Sonatas for Guitar

On this CD:

1. Sonata for keyboard in G major, K. 391 (L. 79) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

2. Sonata for keyboard in E major, K. 162 (L. 21) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

3. Sonata for keyboard in B flat major, K. 202 (L. 498) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

4. Sonata for keyboard in F minor, K. 467 (L. 476) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

5. Sonata for keyboard in A major, K. 208 (L. 238) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

6. Sonata for keyboard in A major, K. 209 (L. 428) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

7. Sonata for keyboard in C major, K. 513 (L. S3) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

8. Sonata for keyboard in D minor, K. 176 (L. 163) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

9. Sonata for keyboard in D major, K. 177 (L. 364) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

10. Sonata for keyboard in D major, K. 178 (L. 162) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

11. Sonata for keyboard in G major, K. 146 (L. 349) (incomplete; poss spurious) Transcribed for guitar
Composed by Domenico Scarlatti
Performed by Stephan [guitar] Schmidt

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Stephan Schmidt has concentrated on giving us a one-sided selection of Scarlatti, avoiding his brilliant virtuosic sonatas and playing only some of the more lyrical ones. This means that he often avoids Kirkpatrick pairs, which typically include one of each type. Having thus limited the scope of his disc, Schmidt then plays the material he has selected quite beautifully, making the music sing and convincing me, for the moment at least, that Scarlatti actually intended this music for the harpsichord. If you have some reason for wanting a collection of gentle Scarlatti played very well on the guitar, here it is. --Leslie Gerber

Tracks:

Carnival Of The Animals - Bruno Canino
Vocalise, Op.34 No.14 - Lynn Harrell
Thais - Julian Lloyd Webber
Adagio - Janos Starker
Apres Un Reve - Bruno Canino
Adagio - Julian Lloyd Webber
Ave Maria - Julian Lloyd Webber
Adagio - Julian Lloyd Webber
Traumerei (Dreaming) - Bruno Canino
Notturno: Andante - Julian Lloyd Webber
Sicilienne - Bruno Canino
An Die Musik, D547 - Bruno Canino
Reverie - Julian Lloyd Webber
Prayer - Bruno Canino
Ebben? Ne Andro Lontana - Bruno Canino
Salut D'amour, Op.12 - Bruno Canino
Valse Sentimentale, Op.15 No.6 - Samuel Sanders
Kol Nidrei, Op.47 - Julian Lloyd Webber

Tracks:

Air (Air On A G String) - Julian Lloyd Webber
Clair De Lune - Julian Lloyd Webber
Elegie, Op.24 - Jullian Lloyd Webber
Andante - Heinrich Schiff
Romance In D Minor, Op.62 - Julian Lloyd Webber
Beau Soir - Bruno Canino
Sicilienne, Op.78 - Bruno Canino
Panis Angelicus - Julian Lloyd Webber
Nocturne In E Flat Major, Op.9 No.2 - Julian Lloyd Webber
Cantabile - Samuel Sanders
Liebesleid - Samuel Sanders
Adagio Ma Non Troppo - Janos Starker
Bereuse - Julian Lloyd Webber
Cantilena - Julian Lloyd Webber
Melodie, Op.20 No.1 - Julian Lloyd Webber

Customer Reviews:

really like it.......2007-03-05

This is the first classical cd I have ever bought. The two-disc album was a great price. I really love the performance of Lynn Harrell. I like the collection of Adagios because they are perfect to fall asleep to or study to.

Average customer rating:

Focus on the Recordings
This is a fantastic deal!
Excellent, Broad Selection
$70....when was this???
$70/40... you do the math.

Vivaldi: The Masterworks (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

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

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

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Similar Items:

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Complete Works (170 CD Box Set)
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Mendelssohn: The Masterworks [Box Set]
Handel: The Masterworks (Box Set)
Beethoven: The Masterworks (Box Set)

ASIN: B00062FLHY
Release Date: 2004-11-30

Customer Reviews:

Focus on the Recordings.......2007-07-23

I've made this small review of the Vivaldi Masterworks set because it is SO difficult to find a review of such a big collection.

The price is killer and you HAVE to buy it, but be warned: these are not the best recordings, you get what you pay for.

First of all, I'm not a Vivaldi expert, but I've heard his compositions throughout my life in so many different places and recordings and have a vague idea of how some have to be played. Secondly, I'm not a classical music connoisseur, but I love it and have over 300 discs of various composers and styles. Third, I know what a good audio recording should sound like and this will influence my critique of some discs in the collection. Finally, it's easy to get lost among all the tracks contained, so in some cases I will give you my favorite tracks in a disc.

I'm sorry, but I've only reached disc 20 of the box-set, as I listen to more this review will be expanded.

DISC 1:
Why would you use an AAD recording as a first impression for a 40 disc box-set and for the "Four Seasons", which is probably Vivaldi's best know work. The concertos are played enthusiastically, but lack any additional virtuosity to put it ahead of other much better recordings out there.

DISC 2:
Same as DISC 1, played and recorded by the same people.

DISC 3:
The pieces in this disc are VERY well played, nonetheless, you can hear heavy breathing from the soloist which can be a bit annoying.

DISC 4:
Very well performed as well, heavy breathing is less present.

