Serenades & Cantatas

On this CD:

1. Così del vostro suono (Il Tionfo della Gloria), cantata
Composed by Leonardo Leo
Performed by Cristina Miatello

2. Sorge Lidia la notte, cantata with violins
Composed by Leonardo Leo
Performed by Cristina Miatello

3. Splende più dell'usato, cantata for solo voice & strings
Composed by Leonardo Leo
Performed by Cristina Miatello

Serenades & Cantatas, Music, Leo, Confraternita De Musici, Prontera, Chamber Music & Recitals, Classical, Classical Composers, Classical Music

Nocturnes & Serenades
Average customer rating:

Another Scott Hamilton Hit

Nocturnal vibes.

Late night sounds

Scott Hamilton continues to impress

Like Webster with a touch of Getz

Nocturnes & Serenades
Scott Hamilton
Manufacturer: Concord Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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From This Moment On

ASIN: B000FZET02
Release Date: 2006-08-01

Tracks:

Man With A Horn
Autumn Nocturne
Flamingo
I'm Glad There Is You
Serenade In Blue
Isn't It A Pity
You Go To My Head
Chelsea Bridge
By The River Sainte-Marie
A Portrait Of Jenny

Album Description

Since his debut album, released to considerable critical acclaim in 1977 on Concord Jazz, Scott Hamilton (b. 1954) has established himself as one our foremost tenor saxophone balladeers, one with a keen ear for indelible first-rate tunes. With Nocturnes and Serenades, his forty-first Concord Jazz disc as a leader or co-leader, Hamilton's balladry takes center stage, and with sublime results. Eight of the ten performances herein are ballads (the medium-tempo exceptions are "Flamingo" and "By the River Sainte Marie"), and Hamilton's aged-in-oaken-casks approach has never been warmer or more full-bodied. Now residing in England, the Providence, RI native is backed by his regular touring rhythm section; their empathetic support is at once unobtrusive and in-the-moment. Early in his career it was observed that Hamilton's sound and conception channeled those of giants Ben Webster and Zoot Sims. But on Nocturnes and Serenades it's the soul of Scott Hamilton that comes to the fore. And he builds a "Chelsea Bridge" that is every bit on a scale with that of Webster, its previous master architect.

Customer Reviews:

Another Scott Hamilton Hit.......2007-05-01

Scott Hamilton is like wine. He gets better with age. Lovely melodies in tenor saxophone. The classics like Chelsea Bridge is reason enough to buy this album. A great album no doubt. Buy it now!

Nocturnal vibes........2007-03-13

There are many reasons to love the wonderful tenor saxophone playing of American jazz star Scott Hamilton, but his gorgeous, velvet tone and exquisite lyricism are probably best showcased on ballads, which is why this collection is such a winner.

It's a rare treat to hear an album which conjures up one particular mood and functions like a suite of music, but Hamilton and his trio establish a late-night, seductive vibe with the soulful opener, 'Man With A Horn', and keep it going throughout.

Late night sounds.......2006-11-27

From the first slur on the wonderful "Man with a Horn" Scott Hamilton fans are in for a great treat of pure Hamilton lush tones.Call your girlfriend,turn down the lights, this is romance time music. Scott takes a page from his protege ,Harry Allen who has producted to great highly successful cd's with the new jazz label "mcmahon jazzmedicine", "Jazz for the soul and Jazz for the heart,"which are all Ballad albums.Scott plays 8 ballads here which are 8 of his best.All Scotts cd's are available at [...]

Scott Hamilton continues to impress.......2006-11-06

Ever since he began recording for the late Carl Jefferson's Concord Jazz label in the 1970s, Scott Hamilton has been one of the premier tenor sax men in jazz. He plays with a masculine tone and with the melodic line of a modern-day Ben Webster, and the listener can always follow that melodic line thoughout his improvisations, which are always a joy to hear. Unlike too many sax players today, who seem to think that their efforts can best be displayed by the number of notes they can fit into a measure with the greatest speed, Hamilton does not "over play" his music.

With Hamilton joined here with an excellent rhythm section, this latest CD continues the long line of great music that he has produced over the past 30 years. After listening to this, go buy all of his other CDs, and don't forget all those great recordings he did for Concord Jazz with Rosemary Clooney.

Like Webster with a touch of Getz.......2006-08-25

I don't know about Zoot Sims, but these is a great deal of Ben Webster and a touch of Stan Getz in Scott Hamilton's handling of these old classics.

Boozey and wide sound on the sax, like very late night and a bottle of Brandy. backup band meshes well with the romantic sound. Sort of a fifties feel.

Chelsea Bridge track may be as definitive as Ben Websters version. Flamingo is more up tempo.

Some of Hamiltons earlier albums struck me as, hmm, polite, but he cuts loose and puts a lot of feeling into this album.

Concord does their usual great job with sound recording.
Recommended.

Reneé Fleming & Jean-Yves Thibaudet - Night Songs (Fauré, Debussy, Marx, Strauss, Rachmaninov)

Average customer rating:

A lovely compilation of songs from wonderful composers
Masterful
Night Songs, Day Songs, whatever...this album is a must have!!
Musical Collaboration: Night Songs/Fleming/Thibaudet
What in the world...????

Reneé Fleming & Jean-Yves Thibaudet - Night Songs (Fauré, Debussy, Marx, Strauss, Rachmaninov)
Gabriel Fauré , and Claude Debussy
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Renée Fleming - The Schubert Album
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Renée Fleming: Bel Canto

ASIN: B00005AWIA
Release Date: 2001-04-03

Tracks:

Clair De Lune, Op. 42 No. 2
Mandoline, Op. 46 No. 2
Apres Un Reve , Op.58 No.1
Soir, Op. 83 No. 2
Nell, Op. 18 No. 1
Beau Soir
Mandoline
Apparition
Chansons De Bilitis: I - La Flute De Pan
Chansons De Bilitis: II - La Chevelure
Chansons De Bilitis: III - Le Tombeau Des Naiades
Nocturne
Nachtgebet
Selige Nacht
Pierrot Dandy
Ruhe, Meine Seele!, Op. 27 No. 1
Schlechtes Wetter, Op. 69 No. 5
Leises Lied, Op. 39 No. 1
Leise Lieder, Op. 41a No. 5
Cacilie, Op. 27 No. 2
Zdes Khorosho, Op. 21 No. 7
V Molchani Nochi Taynoy, Op. 4 No. 3
Rechnaya Liliya, Op. 8 No. 1
Son, Op. 38 No. 5
Eti Letniye Nochi, Op. 14 No. 5
Ne Poy, Krasavitsa, Op. 4 No. 4

