Chopin: 24 Preludes; Piano Concerto No. 2 [Box set]

On this CD:

1. Prelude for piano No. 1 in C major, Op. 28/1, CT 166
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

2. Prelude for piano No. 2 in A minor , Op. 28/2, CT 167
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

3. Prelude for piano No. 3 in G major, Op. 28/3, CT 168
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

4. Prelude for piano No. 4 in E minor, Op. 28/4, CT 169
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

5. Prelude for piano No. 5 in D major, 28/5, CT 171
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

6. Prelude for piano No. 6 in B minor, Op. 28/6, CT 171
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

7. Prelude for piano No. 7 in A major, Op. 28/7, CT 172
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

8. Prelude for piano No. 8 in F sharp minor, Op. 28/8, CT 173
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

9. Prelude for piano No. 9 in E major, 28/9, CT 174
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

10. Prelude for piano No. 10 in C sharp minor, Op. 28/10, CT 175
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

11. Prelude for piano No. 11 in B major, Op. 28/11, CT 176
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

12. Prelude for piano No. 12 in G sharp minor, Op. 28/12, CT 177
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

13. Prelude for piano No. 13 in F sharp major, Op. 28/13, CT 178
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

14. Prelude for piano No. 14 in E flat minor, Op. 28/14, CT 179
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

15. Prelude for piano No. 15 in D flat major, Op. 28/15, CT 180
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

16. Prelude for piano No. 16 in B flat minor Op. 28/16, CT 181
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

17. Prelude for piano No. 17 in A flat major , Op. 28/17, CT 182
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

18. Prelude for piano No. 18 in F minor, Op. 28/18, CT 183
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

19. Prelude for piano No. 19 in E flat major, Op. 28/19, CT 184
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

20. Prelude for piano No. 20 in C minor, Op. 28/20, CT 185
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

21. Prelude for piano No. 21 in B flat major, Op. 28/21, CT 186
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

22. Prelude for piano No. 22 in G minor, Op. 28/22, CT 187
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

23. Prelude for piano No. 23 in F major, Op. 28/23, CT 188
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

24. Prelude for piano No. 24 in D minor, Op. 28/24, CT 189
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by Martha Argerich

25. Concerto for piano & orchestra No. 2 in F minor, Op. 21, CT 48
Composed by Fryderyk Chopin
Performed by National Symphony Orchestra with Martha Argerich

Tracks:

Eine kleine Nachtmusik: Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Piano Concerto In A Major, K 488: Adagio - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Flute Concerto In D Major, K 314: Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Symphony No. 40 in G minor: Molto allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Clarinet Concerto KV 622: Adagio - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Serenade, K 375: Menuetto - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Turkish March - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Violin Concerto, K 216: Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Divertimento, K 334: Menuetto - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Horn Concerto, K 447: Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Cassation, K 99: Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus

Tracks:

Overture No. 4 In Major: Rejouissance - J.S.Bach
Overture No. 3 In D Major: Air - J.S.Bach
Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 In F Major: I. Allegro - J.S.Bach
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring - J.S.Bach
Overture No. 2 In B Minor: Menuet & Badinerie - J.S.Bach
Prelude In C Major - J.S.Bach
Toccata And Fugue In D Minor - J.S.Bach
Prelude In C Minor - J.S.Bach
Overture No. 1 In C Major: Passepied - J.S.Bach
Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 In F Major: II. Adagio - J.S.Bach
Kommst du nun, Jesu vom Himmel herunter, Chorale - J.S.Bach
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 In G Major: II. Allegro - J.S.Bach
Violin Concerto In E Major: I. Adagio - J.S.Bach
St. Matthew Passion: Finale Chorus: 'Wir setzen uns mit Tranen nieder' - J.S.Bach

Tracks:

Symphony No. 5: Allegro con brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Fur Elise - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Violin Romance No. 2 - Ludwig Van Beethoven
'Moonlight' Sonata: Adagio sostenuto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Minuet - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 8 In F Major: Allegretto scherzando - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Coriolan: Overture - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Piano Concerto No. 2: Adagio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 5 In C Minor: Allegro - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Egmont: Overture - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Tracks:

Die Fledermaus: Die Fledermaus (Excerpts) - Johann Strauss
Wine, Woman And Song - Johann Strauss
Tritsch Tratsch Polka - Johann Strauss
The Blue Danube - Johann Strauss
The Gypsy Baron: Introduction - Johann Strauss
Annen Polka - Johann Strauss
Vienna Blood - Johann Strauss
The Gypsy Baron: Einzugsmarsch - Johann Strauss

Tracks:

Tannhauser: Overture - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg: Dance Of The Prentices - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg: Prelude Act 3 - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg: Aufzug der Meistersinger - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Der fliegende Hollander: Overture - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Lohengrin: Prelude - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Tristan und Isolde: Prelude And Liebestod - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC
Tannhauser: Arrival Of The Guests At Wartburg - MASTERS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1: Allegro non troppo - Peter Tchaikovsky
String Serenade: Waltz - Peter Tchaikovsky
Violin Concerto: Andante - Peter Tchaikovsky
The Sleeping Beauty: Introduction - Peter Tchaikovsky
The Sleeping Beauty: Pas d'action - Adagio - Peter Tchaikovsky
The Sleeping Beauty: Waltz - Peter Tchaikovsky
Capriccio italien Op. 45 - Peter Tchaikovsky
Swan Lake: Ballet Suite: Scene No. 10 - Peter Tchaikovsky
Swan Lake: Ballet Suite: Waltz - Peter Tchaikovsky
Eugene Onegin: Polonaise - Peter Tchaikovsky

Tracks:

The 4 Seasons: Concerto No. 1 In E Major: Spring - VIVALDI, Antonio
Siciliano - VIVALDI, Antonio
Concerto In D Minor:: (Allegro Assai) Cologne Concerto - VIVALDI, Antonio
The 4 Seasons: Concerto No. 2 In G Minor: Summer - VIVALDI, Antonio
Oboe Sonata In B Flat Major, RV 34: Adagio - Allegro - Largo - Allegro - VIVALDI, Antonio
The 4 Seasons: Concerto No. 3 In F Major: Autumn - VIVALDI, Antonio
Oboe Concerto: Allegro non tasto - Largo - Allegro non molto - VIVALDI, Antonio
Concerto In D Minor: (Largo e spiccato) Cologne Concerto - VIVALDI, Antonio
The 4 Seasons: Concerto No. 4 In F Minor: Winter - VIVALDI, Antonio

Tracks:

Scherzo No 1 In B Minor, Op. 20 - Frederic Chopin_
Three Nocturnes, Op. 9: No 3 In B Major - Frederic Chopin_
Twelve Etudes, Op. 10: No 5 In G Flat Major - Frederic Chopin_
Twelve Etudes, Op. 25: No 10 In B Minor - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 13 In F Sharp Major - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 14 In E Flat Minor - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 15 In D Flat Major 'Raindrops' - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 16 In B Flat Minor - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 17 In A Flat Major - Frederic Chopin_
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 18 In F Minor - Frederic Chopin_
Scherzo No. 2 In B Flat Minor, Op. 31 - Frederic Chopin_
Waltz In E Flat Major, Op. 18 - Frederic Chopin_
Nocturne In C Sharp Minor, Op. Posth. - Frederic Chopin_
Four Mazurkas, Op. 24: No. 3 In A Flat Major - Frederic Chopin_
Four Mazurkas, Op. 24: No. 4 In B Flat Minor - Frederic Chopin_

Tracks:

Ave Maria - Franz Schubert
Impromptu In E Flat Major - Franz Schubert
Standchen - Franz Schubert
Trout Quintet: Tema con variazioni - Franz Schubert
'Rosamunde': Entr'acte No. 1 - Franz Schubert
Moment Musical In A Flat Major - Franz Schubert
'Rosamunde': Entr'acte No. 2 - Franz Schubert
Moment Musical No. 3 In F Minor - Franz Schubert
'Rosamunde': Ballet Music No.2 - Franz Schubert
Symphony No. 8 In B Minor 'Unfinished': Allegro moderato - Franz Schubert

Tracks:

Nabucco: Overture - Verdi, Giuseppe
Nabucco: Va pensiero, sull'ali dorate - Verdi, Giuseppe
Aida: Prelude - Verdi, Giuseppe
II Trovatore: Verdi! le fosche notturne (Gypsies' Chorus) - Verdi, Giuseppe
II Trovatore: Or co' daddi, ma fra poco (Soldiers' Chorus) - Verdi, Giuseppe
Aroldo: Overture - Verdi, Giuseppe
La Traviata: Prelude - Verdi, Giuseppe
La Traviata: Noi siamo zingarelle - Verdi, Giuseppe
La Traviata:: Libiamo ne' lieti calici - Verdi, Giuseppe
La Traviata: Di Madride noi siam mattadori - Verdi, Giuseppe
La forza del destino: Overture - Verdi, Giuseppe

Customer Reviews:

masters of classical music.......2007-03-26

A nice collection for the classical listener. Great variety of composers and the music quality of the cds are very good.

A good basic collection.......2006-11-10

With selections from numerous composers, it is an easy way to familiarize oneself with some of the most popular classical works and excerpts. A pleasant listen for the initiated too.

An excellent introduction to classical music.......2006-10-18

This is an excellent introduction to classical music. Well performed and presented.

Very Beautiful!!!!!1.......2006-10-05

If you are a fan of classical music then you better get this set. Not only is it very cheap, 10 Discs for about 2$ per disk. Now where are you gonna find a deal like this. I actually found mine chaper, $20.00 even and the music is outstanding. If you had a very bad day and very stressed out, just put in one of these cds, lay down, dim down the lights and just relax. It really helped me out.

Still Stuck on Beethoven.......2006-08-22

I just recently started listening to classical music so I'm certainly not one to compare or critique the quality of this set. However, I do have a few comments...

My interest started in this genre of music because I'm researching my ancestry in Prussia and this is the music of those times. Never mind my ancestors were poor peasants who probably never got the chance to hear such wonderful music... when listening to these CDs, I'm taken back in time... to a royal court in Europe... to another place in time. The music is inspiring, relaxing, invigorating.

I have yet to listen to all the CD's in the set. I'm stuck on Beethoven! Wasn't he AWESOME!?!

I think this set is a wonderful introduction to classical music!!!!!

Classical Masterpieces of the Millennium [20 CD Set]

Average customer rating:

Mill. Classical review
classical music for the unitiated
Some little gems there that I had forgotten!
A very helpful collection
Excellent!

Classical Masterpieces of the Millennium [20 CD Set]

Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Minuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Rondos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

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

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

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

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
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ASIN: B00000K1C9
Release Date: 1999-08-24

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:

Stunning
Essential Chopin at a Price for Everyone

Chopin

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Ballads | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
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Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli plays Mozart, Chopin, Brahms, etc. (Box) [Germany]

ASIN: B00005ND40
Release Date: 2001-10-09

Tracks:

Prlds, Op.28: No.1 in C
Prlds, Op.28: No.2 in a
Prlds, Op.28: No.3 in G
Prlds, Op.28: No.4 in e
Prlds, Op.28: No.5 in D
Prlds, Op.28: No.6 in b
Prlds, Op.28: No.7 in A
Prlds, Op.28: No.8 in f#
Prlds, Op.28: No.9 in E
Prlds, Op.28: No.10 in c#
Prlds, Op.28: No.11 in B
Prlds, Op.28: No.12 in g#
Prlds, Op.28: No.13 in F#
Prlds, Op.28: No.14 in e flat
Prlds, Op.28: No.15 in D flat
Prlds, Op.28: No.16 in b flat
Prlds, Op.28: No.17 in A flat
Prlds, Op.28: No.18 in f
Prlds, Op.28: No.19 in E flat
Prlds, Op.28: No.20 in c
Prlds, Op.28: No.21 in B flat
Prlds, Op.28: No.22 in g
Prlds, Op.28: No.23 in F
Prlds, Op.28: No.24 in d
Prld No.25 in c#, Op.45
Prld No.26 in A flat, Op. Posth.
Impromptus: No.1 in A flat, Op.29
Impromptus: No.2 in F#, Op.36
Impromptus: No.3 in G flat, Op.51
Impromptus: No.4 in c#, Op.66 'Fant-Impromptu'

Tracks:

Waltzes: No.1 in E flat, op.18 'Grande Valse Brillante'
Waltzes: No.2 in A flat, Op.34 No.1 'Valse Brillante'
Waltzes: No.3 in a, Op.34 No.2
Waltzes: No.4 in F, Op.34 No.3 'Valse Brillante'
Waltzes: No.5 in A flat, Op.42 'Grande Valse'
Waltzes: No.6 in D flat, Op.64 No.1 'Minute'
Waltzes: No.7 in c#, Op.64 No.2
Waltzes: No.8 in A flat, Op.64 No.3
Waltzes: No.9 in A flat, Op.69 No.1 'Valse De L'adieu'
Waltzes: No.10 in b, Op.69 No.2
Waltzes: No.11 in G flat, Op.70 No.1
Waltzes: No.12 in f/A flat, Op.70 No.2
Waltzes: No.13 in D flat, Op.70 No.3
Waltzes: No.14 in e, Op. Posth.
Waltzes: No.16 in A flat, Op. Posth.
Waltzes: No.15 in E, Op. Posth.
Waltzes: No.19 in a, Op. Posth
Waltzes: No.18 in E flat, op. Posth.
Waltzes: No.17 in E flat, op. Posth

Tracks:

Ballades: No.1 in g, Op.23
Ballades: No.2 in F, Op.38
Ballades: No.3 in A flat, Op.47
Ballades: No.4 in f, Op.52
Barcarolle in F#, Op.60
Fant in f, Op.49

Tracks:

Scherzos: No.1 in b, Op.20
Scherzos: No.2 in b flat, Op.31
Scherzos: No.3 in c#, Op.39
Scherzos: No.4 in E, Op.54
Polonaise No.7 in A flat, Op.61 'Polonaise-Fant'

Tracks:

Nocturnes: No.1 in b flat, Op.9 No.1
Nocturnes: No.2 in E flat, Op.9 No.2
Nocturnes: No.3 in B, Op.9 No.3
Nocturnes: No.4 in F, Op.15 No.1
Nocturnes: No.5 in F#, Op.15 No.2
Nocturnes: No.6 in g, Op.15 No.3
Nocturnes: No.7 in c#, Op.27 No.1
Nocturnes: No.8 in D flat, Op.27 No.2
Nocturnes: No.9 in B, Op.32 No.1
Nocturnes: No.10 in A flat, Op.32 No.2
Nocturnes: No.11 in g, Op.37 No.1

Tracks:

Nocturnes: No.12 in G, op.37 No.2
Nocturnes: No.13 in c, Op.48 No.1
Nocturnes: No.14 in f#, Op.48 No.2
Nocturnes: No.15 in f, Op.55 No.1
Nocturnes: No.16 in E flat, Op.55 No.2
Nocturnes: No.17 in B, Op.62 No.1
Nocturnes: No.18 in E, Op.62 No.2
Nocturnes: No.19 in e, Op.72 No.1
Nocturnes: No.20 in c#, Op. Posth.
Nocturnes: No.21 in c, Op. Posth.