DISC 5:
A very good recording, excellent execution by the hapsichord and good by the recorder.
Tracks 4, 6, 7 and the whole "La Notte" are extraordinary.

DISC 6:
Exquisitely recorded and performed by the Budapest Strings.

DISC 7:
Marvelous performance on the whole disc.
Tracks 22 & 24 are non-plus-ultra.

DISC 8:
Great performance too.
Suggested tracks: 7, 12, 15, 24

DISC 9:
To have an original baroque organ playing is a plus.
Solo strings are lacking in quality (for example: tracks 6 & 7).
Suggested tracks: 1, 4, 8, 15

DISC 10:
Despite being and ADD recording, the quality is fairly good. The cello is very well played.
Suggested tracks: 3, 4, 12
Excellent track: 13

DISC 11:
Same musical group and soloist as DISC 10. The contrabass is extremely distorted sometimes, and if you take into consideration that this is an ADD recording, it can get pretty bad. Some background noise is perceived.
Suggested tracks: 3, 6, 9

DISC 12:
The compositions are somewhat boring, either way the performance is plain decent.
Suggested tracks: 10, 12

DISC 13:
Good performance and sound quality.
Suggested tracks: 1, 4, 6, 7
Excellent track: 12

DISC 14:
Good performance and sound quality too.
Suggested tracks: 10, 14, 16
Excellent track: 5

DISC 15:
Badly mixed, the basoon is blocking the whole ensamble by being in the foreground.
The playing precision is lacking.
An AWEFUL thing about this recording is that you can hear the basson key-sticking with the instrument and the saliva. It's horrible.
Such a pity, the sound of the basson with other instruments can be pretty interesting.

DISC 16:
Violins sound a bit off tempo.
Suggested tracks: 4, 8

DISC 17:
Good sound quality and performance.
Suggested tracks: 1, 7, 9

DISC 18:
Despite being an old recording, it is a very welcome one.
The performance is very well above par. Tempo is fantastic.
The quality of the recording could have been better due to some string plucking that is heard and which can become bothersome.
These are some of Vivaldi's best know tunes.
Suggested tracks: 4, 6, 13
Excellent tracks: 1, 3

DISC 19:
Lively recording.
Track 6 is the same piece found in another disc in the collection, but with a better performance.

DISC 20:
By now you've heard all of this pieces before in the other discs. Nothing new here, nor better.

This is a fantastic deal!.......2007-02-25

If you are a fan at all of the Four Seasons you should love this music. I will admit right now that I am a classical music fan. I don't write or perform it. I am a novice listener. I have never taken any music lessons(though I am leaning in that direction) and certainly have not gone through any university music training. I started out in rock and roll but found classical as I got older and fell in love with it a few years ago.

With that context in mind I do hope I am able to recognize quality and this work is of the highest. It helps when you are starting with good ingredients in the first place. You can't bake great bread without great ingredients and Vivaldi's music library has some of the greatest musical ingredients of the last 300 years. They are very much the foundation for modern western culture and music. His talent is woven through what we are

The first 26 CDs are instrumental starting with the four seasons and working through many of the Master's many popular works. I will admit the four seasons are not the best interpretation I have heard but it is definitely acceptable. The rest of the music shows us many facets of the Baroque style and you can see themes emerging through some of the pieces that give us a 'fingerprint' of Vivaldi's style and the parameters of the stylistic leanings of the genre at the time. If you want to immerse yourself in 18th century music this is your chance

This music would be ideal for someone who owns a store and is looking for background music. With over 26 CDs of instrumental music alone you could have those constantly looping and you'd probably never get bored of them(OK I may be stretching it a little there). The reason is that the music does not leave a bad 'aftertaste' in your mind. It fits into the background as easily and naturally as it is to listen to it consciously in the foreground. If you are a fan of classical Baroque you don't usually need to be in the mood for this, it will adjust your mood to itself and Vivaldi's music is almost always of an uplifting sort if this collection is any indication. If you want something to listen to at your job 8 hours per day this is good for the mind and it would take you over a week to get through it if you listened to it every minute of every work day. You will also work without the worry of the music distracting your concentration. I find it enhances it when I'm working. I don't know how well this would work on school kids but teachers might want to try playing this during school time. You may create a few geniuses, we certainly could use more!

If you are looking for something to ease your sleep and oil your dreams I have put these CD's on in the background. Not only can I easily fall asleep when they are playing quietly in the background but it helps you sleep and you wake up in a very pleasant atmosphere if the music is still playing quietly when you wake(you probably would need to rip them to your MP3 player to do that). It's like napping at a classical music concert without the worry of being nudged by your spouse or offending the other concert goers with your snoring. That will be quite a unique experience for you and possibly give you some real sweet dreams. It has for me

So to wrap it up this is very intelligent, uplifting music that is great for your mind and your soul. It is definitely worth the purchase if you are a fan of the Four Seasons and the Baroque genre in my novice classical music fan's opinion

Excellent, Broad Selection.......2007-01-25

This 40-cd collection affords me a rare pleasure almost daily: the thrill of hearing something new by Vivaldi. Despite my best efforts over the years, I've managed to miss hearing a lot of great works by the master. Listening to a single CD now and then, catching tunes on the radio... you can't possibly get a comprehensive understanding of Vivaldi's output that way.

