. 22 - second movement
Romance for Violin and Orchestra In F minor, Op. 11
Symphony No. 7 in D minor - third movement
Melodie (Songs My Mother Taught Me)
Carneval Overture, Op. 92
Concerto for Cello and Orchestra in B minor, Op. 104 - third movement
Symphony No.4 In A, Op. 90. Italian - First Movement
Frühlingslied In A, Op. 62, No. 6
Wedding March (From A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op.61)
Duetto In F, Op.30, No.6 (From Songs Without Words)
String Symphony No.9 In C. Schweitzer Symphony - Third Movement
Concerto For Violin, Piano And String Orchestra No. 1 In D minor - Second Movement
Symphony No.3 In A minor, Op.56 Scottish - Third Movement"
Notturno (From A Midsumment Night's Dream, Op. 61)
Rondo Capriccioso, Op.14
String Symphony No. 12 In G minor - First Movement
Venetian Gondola Song In F Sharp minor, Op.30, No.6
Scherzo (From A Midsumment Night's Dream, Op. 61)
Violin Concerto In E minor, Op.64 - Third Movement
Peer Gynt - Suite No. 1, Op. 46 - Morgenstimmung
Holberg Suite, Op. 40 - I. Prelude. Allegro vivace
Holberg Suite, Op. 40 - IV. Air. Andante religioso
Arietta, Op. 12, no. 1
Homage March from Sigurd Jorsalfar, Op. 56
Peer Gynt - Suite No. 2, Op. 55 - Solveig's Song
Wedding Day at Troldhauen, Op. 65, no. 6
The Last Spring, Op. 34, no. 2
Peer Gynt - Suite No. 1, Op 46 - Anitra's Dance
Nordic Melody Op. 63
Notturno, Op. 54, no. 4
Elegie, Op. 47, no. 5
Peer Gynt - Suite No. 2, Op. 55 - Arabic Dance
Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 16 - Allegro
Symphony No. 3 in E flat, Op. 97 - Rhenish - first movement
Traumerai (from Kinderszenen, Op. 15)
Mondnacht (from Eichendorff-Liederkreis, Op. 39)
Aufschwung (from Fantasietucke, Op. 12)
Triolett, Op. 114, no. 2
Tanzlied (No. 1 from Duets, Op. 78)
Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120 - second movement
Frühlingsgruss
Abschied (from Waldszenen Op. 82)
Dichterliebe, Op. 48 - Im wunderschonen Monat Mai
Manfred Overture, Op. 115
Romance in F sharp, Op. 28, no. 2
Die Rose stand im Tau
Liebesgarten (from Four Duets, Op. 34)
Warum? (from Fantasiestucke, Op. 12)
Kennst du das Land, Op.79, no. 29 (from Lieder der Mignon, Op. 98a)
Von fremden Landern und Menschen (from Kinderszenen, Op. 15)

Album Description

An extraordinary 20-CD collection of great works by Bach, Vivaldi, Handel, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Chopin, Tchaikovsky, Brahms, Ravel, Mendelssohn, Rachmaninoff, J. Strauss, R. Strauss, Schumann, Wagner, Dvorak, Grieg and Liszt. It also features worldrenowned artists such as Sir Neville Marriner, Martha Argerich, Ivo Pogorelich, Hermann Prey, Reiner Goldberg, Sylvia Sass, Jochen Kowalski, Peter Schreler and many more. This exquisite, copper metallic, deluxe boxed set is the perfect gift for the classical music neophyte.

Customer Reviews:

Mill. Classical review.......2007-05-13

This is a great set of recordings for the money, the only problem was I've had to clean some of the CD's before they played correctly.

classical music for the unitiated.......2007-04-01

This set is a good way to start listening to classical music. It's very well produced and easy to listen to. I purchased it to use as part of my world history high school class. It would have been nice to have some bio information on the composers. However, the product is exactly as advertised and good value for the money. The students were intrigued by how many of the excerpts they had heard before.

Some little gems there that I had forgotten!.......2007-03-30

Although I studied classical music at school, I had all but forgotten it until I bought this set. I heard several tracks I haven't heard for over 30 years, and I had been humming Brahms's 'Hungarian Dance no. 5' for years without ever knowing what it was and it was on the disc, so that was nice.

I found it to be a very good selection overall, but I felt too much had already been heard on TV, which of course is what lots of newcomers to classical music might appreciate. I managed to find about 2 hours of tracks that I wanted to keep, which works out quite expensive per disc, but I did find some wonderful music I had completely forgotten about, so it was worth it. All in all, it represents good value, and I have only knocked one star off as so much of it had been used in adverts.

It is definitely a good introduction to classical music, and it has made me want to listen to more of it, so I don't regret this 'expensive' purchase one bit!

Classical Masterpieces of the Millennium [20 CD Set]

A very helpful collection.......2007-03-24

I define this set as an excellent way to find out who you like, and who you don't, among 20 of the important composers. It opens the door to purchasing more complete pieces by composers you do like, and can save a lot of time and money in the process.
To criticize the set for not containing more composers, or more than just snippets of those who are in the set, is missing the point: it is a helpful introduction to finding your way in the huge maze of classical music. It succeeds admirably in this.
Sound quality is uniformly very good on an audiophile system.
Highly recommended.

Excellent!.......2007-03-08

A great way to start a classical music collection. It's nice to have a full CD of each composer. It makes it easy to keep track of selections/composers I already have and what composers I still need to puchase to complete my collection.

