Complete Transcriptions for Piano

Track Listings

1. The Love Of Three Oranges - March

2. The Love Of Three Oranges - Scherzo

3. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Folk Dance

4. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Scene

5. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Menuet

6. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Juliet As A Girl

7. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Masks

8. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Mantagues And Capulets

9. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Pater Lorenzo

10. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Mercutio

11. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Dance Of The Lily Girls

12. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Romeo And Juliet Are Parting

13. Gavotte From 'Hamlet'

14. Three Pieces From 'Cinderella' - Intermezzo

15. Three Pieces From 'Cinderella' - Gavotte

16. Three Pieces From 'Cinderella' - Valse Lente

17. Waltz From 'War And Peace'

18. Two Pieces From 'Lermontov' - Contredanse

19. Two Pieces From 'Lermontov' - Mephisto-Waltz

20. Ten Pieces From 'Cinderella' - Spring Fairy

See all 39 tracks on this disc

Editorial Reviews
Album Details
Sergi Prokofiev was Born on April 11th, 1891 in Sontsovka and is One of the Most Popular Russian Composers of the Twentieth Century.

Tracks:

Son in g, Op.19: Lento - Allegro Moderato
Son in g, Op.19: Allegro Scherzando
Son in g, Op.19: Andate
Son in g, Op.19: Allegro Mosso
Romance in F, Op.4, No.3 Lento
Lied (Romance) in f: Andantino
Melodie in D: Moderato
Prld in F, Op.2, No.1: Comodo
Vocalise in e, Op.34, No.14: Lentamente - Molto Cantabile
Danse Orientale in A, Op.2, No.2: Andante Cantabile

Customer Reviews:

Music to Close Your Eyes to, Dream, and Float Away.......2005-12-04

This beautifully performed CD is filled with Rachmaninov's hauntingly beautiful melodies, including one of the most famous in the classical repertoire, "Vocalise," peformed with warmth and sensitivity by two highly talented musicians.

The CD is so reasonably priced that it would be worthwhile to purchase it even if the only selection on it were the 34 minute "Sonata in G minor," one of the most beautiful sonatas ever composed for cello and piano, with its enrapturing Andante third section. I geatly enjoyed every selection on this CD, especially the final selection, Danse Orientale, composed in 1892, when Rachmaninov was only 19 years old. This last selection has a timeless quality and an ethereal hypnotic beauty and intensity that I found very moving.

In addition to the outstanding music on this CD, the insert has two different essays that are both well-written and informative, one in English and a second essay in French, with the second essay providing background information about the musical influences and historical circumstances behind the compositions that is not in the English essay. There is also biographical information on both of these highly talented musicians.

Breathtaking; quintessentially Russian and romantic.......2004-06-26

Russian composers from the late 19th and early 20th centuries have always been some of my favorites. Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky, and Prokofiev all wrote music with a similar sort of fiery, overwhelming, and tragic passion. These pieces for cello and piano are quintessential works of this genre; the cello is an instrument particularly suited to this type of music. The musicians, Janet Guggenheim and Michael Grebanier, use near-perfect technical ability to supplement sensitive interpretations of the pieces. I highly recommend the G minor sonata.

Brilliant.......2003-04-23

The CD is priceless, considering its wonderfully low price. The sonata alone is worth buying the disc for, though the other pieces are also first-rate.

This is a good CD.......2000-02-29

I liked this recording. The sound is clear and brilliant. The interpreters are ok, and ¿what can I say about the music? It's Rachmaninov! The sonata is full of passion and the price makes this CD a real to consider!

Average customer rating:

Good, not great.
Incredible!
overly rich nostalgic pieces and particles of the piano

The Piano Album

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00000C2KC
Release Date: 1998-10-20

Tracks:

Hexentanz
Chant Polonais No. 1 In G 'Maiden's Wish'
The Crimson Petal
The Fuchsia tree
Capriccio In F Minor, Op. 28 No. 6
Minuet In G, Op. 14 No. 4
Nocturne, In B Flat, Op. 16 No. 4
Etude In A-Flat Major, Op. 1 No. 2
Melodie In E
Caprice-Burlesque
My Favorite Things
Kashmiri Song
Music Box
The Swan
Papillons
The Gardens Of Buitenzorg- (From 'Java Suite', Book 3)
Waltz In A, Op. 2
En route, Op. 9
Sicilliano, Op. 42 No. 2
Caprice espagnol, Op. 37