But when you work your way systematically from CD 1 through 40, you're sure to find many pleasant surprises. I've been skipping through everything I already know -- in some cases, it has only taken me about a minute to get through a whole CD (first 3 seconds of each track is usually enough). But then I stop and listen carefully three or four times to anything that's new.

Ah, what a pleasure. I've already acquired some new favorites. And some old standbys have proved even more rewarding, e.g. at first I thought RV 127 (CD 7, tracks 10-12) was performed too slowly (Naxos No: 8.553742 is much faster), but now I'm not sure; maybe it's BETTER that way! I can't recommend this set highly enough.

$70....when was this???.......2006-11-25

Wish the cost was $70 now. Guess the record producer (or Amazon) got tired of making less than $2 per CD.

$70/40... you do the math........2006-04-07

No, I don't own this collection...yet. However, the price of the collection compels me to review it beforehand. Never have I seen such a complete collection of Vivaldi compositions at such an incredibly low price. At $1.75 dollars a CD, the record producer (Brilliant Classics) isn't making much of a profit. The compilation pulls some of its works from DG Achiv Produktion's vault (see Standage), such as the violin concertos, as well as from unknown producers (the Poland Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra is heavily featured). The collection is so complete that it is academic, and I would not be surprised if music libraries quickly emptied it from Amazon's shelves. The collection is simply worth it for the incredible price (English Concert's recording of the violin concertos cost nearly 30 bucks, and is exactly featured here). Overall, the price alone makes this collection exceptionally attractive, and the ensembles featured aren't bad either.

Paganini for Two / Gil Shaham, Goran Sollscher

Average customer rating:

A great CD
Epochal Paganini
Aristocratic Playing
passion in a cage
Glad to see Paganini's guitar music isn't being neglected.

Paganini for Two / Gil Shaham, Goran Sollscher

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
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Schubert for Two (Dig)
Dvorák For Two: Works For Violin & Piano
The Best of Paganini
Paganini: Violin Concertos
Duos for Violin & Guitar

ASIN: B000001GJB
Release Date: 1994-03-15

Tracks:

Sonata Concertata For Violin And Guitar In A Major, M.S. 2: Allegro Spiritoso
Sonata Concertata For Violin And Guitar In A Major, M.S. 2: Adagio, Assai Espressivo
Sonata Concertata For Violin And Guitar In A Major, M.S. 2: Rondeau. Allegretto Con Brio, Scherzando
Sei Sonate M.S. 27 (Op. 3) For Violin And Guitar: Sonata No. 1 In A Major: Larghetto
Sei Sonate M.S. 27 (Op. 3) For Violin And Guitar: Sonata No. 1 In A Major: Presto Variato - Variazione
Sei Sonate M.S. 27 (Op. 3) For Violin And Guitar: Sonata No. 1 In A Major: Andante Largo
Sei Sonate M.S. 27 (Op. 3) For Violin And Guitar: Sonata No. 1 In A Major: Allegretto
Sei Sonate M.S. 27 (Op. 3) For Violin And Guitar: Sonata No. 6 In E Minor: Andante
Sei Sonate M.S. 27 (Op. 3) For Violin And Guitar: Sonata No. 6 In E Minor: Allegro Vivo E Spiritsos - Minore
Grand Sonata M.S. 3 For Violin And Guitar In A Major: Romance. Piu tosto Largo, Amorosamente
Centone Di Sonate M.S. 112 For Violin And Guitar: Lettera A: Sonata No. 2 In D Major: Adagio Cantabile
Centone Di Sonate M.S. 112 For Violin And Guitar: Lettera A: Sonata No. 2 In D Major: Rondoncino. Andantino, Tempo Di Placca - Minore
Centone Di Sonate M.S. 112 For Violin And Guitar: Lettera A: Sonata No. 2 In A Major: Adagio Cantabile
Centone Di Sonate M.S. 112 For Violin And Guitar: Lettera A: Sonata A Major: Rondo. Andantino, Allegretto-Minore-Maggiore
Cantabile M.S. 109 For Violin And Guitar (Pianoforte) In D Major
Introduction And Variations On 'Dal Tuo Stellato Soglio' From Rossini's Mose (Sonata A Preghiera) M.S. 23: Introduction. Adagio
Introduction And Variations On 'Dal Tuo Stellato Soglio' From Rossini's Mose (Sonata A Preghiera) M.S. 23: Theme. Tempo Alla Marcia
Introduction And Variations On 'Dal Tuo Stellato Soglio' From Rossini's Mose (Sonata A Preghiera) M.S. 23: Var. I
Introduction And Variations On 'Dal Tuo Stellato Soglio' From Rossini's Mose (Sonata A Preghiera) M.S. 23: Var. II Vigoroso
Introduction And Variations On 'Dal Tuo Stellato Soglio' From Rossini's Mose (Sonata A Preghiera) M.S. 23: Var. III
Introduction And Variations On 'Dal Tuo Stellato Soglio' From Rossini's Mose (Sonata A Preghiera) M.S. 23: Finale
Moto Perpetuo (Allegro Vivace A Movimento Perpetuo) M.S. 72 (Op. 11), For Violin And Guitar In C Major

Customer Reviews:

A great CD.......2006-02-02

This collection of Paganini's music has it all. Great playing from both soloists, full of passion and presence, great recording, well balanced - a must for this kind of music and great pieces, all coming to life by Gil Shaham.