Tracks:

Pno Con No.1 in e, Op.11: I. Allegro Maestoso
Pno Con No.1 in e, Op.11: II. Romance: Larghetto
Pno Con No.1 in e, Op.11: III. Rondo: Vivace
Pno Con No.2 in f, Op.21: I. Maestoso
Pno Con No.2 in f, Op.21: II. Larghetto
Pno Con No.2 in f, Op.21: III. Allegro Vivace

Customer Reviews:

Stunning.......2004-06-01

This has to count as the definitive recording of these works. Arrau captures both the outer gentility and the inner power of Chopin's work, and always strikes the perfect balance between the two. These recordings are phenomenal--worth the investment twenty times over.

Essential Chopin at a Price for Everyone.......2003-07-14

I have always been an admirer of Claudio Arrau and his extraordinary pianism. His were the first Beethoven sonatas I ever bought, and the quality and quantity of his overall repertoire is mind-boggling. However, his Chopin has always stood out for me, and I have long treasured his Philips recordings of the Preludes, the Ballades, and the Nocturnes. While I have my fair share of Pollini, Rubinstein, Zimerman, and Ashkenazy, Arrau to me brings an extra dimension of meditative, searching spirituality to Chopin that is utterly unique and unforgettable. To me every Chopin piece tells a story or sketches within the space of a couple of minutes a strikingly vivid image in my mind, and Arrau is so in tune with the emotional tenor of every piece he plays. And of course his technique is such that he handles all the major hurdles that pieces such as the Ballades throw in the way of pianists. While the Nocturnes, the Impromptus, and the Piano Concerti have been available on CD for a long time, the others here (the Waltzes, Scherzi, and most importantly the Ballades and Preludes)have not. I have been eagerly awaiting a release such as this, since my tapes of the Ballades and Preludes are in appalling condition, and this price just can't be beaten. Everything here was recorded in the '70s, when Arrau was still at his best, and Philips always does a superb job of remastering, so one need not worry about the sound quality. Don't forget too that there is also an early EMI recording of Arrau taking on the Etudes, which he didn't record for Philips and is worth having, although I don't think Arrau beats out Pollini's '70s DG interpretation in this department (I do however think that Arrau's Preludes and Ballades are second to none). I also have to say that I prefer Zimerman's early concerti with Giulini and the LA Philarmonic to the concerti here. Overall though, Arrau's achievement with Chopin as exhibited here is remarkable in every department, and whether you're new to Chopin or casting around for another interpretation of pieces you already know, Arrau will win you over. This release is a true bargain too. Thanks Philips!

Top 100 Masterpieces of Classical Music (Collectors Edition) (Box Set)

Average customer rating:

Top 100 Masterpieces of Classical Music (Collectors Edition) (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Minuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

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Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Toccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B00008L428
Release Date: 2003-02-13

Average customer rating:

Sarah Chang -- unparalleled even at 9!
Interesting historical document

Debut
Pablo de Sarasate , Edward Elgar , Niccolo Paganini , Fritz Kreisler , Aram Khachaturian , Fryderyk Chopin , Dmitry Shostakovich , George Gershwin , Franz Liszt , Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky , Sergey Prokofiev , Sarah Chang , and Sandra Rivers
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Simply Sarah
Fire & Ice
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ASIN: B000002RSJ
Release Date: 1992-08-18

Tracks:

Concert Fantasy on Carmen, Op.25: Allegro Moderato
Concert Fantasy on Carmen, Op.25: l Moderato
Concert Fantasy on Carmen, Op.25: ll Lento assai
Concert Fantasy on Carmen, Op.25: lll Allegro moderato
Concert Fantasy on Carmen, Op.25: lV Moderato
Salut d'amour, Op. 12
La Caprecieuse, Op. 17
Sabre Dance form Gayane
Tempo di Minuetto In The Style Of Pugnani
Caprice No. 1 In E, Op. 1
Caprice No. 15 In E minor, Op. 1
Nocturne No. 20 In C Sharp Minor, Op. post. - Frederic Chopin
Prelude No. 10 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 34
Prelude No. 15 In D, Op. 34
Porty & Bess: It Ain't Necessarily So
Consolation No. 3 In D Flat
Melody in E flat, Op. 42/No. 3
The Love For Three Oranges: March

Amazon.com

This miraculous recital was Chang's debut recording, made when she was nine years old. In Sarasate's Carmen Fantasy you can hear some very minor flaws in the technique, which were gone when I heard her play it two years later. There's nothing else to indicate that this is a young violinist, not even the tone Chang draws from a quarter-size violin. While none of these pieces is very heavy in musical content, she shows a wide range of sympathies, from the singing lyricism of Chopin to a very hip-sounding "It Ain't Necessarily So" from Gershwin's Porgy and Bess. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Sarah Chang -- unparalleled even at 9!.......2001-01-20

What can I say that does not smack of praise for this debut album by one of the most gifted young violinists ever of the millennium?

The one thing that I find lacking in most violinists' playing is ... fire. Oh, of course, techincal ability ranks high on the list but one has to agree that most of the prodigial virtuosi we've heard so far have most of that particular area of playing down-pat. Chang certainly has the lightning-quick fingers required for virtually all of the songs she plays here, but as the Amazon.com review states -- she also plays with a good deal of _bite_. The deciding pieces are, in no particular order: Sarasate's very famous miniatures from Carmen, the Sabre Dance from Gayane (wonderfully played, with the tempo bright and fast-moving), Gershwin's It Ain't Necessarily So (when I first heard this track, I was in heaven! What jazzy playing for one so young! The violin literally sings and swoons in her capable hands), and Prokofiev's March from The Love of Three Oranges. The last piece, compared to Midori's version (which can be found on her "Encore!" CD), I feel, is better performed -- the speed and spear-driven flashes of the bow are just right. Midori overperforms on a song that's supposed to be a march.

Interesting historical document.......1999-01-06

Immaculate technique, remarkably good tone for a quarter-sized violin, and wonderful musicality for a nine-year-old. Of course, she still has some room for improvement artistically.

Her interpretation of Gershwin's "It ain't necessarily so" is the most sensuous (almost lascivious!) one I've ever heard--such abundant, luscious, provocative slides! Nonetheless, I love it!