Tracks:

Variations Brillantes Op. 14
The Enchanted Nymph
Der Kontrebandiste
Melody In F
Gargoyles, Op. 29: I. Presto
Gargoyles, Op. 29: II. Adagio semplice, ma con molto rubato
Gargoyles, Op. 29: III. Allegro moderato
Gargoyles, Op. 29: IV. Presto feroce
The Musical Snuffbox
The Musical Snuffbox
Etude de style, Op. 40 No. 1 'Agilite'
Till I Wake
Weep You No More
March Of The Siamese Children
Valse mignone
Serenata, Op. 15 No. 1
Bourree (From Violin Sonata No. 2)
Erinnerungen (Triakontameron No. 25)
Adagietto (From 'L'Arlesienne')
Ungarishe Zigeunerweisen

Customer Reviews:

Good, not great........2002-05-22

I got this double cd, since a fellow reviewer of Hamelin's Kaleidoscope said he couldn't fully endorse that disc, since this cd would be so much better. Wrong again, sewer boy!

Thanks to Arthur Schnabel complete recordings of Sonatas, Concertos and Variation Works have become the mainstay of the recorded piano repertoire. Nowadays, it is hard to imagine that this has not always been the case. Yet, just have a look at the complete Rachmaninov recordings on RCA to see that even this giant mostly recorded little trifles, since the record buyers of his time prefered snacks over meals.

This generous and economic double cd contains a compilation of mostly romantic smaller scale works, that Rachmaninov's clientele would have enjoyed. Some are obscure, others e.g. Ljadov's snuff box and Taussig's Gypsy tunes are pretty well known.

Hough-a man from the splendid 1961 vintage, just like Hamelin and your's truly- is a highly accomplished pianist. His playing is good, yet not up to the Hamelin standards. The repertoire, however, started to bore the hell out of me after a while. I admit, that there are true exceptions like the Liebermann Gargoyles, but for me this set was simply too much of a good thing.

The interpretations vary from decent to good. I used to own an lp of the French virtuoso Setrak, that contained both the Ljadov and Taussig mentioned above and believe you me those interpretations dwarfed what we get here.

In conclusion, a generous compilation of smaller scale pianoworks. Good clean piano playing and more than adequate recordings.

Incredible!.......2001-01-12

I am a pianophile and longtime record collector, and this is one of the most awe-inspiring recordings I have ever heard. Stephen Hough's pianism - and I don't mean to be hyperbolic - simply exhausts all adjectives one might try to use to describe it. This is the kind of album to listen to not so much for the music (though these are charming and now-rarely heard pieces) but for the artistry of the performer. For stunning virtuosity, listen to the final measures of the Moszowski piece or to the MacDowell; for rich tone and melting legato listen to Hough's own transcriptions of the two Roger Quilter songs. Out of hundreds of CDs I have heard, this is one of my absolute favorites - and a steal at the price. Stephen Hough is the modern day Cortot, Gieseking, Rachmaninoff, and Joseph Levine, for he has it all - drama, precision, color, intellect, raw strength, and yes - delicacy. I rarely make recommendations like this, but you absolutely must hear this recording.

overly rich nostalgic pieces and particles of the piano.......2001-01-06

This is music that seems to have lapsed into a forgotten time warp, like when you open that old wood truck in the attic to find odd bits and particles,objects,dolls and photographs that immediately transports you into another fantasia place. That's what this music does. Hough has selected for the most part fast filigreed,rapid cascades and ribbons of pieces. Each however has its own narrative,its own special tale to reveal, a special musical texture,an endearing melody. Needless to say most of the composers here are those you've never heard before,like Ignaz Friedman, whose "Music Box" is not what you think, yes it has that timbre of forever moving tickly tones,for a ballerina popping out of a ceramic box. But there is a large pallette of sophistication here as well with the unique timbre of the piano. Every piece does this admirably. The Hexentanz of MacDowell (arr.Liszt) is a helter-skelter piece never stopping,scaling the upper regions of the keyboard,and this would be an encore work. It keeps you on the edge of your upholstered chair.Leoplold Godowsky is not an unfamiliar name,he is a specialist in the art of the arragement trying to capture a timbre, and here in Camille Saint-Saens forever memorable "Swan"the final days of post-romantic Louis Napoleon the Third era is handled with just a few more ripples in the pond than before almost imperceptible.