Average customer rating:

Excellent recordings, all worth getting at any price!!!
Outstanding Set, But Get Temirkanov for The Symphonic Dances
A noteworthy Rachmaninov set
BRILLIANT!!!
Oh, Rachy, what beautiful music!

Rachmaninov: The Symphonies

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 - 4
Rachmaninov: The Piano Concertos
Dvorák: The Symphonies
Prokofiev: 7 Symphonies; Lieutenant Kijé
Vaughan Williams: The Nine Symphonies

ASIN: B0000042HY
Release Date: 1998-02-10

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: I. Grave - Allegro ma non troppo
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: II. Allegro animato
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: III. Larghetto
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: IV. Allegro con fuoco
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: I. Non allegro
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: II. Andante con moto (Tempo di valse)
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: III. Lento assai - Allegro vivace

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: I. Largo - Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: II. Allegro molto
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: III. Adagio
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: IV. Allegro vivace
The Isle of the Dead, Op.29

Tracks:

Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: I. Lento - Allegro Moderato
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: II. Adagio ma non troppo - Allegro vivace
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: III. Allegro
The Bells, Op.35: I. Allegro ma non tanto
The Bells, Op.35: II. Lento
The Bells, Op.35: III. Presto
The Bells, Op.35: IV. Lento Lugubre

Customer Reviews:

Excellent recordings, all worth getting at any price!!!.......2005-04-01

Different people have different tastes. Without wishing to malign those who don't care as much (or at all) for this set, I'll dare say that this set is an absolute classic. [Why go only for the 2-disc set of just the symphonies instead of getting also Ostróva Mjórtvïkh (The Isle of the Dead), the Symphonic Dances and Kolokóla (The Bells) that come automatically as part of this 3-disc set?]

It was the Ashkenazy recording of Ostróva Mjórtvïkh that introduced me to what has since become my favourite symphonic poem ever (roll over Richard Strauss - this one together with Schönberg's "Pelléas et Mélisande" take the cake!) as well as the Symphonic Dances - and also Kolokóla as well as the 1st & 3rd Symphonies. [Prévin did as much for the 2nd Symphony in my case and his recording is a more than worthy competitor - his and this one are as good as tied for top spot in my honest opinion - get them BOTH if possible!!!!] At all times, these interpretations proved Sjergjéy Vassíljevich Rakhmáñinov as one of the greatest composers of the 1850-1950 period, even if he wasn't the most prolific (my biggest regret is that death stopped him from benefitting us organists with an Organ Concerto meant for Charles Courboin). [He was the type that could only concentrate on one thing at a time - be it composition, piano concertising, or conducting, at all of which he was outstanding; however, when he went into exile after the Russian Revolutions, he found himself mainly working as one of the greatest pianists of all time in order to secure his future and feed his family.] Obviously his mentor Pjótr Iljích Chaykóvskiy was a powerful influence on him; however, Rakhmáñinov never loses his individuality at any point!

Certainly his symphonic output is uniformly high: his 1st Symphony, while not always the most cohesive at times, still deserved a heck of a lot better fate than it received at the hands of Glazunóv - it's extremely inspired and there's no question that it deserves a high place in the repertoire. The 3rd Symphony - and the Symphonic Dances - not only proved that Rakhmáñinov had lost none of his mastery or inspiration in exile; they're both absolute masterpieces in their own right! [As to the 2nd, it would be my 2nd-favourite symphony, period, right behind Chaykóvskiy's 6th (Pathétique). The 3rd movement, if a question of falling in love for some, is for me a point of grieving for a lost love (which is very much still in my life after many years - I still cry bitterly on hearing this and the 1st movement!) and letting gradually go, though with greatest pain...] Finally, Kolokóla: another great masterpiece (the 2nd movement is especially moving and wonderful!).

Most definitely, Ashkenazy does full justice to all of these works. Of course, one can disagree with this or that aspect or instant in this or that work (e.g., I could have wished a slower accelerando in the 2nd movement of the Symphonic Dances from the waltz tempo - that way one misses the otherwise obvious allusion to Chaykóvskiy's "Flowers' Waltz" from Shchjeljkúnchik {Nutcracker}); however, the overall merits of these recordings truly deserve the fullest 5 stars possible - I'd myself go for 6! Go get it in all events!!!!

Outstanding Set, But Get Temirkanov for The Symphonic Dances.......2004-08-07

This is an outstanding set, with the exception of the Symphonic Dances, where Ashkenazy conveys some of the passion in this work but doesn't attain nearly the same level of emotional intensity as Kondrashin's or Temirkanov's versions.

A fantastically passionate performance of The Symphonic Dances is the 1963 recording by the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra, with Kiril Kondrashin as conductor (RCA; Catalog # 32046; ASIN: B000003ETI). With Kondrashin, the power and passion of The Symphonic Dances sweeps the listener away and takes him to an inspirational level. The performance is so burning hot that it throws off sparks. However, this CD may be out-of-print.

Another excellent and passionate interpretation of The Symphonic Dances is the 1992 recording by Yuri Temirkanov and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra (RCA; Catalog Number 62710; ASIN: B000003FRT). The Temirkanov CD also has a beautiful performance of the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, with the pianist Dmitri Alexeev.

The rest of this 3-CD set, consisting of the three symphonies and the Isle of the Dead, is outstanding. In the symphonies, the balance and the dynamic interplay between the strings, horns, and winds are brought out beautifully and the sound quality is crystal clear. The Isle of the Dead is very movingly performed, from the opening passage, where Ashkenazy establishes a somber ominous mood, to the sweeping majesty of the most powerful moments.