Amazon.com's Best of 2001

Soprano Renée Fleming's mastery of a wide repertory extends to the more rarefied world of song on this disc. A French group opens the disc--11 songs by Fauré and Debussy that are often elusive, wedded to a style of intimacy not always comfortable for non-French opera singers. Fleming's not completely at home in them, often overinterpreting songs whose style is too fragile and understated for such an approach. Still, she offers many moments of rapturous singing, such as the way she floats the last word, "mystérieuse," of Fauré's "Après un rëve," tingeing it with eroticism.

"Mandolin" appears in two versions, Fauré's gently swinging one balanced by Debussy's bouncier take. The Rachmaninoff set also fascinates, her sensuous voice bringing its own rewards. Best of all are the German lieder by Joseph Marx and Richard Strauss. This is closer to home for Fleming, and one senses an ease in her singing that digs behind the words to the meaning of the poems. The Marx set is the highlight, perhaps because his songs are the least familiar here. They're also things of great beauty, and Fleming makes the most of the dreamily sensuous "Selige Nacht" and the twisted, nightmarish waltz of "Pierrot Dandy." The Strauss songs are as good: to cite one highlight, Fleming's rapt inwardness makes "Ruhe meine Seele" compelling. Her voice is never less than drop-dead gorgeous, and she's neatly accompanied by pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet. A feast for Fleming fans. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

A lovely compilation of songs from wonderful composers.......2007-06-08

It was thrilling to hear songs from Rachmaninov on this album. And the Strauss and Marx pieces give almost a contemporary feel (considering they ARE almost contemporary composers).

Thibaudet plays with a sensitive, emotional touch and was a wonderful choice as a pianist on this album.

My reason for a less than perfect scoring was due to the almost harsh edges of Renee Fleming's singing due to her unyielding control. For a voice so full of warmth and depth to be so forcefully held back, the result is a tension that the ear pushes to resolve, but never does. I wonder how she would sound if she would allow more freedom in her voice.

Masterful.......2007-03-22

Apart from an occasional very slight diction problem this is a masterful recital disc that belongs in the very highest echelon.

Fleming combines an highly imaginative approach with an equally appropriate chameleon like adaptation of the coloration of her voice to each of the individual composers. Thibaudet, who performs all of the featured composers in his piano repertoire is an ideal accompanist.
The recording is colorful and provides a flawless balance between voice and piano.

In all, a masterful must.

Night Songs, Day Songs, whatever...this album is a must have!!.......2005-10-30

This is a CD that every household should have. Masterful piano playing and even more masterful singing make this CD exquisite. Yes, I'm quite partial to Diva Fleming, but let's face it, America hasn't had a soprano with such skill in an awfully long time. Listen to her breath control on track 8 - OY! The closing number "Ne Poy, Krasavitsa" gets me every time. Here she starts to wail pretty heavily, ending the climactic powerful phrase with a wallop of a high A and then proceeds to float, pretty effortlessly, a string of beautiful pianissimo notes. If you can sit and listen to that one piece (itself, worth the price of the album) and not be moved, then you, my friend, have no soul.

Musical Collaboration: Night Songs/Fleming/Thibaudet.......2004-07-12

A perfect disc for a midsummer's evening - or for any season of the year for that matter - NIGHT SONGS is one of those too rare recitals that is based on a theme, executed by musicians who not only are able to stand on their own but who are also able to commit to each other in a true collaboration. This is an intelligent, eloquent selection of songs by varied composers all of whom wrote languorously about the night and its mystery. From Faure's 'Apres un reve' to Debussy's 'Beau soir' through some newly discovered treasures by Joseph Marx like 'Nocturne' and 'Selige Nacht' to the better known repertoire of Strauss and Rachmaninov which gives us newly rethought versions of 'Ruhe, meine Seele!' and 'Cacille' as well as the indescribably beautiful Rachmaninov songs. Fleming and Thibaudet are in fine form and the communication in the various languages is strong. Only one quibble of significance here: the miking is so close to the singer that it often covers what usually is a perfect blend of piano and voice. Bit perhaps that is the fault of my system....

What in the world...????.......2002-08-08

For two reasons.

First, may I ask, why was this CD given anything other then 5 stars? What does a person have to do to become liked these days? Bye their hair purple and sing through their noses? (Like Brittney Spears?)

This is an amazing CD!

Reneé's french singing is beautiful, and amazing. She really has the correct tone for french songs!

The german was also lovely. However, it is nothing Reneé did wrong, I just like french songs better then the german.

Tracks:

Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: 1. Allegro moderato
Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: 2. Adagio di molto
Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: 3. Allegro, man non tanto
Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: Serenade No. 1 In D Major, Op. 69a - Andante assai
Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: Serenade No. 2 In G Minor, Op. 69b - Lento assai
Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: Humoresque No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 87 No. 1 - Commodo

Amazon.com essential recording

The very first notes of this extraordinary performance show how thoughtfully Anne-Sophie Mutter has approached the work. Sibelius's marking for the solo violin is dolce ed espressivo, which for most violinists would mean "with vibrato." But Mutter plays senza vibrato and achieves a hauntingly expressive effect over the muted pianissimo oscillations of the orchestral violins. Happily, she sustains this high level of engagement with the score through the entire account, playing the taxing solo part with riveting intensity, making every note count, producing a gloriously rich and varied tone, and giving the listener a memorable musical experience in the process. The effect of all this on André Previn and the Staatskapelle Dresden, to paraphrase Mark Twain, appears to have been prompt and electric. They give a spectacular reading of the score, one notable for both its sonorous depth and its sense of atmosphere. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

Dismal!.......2007-06-21

I am sorry to disagree with those who seem to like this performance as much as they do. I think that they should listen to what Isaac Stern does with this music -- to me the way it should be played. Here the soloist playing is, well, fussy and contrived. Mutter often emphsizes the wrong things and phrases and plays some of the notes in odd ways that I doubt the composer intended. Her rhubato, for example, does not inform, but instead distracts. Mutter and the orchestra play the work so slowly that they strain and sometimes very nearly lose altogether the integrity of the music's melodic line. How can one play Sibelius like this? (I do not think I can blame the tempos chosen on the conductor. Mutter seems determined to play almost everything too slowly.) Mutter's playing betrays no understanding of this music at all. Add the fact that neither the conductor nor the orchestra seems to have any idea of what Sibelius might be about, producing as a result laughably dull, directionless accompaniment, and we are left with a dismal performance by all.