When played in consecutive order all these works I found myself bored,this music inhabits such a rich timbral world that it's message overspends itself, overspills into the next work. A modernist voice of Lowell Lieberman is here, a postmodern specialist in this genre of the new tonality, or the past revisited. Proust taught us the rich chasms of remembering, and the process of reoccurence of time returning in differnt guises. Lieberman's "Gargoyles" has its own sardonic charm.,equally at home compliasant with his timbral brethren.

Liszt at the Opera: Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases, and Transcriptions, Vol. I (Complete Music for Solo Piano, Vol. 6)
Average customer rating:

One of the best Liszt CD's you can own

Where Are The Rave Reviews ? This is Incredible

Wonderful operatic transcriptions

Liszt at the Opera: Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases, and Transcriptions, Vol. I (Complete Music for Solo Piano, Vol. 6)

Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Liszt at the Opera: Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases, and Transcriptions, Vol. VI (Complete Music for Solo Piano, Vol. 54)

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Liszt Transcriptions of Berlioz, Chopin, Saint-Saëns

Liszt at the Opera, Vol 4

Liszt at the Opera III

ASIN: B000002ZMJ
Release Date: 1993-11-16

Tracks:

Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Ouverture aus der oper der Freischutz
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Reminiscences de Don Juan
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Aida di Verdi - Danza Sacra e Duetto Finale
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Polonaise aus Tschaikowskys oper Jewgeny Onegin
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Tscherkessenmarsch aus Russlan und Ludmilla
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Sarabande und Chaconne aus dem Singspiel Almira
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Benediction et Sermont- Deux motifs de Benvenuto Cellini
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Valse de L'Opera Faust

Tracks:

Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Isoldens Liebestod - Schluss-szenn aus Tristan und Isolde
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Remeniscences de Lucia di Lamermoor
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Marche Funebre et Cavatine de Lucia de Lamermoor
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Halloh! - Jagdchor und Steyrer aus der oper Tony
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Illustrations de L'Opera L'Africaine
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: part 2
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Three Pieces on Themes by Auber (1)
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: 2
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: 3
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: 4
Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases And Transcriptions: Reminiscences de Norma

Customer Reviews:

One of the best Liszt CD's you can own.......2006-08-19

I echo what the reviewer below me says and repeat, "Where ARE the rave reviews" for this? This is probably one of the greatest Liszt CD's you can have. The virtuosic performance and wonderful interpretations from Leslie Howard are worth the price alone, but the music... god this music is incredible. Liszt's genius and proficiency in composition must be admired when you hear what he does with simple melodies or themes from operas. The originality and beautifully crafted paraphrases, not to mention the meticulous transcriptions, are simply breathtaking.

Liszt takes us through dramatic storms, rousing waltzes, terrifying marches, lamenting hymns, romantic songs, and brooding worlds of music. The unique melodies that Liszt augments with the piano has to be heard. These pieces just as great and musically complex as his other piano works. Why aren't more pianists reviving these fantasies on the concert stage?

Where to start here... I have to comment on each work because there is not one piece here that should be overlooked! Each work here is exceptionally amazing and masterful. The transcription of the "Der Freischutz" overture is dramatic, powerful and memorable. "Reminiscences of Don Juan" speaks for itself, but as for the interpretation by Howard, I'm afraid it's not the best. I much prefer Bolet's. Verdi's "Aida" paraphrase is remarkably beautiful and potent in its melodies. The transcription of Tchaikovsky's "Polonaise from Eugene Onegin," is cheerful and brilliant. The march from Glinka's "Russlan and Ludmilla" is a perfect menacing concoction on the piano through Liszt's fingers with a devilishly awesome theme.

Most of all, the paraphrase of Handel's "Sarabande and Chaconne" is the most beautiful original piano work I've heard in years. That sad and mournful theme that Liszt plays with endless variations can move you to tears. Liszt picked one theme from a Handel opera and turned it into something as profound and moving as a Beethoven adagio and even more heart-felt than a Chopin nocturne. The transcription of Berlioz' "Benvenuto Cellini" is glorious and enticing; a testament to Liszt's transcribing abilities. And then Howard encores the listener on this first CD one last time with that catchy melody from the waltz in "Gounod's Faust." It's like any Mephisto Waltz Liszt ever composed and thrills the ear with its impish tempo and embellished Romantic sound.