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

Tracks:

No. 1 In F Minor: Allegro Non Troppo
No. 2 In C Major: Allegro
No. 3 In C Minor: Grave
No. 4 In D Minor: Moderato
No. 5 In E Flat Minor: Non Allegro
No. 6 In E Flat Major: Allegro Con Fuoco
No. 7 In G Minor: Moderato
No. 8 In C Sharp Minor: Grave
No. 1 In C Minor: Allegro Agitato
No. 2 In A Minor: Lento Assai
No. 3 In F Sharp Minor: Allegro Molto
No. 4 In B Minor: Allegro Assai
No. 5 In E Flat Minor: Appassionata
No. 6 In A Minor: Allegro
No. 7 In C Minor: Lento
No. 8 In D Minor: Allegro Moderato
No. 9 In D Major: Allegro Moderato

Tracks:

No. 1 In F Sharp Minor
No. 2 In F Major
No. 3 In C Minor - E Flat Minor
I. Romance In F Sharp Minor
II. Prelude In E Flat Minor
III. Melodie In E Major
IV. Gavotte In D Major
I. Nocturne In A Minor
II. Valse In A Major
III. Barcarolle In G Minor
IV. Melodie In E Minor
V. Humoresque In G Major
VI. Romance In F Minor
VII. Mazurka In D Flat Major

Tracks:

No. 1 In F Sharp Minor: Largo
No. 2 In B Major: Maestoso
No. 3 In D Minor: Tempo Di Minuetto
No. 4 In D Major: Andante Cantabile
No. 5 In G Minor: Alla Marcia
No. 6 In E Flat Major: Andante
No. 7 In C Minor: Allegro
No. 8 In A Flat Major: Allegro Vivace
No. 9 In E Flat Minor: Presto
No. 10 In G Flat Major: Largo
No. 1: Elegie In E Flat Minor
No. 2: Prelude In C Sharp Minor
No. 3: Melodie In E Major
No. 4: Polichinelle In F Sharp Minor
No. 5: Serenade In B Flat Minor

Tracks:

No. 1 In C Major: Allegro Vivace
No. 2 In B Flat Minor: Allegretto
No. 3 In E Major: Allegro Vivace
No. 4 In E Minor: Allegro Con Brio
No. 5 In G Major: Moderato
No. 6 In F Minor: Allegro Appassionato
No. 7 In F Major: Moderato
No. 8 In A Minor: Vivo
No. 9 In A Major: Allegro Moderato
No. 10 In B Minor: Lento
No. 11 In B Major: Allegretto
No. 12 In G Sharp Minor: Allegro
No. 13 In D Flat Major: Grave - Allegro
Liebesleid
Liebesfreud

Tracks:

Allegro Moderato
Lento
Allegro Molto
Allegro Agitato
Non Allegro - Lento - L'istesso Tempo
Allegro Molto

Tracks:

Allegro Agitato
Non Allegro
Allegro Molto
Theme: Andante
Var. I: Poco Piu Mosso
Var. II: L'istesso Tempo
Var. III: Tempo Di Menuetto
Var. IV: Andante
Var. V: Allegro (Ma Non Tanto)
Var. VI: L'istesso Tempo
Var. VII: Vivace
Var. VIII: Adagio Misterioso
Var. IX: Un Poco Piu Mosso
Var. X: Allegro Scherzando
Var. XI: Allegro Vivace
Var. XII: L'istesso Tempo
Var. XIII: Agitato
Intermezzo
Var. XIV: Andante (Come Prima)
Var. XV: L'istesso Tempo
Var. XVI: Allegro Vivace
Var. XVII: Meno Mosso
Var. XVIII: Allegro Con Brio
Var. XIX: Piu Mosso, Agitato
Var. XX: Piu Mosso
Coda: Andante
No. 1: Andantino
No. 2: Allegretto
No. 3: Andante Cantabile
No. 4: Presto
No. 5: Adagio Sostenuto
No. 6: Maestoso

Tracks:

Prelude
Gavotte
Gigue
Wohin
Scherzo
Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2
Gopak
L'Arlesienne - Minuetto
Flight Of The Bumble-Bee
Lullaby
Daisies
Lilacs
Dance Of The Young Gypsy Maidens
Liebesleid
Liebesfreud
Polka W.R.
The Star Spangled Banner

Tracks:

Theme: Largo
Var. I: Moderato
Var. II: Allegro
Var. III (Allegro)
Var. IV: (Allegro)
Var. V: Meno Mosso
Var. VI: Meno Mosso
Var. VII: Allegro
Var. VIII (Allegro)
Var. IX (Allegro)
Var. X: Piu Vivo
Var. XI: Lento
Var. XII: Moderato
Var. XIII: Largo
Var. XIV: Moderato
Var. XV: Allegro Scherzando
Var. XVI: Lento
Var. XVII: Grave
Var. XVIII: Piu Mosso
Var. XIX: Allegro Vivace
Var. XX: Presto
Var. XXI: Andante - Piu Vivo
Var. XXII: Maestoso - Presto
Moment musical, Op. 16, No. 2
Lento In D Minor
Canon In E Minor
Fughetta In F Major
Morceau de fantaisie In G Minor
Piece In D Minor
Fragments
Oriental Sketch
Prelude In F Major
Andante ma non troppo In D Minor

Customer Reviews:

Idil amazing.......2006-07-19

No other performer compares to idil. HANDS down. HEr unique and individual style sets her apart from every other performer past and present.

Her recording of Rachmaninov's prelude in C sharp minor can only be topped by rachmaninov himself.

Every time i hear i new song from her, i feel i grow as a pianist.

Essential Rachmaninoff at a good price........2002-07-10

Buy this box set. Biret is great. She plays Rachmaninoff straight up and doesn't taint the compositions with any wild "interpretations." And the recording quality is five star, too. I bought this in order to snag some lesser known Rachmaninoff that I loved (Cinq Morceaux, Moments Musicaux, etc.) and I really got what I paid for. Take a look at the huge tracklist - this is the Rachmaninoff you've been missing out on.

Average customer rating:

Anda The Master
Awesome Anda

Troubadour of the Piano

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
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ASIN: B0009ONYPU
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

I. Allegro Affettuoso
II. Intermezzo: Andantino Grazioso
III. Allegro Vivace
Thema: Andante
Etude I (Variation I): Un Poco Piu Vivo
Etude II (Var. II)
Etude III: Vivace
Etude IV (Var. III)
Etude V (Var. IV): Vivacissimo
Etude Vi (Var. V): Agitato
Variation II Posth.
Etude VII (Var. VI): Allegro Molto
Etude VIII (Var. VII): Andante
Variation V Posth.
Etude IX: Presto Possibile
Etude X (Var.VIII): Allegro
Etude XI (Var. IX): Con Espressione
Finale: Etude XII: Allegro Brillante
Symphonic Variations For Piano And Orchestra
Allegretto

Tracks:

I. Allegro Non Troppo
II. Allegro Appassionato
III. Andante-Piu Adagio
IV. Allegretto Grazioso-Un Poco Piu Presto
Adagio Molto
Poco Allegretto
Vivace

Tracks:

Thema: Vivace
Var. I: Alla Marcia Maestoso
Var. II: Poco Allegro
Var. III: L'Istesso Tempo
Var. IV: Un Poco Piu Vivace
Var. V: Allegro Vivace
Var. VI: Allegro Ma Non Troppo E Serioso
Var. VII: Un Poco Piu Allegro
Var. VIII: Poco Vivace
Var. IX: Allegro Pesante E Risoluto
Var. X: Presto
Var. XI: Allegretto
Var. XII: Un Poco Piu Moto
Var. XIII: Vivace
Var. XIV: Grave E Maestoso
Var. XV: Presto Scherzando
Var. XVI: Allegro
Var. XVII
Var. XVIII: Poco Moderato
Var. XIX: Presto
Var. XX: Andante
Var. XXI: Allegro Con Brio-Meno Allegro-Tempo I
Var. XXII: Allegro Molto (Alla 'Notte E Giorno Faticar' Di Mozart)
Var. XXIII: Allegro Assai
Var. XXIV: Fughetta: Andante
Var. XXV: Allegro
Var. XXVI
Var. XXVII: Vivace
Var. XXVIII: Allegro
Var. XXIX: Adagio Ma Non Troppo
Var. XXX: Andante, Sempre Cantabile
Var.XXXI: Largo, Molto Espressivo
Var. XXXII: Fuga: Allegro-Poco Adagio
Var.XXXIII: Tempo Di Menuetto Moderato
I. Molto Moderato
II. Andante Sostenuto
III. Scherzo: Allegro Vivace Con Delicatezza (Quasi Attacca:)
IV. Allegro, Ma Non Troppo