The CD booklet has a well-written, detailed, and informative essay on all of the compositions. The full text of The Bells, based on a reinterpretation of Edgar Allan Poe's verses by the Russian symbolist poet Konstantin Balmont (1867 - 1943), is also included in Russian, English, French, and German.

Highly recommended, with the additional recommendation of supplementing this set with Kondrashin's or Temirkanov's recording of The Symphonic Dances.

A noteworthy Rachmaninov set.......2004-07-30

These were outstanding recordings when they were released individually in the 1980's, and as a complete set they make quite a bargain. Ashkenazy finds just the right tempi in most cases, particularly in the spectacular Symphonic Dances, one of the best versions of this piece ever recorded. Somehow he manages to combine his no-nonsense approach while still letting Rachmaninov's long melodic lines glow.

The dark Concertgebouw tone suits this program perfectly. If the First and Third Symphonies aren't exactly the composer at his most inspired (don't get me wrong -- not bad, just not his best), you are not likely to hear either one performed as dazzlingly as they are here. Many listeners will already have a recording of the Second Symphony, probably the composer's most popular work, and I'm not convinced that Ashkenazy's is the one and only, but you may want it just for the quality of the playing from the orchestra. And there is no shortage of good recordings of the Isle of the Dead, either, but again, the mood conjured up here is considerable.

In short, this is an excellent set -- gorgeously played, and spectacularly recorded. And now it's at a price that makes it hard to beat.

BRILLIANT!!!.......2003-09-22

I cannot believe what great quality this package is for such a great price!

The music itself is divine. The mixing is spot on (A very rare compliment to hear from my mouth). What more could I want? More works by Rachmaninov like this please!

Oh, Rachy, what beautiful music!.......2003-04-24

This is a lovely set of Rachmaninoff's three symphonies. As with his other works, these pieces are melodic and full of passion. Rachmaninoff may get a little moody at times, but he will never leave you in the doldrums. These are exciting works, and Ashkenazy brings them to life. The orchestra responds well. As a real bonus, this set includes other orchestral works. Of these, the Symphonic Dances have been performed more frequently lately. Ashkenazy handles these Dances admirably.

The sound quality of these digital Decca releases is excellent. The upper range of the brass has a little bite to it, but it does not detract from the deep, rich sound of the Concertgebouw Orchestra. The dynamic range is extensive. Don't be afraid to turn up the volume and give your speakers a workout.

Tracks:

Quadro Pavin/Galiarde
La Coranto
Phillips Pavanne/Galiarde
Jesu Joy Of Man's Desiring
Ariso
Minuets I & II
Romance
Sonata No.483
Sonatine
Cantabile
Estudio No.6
Recuerdos De La Alhambra
Gymnopedie No.1
Bolero

Customer Reviews:

Delightful.......2006-12-31

I've bought other alubums of mandolin and guitar and enjoyed them, but this is my favorite. All the selections are enjoyable.

The blend and balance between Baldassari's mandolin and Mock's guitar are the best I've ever heard on any recording of mandolin and guitar recordings.

I wasn't sure how a bluegrass mandolin player would do on classical pieces, but Baldassari is more than equal to the task in my opinion. He chose to play his Gibson F-5 and F-5C mandolins and could not have made a better choice. He produces the best tone I've ever heard from any mandolin; full, rich and balanced. Any limitations inherent in the mandolin are not to be heard; nothing tinny, nothing hollow, just pure golden tone.

John Mock's guitar playing blends seamlessly with Baldassari's mandolin.

I'm a cassual listener to classical music. I enjoy what I enjoy, but I'm not tutored or schooled. All I know is that I like what I like. This is good stuff.

Fauré - Mélodies / Souzay · Ameling · Baldwin

Average customer rating:

Le parfum d'extase
Superb chansoms. Superb Ameling. Buy It.
Great!!!
A delightful programme
Limpid, refined, elegant music.

Fauré - Mélodies / Souzay · Ameling · Baldwin
Gabriel Fauré , Gérard Souzay , Elly Ameling , and Dalton Baldwin
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Debussy - Mélodies / Ameling · Mesplé · Command · Souzay · von Stade · Baldwin
Poulenc - Melodies / Ameling · Gedda · W. Parker · Sénéchal · Souzay · Baldwin
Susan Graham - La Belle Époque (The Songs of Reynaldo Hahn)
Artistry of Elly Ameling (Coll)
A French Song Companion

ASIN: B000002S30
Release Date: 1992-01-23

Tracks:

Le papillon et la fleur: Le Papillon et la fleur, Op. 1, No. 1
Mai: Mai, Op. 1, No. 2
Reve d'amour: Reve d'amour, Op. 5, No. 2
Dans les ruines d'une abbaye: Dans les ruines d'une abbaye, Op. 2, No. 1
Les Matelots: Les Matelots, Op. 2, No. 2
Lydia: Lydia, Op. 4, No. 2
Hymne: Hymne, Op. 7, No. 2
Seule: Seule, Op. 3, No. 1
L'absent: L'Absent, Op. 5, No. 3
L'Aurore: L'Aurore, Op. posthume
La Rancon: La Rancon, Op. 8, No. 2
Chant d'automne: Chant d'automne, Op. 5, No. 2
Aubade: Aubade, Op. 6, No. 1
Tristesse: Tristesse, Op. 6, No. 2
Chanson du pecheur (Lamento): Chanson du pecheur (Lamento), Op. 5, No. 1
Barcarolle: Barcarolle, Op. 7, No. 3
2 Duos pour deux sopranos: I Puisqu'ici-bas, Op. 10, No. 1
2 Duos pour deux sopranos: II Tarentelle, Op. 10, No. 2
Ici-bas !: Ici-bas !, Op. 8, No. 3
Au bord de l'eau: Au bord de l'eau, Op. 8, No. 1
Serenade toscane: Serenade toscane, Op. 3, No. 2
Apres Un Reve: Apres un reve, Op. 7, No. 1
Sylvie: Sylvie, Op. 6, No. 3
Le Voyageur: Le Voyageur, Op. 18, No. 2
Automne, Op. 18, No. 3