On the second CD, the music only gets better! Howard gives one of the best executions of the Love-Death scene of "Tristan and Isolde." Those tender Wagner melodies on the piano which rise into a crescendo sound otherwordly on the piano and through Liszt's transcription. The wall of sound that builds, followed by the climax of crashes and wails on the piano sends chills up the spine. Howard plays it with such passion and touch. This is probably the only evidence one needs to realize Liszt was a genius with the piano.

The "Reminiscences of Lucia de Lammermoor" is another example of Liszt's prolific ability to make the piano speak and sing. More significantly, Liszt summons such darkness and tension in the marche funebre part; you're hearing a phenomenal piano composition here. Ernst's "Tony" is another stunning transcription by Liszt; the dynamics and craft of this transcription makes for an excellent piano piece. One of the greatest pieces on here though must go to the Paraphrases on Meyerbeer's "L'Africaine." The first one, especially, is beyond anything I've heard on the piano. Those first tragic chords from hell make way for a gentle melody of heaven. The entire piece rises and falls into a sea of heroic and virtuosic music; it simply speaks for itself of how good it is. The second paraphrase is original and uplifting, and of a whole different emotion than the previous one. By now, after you hear all of these fantasies and transcriptions you begin to realize how much the piano was like a bodily organ to Liszt; just as we can speak with our tongue in many gradations and accents, so can Liszt demonstrate any emotion, any subtle feeling or idea onto the piano.

Lastly, the Three pieces on Themes by Auber are not that noteworthy, but have their elegant and beautiful moments. The last piece on the second CD, the Reminiscences of Norma is another masterpiece beside the Reminiscences of Don Juan. However, I again prefer Bolet's more impassioned and thoughtful performance; Howard is ok, but not the best at exposing the magnificence and spirituality of this piece.

Bottom line: Any Liszt lover who has not heard these or does not own this must get it now! This is some of the best music of Liszt and it astounds me that this music has almost been dormant until Howard's discovery. It is superior music that proves Liszt was the most musical and original composer of his time. VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Where Are The Rave Reviews ? This is Incredible.......2005-04-28

This is a treat for opera fans and fans of classical piano. Franz Liszt loved the opera- a medium which is at heart musical and he felt inspired to transcribe operatic music for piano, probably out of his personal passion for opera and as a way for the middle-class folk of Europe who could play piano (and men and women did those days) to entertain in their homes. This is a vast collection of his best opera-to-piano transcriptions. The pianist last name Howard is a virtuoso, too bad he is'nt that well-known. He is playing piano music which is really quite difficult to execute. Liszt made the piano into an orchestra in itself and composed symphonic transcriptions of Beethoven and Berlioz. This is a rare and miraculous recording album and I feel that every fan of classical music and opera ought to own it.

The excerpts here, with some variations by Liszt's part, include Mozart's Don Giovanni, Verdi's Aida (the Finale) Webber's Die Freeschutz, Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin- the Polonaise, Wagner's Tristan and Isolde, Isolde's Liebestod, Berlioz' Benvenuto Cellini, music of Auber, Gounod's Faust (the Waltz) and Bellini's Norma among others. This is worth the price. The music is clear, crisp, beautiful and transcendent. Do not miss your chance of owning this glorious music, which if you are musically inclined, you can play on your own home. Opera on piano is great recital music.

Wonderful operatic transcriptions.......1999-09-17

Liszt at the opera--would he never left. Don Juan is a stand-out, as is the Weber, and the Tchaikovsky, and the...