Tracks:

No.1 In C Major: Agitato
No.2 In A Minor: Lento
No.3 In G Major: Vivace
No.4 In E Minor: Largo
No.5 In D Major: Allegro Molto
No.6 In B Minor: Lento Assai
No.7 In A Major: Andantino
No.8 In F Sharp Minor: Molto Agitato
No.9 In E Major: Largo
No.10 In C Sharp Minor: Allegro Molto
No.11 In B Major: Vivace
No.12 In G Sharp Minor: Presto
No.13 In F Sharp Major: Lento
No.14 In E Flat Minor: Allegro
No.15 In D Flat Major 'Raindrop': Sostenuto
No.16 In B Flat Minor: Presto Con Fuoco
No.17 In A Flat Major: Allegretto
No.18 In F Minor: Allegro Molto
No.19 In E Flat Major: Vivace
No.20 In C Minor: Largo
No.21 In B Flat Major: Cantabile
No.22 In G Minor: Molto Agitato
No.23 In F Major: Moderato
No.24 In D Minor: Allegro Appasionato
Maestoso
I. Lebhaft
II. Innig
III. Mit Humor (Etwas Hahnbuchen)
IV. Ungeduldig
V. Einfach
VI. Sehr Rasch (Sehr Rasch Und In Sich Hinein)
VII. Nicht Schnell (Mit Ausserst Starker Empfindung)
VIII. Frisch
IX. Lebhaft
X. Balladenmassig. Sehr Rasch
XI. Einfach
XII. Mit Humor
XIII. Wild Und Lustig
XIV. Zart Und Singend
XV. Frisch
XVI. Mit Gutem Humor
XVII. Wie Aus Der Ferne
XVIII. Nicht Schnell
Vivace
Allegretto
Lento

Tracks:

I. Ausserst Bewegt
II. Sehr Innig Und Nicht Zu Rasch-Intermezzo I: Sehr Lebhaft/Intermezzo II: Etwas Bewegter-Langsamer (Erstes Tempo)
III. Sehr Aufgeregt
IV. Sehr Langsam
V. Sehr Lebhaft
VI. Sehr Langsam
VII. Sehr Rasch
VIII. Schnell Und Spielend
I. Durchaus Phantastisch Und Leidenschaftlich Vorzutragen-Im Legendenton-Tempo Primo
II. Massig. Durchaus Energisch-Etwas Langsamer-Viel Bewegter
III. Langsam Getragen. Durchweg Leise Zu Halten-Etwas Bewegter
Thema: Andante
Etude I (Var. I): Un Poco Piu Vivo
Etude II (Var. II)
Etude III: Vivace
Etude IV (Var. III)
Etude V (Var. IV): Vivacissimo
Etude VI (Var. V): Agitato
Variation II Posth.
Etude VII (Var. VI): Allegro Molto
Etude VIII (Var. VII): Andante
Variation V Posth.
Etude IX: Presto Possibile
Etude X (Var. VIII): Allegro
Etude XI (Var. IX): Con Espressione
Finale: Etude XII: Allegro Brillante

Customer Reviews:

Anda The Master.......2006-09-02

It's fortunate that DGG is re-releasing so many of the stellar recordings of artists of the past including this 5-CD set of Geza Anda. Recordings of his that have been out of print for a long time are in this set thankfully. As a young budding piano student I had never purchased or listened to an Anda recording having been taken with the more technically richly endowed wiles of Horowitz and Richter's pianism. I focussed almost exclusively on pyrotechnics as a youth and didn't appreciate the intellect and artistry of artists such as Anda, Backhaus and Kempff until many years later as an adult.

Once I discovered Anda (or re-discovered him might be more like it) I fell in love with his deep sense of musicianship, grasp of musical structure, elemental pianism and visceral yet intellectually weighted emotionality. Because most of his recordings had gone out of print I snapped up what I could, notably the Bartok 3 piano concertos and Mozart complete piano concertos with the Camerata Salzburg. I also got some of the live performance CDs floating around which elucidated his excitement as a performer (along with the fallibility of his technique at times; a technique though that could handle anything thrown at it however).

The most eagerly awaited work for me in this set is the Brahms B-Flat performance which I had unsuccessfully had tried to acquire in LP format for a few years. It was the first thing I listened to in the set and it lived up to my expectations and more. This is a titanic performance of this towering massive concerto. Anda brings out all the fire and gut-pounding power in the places that call for it (e.g. at the beginning opening cadenza's finish before the orchestra tutti starts). He also brings an element of deep elemental mystery to other of the more ethereal passages in the first movement. The second movement it elemental in its power and expression. The end of the 2nd movement is exciting as all get out. My heart raced as Anda came cascading down in the d minor chords at the end of the movement! The cello soloist in the 3rd movement plays with soulfull intensity yet the movement is not taken at too slow a tempo which keeps the overall conception of the work moving with a forward impetus. Anda's entrance is beautiful beyond belief. He conveys a sense of mystery in his playing without it ever getting bogged down in the beautiful details of the notes. The last movement is buoyant and jubilation along with a sense of the delicateness abound. All in all a great performance! The DGG engineering is apparent in this recording with even being so old sounds as if it were recorded yesterday.

The rest of the performances are just as enthralling including 2 performances of the symphonic etudes (an early mono version on Disc 1 and the later stereo version on Disc 5) which are interesting to hear the juxtaposition of an artist's development. Like Julius Katchen, William Kapell and Dino Ciani, Anda was taken from us much too soon.

Awesome Anda.......2006-02-08

Best known as the first pianist to record a complete cycle of Mozart's Piano Concertos, Geza Anda shows his awesome power as both soloist and accompanist in a variety of works on "Troubadour of the Piano." For me, the collection's best moments were the opportunity to finally hear Anda's highly acclaimed accounts of the Schumann Piano Concerto, with Rafael Kubelik and the Berlin Philharmonic in stereo from 1963, and the Brahms Piano Concerto No. 2, with Ferenc Fricsay and the Berliners in stereo from 1960. The Schumann is outstanding, but the Brahms is truly brilliant! Those familiar with Anda will know that the pianist made his definitive readings of the Bartok PCs with Fricsay, and they capture that magic once again. The pace is never rushed, and the playing clear and distinct -- it is a legendary performance. Speaking of Bartok, Anda and Fricsay also combine to perform the composer's Rhapsody for Piano and Orchestra. Recorded in 1960 and originally paired on vinyl with the Bartok 1st, it was unable to fit on the aforementioned disc of the three Concertos and thus makes its CD debut here. Other highlights from this collection are stereo performances of Beethoven's Diabelli Variations and Chopin's 24 Preludes, and two versions of Schumann's Symphonic Etudes -- one in mono from 1943 and the other in stereo twenty years later. Some of the historical recordings are marred by poor sound, in particular the Franck Symphonic Variations with Van Beinum from 1943, but are delightful as reference material. In all, "Troubadour of the Piano" is another gem in Deutsche Grammophon's "Original Masters" series.