Tracks:

Poemes d'un jour, Op. 21: 1. Rencontre
Poemes d'un jour, Op. 21: 2.Toujours
3. Adieu
Nell, Op. 18, No. 1
Les berceaux: Les Berceaux, Op. 23, No. 1
Notre amour: Notre amour, Op. 23, No. 2
Le Secret: Le Secret, Op. 23, No. 3
Chanson d'amour: Chanson d'amour, Op. 27, No. 1
La Fee aux chansons: La Fee aux chansons, Op. 27, No. 1
Aurore: Aurore, Op. 39, No. 1
Fleur jetee: Fleur jetee, Op. 39, No. 2
Le Pays des reves: Le Pays des reves, Op. 39, No. 3
Les Roses d'lspahan: Les Roses d'lspahan, Op. 39, No. 4
Nocturne: Nocturne, Op. 43, No. 2
Les Presents: Les Presents, Op. 46, No. 1
Clair de Lune: Clair de lune, Op. 46, No. 2
Larmes: Larmes, Op. 51, No. 1
Au Cimetiere: Au Cimetiere, Op. 51, No. 2
2 Cantiques: 1. En Priere
2 Cantiques: 2. Noel, Op. 43, No. 1
SPLEEN: Spleen, Op. 51, No. 3
La Rose: La Rose, Op. 51, No. 4
Chanson de Shylock: Chanson de Shylock, Op. 57, No. 1
Madrigal de Shylock: Madrigal de Shylock, Op. 57, No. 2
5 Melodies: 1. Mandoline
5 Melodies: 2. En sourdine
5 Melodies: 3. Green
5 Melodies: 4. A Clymene
5 Melodies: 5. C'est l'extase
Serenade du Bourgeois gentilhomme

Tracks:

La Bonne Chanson, Op. 61: 1. Une Sainte en son aureole
La Bonne Chanson, Op. 61: 2. Puisque l'aube grandit
La Bonne Chanson, Op. 61: 3. La Lune blanche luit dans les bois
La Bonne Chanson, Op. 61: 4. J'allais par des chemins perfides
La Bonne Chanson, Op. 61: 5. J'ai presque peur, en verite
La Bonne Chanson, Op. 61: 6. Avant que tu ne t'en ailles
La Bonne Chanson, Op. 61: 7. Donc, ce sera par un clair jour d'ete
La Bonne Chanson, Op. 61: 8. N'est-ce pas ?
La Bonne Chanson, Op. 61: 9. L'Hiver a cesse
Le Parfum imperissable: Le Parfum imperissable, Op. 76, No. 1
Arpege: Arpege, Op. 76, No. 2
Pleurs d'or, duo pour soprano et baryton: Pleurs d'or, duo pour soprano et baryton, Op. 72
Melisande's song: Melisande's song, Op. posthume
Prison: Prison, Op. 83, No. 1
Soir: Soir, Op. 83, No. 2
Dans la foret de septembre: Dans la foret de septembre, Op. 85, No. 1
La Fleur qui va sur l'eau: La Fleur qui va sur l'eau, Op. 85, No. 2
Accompagnement: Accompagnement, Op. 85, No. 3
Le plus doux Chemin (madrigal): Le plus doux Chemin (madrigal), Op. 87, No. 2
Le Ramier (madrigal): Le Ramier (madrigal), Op. 87, No. 2
Le Don silencieux: Le Don silencieux, Op. 92
Chanson: Chanson, Op. 94
Vocalise-etude

Tracks:

La Chanson d'Eve, Op. 95: 1. Paradis
La Chanson d'Eve, Op. 95: 2. Prima verba
La Chanson d'Eve, Op. 95: 3. Roses ardentes
La Chanson d'Eve, Op. 95: 4. Comme Dieu rayonne
La Chanson d'Eve, Op. 95: 5. L'aube blanche
La Chanson d'Eve, Op. 95: 6. Eau vivante
La Chanson d'Eve, Op. 95: 7. Veilles-tu, ma senteur de soleil ?
La Chanson d'Eve, Op. 95: 8. Dans un parfum de roses blanches
La Chanson d'Eve, Op. 95: 9. Crepuscule
La Chanson d'Eve, Op. 95: 10. O mort, poussiere d'etoiles
Le Jardin clos, Op. 106: 1. Exaucement
Le Jardin clos, Op. 106: 2. Quand tu plonges tes yeux dans mes yeux
Le Jardin clos, Op. 106: 3. La messagere
Le Jardin clos, Op. 106: 4. Je me poserai sur ton coeur
Le Jardin clos, Op. 106: 5. Dans la Nymphee
Le Jardin clos, Op. 106: 6. Dans la penombre
Le Jardin clos, Op. 106: 7. Il m'est cher, amour, le bandeau
Le Jardin clos, Op. 106: 8. Inscription sur le sable
Mirages, Op. 113: 1. Cygne sur l'eau
Mirages, Op. 113: 2. Reflets dans l'eau
Mirages, Op. 113: 3. Jardin nocturne
Mirages, Op. 113: 4. Danseuse
C'est la paix !: C'est la paix !, Op. 114
L'Horizon chimerique, Op. 118: 1. La ber es infinie
L'Horizon chimerique, Op. 118: 2. Je me suis embarque
L'Horizon chimerique, Op. 118: 3. Diane Selene
L'Horizon chimerique, Op. 118: 4. Vaisseaux, nous vous aurons aimes

Customer Reviews:

Le parfum d'extase.......2007-05-18

This 4-CD set receives five stars from me in spite of some flaws. I'll outline those flaws first.