A divider, not a uniter.......2005-11-02

Violin mavens aren't middle-of-the-road, any more than opera buffs. Mutter typically divides opinion strongly about whether her highly technical, extremely detailed and personal playing is a sign of exceptional musicianship or the opposite: a self-absorbed fussiness that ignores the composer so that everything can focus on herself.

I fall into the latter group. To my ears this is an impossibly fussed-over Sibelius concerto, with hardly a natural phrase to be heard. I won't go into detail--what's the point? The consensus here seems to be that this is a gorgeous woman playing a gorgeous violin in a gorgeous virtuosic romp. Okay.

Striving for effect (or maybe just showboating?).......2005-08-28

There seem to be two Anne-Sophie Mutters. The first was the violinist from her debut till about 1994, who made some of the best recordings I've heard in modern times, even if some of them were perhaps a *little* over-hyped. The second is this far more technical, far more, well, egotistical soloist, who seems to say in every recording, "Woohoo, look what *I* can do." Or, to put it another way, she plays the violin but not the concerto. Watching her in a recent documentary comment on her first recording of the Beethoven concerto, she said it had nothing to do with how she would handle the piece today. Undoubtedly so, and what a pity. I have nothing against interpretations that get off the beaten path and take us to unfamiliar regions, but her journey today sounds superficial, with overly-mannered playing (slooowing down at the eeend of eeevery phraaaaaase) and a futzing with vibrato and color every ten bars, rather than saving her special effects for key dramatic moments. That latter would demonstrate to me that she knows the *concerto* as well as the *violin.* As it is, now that she has conquered the fiddle--and there is no doubt that she has; she almost seems bored with it at times--she should dedicate her life to studying the *scores.* Hubby Andy (although he wasn't her hubby back then) wades through the work with a decaffeinated Staatskapelle Dresden, following his partner rather than sparring with her. The second movement works best, where things really do get a bit over the top at the big climax, but even here it comes dangerously close to hysterics and melodrama. This concerto to me is about fire meeting ice. In their hands, it's about blubber meeting more blubber.

For some really intense accounts, try Heifetz/Beecham, Mullova/Ozawa (and I'm generally not an Ozawa fan, but the two of them struck magic here), and above all, the gold standard, Oistrakh/Rozhdestvensky, where the fire and ice are almost too much to bear, and the technique is just as assured, if not as showboaty. Listening to these recordings, you get the impression the artists studied the work first and then decided how they would approach it from the point of view of violin technique. I greatly admire Mutter's prowess on her instrument, but technique is not an end to itself, and I have not gotten the feeling she has really penetrated a work to the core since her 1992 recording of the Berg concerto. Perhaps this is the danger of being the world's number one violin star at the moment. If so, she needs to get over herself.

A splendid rendition.......2005-01-28

The post-Karajan Mutter continues to impress me with her growing musical maturity, and her in-depth exploration of the Sibelius is yet another testament to her artistry. As with all of her recordings, her fabulous tone is evident throughout, as is a technique that is more than equal to the challenges of the composer. I would dispute the one reviewer who argues that she slows down in the more technically challenging passages; certainly one cannot make that claim in the 3rd movement, which is certainly as brisk in its tempi as any recording available on the market today, and in any case, Mutter has always had a tendency to try and draw everything she can out of each note. A particularly notorious example of this would be her youthful recording of the Beethoven concerto with Karajan, where slow tempi cause the whole piece to become absolutely bogged down to a level beyond redemption. One certainly cannot find anything of that sort in this recording of the Sibelius, which remains a coherent performance throughout.

So why only 4 stars? Well, first and foremost, Previn & the Dresden Staatskapelle really seems to be phoning in their performance at times, and with a concerto like this, such a defect can cause quite a bit of damage. This could be due to mike placement as much as anything, but whether it is the sound engineer or the performers themselves, the result is an ensemble that sounds at times disengaged and at others overwhelmed by the soloist.

Also, as another reviewer has observed, a 47-minute CD at full price (where a third of the music consists of nice but relatively inconsequential compositions), simply put, is a ripoff. Why not fill it out a little? Put all six Humoreskes on the recording, or a tone poem if you like, or perhaps a lesser known piece like the Suite Mignonne. There are plenty of options, but none is explored here. Consumers expect a full CD for full price, so DG should deliver accordingly.

However, the consumer should be have nothing to complain about when it comes to Mutter's performance. She certainly appears to be fulfilling all of her potential as an artist.

She did it.......2001-10-03

When I first bought the CD I was skeptical, I haven't found many non-Finnish musicians who could make Finnish music sound like it should. You have to be able to imagine vasts forests and thousands of blue, clean lakes on a sunny day in the backgraound. But Mutter did it. She plays with feeling and yet she is very sharp. The only diappoinment was the conductor, I think he did a very sloppy job, the orcestra was dragging along too much, it sounded like they needed a good kick in the pants. But Mutter's performance made it all up. One of the best performances of Sibelius I've ever heard.