Epochal Paganini.......2005-08-09

This disc is a landmark in the history of Paganini performing.Gil Shaham's flawless technique simply makes the music shine in all its virtuosistic brilliance.Shaham's light-hearted approach to the music gives the pieces on this CD a level of warmth and intimacy that is hard to find in any other recording of Paganini works.The only draw-back to this recording is the fragmentary performance of the Grand Sonata.The CD is only barely over 60 minutes long and there is still plenty of place for the 2 remaining movements to fill in.But most of all,it is the marvellous playing from both Shaham and Gollscher that stuns any listener and make them hunger for more.

Aristocratic Playing.......2002-03-04

This is a delightful cd that still sets the standard for these varied violin/guitar pieces even though they were recorded in November '92. Gil Shaham plays with an aristocratic charm that makes every piece sound so refreshing and witty; he has imbued into these Paganini works the purest violin tones and cleanest approach of everyone who has tackled the same works including Monica Huggett's recordings on Harmonia Mundi and the inexpensive Naxos recordings. Indeed while listening to both Huggett's and Shaham's interpretations of the "Sonata Concertata", I prefer the latter simply because it is so much more refined; Huggett's playing seems more raw and less polished even though there may appear to be more energy. Huggett plays the piece as if it was a Baroque Miniature Masterpiece; Shaham plays it in the Classical Mold full of romance and feeling- imparting a greater degree of mystery and spirituality. Shaham makes every note sound just right and no quips with the interpretation; his refinement of technique reminds me of a young Arthur Grumiaux but with a even greater sense of mastery and control.

It is an interesting fact that Paganini wrote over 100 solo pieces for the guitar even though he is now known primarily for his violin works. Paganini is believed to have used the guitar as the instrument of choice during composition. Although his guitar pieces do not approach the virtuosic exuberance of the more famous violin counterparts such as the "24 Caprices", they define an intimate and private Paganini; one who indulges in a more relaxed and quiet setting- away from the fireworks of the stage performances. However make no mistake- many of these pieces from this recording are meant to be played with a lot of fire and splendid bowtapping such as the "Moto Perpetuo" (the last selection) and Shaham's rhythmic attack never slackens even in the most demanding passages.

"Paganini for Two" on first glance sounds like any other recording made especially for background dinner music (even the tiny sticker on the packaging highlights this point!)but there is a lot of lyrical refinement for even the serious Paganini collector and classical music lover. A number of Sonatas are included although at times the guitar plays a lesser role. I would have preferred to see the entire "Grand Sonata" appear in this recording but only the "Romance" from it- a very short four and a half minute piece is included. The rest of the programme if not generous is still varied and interesting- stretching slightly over 60 minutes.

All this talk of Shaham certainly does not detract from the wonderful accompaniment provided by veteran guitarist Goran Sollscher who was known previously for his luminous recordings of the Bach Lute suites (also on DG)and refreshing interpretations of even the music of the Beatles! You can hear every one of Sollscher's notes and this partnership is certainly a very successful one. To cap it all off, the sound is crystal clear with a lot of depth and proper soundstaging. The violin and guitar sound very holographic and on a good hi-fi equipment, this disc can be worthy of demonstration material.

A Solid 5 Star Recommendation? You bet!

passion in a cage.......2000-03-22

I wonder what the musicians on this record could do, if they really let themselves go! Here we have so much brilliant skill, and Shaham & Söllcher could easily exchange a bit of it for some rage and tears. Then it should have been a six star rating on this record!

Glad to see Paganini's guitar music isn't being neglected........1999-07-09

Among the "big three" of classical writers for guitar (Sor, Giuliani, Paganini), Paganini seems to me best at integrating the guitar in chamber ensembles. Not that his guitar-violin relationship is static in these duets. In the Sonata Concertante, for example, the instruments are almost equal partners, with the guitar slightly upstage. In the six sonatas, the guitar merely provides accompaniment.

The common denominator is the likeability of this music, with little or none of the bravura writing for which Paganini is best known. In fact, among the three composers for the guitar above-mentioned, Paganini seems to me the most straight-ahead and guitaristic.

It's interesting to see Sollscher tackle this material, since he's best-known for his solo Bach transcriptions on his custom 11-string. Totally different -- and totally entrancing.

Tracks:

Orchestral Suite #3, 1/Minuet in G+/Gigue in G+ (French Suite #5) - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring/Chromatic Fantasy/Prelude in B - (WTC1) - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Introducing the Orchestra/Organ: Chorale Preludes, "Allein Gott" - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Brandenberg Concerto #5, MVT. 3 - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Flute Sonata C+, MVT. 2/Organ; "Es Ist das Heil"/Orchestral Suite ... - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Prelude in C (WTC1)/Orchestral Suite #2, MVT. 2 - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Bist du Bei Mir - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Orchestral Suite #2, Badinerie - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Orchestrak Suite #3, Air for the G-String - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Orchestral Suite #3, Gigue - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
"Adventure in Music" - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Goldberg Variations/Art of Fugue - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
"Liebster Jesu"/Flute Sonata in C, MVT. 4 - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
"We Hasten, " Cantata #78 - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir

Tracks:

Symphony #7, MVT. 2
Symphony #5, MVT. 1
Piano Sonata, Op 90, MVT. 2/Flute Serenade, Op 23, MVT. 3/Violin ...
Pathue Sonata, Op 13, MVT. 2/Contradanse #1 in Major
Symphony #5, MVT. 2/Piano Sonata, Op 14 #2, MVT. 2/Flute Serenade, ...
Polonaise/La Marmotte/Country Dance in a Major/Fse/Flutnuhr
Sonatina in G Major/Minuet in G Major/Violin "Spring" Sonata, MVT. 1
Moonlight Sonata, Op 27 #2, MVT. 1
Flute Serenade, MVT. 2
Symphony #6, Storm
Nel Cor Piu Variations
Piano Concerto #1, MVT. 1/Piano Concerto #5, MVT. 2
Bass Excerpts from Symphony #9/Violin"Spring Sonata"/Rage Over a ...
Symphony #9, MVT. 4
Sonata Opus 49 #2, MVT. 2
Symphony #6, Shepherd's Theme

Tracks:

Lost in the Opera House: Oh Help Me (Zu Hilfe) - Nils Brown, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Papageno and the Birds: The Best Birdcatcher (Der Vogelfer) - Russell Braun, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Queen of the Night: You Must Free My Daughter (O Zittre Nicht) - Marjorie Sparks, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Pamina Arrives, Papageno's Magic Bells: A Girlfriend (Ein Mhen) - Russell Braun, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Castle of Sarastro: O Endless Night (O Ew'ge Nacht) - Nils Brown, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Magic Flute: O Listen (Wie Stark) - Nils Brown, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Escape: Let Us Hurry (Schnelle FWhat Tinkles So Brightly ... - Russell Braun, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra, Monica Whicher
Sarastro's Welcome: The Gods Above (O Isis) - Gordon McLeod, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Attack of the Queen: The Powers of Night (Der H Rache)/This ... - Marjorie Sparks, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Pamina's Lament: Oh, My Heart Is Broken (Ach, Ich F - St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra, Monica Whicher
In the Labrynth: Seekers of the Light (Der, Welcher ...) - Nils Brown, Gordon McLeod, Marjorie Sparks, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra, Monica Whicher
Papageno and Papagena: Ring, O Bells (Klinget Glhen) - Adriana Braun, Russell Braun, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Conclusion: Our Journey Is Over [Bei Mern] - St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra

Tracks:

Four Seasons, Spring, I, RV 269
Piccolo Concerto, II, RV 293
Arriving at the Pietour Seasons, Autumn, I RV 293/Guitar/Flute ...
Violin Concerto in a Minor, I, RV 356
Four Seasons, Winter, II, RV 297
Guitar Concerto, II, RV 93
Venice by Day/Guitar Concerto, III, RV 93/Four Seasons, Autumn, ...
Sonata for Two Violins, II, RV 50/"Farnace", RV 711, [Recording Premier
Violin Concerto in a Minor, II, RV 356
Venice by Night/La Notte, I, II, III, RV 439
Island of the Dead/Four Seasons, Autumn, II, RV 293
Gardellino, RV 90/Beatus Vir, RV 597/Alma del Core/Violin Sonata ...
Concert Preparations/Piccolo Concerto, I, RV 443/Guitar Concerto, III,
Conclusion/Double Orchestra Concerto, II, RV 585/Guitar Concerto, ...

Customer Reviews:

It stays with them..........2005-10-24

I enjoyed reading the reviews of parents whose kids have recently discovered "Classical Kids." I'm about to order the boxed set for my kids, ages 21, 19 and 16 because the nineteen-year-old, who has a college radio show and loves a wide variety of music, remembers this series (then only on cassette) with great affection and wants to hear them again. Those of you wondering whether it's worth it or not to try to introduce kids to classical music this way, be assured it works. We've turned one of Mr. Bach's lines into a family "saying:" "the more you study, the more you know; the more you know, the more you appreciate; the more you appreciate, the more you love." A great series!

It all started with Beethoven.......2004-02-03

Many years ago I purchased my first CD in this series, "Beethoven Lives Upstairs." My children and I were delighted with it. I then discovered that there were more and searched them all out, one by one. My children, now 11, 9 & 5, have listened to these stories as they fall asleep for years. They each have a favorite composer and have gone on to learn more about them. These stories are a great introduction to some of our greatest composers. Not to mention a good intro to history, too!

Imagine my delight that they are now in one boxed set! Now when asked, I suggest this set. What a great way to get it ALL! I truly believe that by surrounding our children with a variety of good music (including POP music) and information they will grow up with a greater appreciation for music and the arts.

Not What I expected.......2002-09-20

I love the idea, but I don't want to expose my children to the stories in these cd's. They contain children talking back to their parents, disrespectful language, sorcery, etc. If you don't like Harry Potter, you won't like these CD's.

Music, history, culture, & intriguing story -Amazing!.......2002-04-08

My 6 year old son loves music...and stories! Here is the prefect combo. Lovely music of the composer accomapnies a fictional story which weaves the composer's life, the culture of his homeland as well as history...in an intriguing and fun way! Now, my son can pick out pieces he hears on the classical radio station. He really enjoys the stories and can tell people @ carnival in Venice, Italy and tidbits @ Beetoven and the Magic Flute by Mozart! A must for any child with any of these interests! We also have enjoyed the CD's and have learned lots!
I only can wonder...what took whomever so long to broaden our horizons in such a way! BRAVO!