Average customer rating:

A Life in Music, Box 3 (Box Set)

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Release Date: 1995-12-05

Liszt: Complete Piano Music, Vol. 17, Schubert Song Transcriptions 2

Average customer rating:

Best Piano Music on the Planet

Liszt: Complete Piano Music, Vol. 17, Schubert Song Transcriptions 2

Manufacturer: Naxos
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Binding: Audio CD

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Liszt: Sacred Music Transcriptions

ASIN: B00004VM1O
Release Date: 2001-05-15

Tracks:

Muller-Lieder: Das Wandern
Muller-Lieder (2nd version): Der Muller und der Bach
Muller-Lieder (2nd version): Der Jager
Muller-Lieder (2nd version): Die bose Farbe
Muller-Lieder (2nd version): Wohn?
Muller-Lieder (2nd version): Ungeduld
Die Forelle (2nd version)
Die Rose
Meeresstille from 12 Lieder
Der Gondelfahrer
Liebesbotschaft from Scwanengesgang
Ave Maria from 12 Lieder
Ungeduld (1st version) from 6 Melodien
Giestliche Lieder: Litaney
Giestliche Lieder: Himmelsfunken
Giestliche Lieder: Die Gestirne
Giestliche Lieder: Hymne
Lob der Thranen
Erlkonig from 12 Lieder

Customer Reviews:

Best Piano Music on the Planet.......2007-03-16

If you like solo classical piano music, you must have this CD. The "marriage" of Scubert and Liszt is nothing less than transcendental. A well-engineered recording of great performances.

Franz Liszt: Complete Song Transcriptions of Chopin, Mendelssohn, Robert and Clara Schumann

Average customer rating:

Liszt - A panorama of good, interesting, mediocre, and boring song transcriptions

Franz Liszt: Complete Song Transcriptions of Chopin, Mendelssohn, Robert and Clara Schumann

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Franz Liszt: Complete Piano Music, Volume 14

ASIN: B0000014EP
Release Date: 1997-12-01

Tracks:

Six Chants Polonais (G/S 480, R145): I. The Maiden's Wish, Op.74, No.1
Six Chants Polonais (G/S 480, R145): II. Spring, Op.74, No.2
Six Chants Polonais (G/S 480, R145): III. The Ring, Op.74, No.14
Six Chants Polonais (G/S 480, R145): IV. Merrymaking, Op.74, No.4
Six Chants Polonais (G/S 480, R145): V. My Joys, Op.74, No.12
Six Chants Polonais (G/S 480, R145): VI. Homeward, Op.74, No.15
Three Song Transcriptions (G/S 569, R257, Nos.8-10): Warum Willst Du Andere Fragen? Op.12, No.3
Three Song Transcriptions (G/S 569, R257, Nos.8-10): Ich Hab' In Deinem Auge, Op.13, No.3
Three Song Transcriptions (G/S 569, R257, Nos.8-10): Geheimes Flustern Hier Und Dort, Op.23, No.3
Twelve Song Transcriptions: Fruhlings Ankunft, Op.79, No.19 (G/S 569, No.3, R257, No.3)
Twelve Song Transcriptions: Des Sennen Abschied, Op.79, No.22 (G/S 569, No.4, R257, No.4)
Twelve Song Transcriptions: Er Ist's, Op.79, No.23 (G/S 569, No.5, R257, No.5) - Joseph Banowetz J
Twelve Song Transcriptions: Weihnachtlied, Op.79, No.16 (G/S 569, No.1, R257, No.1)
Twelve Song Transcriptions: Nur Wer Die Sehnsucht Kennt, Op.98a, No.3 (G/S 569, No.6, R257, No.6)
Twelve Song Transcriptions: Die Wandelnde Glocke, Op.79, No.17 (G/S 569, No.2, R257, No.2)
Twelve Song Transcriptions: An Die Turen Will Ich Schleichen, Op.98a, No.4 (G/S 569, No.7, R257...)
Twelve Song Transcriptions: An Den Sonnenschein, Op.36, No.4 And Rotes Roslein, Op.27, No.2...
Twelve Song Transcriptions: Provencalisches Minnelied, Op.139, No.4 (G/S 570, R284)
Twelve Song Transcriptions: Liebeslied (Klein) (Widmung, 1st Version) (G/S 566a, R253a)
Twelve Song Transcriptions: Liebeslied (Gross) (Widmung, Op.25, No.1, Con Version)...
Twelve Song Transcriptions: Fruhlingsnacht, Op.39, No.12 (G/S 568, R256)
Nine Song And Choral Transcriptions: Sonntagslied, Op.34, No.5 (G/S 547, No.2, R217, No.2)
Nine Song And Choral Transcriptions: Winterlied, Op.19a, No.4 (G/S 547, No.6, R217, No.6)
Nine Song And Choral Transcriptions: Auf Flugeln Des Gesanges, Op.34, No.2 (G/S 547, No.1, R217...)
Nine Song And Choral Transcriptions: Suleika, Op.34, No.4 (G/S 547, No.7, R217, No.7)
Nine Song And Choral Transcriptions: Wasserfahrt, Op.50, No.4 And
Nine Song And Choral Transcriptions: Der Jager Abscheid, Op.50, No.2, Combined By Liszt...
Nine Song And Choral Transcriptions: Neue Liebe, Op.19a, No.4 (G/S 547, No.4, R217, No.4)
Nine Song And Choral Transcriptions: Reiselied, Op.34, No.6 (G/S 547, No.3, R217, No.3)
Nine Song And Choral Transcriptions: Fruhlingslied, Op.47, No.3 (G/S 547, No.5, R217, No.5)