Maria Joao Pires ~ Chopin - Concerto for Piano & Orchestra No. 2 (Op. 21), 24 Preludes (Op. 28)

Average customer rating:

As If Chopin Were Playing Himself
A vague sense of unease.
Fire and Ice

Maria Joao Pires ~ Chopin - Concerto for Piano & Orchestra No. 2 (Op. 21), 24 Preludes (Op. 28)
Frédéric Chopin , André Previn , Maria João Pires , and Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Maria João Pires ~ Chopin - Piano Concerto No, 1 · Fantasie op. 49 · Fantasie-Impromptu op. 66 · Berceuse op. 57 / COE · Krivine
Maria João Pires - Le Voyage Magnifique ~ Schubert Impromtus
Maria João Pires - Chopin · The Nocturnes
Schubert: Sonata; 6 Moments Musicaux; 2 Scherzi
Chopin: 14 Valses

ASIN: B000001GJ3
Release Date: 1995-01-17

Tracks:

Concerto For Piano And Orchestra No. 2 In F Minor, Op. 21: Maestoso
Concerto For Piano And Orchestra No. 2 In F Minor, Op. 21: Larghetto
Concerto For Piano And Orchestra No. 2 In F Minor, Op. 21: Allegro vivace
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 1 In C Major, Agitato
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 2 In A Minor, Lento
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 3 In G Major, Vivace
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 4 In E Minor, Largo
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 5 In D Major, Allegro molto
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 6 In B Minor, Lento assai
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 7 In A Major, Andantino
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 8 In F Sharp Minor, Molto agitato
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 9 In E Major, Largo
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 10 In C Sharp Minor, Allegro molto
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 11 In B Major, Vivace
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 12 In G Sharp Minor, Presto
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 13 In F Sharp Major, Lento
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 14 In E Flat Minor, Allegro
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 15 In D Flat Major, Sostenuto
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 16 In B Flat Minor, Presto con fuoco
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 17 In A Flat Major, Allegretto
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 18 In F Minor, Allegro molto
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 19 In E Flat Major, Vivace
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 20 In C Minor, Largo
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 21 In B Flat Major, Cantabile
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 22 In G Minor, Molto agitato
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 23 In F Major, Moderato
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 24 In D Minor, Allegro appassionato

Amazon.com

Chopin's Second Concerto was actually the first that he wrote. Because it was the second in order of publication, the number two has been stuck to it ever since. Actually, most listeners find it the more successful of the two from a purely formal point of view, because he seems more ready to follow his own natural inclinations in the first movement, and less worried about fitting his unusual and attractive melodies into a predetermined structure. In any case, it's slightly the more popular of the two and Pires, who is a fine Chopin pianist, understands and projects the music as if to the manner born. The Op. 28 Preludes make a very satisfying coupling, and are just as well done. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

As If Chopin Were Playing Himself.......2005-11-15

This performance of Pires is absolutely stunning. Her expressionism is romanticism personified in every bar. The second piano concerto, in particular, is worthy alone of such praise for Pires plays as if she were channeling Chopin himself. Not merely is the composer reborn in this performance but one gains a sense of the entire romantic movement itself. Specifically, there is a lilting unease and a daunting sense of the vague as if Pires were approaching the listener with a kiss only to draw away at the most magnificent moment of the soul's awakening. A novice to classical music may not percieve the sublte nuances of romanticism's overtones and undertones. For this reason, the preludes may sound "boring." I have to admit I don't even like them. But the orchestral flavor of the concerto is cosmopolitan enough, and the theme simple enough, that most anyone can appreciate this beautiful recording.

A vague sense of unease........2002-11-02

I'm a bit divided on this recording. I truly loved Pires reading of Chopin's Nocturnes, but this CD left me feeling a little disapointed. Perhaps I was just expecting too much, but I don't think so. I really enjoyed the second concerto, here it is played in the same bold, confident manner married with great sensitivity that was so effective in her recording of the Nocturnes, but I confess to some difficulty with the 24 Preludes. Chopin's great outpouring of his feelings for George Sand and has long been one of my favourite pieces of music and although there is certainly much to admire in this passionate reading, I felt that it lacked the grace and delicacy that others have found in this work. My late piano teacher for example played the Largo, (No.9 in E) in a way that would move you to tears, what a pity she never recorded it! I would be lying if I said that I regreted buying this CD, I've enjoyed it a great deal, however that vague sense of unease with the Preludes remains, spoiling what would otherwise be a great reading.

Fire and Ice.......2002-01-07

Issued in 1994, this recording predates by two years her famous performance of Chopin's Nocturnes, but is equally rewarding. Both Concerto in F minor and 24 Preludes op.28 feature the highest pianistic eloquence and in her interpretation are fabulously sensitive, lyrical, dreamy, and full of passion. This is Chopin with perception of tenderness and drama of human existence. The recording is crystal clear. The CD won the "Grand Prix du Disque Frédéric Chopin" Warsaw Competition in 1995.

Average customer rating:

A good deal, but a little skimpy

Masters of Classical Music 6-10

Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Masters of Classical Music, Vols. 1-5 (Box Set)

ASIN: B000001W10
Release Date: 1990-10-09

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1: Allegro non troppo - Peter Tchaikovsky
String Serenade: Waltz - Peter Tchaikovsky
Violin Concerto: Andante - Peter Tchaikovsky
The Sleeping Beauty: Ballet Suite: Introduction - Peter Tchaikovsky
The Sleeping Beauty: Ballet Suite: Pas d'action - Adagio - Peter Tchaikovsky
The Sleeping Beauty: Ballet Suite: Waltz - Peter Tchaikovsky
Capriccio Italien Op. 45 - Peter Tchaikovsky
Swan Lake: Ballet Suite: Scene No. 10 - Peter Tchaikovsky
Swan Lake: Ballet Suite: Waltz - Peter Tchaikovsky
Eugene Onegin: Polonaise - Peter Tchaikovsky

Tracks:

The 4 Seasons: Spring: Concerto No. 1 In E Major - Antonio Vivaldi
Siciliano - Antonio Vivaldi
Concerto In D Minor: (Allegro assai) Cologne Concerto - Antonio Vivaldi
The 4 Seasons: Summer: Concerto No. 2 In G Minor - Antonio Vivaldi
Oboe Sonata In B Flat Major - Antonio Vivaldi
The 4 Seasons: Autumn: Concerto No. 3 In F Major - Antonio Vivaldi
Oboe Concerto - Antonio Vivaldi
Concerto In D Minor: (Largo e spiccato) Cologne Concerto - Antonio Vivaldi
The 4 Seasons: Winter: Concerto No. 4 In F Minor - Antonio Vivaldi

Tracks:

Scherzo No 1 In B Minor, Op 20 - Frederic Chopin
Three Nocturnes, Op. 9: No. 3 In B Major - Frederic Chopin
Twelve Etudes, Op. 10: No. 5 In G Flat Major - Frederic Chopin
Twelve Etudes, Op. 25: No. 10 In B Minor - Frederic Chopin
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 13 In F Sharp Major - Frederic Chopin
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 14 In E Flat Minor - Frederic Chopin
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 15 In D Flat Major 'Raindrops' - Frederic Chopin
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 16 In B Flat Minor - Frederic Chopin
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 17 In A Flat Major - Frederic Chopin
24 Preludes, Op. 28: No. 18 In F Minor - Frederic Chopin
Scherzo No. 2 In B Flat Minor, Op. 31 - Frederic Chopin
Waltz In E Flat Major, Op. 18 - Frederic Chopin
Nocturne In C Sharp Minor, Op. posth. - Frederic Chopin
Four Mazurkas, Op. 24: No. 3 In A Flat Major - Frederic Chopin
Four Mazurkas, Op. 24: No. 4 In B Flat Minor - Frederic Chopin

Tracks:

Ave Maria - Schubert, Franz
Impromptu In E Flat Major - Schubert, Franz
Budapest Strings: Standchen - Schubert, Franz
Trout Quintet: Tema con variazioni - Schubert, Franz
Entr'acte No.1 From 'Rosamunde' - Schubert, Franz
Moment Musical In A Flat Major - Schubert, Franz
Entr'acte No. 2 From 'Rosamunde' - Schubert, Franz
Moment Musical No. 3 In F Minor - Schubert, Franz
Ballet Music No.2 From 'Rosamunde' - Schubert, Franz
Symphony No. 8 In B Minor 'Unfinished': Allegro moderato - Schubert, Franz

Tracks:

Nabucco: Overture - Giuseppe Verdi
Nabucco: Va Pensiero, sull'ali Dorate - Giuseppe Verdi
Aida: Prelude - Giuseppe Verdi
II Trovatore - Gypsie's Chorus: Vedi! le fosche notturne - Giuseppe Verdi
Il Ttrovatore - Soldiers' Chorus: II Trovatore: Or co' daddi, ma fra poco - Giuseppe Verdi
Aroldo: Overture - Giuseppe Verdi
La Traviata: Prelude - Giuseppe Verdi
La Traviata: Noi Siamo zingarelle - Giuseppe Verdi
La Traviata: Libiamo ne' lieti calici - Giuseppe Verdi
La Traviata: Di Madride noi siam mattadori - Giuseppe Verdi
La Forza del destino: Overture - Giuseppe Verdi

Customer Reviews:

A good deal, but a little skimpy.......2001-05-25

This is a good deal for 10 cds, but there are nno complete pieces except for the Four Seasons by vivaldi, and some shorter piano works. The recording quality is a little bit less than perfect, and it doesn't have teh full vollume of other cds i have. Overall, I recomend buying it, there are some nice pieces on it.

Average customer rating:

At least 16 / 19 well spent hours
Enlightening but slighly blemished
Chopin - Luisada, Jean-Marc
Chopin - Luisada, Jean-Marc
Learn, learn, learn!

Chopin: Complete Edition
Krystian Zimerman , Claudio Arrau , Stefan Askenase , Anatol Ugorski , Maurizio Pollini , Jean-Marc Luisada , and Zilberstein, Lilya
Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Bourees | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Ecossaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Galops | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Ballads | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Rondos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Lullabies & Berceuse | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

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

Liszt: Piano Works
Bach: Complete Works - 155 CD Box Set
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Beethoven: The Complete Piano Sonatas & Concertos
Haydn: The Masterworks [Box Set]

ASIN: B00001X58Z
Release Date: 1999-10-12

Amazon.com

On the 150th anniversary of his death, Deutsche Grammophon released this impressive box set featuring the complete works of Frédéric Chopin. Spread out over 17 CDs, it contains some truly big-name artists--Argerich, Pollini, Barenboim, and Ashkenazy--and a few you've probably never heard of. The majority of the set's nine volumes contain some music newly produced for this undertaking, and a few items (Chopin's songs, for instance) were recorded specifically for this collection. A well-illustrated book is included--it contains an essay, dateline, and illustrations--and each volume in the set gets its own liner notes. The music? It varies from great to less than great, but most of it is worth hearing. Those accustomed to Rubinstein's readings of the Mazurkas will find those played by Jean-Marc Luisada less fluid and lacking Rubinstein's power. Chopin's songs, seldom heard and filled with elements of Polish folk dances and the less-than-stellar lyrics of the composer's friend Stefan Witwicki, get a college try here by soprano Elzbieta Szmytka. They sound as good as you'll hear anywhere (if you can find them). It probably goes without saying that Martha Argerich's rousing 26 Préludes are some of the set's more exciting moments. But, really, the entire collection is solid. It should be noted that budget label Naxos has released its own Chopin edition at less than half the price of this set. With Idil Biret as the only performer on that set, you miss out on some of the diverse performances and personalities found here. Also, to please those of us who already own favorite performances of these works, each two-CD volume in the Complete Chopin Edition can be purchased individually. Bravo. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