Firstly (a flaw to me, perhaps not to others), I'm not very fond of Gérard Souzay's voice and vocal approach. He frequently sounds blustery and the timbre does not really appeal to me. Yet his commitment to these beautiful songs is impeccable, and he has a wealth of experience, beautifully authentic French (of course!) and occasionally the singing is very effective indeed. I agree that the "La bonne chanson" set is sensitive and moving - it's Souzay at his best. But in general... Souzay is not one of my favourite baritones.

Secondly, as other reviews have mentioned, no translations are included. However, the full text of each song is contained in the accompanying booklet, and for those who don't read French well enough to translate, there are translations on-line of all of the poems set by Fauré. I agree this is not an ideal solution, and that the boxed set would have been improved by translations.

Thirdly, one is sometimes overwhelmed by the balance of the voice compared to that of the piano - this is particularly noticeable in Souzay's singing. However, the piano is still audible. The solution is mostly to turn down the volume for one or two tracks.

Let me now explain why, in spite of the above faults, I still consider this a superb set.

Firstly, the truly lovely singing of Elly Ameling. What a gloriously pretty sound - and I mean "pretty" without any denigration whatsoever. It's not JUST pretty - it's beautiful as well. This is a lovely gleaming sound, perfectly placed, and with a wealth of intrinsic and elegant interpretation that is native to Elly Ameling's singing. She's a miracle - no matter what she sings, it sounds "sung in" and perfectly understood, perfectly interpreted. (I admit Ms Ameling's French is slightly accented at times, but it's completely understandable and very good. It doesn't impair the performance of these songs at all.)

Secondly, Dalton Baldwin's playing is sensitive and impassioned in turns - always lyrical, always attuned to the requirements of each song. What a huge amount of work must have gone into this mammoth 4-CD task!

Thirdly, these vocal compositions are exquisite. Several of them are justly famous as works of genius, and fall so delightfully upon the ear that it seems they have always existed, perfect and full of wonder... that Fauré plucked them out of semi-existence to give them reality.

Fourthly... it's 4CDs of Fauré's vocal works. For those who love French vocal music, it's an extravagant delight to have such a thorough and wide-ranging collection. For singing students, how marvellous to have such a collection to hand to help when choosing songs. For fellow singers, what joy to have all of these songs in such a fine collection in order to note details and particularly admirable points.

In short - this is a set I wouldn't be without. While it's not flawless, it's full of delights. Ameling's singing of "La rose" is one of the highlights, and Fauré's three exquisite duets are all represented here. Highly recommended.

Superb chansoms. Superb Ameling. Buy It........2007-03-01

This EMI Classics package of four CD's for the price of two (plus) is really the way I like to buy classic recordings, where the complete set covers all of a single especially interesting grouping of works. This set, like the comparable one on Debussy, is simply grand, especially, as noted by other reviewers, with the contribution of Ameling, a soprano from whom not much is heard of today, but who, in her prime, was on top of her game.

My only objection to the package is that while the notes five the French text of the songs and the author of the text, there is no translation. Otherwise, this is a super buy.

Great!!!.......2006-06-19

The music on this compilation is beautiful. It is also beautifully sung. Amelling is amazing, as always!!!

A delightful programme.......2006-01-20

Faure was a genius and his songs are some of the most beautiful ever written, being animated by the spirit of beauty itself (Ms Venus:-).)

The performers did an outstanding job singing this repertoire, and especially Elly Ameling's performance is pure *delight*
- honestly-.

I hope others will enjoy it as much as I have.

Highly recommended.

Limpid, refined, elegant music........2001-04-04

This famous set provides on 4 CDs the complete songs (mélodies, he preferred to call them) by Faure. They are entrusted to the native French baritone, the Dutch soprano, and their accompanist Dalton Baldwin, and were recorded in the early 1970s. The set is not inexpensive, so I shall try to outline its merits. The music itself is enthralling. Faure set, over a period of sixty years, texts by French poets. Limpid, refined, elegant music, it repays repetition and close listening. One reviewer has suggested that no listener will want to listen to umpteen of these mélodies in one sitting, but I have never had too much of them. If slow tempi and arpeggio accompaniments begin to pall, listen to "Nell" (CD 2, Track 4). The performers satisfy on all counts. Souzay's contribution reflect a life time's association with the music, and a tradition that goes back through his teachers to the time of Faure himself. His definitive version of "La bonne Chanson" is especially fine. If his style is more suited to the impassioned, ardent items, it balances well with the cooler, more detached singing of Elly Ameling. So that you will not be disappointed, I should also mention that translations of the texts are not provided. I also wish that the balance had been better engineered. Sometimes Souzay seems to have the microphone in his mouth, and always the piano seems too distant. These are but minor flaws, however, in a long necklace of priceless pearls.

Average customer rating:

GREAT BUY!