Customer Reviews:

Liszt - A panorama of good, interesting, mediocre, and boring song transcriptions.......2006-06-30

In Volume 6 of Naxos' Complete Piano Music of Liszt, we get to hear some obscure song transcriptions from Chopin, Clara and Robert Schumann, and Mendelssohn. On the surface, most of these songs are not significant compositions. Even through Liszt's pianistic artistry and transcriptional abilities, the pieces generally stir little emotion. However, there are a handful of songs that are above average and sometimes even beautiful or dramatic.

I'll go through the least interesting pieces first, and say that Clara and Robert Schumann's songs are wholly restrained and bland. Clara's songs are plain and without anything to make them even emotional. Robert's songs follow suit and tend to sound the same, very light, very unimaginative and thus a little unsatisfying. The only two R. Schumann songs I think are exceptional, and all the more due to Liszt's piano transcription are the two Liebeslied's or better known as "Widmung." Most concert pianists today will include this encore piece; it's been played to death but deserves its popularity.

Moving along to the better half of the disc are the Chopin and Mendelssohn transcriptions. Chopin's 'Six Chants Polonais' are rarities and will never earn too many performances while the Etudes and Nocturnes exist. All of his songs are interesting, some even enjoyable under Liszt's fingers. 'The Maiden's Wish,' 'My Joys,' and especially the wild 'Homeward' stand as decent if not good. Concluding the song transcriptions are choral works by Mendelssohn. Three pieces from here are actually quite romantic and note-worthy. The 'Wasserfahrt,' 'Der Jager Abscheid' and 'Neue Liebe' are the highlights from Mendelssohn. The rest are just "ok" and never really encourage repeated hearings, at least for me.

Ultimately, Naxos or Joseph Banowetz is not to blame; on the contrary, they should be praised. Naxos' interest in such unusual and unheard of music from Liszt is a virtue, as most labels won't risk it. Banowetz' interpretations are genuinely heartfelt and given much attention to detail. But the content of the compositions is questionable and at times boring. Liszt was more successful with Schubert.

Bottom line: There *are* some gems, hidden all over the CD, mostly from Chopin and Mendelssohn. But for those who haven't heard too much Liszt, I advise against buying this one. Instead, get any one of the previous Volumes from the Naxos label of Liszt's piano music. I think being acquainted with his better works is the way to go. For those who are curious, have heard these transcriptions before, or who love Liszt, go ahead and buy it. At the Naxos budget, you can't go wrong with getting *ANY* Liszt CD, but don't expect a stream of good music; there's only a handful here that possess such quality.

Busoni: Complete Bach Piano Transcriptions, Vol. 1

Average customer rating:

Busoni: Complete Bach Piano Transcriptions, Vol. 1

Manufacturer: Arts Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
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Bach/Busoni: Piano Works Vol 2 / Pietro Spada
Bach-Busoni: Piano Transcriptions, Vol. 2
Bach Piano Transcriptions, Vol. 5: Russian Transcriptions
Bach Piano Transcriptions, Vol. 3
Bach Transcriptions for Piano

ASIN: B00004BZ10
Release Date: 2000-02-15

Tracks:

Chaconne in d (BWV 1004)
Praludium Und Fuge in e (BWV 533)
Praludium Und Fuge in E flat (BWV 552)
Toccata, Adagio Und Fuge in C (BWV 546)

Liszt at the Opera: Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases, and Transcriptions, Vol. VI (Complete Music for Solo Piano, Vol. 54)