Great series, great collection.......2001-04-22

We've had the CDs in this boxed set for over a year now. The Classical Kids series has been wonderful. We have two boys (now 6 and 8) and this has been a great introduction to classical music. At first, the kids loved the stories which provide a sense of history and place and, ultimately, keep the kids interested in the entire CD. As they listened (time and time again), they started to pay more attention to the musical portions. Recently, we've been able to tell that they've picked up a sense of the music as we've listed to classical music on the car radio. Time and again, they perk up when listening to a piece of music and surprise us by saying "That's Beethoven". Sure enough - they've picked up something about the style of music that's characteristic of Beethoven. Sometimes it's the snippet of music from the CD and other times it's just the rhythms that are characteristic of that piece. As a family, we all recommend this.

Average customer rating:

The Art of Ruggiero Ricci

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

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
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The Art of Ivry Gitlis
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ASIN: B0001NPTX4
Release Date: 2005-10-18

Average customer rating:

Essential for any fan of violin or classical guitar. 5 Stars

Paganini: Music for Violin and Guitar I

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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

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Paganini: Music for Violin and Guitar II
Paganini: Guitar Music
Paganini: Centone di Sonate, Vol. 2
Paganini: Centone de Sonate Vol. 1
Paganini: Centone di Sonate, Vol. 3

ASIN: B0000014CB
Release Date: 1994-02-15

Tracks:

Son Con in A: Allegro spiritoso
Son Con in A: Adagio assai espressivo
Son Con in A: Rondeau-Allegretto con brio scherzando
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.1 in A: Larghetto
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.1 in A: Presto variato
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.2 in G: Adagio con dolcezza
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.2 in G: Andantino scherzoso
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.3 in D: Andante sostenuto
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.3 in D: Rondo-Molto allegro
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.4 in a: Andante largo
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.4 in a: Allegretto mottegiando
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.5 in A: Adagio amoroso
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.5 in A: Allegretto mottegiando
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.6 in e: Andante innocentemente
6 Son, Op.3: Son No.6 in e: Allegro vivo
Var(s) on 'Barucaba'
Cantabile in D

Customer Reviews:

Essential for any fan of violin or classical guitar. 5 Stars.......2003-03-08

If you don't know this, Nicolo Paganini was like the Jimi Hendrix of the Violin. Some, back then, thought he was possessed when he played. If we could only venture back in time to hear him, huh? We can't, but these recordings of his compositions are magnificent. The violin and guitar in this recording-and volume two which you should get right away-are stunning. Very tight and crisp sounding, but still the kind of playing that can mellow you out after a miserable day full of stress and tension. Excellent sound production, as with all from the Naxos label. Don't miss out on this one. 5 Star essential rating *****. Cheers!

Bach: Sonatas and Partitas for Violin Solo (Transcriptions for Guitar)

Average customer rating:

Bach: Sonatas and Partitas for Violin Solo (Transcriptions for Guitar)

Manufacturer: MD&G Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00005B45Y
Release Date: 2001-08-28

Tracks:

Son No.1 in g, BWV 1001: Adagio
Son No.1 in g, BWV 1001: Fuga - Allegro
Son No.1 in g, BWV 1001: Siciliana
Son No.1 in g, BWV 1001: Presto
Son No.2 in a, BWV 1003: Grave
Son No.2 in a, BWV 1003: Fuga
Son No.2 in a, BWV 1003: Andante
Son No.2 in a, BWV 1003: Allegro
Son No.3 in C, BWV 1005: Adagio
Son No.3 in C, BWV 1005: Fuga
Son No.3 in C, BWV 1005: Largo
Son No.3 in C, BWV 1005: Allegro Assai

Tracks:

Partita No.1 in b, BWV 1002: Allemanda
Partita No.1 in b, BWV 1002: Double
Partita No.1 in b, BWV 1002: Corrente
Partita No.1 in b, BWV 1002: Double. Presto
Partita No.1 in b, BWV 1002: Sarabande
Partita No.1 in b, BWV 1002: Double
Partita No.1 in b, BWV 1002: Tempo Di Borea
Partita No.1 in b, BWV 1002: Double
Partita No.2 in d, BWV 1004: Allemanda
Partita No.2 in d, BWV 1004: Corrente
Partita No.2 in d, BWV 1004: Sarabanda
Partita No.2 in d, BWV 1004: Giga
Partita No.2 in d, BWV 1004: Ciaccona
Partita No.3 in E, BWV 1006: Prld
Partita No.3 in E, BWV 1006: Loure
Partita No.3 in E, BWV 1006: Gavotte En Rondeau
Partita No.3 in E, BWV 1006: Menuet I & II
Partita No.3 in E, BWV 1006: Bourree
Partita No.3 in E, BWV 1006: Gigue

Average customer rating:

like spring water(just intonation) versus tonality(polluted)
Excellent selection

Just West Coast

Manufacturer: Bridge
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

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Just Guitars: Microtonal Music for Guitar
Sound Grammar

ASIN: B000003GIZ
Release Date: 1993-11-01

Tracks:

Suite No. 2: 1. Jahla - John Schneider/Amy Shulman/Gene Sterling
Suite No. 2: 2. Waltz For Evelyn Hinrichsen - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Suite No. 2: 3. Therenody - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Suite No. 2: 4. Son in Ishartum - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Suite No. 2: 5. Beverly's Troubadour Piece - John Schneider/Amy Shulman/Gene Sterling
Sarabande - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Two Studies On Ancient Greek Scales: Study on Olympos' Pentatonic - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Two Studies On Ancient Greek Scales: Study on Archytas' Enharmonic - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
8 Hitchhikers' Inscription: 1. Today I Am A Man - John Schneider
8 Hitchhikers' Inscription: 2. Gentlemen - John Schneider
8 Hitchhikers' Inscription: 3. Considered Pretty - John Schneider
8 Hitchhikers' Inscription: 4. A Very Good Idea - John Schneider
8 Hitchhikers' Inscription: 5. Possible Rides - John Schneider
8 Hitchhikers' Inscription: 6. Jesus Was God In The Flesh - John Schneider
8 Hitchhikers' Inscription: 7. You Lucky Women - John Schneider
8 Hitchhikers' Inscription: 8. Why In Hell Did You Come? - John Schneider
Dream - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
In A Landscape - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Six Sonatas: 1. Moderato - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Six Sonatas: 2. Allegro - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Six Sonatas: 3. Moderato - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Six Sonatas: 4. Allegro - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Six Sonatas: 5. Moderato - John Schneider/Amy Shulman
Six Sonatas: 6. Allegro - John Schneider/Amy Shulman

Customer Reviews:

like spring water(just intonation) versus tonality(polluted).......1999-06-27

Just intonation is based on the natural physicalness of sound,that composers and performers . We haven't, in the history of Western music, instead we have been barbarians with Tonality as our ear- icon, the Western system of what we hear(or don't hear) today is based on "bent" or altered states of vibrations, especially the intervals thirds and fifths. The problem now is that our ears have been conditioned,almost irreparably.Tonality is like an oil-slick touching every shore of World music. If you've never heard music based on just intonation, this is a great place to start. The combination harp and guitar (with some percussion here) has a pure unimpaired quality for which you will immediately say, "why haven't I ever heard this music before". The works here are also by devoted creators who have an intimate knowledge of the tuning non-Western systems of the world. Lou Harrison's music works best in smaller intimate pieces as here in the "Suite No.2". Here the tightly constructed five movements for guitar and harp has a richly diverse constitution,highlighting the solos unique melodic qualities as well as the ensemble chordal combinations. Harrison's music has a close association with the gestures of Asian music,but you always sense he is speaking his own voice always melodic yet with original shapes,lines and contours in unpredictable ways. La Monte Young's "Sarabande", originally for piano solo doesn't suffer under its transformation for guitar and harp.It sounds like wind chimes,a sense of static harmonies(purified now) drifting freely and gently. I never warmed to Partch's music. Granted his profound theories on tuning and instrument making is what the world music systems needed, still his music doesn't have the emotive eqivalence of his profound theories. The spoken text here from "Barstow: 8 Hitchhikers' Inscriptions"(1941) is simply blunt and boring reflecting an uniformed sense of the unfreedom of anarchy. "In a Landscape" by John Cage,- originally a piano piece- works better, as a harp solo with its simple arpeggiated harmonies magnetized around two tones." Dream" also by Cage works less successfully, the original G-minor piano solo has a sense of sparceness,and intimacy, where the guitar and harp combination heregently explodes thisas a miniature orchestration. Shulman and Schneider are always sensitive with a high sense of musicality and emotive direction no matter what music is in front of them.

Excellent selection.......1999-03-26

A beautiful selection of microtonal pieces. I enjoyed listening to it a lot. The booklet which comes with the CD is great and manages to explain some of the concepts behind this music. Great value.

Average customer rating:

Heartfelt and immaculate playing
EL MEJOR CD DE LA OBRA DE PONCE PARA GUITARRA!!!
A little mechanical, but worth a listen
Raising the Standards for Classical Guitar
Virtuosity and Musicianship at its highest

Ponce: Guitar Sonatas
Jason Vieaux
Manufacturer: Azica
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
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Jason Vieaux
Sor: Complete Guitar Music, Vol. 10
David Russell plays 19th Century Music

ASIN: B00006YXAQ
Release Date: 2002-10-22

Customer Reviews:

Heartfelt and immaculate playing.......2006-10-26

When I first started listening to classical guitar, Julian Bream was the one artist who, if he released a new recording, I would buy it without hesitation. With Bream in retirement, my current "must buy" artist is Jason Vieaux. It's difficult to choose between his many fine recordings, but a particular favorite of mine is his 2001 release of Mexican composer Manuel Ponce's guitar sonatas. Vieaux's performances are warm, colorful, and vibrant. His ability to sing a line is second to none. And don't be put off by the idea of a CD entirely devoted to one composer. Two of Ponce's guitar sonatas are homages to other composers--Fernando Sor and Franz Schubert--and Ponce wrote the sonatas in the style of these composers. In fact, he was so successful at composing in other styles that some of his music in the baroque style was for many years misattributed to 18th century composers.

By the way, I'm puzzled by the reviewer who called this recording "a little mechanical." Vieaux is far removed from the many guitarists who are more marksmen than musicians. With all the positive reviews posted about this recording, it's odd that Amazon spotlights a tepid review that overlooks the lyricism so obvious in Vieaux's playing.