At least 16 / 19 well spent hours.......2004-10-11

In my opinion there is no more effective way to ruin a great musical performance than to record it in front of an audience who cannot control their coughs. The first disc starts out with a 1979 live recording of Chopin's first piano/orchestra concerto featuring pianist Krystian Zimerman and the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra of Amsterdam. The performance is good, but doesn't allow the listener full concentration,--and therefore not full enjoyment--as a distracting and annoying audience can be heard coughing, sneezing, and clearing their throats even above the orchestra's playing in mezzo forte - it gets worse, of course, at dynamically quieter musical parts. Other distractions, like chairs creaking, cracking and squeaking, pages being turned probably inches away from a microphone (perhaps to give the page-turner a chance to say "Did you hear that? That was me,") and people stomping/dropping things (?) add to the incapability of the listener's full enjoyment. I've heard much worse, however, but considering that the recording technique is no older than 25 years, this is on the verge of being unacceptable. Sure - there can be a certain charm in hearing such "humanity" on a recording, especially when it's older, but I don't think many would disagree that this is a bit too much. Hearing the opening of piano/orchestra concerto no.2, and knowing that the 18+ hours of music to come aren't going to be interrupted by coughs, is a big relief. My favorite Chopin interpreter is--and might always be--Rubinstein; his playing is straight forward, he cuts to the chase quickly, yet somehow manages to leave room for sensitivity and emotion. His performances, of course--since he never recorded a note for Deutsche Grammophon,--are not included in this "complete edition," so aside from suggestions that certain waltzes are missing, that is something that makes this boxed set incomplete for me. Pollini's general interpretation of Chopin is in my opinion, as in many others', quite weak in comparison to Argerich's, Zimerman's, or the passionate playing of Daniel Barenboim. Here Pollini performs Etudes, Scherzos, Sonatas and Polonaises. At times, during the Etudes of op. 10, I feel like I'm getting more Maurizio than I am getting Fryderyk, even though the performance (especially on no.3) may invite feelings of thriving despite the performer's occasional roaring in the left channel. The Scherzos feature some troublesome factors; first and foremost the sound (of this 1990 recording) isn't at all as good as one would expect. It's far worse than several older recordings of this set - at only six seconds into the first Scherzo (op.20) one can't avoid acknowledging obvious distortion - the recording has clearly been done with too much input level. Clips noises continue throughout the grainy and dull sound picture of these pieces. Second of all, the noises Pollini makes while playing can be quite off putting. At times he sounds like a boy with a voice just breaking experiencing climax of coition, and as we all know, Chopin had a prudish aversion to overt sexuality. One reason why Pollini's performance of the Scherzos being called "troublesome" might be harsh, is that musically he handles them ok, and I'd think that's what's essential, but Deutsche Grammophon has made the odd decision of including Pollini's recording of Sonata no. 2, op.35 (a.k.a. "Funeral March") from 1984 in this set, instead of Argerich's recording from 1975. First of all, Argerich's version has clearer sound (at least on the newly refurbished "The Originals" edition...but then again, that was released in 2002,) but second of all, and more importantly, her playing is far more straight forward during the first part of the Sonata (Grave,) whereas Pollini shows too much mercy both for strong dynamics and tempo throughout. Furthermore he's on the verge of playing parts of the March suggesting "lento," as if it read "rubato" (it's a MARCH!) His performance of Piano Sonata no.3 is also a bit lifeless, but the hour long disc of Polonaises recorded 1975 he handles surprisingly well (the occasional phlegmatic karaoke-roars may need a little time getting used to, though.) Several of these interpreters make some less musical noises while playing - Zimerman, for instance, breathes heavily through the nose after each and every completed phrase throughout all off his performances (although it can't be heard with orchestra.) When listening to his solo performances in head phones, the constant snuffling can distract and annoy quite a bit, but I know that I do the exact same thing when I play, myself, so perhaps I shouldn't complain until I've managed to rid the inconvenient problem myself. Besides Pollini's Polonaise interpretations, there's another (76 minute long) disc of Polonaises featuring mainly Ugorski, but also Argerich. Something that seems odd to me is that the sound quality of Argerich's 1974 recording once again is superior to a newer recording - in this case to the 1999 recording of Ugorski, which doesn't feature much middle in the sound picture, but uneven soughing and clip noises! Both their performances (but especially Argerich's,) are about as enjoyable as Chopin interpretations can be, I'd think, as is the technically and musically perfect, touching and mesmerizing Nocturne interpretations of Daniel Barenboim, recorded in 1981 - his playing here equals close to two hours of pure magic. While being a Rubinstein fan, I'm going to have to say that Barenboim's way of playing the Nocturnes is just how I think they should be played; they call for this somewhat gentle touch mixed in with their brutal sincerity, but I suggest for those who (especially) enjoy the Etudes, Sonatas and Scherzos to listen to Rubinstein's recordings of the works (available on RCA's Rubinstein Collection, vol. 26, vol. 45 and vol. 46.) Pollini is, of course, a fine performer, but I'd suggest listening to his interpretations of Prokofiev's and Stravinsky's work instead.
Rubinstein recorded the preludes (op.28) in their entirety only once, in 1946, which means that they aren't available in RCA's collection with preferable sound quality, but on this set Martha Argerich delivers a great performance of the 26 preludes (no.1-24, op.28, plus 25, op.45, and 26, op. 35,) recorded in 1975. One prelude that in my opinion should always be played as slow and gentle as possible is no.15 (a.k.a. "The Raindrop Prelude.") What I'd like to describe as a prefect version of the piece is performed by--despite my having done a lot of research--a, to me unknown performer, but runs at 6:08 minutes. Argerich rushes the whole piece a bit (the drops fall too closely -) the fact that her version runs at 4:51 should say a lot. Of the approximately 20 different performances I've heard of this particular prelude (obviously one of my favorites,) Argerich's is the shortest, and lays somewhere in the swamp among other "medium integral" versions. She delivers exciting performances of the other preludes, though - the first time I heard them, I hit repeat on my CD player, and listened to nothing else for three days.
The Mazurkas, here performed by Jean-Marc Luisada and Lilya Zilberstein, are performed--while beautifully--quite carefully and loosely. For those who'd like a more restrained performance of the pieces, RCA's Rubinstein Collection, vol. 50, is recommended.
Besides all the music for only piano(s,) Chopin also composed 80 minutes worth of chamber music, which here is performed by Beaux Arts Trio, et al. He also wrote 45+ minutes worth of songs, which here is performed by soprano Elzbieta Szmytka and pianist Malcolm Martineau on a 1999 performance. I don't feel qualified to comment on solo singing in Polish, but while I don't care for the occasional close-to-full effect vibrato, I like Martineau's piano playing and the almost folksy melodies and arrangements. This music distinguishes itself by far from the rest of the music in the set. Translations to several languages of the lyrics to the 19 songs are included.
The stereophony on all recordings is great, the overall sound quality on all discs (when considering the years of the recordings) I'd give a 4/5, but still rate the whole package 9/10 - I'd think that some (both older and newer) recordings could have been transferred better, while some sound superior to what you'd dare dream of. This is definitely the best complete edition of Chopin's music available, and perhaps the best collection of works available on disc by any classical composer. A lot of work has been put into the set's design, the sound, and certainly the amount and accuracy of interesting info given in the enclosed illustrated 140 page hard-cover book (of which a fifth is written in English) and in the 40-60 page booklets (also illustrated) included in each volume; practically everything you'll ever need to know about the composer (and these recordings) is included here along with all the music he wrote. Well worthy of your time and money.

Enlightening but slighly blemished.......2004-07-05

I commend DG on producing this comprehensive and thoughtfully packaged/annotated collection of Chopin's output. In it one can appreciate the wondrous manner in which Chopin at once appeased the conservative appetites of the Paris salon set while revolutionizing the genre of piano music in both traditional and more intimate forms.

The greatest virtue of this collection is the opportunity to hear more obscure elements of Chopin's collected ouevre. He wrote some lovely chamber music and wrote highly effective variations with and without orchestra. Among his 17 songs are a few gems.

As for the strength of the performances, some of them are rightly considered definitive. I love Zimerman in the piano concerti, Argerich owns the Op. 28 preludes, and I find in Pollini's scherzos the unbridled energy and interpretive depth required by these challenging pieces. Even if Daniel Barenboim's nocturnes do not set any records, they are well-done and completely satisfying.

I was less enthusiastic about Pollini's readings of the latter 2 piano sonatas, which I find prosaic on the whole. I was equally underwhelmed by Bunin's impromptus, which again betray interpretive rather than technical deficiencies. My greatest disappointment is Jean-Marc Luisada's controversial readings of the mazurkas. An unwieldy rubato rules the day here, and distorts the harmonic language to the point that it sounds like Debussy or Ravel's frequent (and unshakeably French-sounding) evocations of Spain. I much prefer any of the Rubinstein mazurka sets, which are colorful but rhythmically mindful of their namesakes.

Properly supplemented in the more familiar repertory (mazurkas, impromptus, sonatas, in particular), I believe this set is indispensable to anyone who appreciates or seeks a broader understanding of Chopin the composer. I recommend it highly.

Chopin - Luisada, Jean-Marc.......2002-04-14

I am a professional Pianist and Piano-pedagoge trained at the University of Graz and Vienna (Austria).
It seems as often reviewers/critics/listeners have the same opinions: I wonder if it isn't in some cases the old story of the Emperors new clothes - nobody dares to have a different opinion, as they do not want to appear stupid.
Some of the reviewers here, didn't like Luisadas performances of the Mazurkas. I hold the heretical opinion that Jean-Marc Luisadas performances are much better than Rubinsteins (I possess the three different complete Mazurka recordings of Rubinstein). There are few pianists that like Luisada know how to treat the piano as a truly polyphonic instrument, with absolute control of every line, and at the same time being able to emphasise every harmonic detail - giving every chord its differing and appropriate degree of tension. Furthermore he understands how to display the different moods and characters of the music. All these factors make Luisadas performances extremely colourful. Every Mazurka with Luisada is a unique experience.

Ps. Other recordings do occasionally wet the critical appetite: For instance the everywhere highly acclaimed Chopin recordings with Pollini are often musically awful, the Etudes opus 10 nr. 1 and opus 25 nr. 1 are examples. For the complete Etudes, buy Boris Berezovsky's recording for Teldec, it surpasses Pollini by far. Ds.

Chopin - Luisada, Jean-Marc.......2002-04-14

Learn, learn, learn!.......2000-10-16

This box set is a must for any lover of piano music.

DG deserves praise for coming with an excellent set of records as well as presentation of the booklets. It is breathtaking to have the opportunity to really know Chopin so well.

Performers are first rate and speak for themselves, and for the price of 8 CD's you get the whole collection. Yes, you can get in some cases better performances, but overall you can find a better compilation. Naxos has its own, and I am going to exchange it with a friend, problem will be to get mine back!

Buy it without hesitation.

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