Average customer rating:

A grand finale to the series
Some of Liszt's best opera transcriptions here

Liszt at the Opera: Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases, and Transcriptions, Vol. VI (Complete Music for Solo Piano, Vol. 54)

Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
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Liszt at the Opera, Vol 4
Liszt at the Opera II
Liszt at the Opera: Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases, and Transcriptions, Vol. I (Complete Music for Solo Piano, Vol. 6)
Liszt Transcriptions of Berlioz, Chopin, Saint-Saëns
Liszt at the Opera III

ASIN: B00000IAE4
Release Date: 1999-03-09

Tracks:

La Fiancee: Grande Fantaisie Sur La Tyrolienne De La Fianc- First Version, S385i
Ernani: Premi Paraphrase De Concert - S431a
Les Huguenots: Rniscences Des Huguenots - 2nd Version, S412ii
La Sonnambula: Fantaisie Sur Des Motifs Favoris De L'op La Sonnambula - 1st Version, S393i
Lucia di Lammermoor: Marche Des Tchrekesses De L'op Rouslan Et Loudmila De Glinka - 1st Version, S406i

Tracks:

Lucia Di Lammermoor: Valse A Capriccio Sur Deux Motifs De Lucia Et Parisina - 1st Version, S401
Tannhauser Und Der Sangerdrieg Auf Wartburg: Ouvert R Wagners Tannher - S442
I Puritani: Rniscences Des Puritains - 2nd Version, S390i
Der Freishutz: Fantasie Uber Themen Aus Webers Der FreischS451
Il Giuramento: Rniscences De La Scala - S458

Customer Reviews:

A grand finale to the series.......2006-08-24

Leslie Howard and Hyperion have brought us a glorious plethora of Liszt's neglected operatic transcriptions/fantasies; ambrosia to the Lisztian or Romantic piano lover. While the previous volume lost some steam a bit, only able to deliver a few new pieces in the midst of numerous revisions, this final recording makes up for that. To the person familiar with the previous volumes, you'll notice more alternate versions on these CD's that were recorded in previous volumes. However, the newly recorded fantasies and transcriptions here make up for the duplicates extremely well.

First, I'll mention the "alternate versions" here that can be heard on previous volumes. The Auber Grande fantaisie (first version) is presented here, but was also found on the previous Vol. 5. However, do not be mistaken in thinking it a near duplicate. Compared to the previous (third) version at 11 minutes, this "first" version almost makes 15. Liszt tacks on an extra 4 minutes of thematic enhancements, decorations, and extended phrases. I actually prefer this first version over any other.

The famous warhorse (seems like a favorite of Howard's) the Reminiscences des Huguenots makes its third appearance, this time as the "second version." The version is a good 7 more minutes than the first version but only a few seconds more than the third version on the previous volume (sorry if that makes your head spin). In other words, it's not that different to my ears and so there's nothing new here, really.

The Bellini fantasie on La Sonnambula, the Reminiscences des Puritains, the Glinka transcription, and the Donizetti valse a capriccio are more alternate versions that don't offer much new music material or startling contrasts. Only to the astute listener or Liszt aficionado will there be any significant differences or reasons to enjoy them over the previous versions recorded.

Now for the new stuff: The Ernani Premiere paraphrase de concert is a wholly original work, quite different from the Ernani paraphrase found on Vol. 1. New thematic material from the opera is given an extended fantasy-like intro, which makes way for that recognizable haunting theme which Liszt puts through a set of variations. While I prefer the darker mood found in the other paraphrase, this one has a beautiful eloquence and extended elaboration of the main theme not heard in the first paraphrase.

The colossal transcription of the Tannhauser overture is given its flawless execution here. This is probably the most perfect delivery, beating even Moiseiwitsch's famous recording and many other contemporaries who gave it a shot. Indeed, I think Howard's interpretation and performance *the* best you can find of this titan piano work. On a concentrated listening you will not find a single mistake, nor signs of exhaustion by the final explosion of chromatic octaves. Liszt, himself, often commented how he preferred not to play it in his old age because of the immense physical requirements. I don't know - that somehow makes Howard's efforts even more amazing. It's top-notch in technique and has no hints of roboticism; instead, Howard plays with an indefinable warmth and a clear articulation of the fiery Lisztian grandeur found in the virtuosic end.