In sum, excellent music beautifully played.

EL MEJOR CD DE LA OBRA DE PONCE PARA GUITARRA!!!.......2006-03-12

Por sonido, calidad y personalidad interpretativa - en que se puede reconocer además una profunda afinidad con el compositor y un sólido análisis de la obras, considero que Jason Vieux nos entrega la mejor grabación que se ha realziado sobre la obra para guitarra sola de Ponce. En lo personal me gustó mucho particularmente la sonata nro 3, interpretada con mucho lirismo y fuerza, además técnica y musicalmente perfecta.

A little mechanical, but worth a listen.......2004-09-12

Mr. Vieaux is a great guitarist, especially on the technical end, but he seems to miss some of the expression, nuance and drama that some other players have gotten from these Sonatas (Segovia and Hoppstock especially), and his tempos tend to be on the slow side. But the CD is worth it for the Sonata Classica alone, since there aren't many other recordings of it, and Segovia's was a bit flawed..
Personally, I'd like to hear Vieaux record Eric Sessler's Sonata, since it was written for him.

Raising the Standards for Classical Guitar.......2003-06-16

What an outstanding performance Vieaux has given here! Like my fellow reviewer of this disc, I've heard him play live several times, and his musicianship is on a level that I have not heard matched in the guitar world (except maybe by David Russell). This recording exhibits a wide range of tone colors and stunning musical phrasing. Perhaps the finest aspect of Vieaux's musicality is that he doesn't give away the climax of the piece until it truly is reached - the Sonata Romantica is a great example of this. The subtlety and power of his musicality is something found more in the realm of concert piano, and Jason may be raising the musical standards of the guitar in general. Bravo! One of the finest recordings of classical music I've heard!

Virtuosity and Musicianship at its highest.......2002-12-08

In the world of the classical guitar, there are notable luminaries whose recordings have become almost "de rigeur" for the the guitar afficionado. It's time to add Jason Vieaux's name to the list!

Vieaux's deep understanding of each piece is communicated almost effortlessly (deceivingly so) with a pallet of sonorities that are almost unbelievable. There are suggestions of a solo oboe or flute, the jangle of a harpsichord, and the whispering of an Aeolian harp throughout the CD. Vieaux's concept of phrasing and structure is flawless, and the sound of the CD puts you up-close-and-personal, yet is always natural.

Tracks:

Hooked On Baroque 2
Hooked On Adagio
Hooked On Gigue
Hooked On Fugue
Hooked On Handel
Hooked On Vivaldi
Hooked On Scarlatti
Hooked On Baroque 2 (Reprise)

Customer Reviews:

Pretty Damn Good.......2004-07-06

I received as a gift the box set of all four Hooked On Classics CD's. As an avid fan of classical music, I was quite shocked to hear DRUMS in the background! I didn't really know what the Hooked On Classics series was, so I didn't know what to expect. As such, I eventually got used to the percussion, and found that I liked the fourth CD the best of all of them. The drums are more tolerable, and the recording quality is much improved over the other volumes. The playing is superb; on par with any legitimate recording made by any professional orchestra. The selections are diverse, and the arrangements are refreshing. HOC 4 was my link to many of the full-length versions of the excerpts featured, and I especially like the 2nd, 4th, 6th, 7th, and 8th tracks (the 8th track is simply an extended version of the 1st, which makes it a much better rendition). The harpsichord playing in the 7th track is outstanding, as are the arrangements for this track. The climax will give you chills. All in all, an excellent album. I give it four stars only because as a die-hard purist, I don't suppose Bach and Vivaldi and Scarlatti would be too happy if they were to hear percussion along with their music. It would be interesting to see what the tracks would sound like without this.

Great CD, specially the adagio........2004-01-28

I love this CD in particular, because it introduced me to various greatest hits of baroque. I used it to practice my music as a teenager. I recommed this to you, specially if you have kids, because the drum sounds, make it easier to listen to the new generations. I loved the Pachelbel, and the adagio part is Super Excellent.

It's No Louis Clark & the Royal Philharmonic... But it's ok.......2003-12-07

Back in 81 when I got the original Hooked on Classics record as a gift (which I still have), I discovered the beauty and power of classical music in a different way. Now, classical music makes up 1/3 of my music library because of that compilation of classics (thanks to Louis Clark and the Royal Philharmonic).

So would I say this volume 4 has the same effect? I'd answer no, but I did like tracks 2 & 7.

No So Great.......2003-10-29

Once again another pathetic attempt at recreating what Louis Clark did with the original Hooked on the Classics. He succeeded by getting many of us hooked to the classics...something this album probably can't and won't do.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

Music Review

Season's Change

Wagner: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg (Excerpts)

Violin Concerto / Symphony 8

75th Birthday Celebration [Import]

Vol. 2-1991-1995 Singles

Vivan Los Niños [Enhanced] [CD-single]

Timeless [Original recording remastered]

Toledo, Pt. 1 [CD-single] [Import]

There Must Be An Angel [CD-single] [Import]

Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6 / Solti

Tejazz

Somos los Que Andamos

Truth Crushed to Earth Shall Rise Again [Explicit Lyrics]

The Magical Music of Disney

Orchestral Jazz