Crossing the Line

Manufacturer: Summit(Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

Hard Bop | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music
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Swing Low Sweet Clarinet
Five Seasons
Beautiful Love
Mean What You Say
French Portraits

ASIN: B0002T2PZC
Release Date: 2004-09-07

Tracks:

Il Convegno, Divertimento For Two Clarinets And String Quintet
Noodle 1: Jumping In
Original Duos: Allegro
Original Duos: Andante Grazioso
Original Duos: Variazioni
Original Duos: Rondo
Noodle 2 'Freedom'
The Leblanc Suite: With Humor
The Leblanc Suite: Ballad
The Leblanc Suite: Ragtime
Noodle 3 'Loosey Goosey'
Sonata: For Two Flutes: MVT. II -Cantabile
Jazz Fantasy: For Two Clarinets: Slow
Jazz Fantasy: For Two Clarinets: Moderate
Jazz Fantasy: For Two Clarinets: Slow
Jazz Fantasy: For Two Clarinets: Fast
Jazz Fantasy: For Two Clarinets: Slow
Noodle 4: 'Blue Noodle'
Hallucinations
We Will Meet Again
Blue Monk
Andre De Sapato Novo

Album Description

Crossing The Line is a labor of love. It's about two guys having fun, adding totally free improvistions between several selections. Larry Combs and Eddie Daniels are legendary masters of their craft. Combs, aside from being one of the best orchestral clarinetists in the world, is a fine jazz player. He played with Chuck Mangione before joining the Chicago Symphony.

From "Ponchielli," (featuring the Chicago String Quintet) and the Pleyel duets to Gordon Goodwin's "Leblanc Suite" and William O. Smith's "Jazz Fantasy" this is a serious musical joyride!

Customer Reviews:

GREAT BUY!.......2005-06-24

I recently met Eddie Daniels and Larry Combs at the Oklahoma University Clarinet Symposium and WOW! They are both amazing characters at what they do. First off, Larry Combs is a classical clarinetist who has been Principle Clarinet in the Chicago Symphony since the early 70's. Eddie Daneils is a Jazz Clarinet player, but yet he still plays classical just as well as Larry Combs. Well, Larry and Eddie met eachother at a Clarinet Convention MANY years ago, and since then they have been great friends. These people are LEGENDARY! They will be in the clarinet recording archives probably until the day I die, which will be a looong time. This album is worth the the money, I suggest it for anyone who is a fan of EITHER or BOTH of these fabulous clarinetists. The Duos by Ignaz Pleytel are phenominol! They are beautiful! And whats even funnier is they play noodles, which is unedited made up on the spot music, which makes the whole experience even more interesting because they just follow each other with whatever they can come up with on the spot. Buy this album if you are a clarinetist, you won't regret it!

Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 1; The Isle of the Dead

Average customer rating:

Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 1; The Isle of the Dead

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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
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Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 2; Scherzo; Vocalise
Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 3; Symphonic Dances

ASIN: B0000DIGJK
Release Date: 2005-06-21

Tracks:

I. Grave - Allegro Ma Non Troppo
II. Allegro Animato
III. Larghetto
IV. Allegro Con Fuoco
The Isle Of The Dead, Op. 29

Average customer rating:

top selection
A Top Selection for your CD collection
Highest expression after-war
Ashkenazy hits the mark!

Rachmaninov: Symphonies 1 - 3

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music
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Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Aleko Overture
Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 - 4
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Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures
Dvorák: Cello Concerto; Tchaikovsky / Karajan, Rostropovich,

ASIN: B0000041L3
Release Date: 1997-06-10

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: Grave - Allegro ma non troppo
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: Allegro animato
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: Larghetto
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: Allegro con fuoco
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: Largo - Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: Allegro molto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: Adagio
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: Allegro vivace
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: Lento - Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: Adagio ma non troppo
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: Allegro

Amazon.com

At two discs for the price of one, and three outstanding performances, this set offers great value. Most impressive is the performance of the First Symphony, the disastrous premiere of which precipitated a nervous breakdown. As a consequence, the work was not revived until after the composer's death. In many ways, it's his most closely argued symphony--each movement begins with the same theme, and they share other melodic material as well. Vladimir Ashkenazy's performance is simply the finest ever committed to disc. He's just about as impressive in the two later works, though there the competition is tougher. The magnificent playing of the Concertgebouw Orchestra certainly adds to this set's attractions. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

top selection .......2006-01-21

All symphonies. As far as I am concerned, particularly symphonie 1 is very allright. The others are good too, but this one number one is really brilliant. Warm music. Picture a group of Chossacs preparing for battle on horse with horns for this music. Absolute. Almost evrything this Ashkenazy does with Rach music is great.

A Top Selection for your CD collection.......2001-03-10

In my years of buying classical CDs I would consider these two discs to stand among the most truly distinctive and excellent recordings that I have ever owned. I have heard very few recordings of any composer's music that rival this set on combined criteria of recording engineering, artistic interpretation, and sheer listening excitement. In addtion, I would place these recordings among the very finest I have ever heard conducted by Vladimir Ashkenazy and of the London/Decca recording company.

The First Symphony, whose traumatic premiere still seems to haunt Rachmaninoff by the very writing of it by 20th century commentators, is thoroughly vindicated in this recording. Ashkenazy manages to produce high drama and a peerless musical response from the Concertgebouw Orchestra. You will find it a superb alternative to other recordings available.

The Second Symphony, in which the highest degree of competition exists among other outstanding recordings, Ashkenazy elicits a first-rate recording and interpretation. The first movement allows the listener to hear with great detail the full dimension and scale of the great Concertgebouw Orchestra. The early 1980s recording quality of this--and the other two--symphony are of the highest demonstration quality.