Average customer rating:

Altogether Wonderful
The Best
Musical bliss

String Serenades

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Hindemith: Symphonic Metamorphoses; Concert Music for Strings and Brass; Bartók: The Miraculous Mandarin - Suite
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Scandinavian String Music
Tchaikovsky: Serenade for Strings

ASIN: B00004LCB1
Release Date: 2000-06-27

Tracks:

Ser Op.48: Pezzo In Forma Di Sonatina: Andante Non Troppo - Allegro Moderato
Ser Op.48: Waltz: Moderato, Tempo Di Valse
Ser Op.48: Elegie: Larghetto Elegiaco
Ser Op.48: Finale: Tema Russo: Andante - Allegro Con Spirito
Ser in E, Op.22: Moderato
Ser in E, Op.22: Tempo Di Valse
Ser in E, Op.22: Scherzo: Vivace
Ser in E, Op.22: Larghetto
Ser in E, Op.22: Finale: Allegro Vivace - Moderato - Presto
Intro & Allegro Op.47
Ser in e, Op.20: I. Allegro Piacevole
Ser in e, Op.20: II. Larhetto
Ser in e, Op.20: III. Allegretto

Tracks:

The Lark Ascending, Romance
Fant On 'Greensleeves'
Fant On A Theme By Thomas Tallis
Ser Op.8: Andante Con Moto
Ser Op.8: Allegro Ma Non Troppo E Grazioso
Ser Op.8: Adagio
Ser Op.8: Allegro Giocoso, Ma Non Troppo Presto

Customer Reviews:

Altogether Wonderful.......2005-12-25

I like this cd.

Tchaikovsky's Serenade had some tempi I hadn't been used to, especially in the first movement, but the orchestra made just as wonderful a recording.

Dvorak's Serenade is my favorite among the four, and this recording is great. The orchestra is never too harsh, especially in the second, and fourth movements.

Introduction and Allegro is an interesting piece. I love how full the sound is. Some recordings feature smaller orchestras, and the sound is not as big and lush. As for Elgar's Serenade, it was played precisely. Besides that, i don't have much to say about it.

The Lark Ascending on this cd is a good version, maybe not the best, but there are certainly many ups about it. The violinist is very playful and does a good job of portraying the little bird. I don't listen to Fantasia on "Greensleeves" much. I don't know why. I can't say much about it, but they certainly do a good job of making it sound "English", for that matter. The Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis is fine. I wouldn't choose this version though. The piece just didn't sweep me up, especially during the climax.

Suk's Serenade is a fun piece to listen to. The piece never gets boring, perhaps due to the actual composition but also with help from the orchestra.

Get this cd if you want a collective, but good picture of the String Serenades out there. I would recommend it.

The Best.......2003-01-26

The music and the musicians of this CD are the of greatest quality. I do not think that many words are necessary, but I must say that this is by far one of my favorite CDs. If you are unsure about classical music or dyed in the wool listener, or a musician, I would recommend this by all means. Even as a musician who has played several of these serenades and heard them many times, I do not tire of hearing them. Coupled with the great sound of the London Chamber orchestra this album is a rare jewel.

Musical bliss.......2000-08-13

I attended a concert in which the Los Angeles Mozart Orchestra, known better for their Mozart music, performed the Serenade for strings by Dvorak. It is an excellent piece. The Larghetto, the slowest movement in the serenade, is a fine work. It is slow and nearly an adagio for strings, with a serious and meditative tone. The scherzo, like the measure, is a rollicking and bouncy bit of music, with skipping strings and bouncing notes. The scherzos of Mendelsshon I particularily enjoy. Dvorak is'nt exactly like Mendelsshon when it comes to the scherzo form, but he is can alternate from grave to joyous tones.

Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies & Tone Poems

Average customer rating:

5 stars for the syms
Beautiful and comprehensive compilation of Sibelius works
excellent collection
A must for Sibelius lovers
A terrific and near-perfect set

Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies & Tone Poems

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Bruckner: The Complete Symphonies
Strauss: Orchestral Works
Debussy, Ravel: Orchestral Works
Liszt: Works for Piano and Orchestra
Symphonies 1-3 / Piano Concerto 1-4 / Isle of Dead

ASIN: B00005MIZT
Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

I: Andante, Ma Non Troppo - Allegro Energico
II: Andante (Ma Non Troppo Lento)
III: Scherzo: Allegro
IV: Finale (Quasi Una Fantasia): Andante - Allegro Molto
I: Allegretto
II: Tempo Andante, Ma Rubato
III: Vivacissimo - Lento E Suave - Tempo Primo - Largamente -
IV: Finale: Allegro Moderato

Tracks:

I: Allegro Moderato
II: Andantino Con Moto, Quasi Allegretto
III: Moderato - Allegro (Ma Non Tanto)
I: Tempo Molto Moderato, Quasi Adagio
II: Allegro Molto Vivace - Doppio Piu Lento
III: Il Tempo Largo
IV: Allegro

Tracks:

I: Tempo Molto Moderato - Largamente - Allegro Moderato
II: Andante Mosso, Quasi Allegretto
III: Allegretto Molto - Un Pochettino Largamente
I: Allegro Molto Moderato
II: Allegretto Moderato - Poco Con Moto
III: Poco Vivace
IV: Allegro Molto - Allegro Assai - Doppio Piu Lento

Tracks:

Adagio -
Un Pochettino Meno Adagio - Vivacissimo -
Poco Rallentando Al Adagio - Allegro Molto Moderato - Allegro Moderato - Vivace -
Presto - Adagio - Largamente Molto - Affettuoso
Cantata: Oma Maa, Op.92: 'Our Own Land'
Tulen Synty, Op.32: The Origin Of Fire

Tracks:

I: Introductione: Allegro Moderato
II: Kullervo's Youth: Grave
III: Kullervo And His Sister: Allegro Vivace
IV: Kullervo Goes To Battle: Alla Marcia
V: Kullervo's Death: Andante

Tracks:

The Oceanides, Op.73
I: Intermezzo
III: Alla Marcia
I: All'overtura: Grave - Allegro/II: Scena: Tempo Di Menuetto - Allegro Moderato/III: Festivo: Tempo Di Bolero
Tapiola, Op.112
Finlandia, Op.26
Serenade No.1 in D, Op.69a
Serenade No.2 in g, Op.69b (Lento Assai)

Tracks:

Luonnotar, Op.70
Pohjola's Daughter, Op.49
En Saga, Op.9
I. Nocturne
II. Elegie
III. Musette
IV. Serenade
V. Ballade
The Bard, Op.64