Next up is the Fantasie on Themes from Weber's Der Freischutz, not to be confused with the transcription of the overture found on Vol. 1. Liszt weaves a reflective and impassioned fantasy here, accentuated and bolstered by the wonderful Der Freischutz themes. It's not as heavy or focused on the lower bass of the piano as the overture commanded, but its delicate melodies and gradual progressions create a new mood out of the work; in simple words, it's lovely.

As Liszt was inclined to do in his days, he wrote fantasies based on many obscure operas and composers. The obscurity comes as a surprise to me when I hear this fantasy on an opera by Mercadente. It is based off of Mercadente's 'Il giuramento' opera and contains some evocative music ranging from warm beauty to passionate meditations. The fantasy, or Reminiscences de La Scala is one of Liszt's best minor operatic fantasies. Its music and romantic lyricism recalls just as much emotional power as his Liebestraumes, Consolations and romantic-inspired fantasies like the Les Adieux or the Tristan and Isolde love-death scene. It's original, fresh, seductive, gorgeously rich with great melodies, and a thrill ride of romance and passion.

Bottom line: Howard has given us a spellbinding, immaculate and much-appreciated series: Liszt at the Opera. I'm sad to realize that this is the final volume and so there won't be any more great operatic paraphrases or transcriptions to hear. But it's been a great run and truly a milestone in Liszt recording. Face it: no one else has supplied such oustanding premiere recordings or had the guts to play some of Liszt's unjustly neglected pieces. It's their loss, I say, because anyone who enjoys Liszt will find some of the most brilliant high-quality music of his oeuvre here. This should not be missed by any one who has an interest with Liszt or has heard the previous "Liszt at the Opera" series. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Some of Liszt's best opera transcriptions here.......2001-07-12

Volume VI concentrates on longer pieces: Reminiscences des Huguenots (Meyerbeer), Fantaisie on La sonnambula (Bellini), Tannhauser overture (Wagner), etc. Solid final entry in the "Liszt at the Opera" series. Highly recommended.

Rachmaninoff: Sonata No. 2; Complete Piano Transcriptions

Average customer rating:

An Incomparable Pianist

Rachmaninoff: Sonata No. 2; Complete Piano Transcriptions

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

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000025ZP1
Release Date: 2004-01-20

Tracks:

Allegro Agitato
Non Allegro - Lento
Allegro Molto
Preludio
Gavotte
Gigue
Vocalise
The Flight Of The Bumble Bee
Hopak
Lullaby
Menuet
The Brooklet
Daisies
Lilacs
Scherzo
Polka De W.R.
Liebesleid
Liebesfreud

Customer Reviews:

An Incomparable Pianist.......2003-08-29

Though Höricke is a man of questionable character and meager reputation, as an artist he is magnificent. His interpretation of Rachmaninoff is hands down the best I have ever heard, excepting those scratchy old recordings of Rachmaninoff himself. His passionate and sensitive rendering shames the far more common academic approach, bringing to the fore subtleties of tone and mood that one cannot even hear on many other CDs. His recordings can be difficult to find, but if you are lucky enough to come across one, do not hesitate to purchase it! Anybody who appreciates the piano will find this an indispensable part of their collection.

Finally, a bit of gossip: Höricke is scheduled to present his first major composition late this year in Russia, if his compositional artistry matches his playing, his work should be a fine addition to the repertoire.

Music Review:

Music Review

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2. The Love Of Three Oranges - Scherzo
3. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Folk Dance
4. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Scene
5. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Menuet
6. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Juliet As A Girl
7. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Masks
8. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Mantagues And Capulets
9. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Pater Lorenzo
10. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Mercutio
11. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Dance Of The Lily Girls
12. Ten Pieces From 'Romeo And Juliet' - Romeo And Juliet Are Parting
13. Gavotte From 'Hamlet'
14. Three Pieces From 'Cinderella' - Intermezzo
15. Three Pieces From 'Cinderella' - Gavotte
16. Three Pieces From 'Cinderella' - Valse Lente
17. Waltz From 'War And Peace'
18. Two Pieces From 'Lermontov' - Contredanse
19. Two Pieces From 'Lermontov' - Mephisto-Waltz
20. Ten Pieces From 'Cinderella' - Spring Fairy