The Third Symphony is my favorite. Ashkenazy brings out the Slavic qualities intended by the composer. In the exposition, which is repeated in the first movement--something not found in all recordings, caution--the bells of the orchestra show the Russian Orthodox overtones to this work. The second and third movements are full of emotion and energy. You will find passages that offer sublime drama, a strong understanding of the composer's intentions, and window-rattling sound reproduction.

These are beautiful recordings. I offer an unqualified recommendation to anyone interested. And as a two-for-the-price-of-one these recordings are of unparalleled value.

Highest expression after-war.......2000-08-17

This significan work of Rachmaninov I think is the beginning of his career as a compositor. The perfect match of sounds, and the use of exact mottos to create this masterpiece of the classical music during the beginning of the last century. It take him about five months to compose the second symphony, three months to get the first movement and two months to get the other two movements, time enough to improve and perform every single detail of this magnificent symphony covered by a tiny and complex cape of armonic sounds, a rich variety of inventions. This "music designer" deservers our time to enjoy this masterpiece, and I think He wish us to take our time to taste every note and every sound of this entire structure, this righorously compose structure, appealing and affecting. The transformation of the mottos in every symphony give us an example of Rachmaninov's essence and give the sharp of the symphony. I feel very good when I listen to it, it's a beautiful masterpiece that everyone should listen.

Ashkenazy hits the mark!.......2000-06-13

Ashkenazy is the best interpreter of Rachmaninov's music, be it piano or symphonic works. This set is incredible, and I would heartily recommend it to anyone!

Christopher Parkening with David Brandon ~ Virtuoso Duets

Average customer rating:

"Nothing is more beautiful than a guitar, save perhaps two," ...
Parkening and Brandon Duo

Christopher Parkening with David Brandon ~ Virtuoso Duets

Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000002RQ9
Release Date: 1990-10-15

Tracks:

La Vida breve: Spanish Dance No. 1
El sombrero de tres picos: The Miller's Dance
De los alamos vengo, madre
Ciranda No.1: Terezinha de Jesus
El Paoruno
Danza de la pastora
Danza de la gitana
Song Of The Will - o' - the - wisp From El Amor brujo
Intermezzo From Goyescas
Prelude And Fugue No. 4 In E
Prelude And Fugue No. 4 in E
Hymn Of Christian Joy (Prelude In Classic Style)
Prelude (In The Baroque Style)
Sanctify Us By Thy Goodness
Offertorio
Canon
Four Renaissance Pieces: Le Rossignol
Four Renaissance Pieces: Drewies Accordes
Four Renaissance Pieces: Watkins Ale
Four Renaissance Pieces: La Volta
Berceuse From Dolly Suite
An Old Music Box
Evening Dance

Customer Reviews:

"Nothing is more beautiful than a guitar, save perhaps two," ..........2005-10-24

wrote Frederic Chopin. Those who enjoy classical guitar music find special pleasure in duets. The repertoire for duets is less frequently played, yet offers more possibilities for textural and harmonic effects than solo guitar. In such capable hands as Christopher Parkening and David Brandon, few musical experiences could give greater listening pleasure.

This album is, sadly, no longer in print and thus makes it even more collectable. Please buy this CD before you loose the chance to hear some the most beautifully played classical guitar duets ever recorded.

Parkening and Brandon Duo.......2001-12-14

This duo plays very well; however, the best tracks of this CD are on the Parkening "Great Recordings" double CD. Thus buying that CD would get you the best of this CD plus a lot of other good recordings. The duo's performance of "La Vida Breve," "Intermezzo," and "Evening Dance" are my favorites (and are included on the "Great Recordings" CD).

Rachmaninov: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos

Average customer rating:

Another Triumph for the White Box

Rachmaninov: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos
Sergey Rachmaninov , Antoni Wit , Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra , National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland , and Alexander Anissimov
Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Mendelssohn: The Complete Symphonies & String Symphonies
Mozart: The Complete Symphonies
Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies, Kullervo
Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures
Liszt: Piano Works

ASIN: B00005QISD
Release Date: 2002-02-19

Tracks:

Caprice Bohemien - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Grave - Allegro Ma Non Troppo Vivace - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Animato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Larghetto - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Con Fuoco - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

Largo: Allegro Moderato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Molto - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Adagio - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Vivace - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

Lento - Allegro Moderato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Adagio Ma Non Troppo - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Melodie In E - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Polichinelle Op.3, No.4 - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

Vivace
Andante
Allegro Vivace - Andante Ma Non Troppo - Tempo Primo
Allegro Vivace
Largo
Allegro Vivace
Introduction
Variation 1
Theme
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11
Variation 12
Variation 13
Variation 14
Variation 15
Variation 16
Variation 17
Variation 18
Variation 19
Variation 20
Variation 21
Variation 22
Variation 23
Variation 24

Tracks:

Moderato
Adagio Sostenuto
Allegro Scherzando
Allegro Ma Non Tanto
Intermezzo: Adagio
Finale: Alla Breve

Customer Reviews:

Another Triumph for the White Box.......2006-01-12

It is both a tremendous honor and a great surprise that I am the first to review this item. It is another triumph for Naxos, and their flagship series, "The White Box." Presented here are Rachmaninov's 4 complete Piano Concertos, 3 Symphonies (including the reconstructed and rarely heard 1st) and some standard concert favorites like the Caprice Bohemien, and the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. This compellation is the result of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, and more preeminently, the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Antoni Wit. And he does a fantastic job. (Wit's competency can also be seen in his work on Tchaikovsky's complete symphonies and piano concertos, also for Naxos' "White Box" series.) The pianist here is Bernd Glemser. His playing is both flawless and graceful, and with a composer like Rachmaninov, that effect is not easy to produce. Those chords don't exactly play themselves. As far as I'm concerned there is no legitimate reason for why he is not well known. (Another great Glemser performance is his recording of Schumann's 3 piano sonatas, also for Naxos, which I would highly recommend.)