Tracks:

Spring Song, Op.16
III. The Swan Of Tuonela
IV. Lemminkainen's Return
I. At The Castle Gate
II. Melisande
IIa. By The Seashore
III. A Spring In The Park
IV. The Three Blind Sisters
V. Pastorale
VI. Melisande At The Spinning-wheel
VII. Entr'acte
VIII. The Death Of Of Melisande
Valse Triste
Scene With Cranes
II. The Harp
III. The Maidens With Roses
IV. Listen, The Robin Sings
VI. Swanwhite And The Prince

Customer Reviews:

5 stars for the syms.......2006-03-18

with the Helsinki
3 Stars for the Bourgemouth on the poems.
But truth be told, no matter how EMPHATIC statements that his syms are not programmatic, that is fall into a logical step by step order, they are just that, very predictible.
I've given these syms 30 yrs, and lately I've lost interest.
While Schonberg, Berg, Webern, Varese were scoring creative new atonal/poloytonal works of new genius, here was Sibelius struggling with old forms, that fail to deliver anything really new. And he knew it, and bothered him to no end.
I feel there is way too much Beethoven/Bruckner(I like neither) influence in the syms for me to become a fan of the syms. I like the 1st sym "somewhat" that is I never listen to it, and small parts of the 4-7 syms. But I'm afraid I only like Sibelius pre 1905, the Kullervo, VC, tone poems. Here is where the genius of Sibelius truly lies.
The syms long ago held some interest, but lately i've moved on to Schnittke and Pettersson.
I also much prefer Vaughan Wialliams syms to all of Sibelius.
Sibelius was a genius in his element, that of representing the folk ideas of his land. His syms are like a string of ideas that lack the connective passages. IOW the whole is less than the few interesting parts.

Beautiful and comprehensive compilation of Sibelius works.......2005-09-29

For me, this has been the year of Sibelius. Previously, I had listened to (and enjoyed) Finlandia. I also had a couple of the symphonies but hadn't listened too them but once or twice. After listening to Finlandia again, I decided to seek out more SIbelius to sample. After some searching through reviews, I settled upon this compilation of works because it offered a large variety of Sibelius and seemed to be well-received. I have been very happy with this purchase! Not only have I spent countless hours listening to each of the 8 disks in this set, the enjoyment of the music has led me to many other wonderful performances of Sibelius by other worthy conductors such as Ashkenazy and Vanska. Still, this boxed set will always be fondly remembered as the one that introduced me to the wonders of so many of these pieces.

I was immediately captured by the haunting clarinet solo that begins the first symphony. All of the symphonies, performed by the Helsinki Orchestra, are recorded in very clear digital sound -- so the solo and the pecussion accompanyment were perfectly captured. I was hooked by the first symphony, but all of the symphonies are presented clearly and with outstanding interpretations. The Helsinki Philharmonic has always had a strong affiliation with Sibelius's music, and Paavo Berglund is a renowned Sibelius conductor who has recorded three separate symphony cycles (once with the Bournemouth Symphony orchestra, the 2nd time with these recordings, and a third time with the Chamber Orchestra of Europe). The commitment felt by the conductor and orchestra comes through in these performances.

In addition to the complete symphony cycle, there are a number of other treasures. A fine version of Finlandia is accompanied by a number of truly delightful tone poems such as Tapiola, the haunting Swan of Tuonela and Lemminkainen's Return (from the Lemminkainen Suite). These tone poems were inspired by the Finnish Kalevala. Other tone poems such as the Oceanides and Spring Song were inspired by Sibelius's love of nature. All receive strong performances by Berglund conducting the Bournemouth Symphony (in analog sound that is still quite good). The violin serenades (especially no. 2) were unexpected delights. The version of Kullervo is magnificent, as is the singing in Luonnotar and Oma maa. This set is a treasure trove of Sibelius treats!

excellent collection.......2004-06-28

This box set includes Sibelius' all symphonies, with Kullervo and his almost complete tone poems. The Symphonies are performed by Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, Kullervo and tone poems with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. All of them conducted by Paavo Berglund, who always a champion on performer of Sibelius.

Even so there are his incidental musics: Pelleas et Melisande, Swanwhite, Kuolema and King Christian II.
Especially Pelleas and Kuolema (which includes ever famous Valse triste) are the most beautifuls. Pelleas et Melisande is a very impressive music, and the best "Pelleas" music with Debussy's Pelleas (opera).

Kullervo is symphony-cantata for two soloists, men-chorus and orchestra, which be constitued in 5 movements, comparable in artistically with Mahler's 2nd Symphony "Resurrection". Especially the last movement "Kullervo's Death" is very effective, pathetique.

And one more a vocal work, a tone poem for soprano and orchestra: Lounnutar. This is based on Kalevala again, and Luonnotar is creator of nature in this poem. It is a very radical work, like his darkful 4th Symphony and The Bard. I think, The Bard is one of the best works of the composer, with it's harmonis, dark colours, contemplative mood. Still, this was written in tragic E-flat minor. It is based on a mythologic creature which plays an harp, like lyre in Greek mythology. And in the last minutes there is a dramatic climax and then music slowly fades out.

And there is the best Tapiola recording, I've ever heard (with Petri Sakari's version at Naxos). This is based on Kalevala, again. Tapio is the name of the forest god, according story. There are very impressive contrasts between hypnotic, a little hesitated, light colours and dramatic darkful colours. The orchestration is marvellous again. Especially, in last minutes there is a terrific storm scene and it's very spine chilling. Climaxes (which played by brass) are very powerful...

This is a very good addition to collectors of Sibelius fans and any classical music lovers. Highly recommended.

A must for Sibelius lovers.......2003-01-07

Jean Sibelius is one of those composers who I feel that even on his off days he did well. While I certainly can't say I enjoy all of his music enough to buy (Sacaramouche for instance), most of his music is highly pleasureful. All of the pieces on this set, conducted by Paavo Berglund, save maybe one or two, are part of the later catagory.

This set consists of most of Sibelius's major orchestral music, with the notible exceptions of Night Ride and Subrise, the first two sections of the Lemmenkainen Suite, and the Violin Concerto. It also contains such rarities as Origin of Fire, Our Own Land, and excepts from Swan White.