A real surprise for me was the first symphony. The score was lost until 1945, and it was only ever performed once in Rachmaninov's lifetime. It is really a forgotten gem in every sense, and I would venture to say it is actually the best of the three symphonies although I'm sure others would vehemently disagree. I am also very pleased to say that the sound and recording quality, which can be something of a toss up with Naxos, is impeccable on all 5 discs.

If you are looking for a complete set of Rachmaninov's Piano Concertos, there is really no reason not to get this set. As for the symphonies, although there probably are better renditions out there, they are played very expertly on this set. In terms of musical quality, I never compromise, and what you would gain by buying the symphonies separately through a more expensive label would ultimately be very, VERY minute, and most likely financially unjustifiable.

And there you have it. This set is a winner through and through, and I recommend it highly.

Average customer rating:

absolutely worth owning
Impeccable playing
Terrific collection of pieces
Gorgeous world music, in the truest sense....
Mantis and the Moon

The Mantis & the Moon: Guitar Duets

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B0000029NY
Release Date: 1996-12-10

Tracks:

La Vida breve: Dance
Goyescas: Intermezzo
Danza espanola No. 6
Sonata in A Major, R84
Songs From The Forest
3 Duets: I. The Mantis and the Moon
3 Duets: II. Lament
3 Duets: III. Alchemy
Carolan's Concerto: Allegro giocoso
Fanny Power
Planxty Madam Maxwell: Fast And Light
Micropiezas
Monte Carlo
Capitola
Prayer
Jongo
'Bad Boy' For Two Guitars
The Gad Fly, Op. 97: 'Guitars'

Customer Reviews:

absolutely worth owning.......2003-02-15

I have many classical guitar albums, including several by John Williams in solo, duet and concerti, and this is one of my favorites. The playing is virtuosic as is expected from Williams, but the repertoire is varied and includes litte known works, including a Shostakovich duet written for guitar! Some reviewers haven't cared for the "mediocre" compositions from Australia, Ireland and the Americas, but I have to strongly disagree. Brouwer can at times be difficult, but he's hardly a slouch. Besides, if these compositions were worthy to draw the attention of one of the greatest guitarists of all time (and a fine composer in his own right), I think they're worthy of ours!
Buy this album, listen to it a few times for familiarization, and enjoy it for years to come.

Impeccable playing.......2002-08-16

Williams and Kain display their considerable talents in playing with fire and reserve,virtuosity and taste and are generally close to perfect.The De Falla,Granados,Takemitsu,Hand,Soler and Shostakovich works are the standouts.The disappointing part of the album comes with the Westlake,Houghton,Brouwer and Verdery pieces.The greatest playing in the world can't disguise mediocre compositions.This is an overall good album but it does require skipping around a lot of superfluous stuff.
Get this one if you happen across a used copy.

Terrific collection of pieces.......2002-04-01

I have had this CD for several years, and still enjoy it as much as when it was first given to me. It is being passed around the family, as my son owned a copy, then bought me one, and I have just ordered a copy for my daughter-in-law.

Some of the pieces are familiar, but if you persevere, I am sure you will come to enjoy the works that are new to you.

I was sorry to see that one reviewer did not enjoy the Australian works. The Westlake piece [Songs from the Forest] is fairly light and very melodic. If you enjoy it, you should check out his Antarctica music, which exists in several different versions.

Kain's Guitar Trek recordings are also worth hunting for.

Gorgeous world music, in the truest sense...........2002-01-03

John Williams and Timothy Kain, two masters of their chosen instrument, with more in common than just the country of their birth. Kain's guitar teacher at the conservatory in Australia had studied with Williams' father, Len. Williams and Kain first worked together in 1992, and enjoyed the experience. The two men form a complimentary duo in both technique and approach to music. Their playing is flawless. Their duets are seamless.

On this disk, Williams and Kain "journey outside the confines of the classical guitar repertoire." What a magnificent journey it is, too! The Mantis & The Moon contains 18 selections by 12 composers, grouped together by the cultures of the 6 lands they represent...Spain, Australia, Ireland, the Americas, Japan, and Russia.

This is beautiful music performed by two of the greatest guitarists of our generation. These performances go beyond classical, folk, pop or the usual guitar "genre" pieces. Yet the music is lovely, enjoyable, and accessible to the listener. If you love guitar music, you owe it to yourself to pick up this CD.

Mantis and the Moon.......2001-12-13

Williams and Kain play very well as a duo. My favorite pieces on this CD are "Sonata in A," "Capitola," and "Jongo." "Sonata in A" is acoustical honey for the ears, as it epitomises Chopin's comment that nothing sounds sweeter than a guitar--except two guitars. "Jongo" is simply dazzling (but far from simple to perform). However, I don't like the Australian compositions (sorry about that critique of your Aussie mates, Mr. Williams). A few other selections are uninspiring as well. It may come as a surprise, but I prefer the Parkening and Brandon duo's performances of "La Vida Breve" and "Intermezzo" over Williams and Kain. Nonetheless, Williams and Kain put in some fine performances on this CD.

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