Berglund, I believe, was the first to fully record a complete cycle of Sibelius symphonies. The recordings here are not from his first set (which I have not heard), but the second cycle recorded in the mid-80s. The symphonies and two canatas mentioned above are recorded in digital, while the rest is analog. It's all in very good sound, though not perfect. That they wanted to keep the D and A recodings on seperate discs is the only possible reason I can see for why they left out the Violin Concerto (there's plenty of room on disc 4).

Now of course, contents are one thing, but what really matters is performance. And suffice it to say, they for the most part shine. This has easily the finest Symphony 1 I've heard, and the finale of Symphony 5 (truly one of the greatest works of the 20th century) shines with brillance. Symphony 3 makes its mark nicely, and Symphony 2, while perhaps a bit on the fast side, is certainly up to par. The only disappointment is Symphony 7, which falls totally flat compared to Davis/BSO.

The two cantatas are wonderful rarities, but its disc 5 where the choral aspect is full played out -- Kullervo. If you've never heard this piece, it's a 75 minute long programatic symphony (to use to term losely) with many ups and downs. This was the first ever recording, and most say it hasn't been topped.

The final three discs contain shorter works. Especially noteable are the absolutely beautiful Serenade #2 for Violin and Orchestra, the hauntingly lovely Luonnotar, a very rousing version of Lemminkainen's Return, and a passionate Pelleas and Mellsande.

Of course, it's almost impossible to have this big a set without some disapointments. Beyond the aformentioned Symphony 7, there's also not overly convincing Finlandia, and a WAY too slow Karelia Intermezzo. Thankfully, the rest of the set makes up for it. It's a great deal at only about $7 a disc retail, and if you're like me, on you'll keep coming back to.

A terrific and near-perfect set.......2002-04-05

This release couples Berglund's classic Bournemouth recordings of the Kullervo Symphony and a host of tone poems with his most recent cycle of the Symphonies.

The Bournemouth recordings are legendary, especially the Kullervo, which belongs in every classical music library. There is a real warmth to these readings, which charms me into letting the minor flaws in playing pass. The sound is pretty good, though slightly muddy at times (particularly in Tapiola), and the selections have been excellently remastered.

The Symphonies, recorded with the Helsinki Philharmonic in superb digital sound, are a real peak in the discography. Berglund doesn't play his Sibelius lukewarm; his readings are sharp, neo-classical and very powerful. You won't confuse these recordings with those of Colin Davis to be sure. Very comparable to Maazel's earlier readings with the Vienna Philharmonic, but with less over-dramatization. His First, Second, Third, Sixth and Seventh are as good as any, and his reading of the Fourth, while rather bleak for my taste (I like the idea of some kind of softening at the end) is a coherent vision, almost harsh in it's execution.

I really like Maazel's Pittsburgh Fifth, and Berglund's recording in no way comes close to Maazel's splendor or power as a total conception. But, Berglund's middle movement is the best I've heard by far; the obsessively repeated melody seems to weave in and out of the orchestral fabric very seductively. Berglund's knack for architecture is spot on here.

Tracks:

Serenade In D, KV 239 'Serenata Notturna': Marcia. Maestoso
Serenade In D, KV 239 'Serenata Notturna': Menuetto
Serenade In D, KV 239 'Serenata Notturna': Rondeau. Allegretto-Adagio-Allegro
March In D, KV 249
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Allegro Maestoso - Allegro Molto
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Andante
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Menuetto
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Rondeau. Allegro
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Menuetto Galante
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Andante
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Menuetto
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Adagio-Allegro Assai

Tracks:

Serenade In G, KV 525 'Ein Kleine Nachtmusik': Allegro
Serenade In G, KV 525 'Ein Kleine Nachtmusik': Romance. Andante
Serenade In G, KV 525 'Ein Kleine Nachtmusik': Menuetto. Allegretto
Serenade In G, KV 525 'Ein Kleine Nachtmusik': Rondo. Allegro
March In D, KV 335 No. 1
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Adagio Maestoso - Allegro Con Spirito
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Menuetto. Allegretto
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Concertante. Andante grazioso
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Rondeau. Allegro ma non troppo
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Andantino
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Menuetto
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Finale. Presto
March In D, KV 335 No. 2

Customer Reviews:

A superb collection of Mozart's finest.......2005-04-14

Serenades as these were commissioned by patrons for some nice background music for significant outdoor events (weddings, public celebrations). But, Mozart being Mozart, he went beyond the call in poured out fantastic displays of musical diversity and melodies in this music that went far beyond mere "wallpaper compositions." The four most popular of his serenades are suberbly recorded on these two discs. Each is a galante work of art - full of vivacity, celebration, youthful enthusiasm and skillful composition for a then young Mozart. They are some of the most upbeat and happy music Mozart wrote and showcase his talents at his galante finest. While any individual serenade might be slightly better performed by another ensemble, it is unlikely one will find a better complete set than these. The recorded sound is top notch and the vibrant performaces by the ASMF completely fitting to the type of celebratory music. Conductor Sir Neville Marriner is well-known for his affinity for Mozart and these recordings show that by their well-chosen tempos, tasteful accuntuations and smooth, lyrical flow throughout. A wonderful survey of Mozart's serenades most fitting for a sunny afternoon at home or festive occasion.

Excellent performances with great sound quality.......2003-09-30

Although analog recordings from the mid-80's, these have been digitally remastered and offer bright crisp sound along with a well-defined "stage presence" as if the orchestra were right there in your room. Marriner conducts the ASMF and their modern instruments with grace and elegance, letting the music carry you away. I have no idea what the "In The Fields" part of Academy Of St Martin's name means, but in fact if you close your eyes and use your imagination just a wee bit, you'll find yourself sitting among beautiful fields listening to this sublime music!
If you prefer period instruments, Manze and the English Concert have just released "Night Music" on the Harmonia Mundi label, which features excellent digital recordings of two of Mozart's serenades: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik and Seranata Notturna, as well as other Mozart compositions that Manze felt fit within the theme of night music.

Mozart of character and distinction.......2001-11-06

These are very fine performances by one of the leading conductors and ensembles of our time. Ensemble is crisp, phrasing is lovely, and the tempos are superbly judged. The recording is good, too, set in a glowing acoustic. At two discs for the price of one this simply can't be beat.

Beautiful and understated.......2001-03-06

A great introduction to several of Mozart's great masterpieces including the beloved Eine Kleine Nachtmusik as well as the Posthorn and other great serenades, all played with grace, meticulousness, and understatement by Sir Neville and the Academy. This great orchestra never goes over the top,and lets the music speak for itself. There may be more dramatic versions by larger orchestras, but these get to the essence of the music and let it speak, quitely and beautifully, for itself.

First rate recordings.......2000-12-16

Marriner, a great Mozart conductor, leads the AMSF in these masterpieces. All of the recordings are wonderful with well-judged tempos. The string section of the orchestra distinguish themselves. Philips has warm sound and good liner notes. The Serenata Notturna and Posthorn serenades were love at first hearing for me, and these recordings are the perfect place to look. I don't like all of the Haffner serenade, but some of the movements are gorgeous. For the ambitious collectors, Marriner's earlier Eine Kleine Nachtmusik on EMI is even better than this one.

Ciao Amore! A Lovestruck Set of Swinging Serenades

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Ciao Amore! A Lovestruck Set of Swinging Serenades
Lhasa , Dean Martin , Louis Prima , Pink Martini , Paolo Conte , Rosemary Clooney , Bobby Darin , Ennio Morricone , Domenico Modugno , and Lou Monte
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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Hey Eugene!

ASIN: B000QAD3IA

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Tranquil Dreams

Bedtime Serenades (2 CDs)

Manufacturer: Denon Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music
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Bedtime Beats: The Secret to Sleep
New York Memories
Love Songs
Romantic Moments
Dreaming

ASIN: B000LKAR9S
Release Date: 2007-01-30

Tracks:

Canon in D Minor -- Pachelbel
Air on a G String -- JS Bach
String Quartet -- Ravel
Violin Sonata -- Saint-Saens
Clair de Lune -- Debussy
Aquarium -- Saint-Saens
Fur Elise -- Beethoven
The Planets - Venus -- Holst
1"Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" Romance -- Mozart
Pathetique Sonata -- Beethoven
Piano Sonata in F-sharp minor -- Schumann
Piano Concerto No. 2 -- Rachmaninoff
Violin Concerto -- Mendelsohhn

Tracks:

Moonlight Sonata, Adagio Sostenuto -- Beethoven
"New World" Symphony -- Dvorak
String Quartet No. 2 -- Borodin
Adagio for Strings -- Barber
Serenade for Strings -- Dvorak
Adagio in G Minor -- Albinoni
Sonata for Two Pianos -- Brahms
Violin Concerto No. 4 -- Vivaldi
Prelude and Fugue in C minor -- Bach
Etude in E Major -- Chopin
Serenade for String Orchestra -- Tchaikovsky

Album Description

Based on recently-published articles from leading sleep research institutions, music pulsating at roughly 60 to 80 beats per minute has a soothing effect, causing the listener to fall in to a deep, long lasting sleep. Bedtime Serenades will feature a collection of 24 tranquil classical tracks.

Customer Reviews:

Tranquil Dreams.......2007-03-12

This is a very pleasing program of selections of great romantic melodies, beautifully arranged. This album is also a wonderful album to listen to while falling asleep and would make a great gift for someone who appreciates classical music but doesn't have specific preferences.

Average customer rating:

Brahms at his early finest...
Mind-blowing horn playing
Muscular and expressive interpretation
These are the Serenade Recordings to Own
"Historically Authentic" Brahms

Brahms: Serenades Nos. 1 & 2

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
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Mahler: Symphony 7 In E Minor

ASIN: B000035X5A
Release Date: 1999-11-23

Tracks:

I. Allegro Molto
II. Scherzo: Allegro Non Troppo
III. Adagio Non Troppo
IV. Menuetto 1; Menuetto 2
V. Scherzo: Allegro
VI. Rondo: Allegro
I. Allegro Moderato
II. Scherzo: Vivace
III. Adagio Non Troppo
IV. Quasi Menuetto
V. Rondo: Allegro

Amazon.com

In this follow-up to his provocative cycle of the Brahms symphonies with the same ensemble, Sir Charles Mackerras once again shows that doing things according to received ideas about the music and how it should sound--"tradition," if you will--is simply not his cup of tea. His traversal of the symphonies was provocative in part because he did it with a chamber-orchestra sized string complement, hoping to recapture the balance and sonic weight of an orchestra of Brahms's day, specifically the Meiningen Court Orchestra, which premiered the Fourth Symphony. While that raised some eyebrows, tackling the two serenades with a chamber orchestra makes perfect sense, since both works were written for the modest forces of the court orchestra at Detmold. Lively, lean-textured, and expressive, these accounts comfortably straddle the divide between chamber music and symphonism, thereby allowing a privileged view into the composer's heart-of-hearts. Mackerras lets us see that while the grandeur of the symphonies is impressive, there is even more of the true Brahms--intimate, ardent, and soulful--right here in the serenades. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

Brahms at his early finest..........2005-08-13

Brahms was obviously in a 'symphonic' frame of mind when he composed these serenades. I am glad he finally got around to composing symphonies and not just serenades.

Mind-blowing horn playing.......2005-07-27

Run to get this recording if you want to hear incredible horn playing in Serenade No.1. This piece is sheer joy and the performance is without equal. Power and grace, delicacy and momentum are all here.

Muscular and expressive interpretation.......2004-12-14

Thanks to the historically informed performance of Maestro Mackerras (small divided violin sections and natural horns) and the tremendous recording quality of Telarc one can hear all the instruments very clear and fresh sounding.
I think that this is currently the best pick of the Serenades one can get. I like Mackerras muscular and fairly dramatic interpretation.

Try also his great Brahms Symphony cycle. It is very different than others because Mackerras uses the performing forces Brahms intended in his Meiningen Orchestra (for instance the size and layout of the orchestra including the use of natural brass).

These are the Serenade Recordings to Own.......2003-11-13

I'm a great fan of Sir Charles, but I'm of two minds about his celebrated and controversial Brahms Symphony set. I think the chamber-orchestra approach takes away from almost as much as it brings to this music. On the other hand, I'm willing to say that Brahms's two youthful serenades have never sounded fresher or more piquant than in these wonderful performances, especially the Serenade No. 1, which has all the "look-at-me-world" audaciousness that Brahms must have felt in putting his first orchestral work to paper. It glows, especially in Telarc's crystalline recording. Sir Charles's way with the sweeter, more sedate Second Serenade is just as winning, but it's the performance of the First Serenade that I still, joyously, hear resounding in my imagination.

"Historically Authentic" Brahms.......2001-04-24

While Charles Mackerras has come up with a new reason to record Brahms' Serenades, a historically accurate Brahms is not necessarily a beautiful Brahms. Sir Charles' muscular interpretation may win points for enthusiasm, but Bernard Haitink and the Concertgebuow Orchestra did it better on an old Philips recording. Still it is an honest sound and the Serenade No. 1 is a wonderful piece of music full of the youthful exuberence of the young Brahms. I never get tired of this piece. The melodies are glorious and familiarity does not diminish its capacity to warm the heart. It deserves to be performed more often. Sir Charles has done us a good turn by reminding us how great it is in his new recording.

Forgotten Songs: Dawn Upshaw Sings Debussy

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Classic Art Songs Sung with Brilliance and Artistry
Pretty, but not memorable
Returning to the Recital Hall: A Soiree
Pretty sound spoiled by a bad vocal habit
Excellent!

Forgotten Songs: Dawn Upshaw Sings Debussy

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Upshaw, Dawn | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

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ASIN: B000002B6P
Release Date: 1997-03-18

Tracks:

Vasnier Songbook: I. Pantomime
Vasnier Songbook: II. Calmes dans le demi-jour (En sourdine)
Vasnier Songbook: III. Mandoline
Vasnier Songbook: IV. Clair de lune
Vasnier Songbook: Fantoches
Vasnier Songbook: VI. Coquetterie posthume
Vasnier Songbook: VII. Romance - Silence ineffable
Vasnier Songbook: VIII. Musique
Vasnier Songbook: X. Paysage sentimental
Vasnier Songbook: X. Romance - Voici que le printemps
Vasnier Songbook: XI. La Romance d'Ariel
Vasnier Songbook: XII. Regret
Forgotten Melodies: I. C'est l'extase langoureuse
Forgotten Melodies: II. Il pleure dans mon coeur
Forgotten Melodies: III. L'ombre des arbres
Forgotten Melodies: IV. Chevaux de bois
Forgotten Melodies: V. Green (Aquarelle)
Forgotten Melodies: VI. Spleen (Aquarelle)
Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: I. Le Balcon
Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: II. Harmonie du soir
Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: III. Le Jet d'eau
Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: IV. Recueillement
Five Poems Of Charles Baudelaire: V. La Mort des amants

Customer Reviews:

Classic Art Songs Sung with Brilliance and Artistry.......2006-11-10

Dawn Upshaw possesses a voice with beautiful bell canto tonal quality and uses the glissando technique, only when effective, rendering this collection of uncommon art songs superbly sung. The entire album is a joy to listen to...

Pretty, but not memorable.......2006-04-29

'Forgotton Songs, Dawn Upshaw sings Debussy' with James Levine at the piano is, to my layman's ear, very pretty to listen to, but not a whole lot to get excited about. If you are especially fond of Upshaw, you must have this recording. If you are especially fond of Debussy, other vocalists may have just a little more to offer. Everything about this recording is 'nice', just not a whole lot to get excited about.

Returning to the Recital Hall: A Soiree.......2005-04-09

Dawn Upshaw is one of the most intelligent and creative and adventuresome singers on the concert stage today. Just reviewing the list of her recordings available and it is obvious that she has paid attention to both contemporary and established composers in a way that is truly refreshing.

Here the program is devoted to the works of Claude Debussy, a composer for whom Upshaw has a particular penchant. Her voice is crystal clear, perfectly focused and yet not afraid to animate when the lyrics demand. She covers three cycles here: 'Ariettes oubliees' (for this listener the most successful on the album), 'Racueil Vasnier', and 'Cinq Poemes de Charles Baudelaire' (contrast these with the recently released Susan Graham version and see what interpretation is all about!).

The collaboration between Upshaw and James Levine is sensitive (if not always the pianism of others..). But the entire recital is uplifting and satisfying for the variation in the songs, recorded sound, the generosity of the disc, and most of all for the musical intelligence in which these songs are performed! Grady Harp, April 05

Pretty sound spoiled by a bad vocal habit.......2004-05-07

Every voice teacher I have ever had, and I have had many, were unanimous in their advice that sliding into notes is something that must be done with great moderation. Dawn Upshaw does it all the time and to the ears of a trained singer it becomes extremely annoying extremely quickly. Constant sliding into notes is less objectionable if one actually reaches the right pitch in the process. Miss Upshaw frequently does NOT, resulting in numerous instances where she is simply not in tune at all on some notes. Her sliding also creates constant dissonances with the piano which are entirely undebussyesque. If it were Webern or Berg she were singing she might get away with it. Here she does not. NOT RECOMMENDED.

P.S. Since writing this review (quite some time ago), I was fortunate to hear a recording of Ms. Upshaw in a production at the Metropolitan Opera where she didn't do any of her annoying sliding at all - not once - (probably because it was music from a much earlier time) The difference was astounding. It was a glorious performance. It was hard to believe it was the same person. This, more than ever, confirms my opinion that she ruined this recording with a bad singing habit.

Excellent!.......2003-11-26

This recording of Debussy's Melodies are really excellent. Dawn Upshaw's voice is exactly right for this kind of music - light, charming, and lyrical, with real sensitivity to the text. The Ariettes Oubliees are the best I've heard, with the exception of Frederica von Stade. In addition, her interpretation of Mandoline from the Vasnier Songbook is perfect - the tempo, piano, voice, and interpretation are exactly right. My only criticism is that the diction, while perfectly clear, has an "American" accent that is sometimes distracting.

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