Aaron Copland & Leonard Bernstein: Greatest Hits

On this CD:

1. Fanfare for the Common Man, for brass & percussion (from Symphony No. 3)
Composed by Aaron Copland
Performed by Summit Brass

2. Appalachian Spring, concert suite
Composed by Aaron Copland
Performed by St. Paul Chamber Orchestra
Conducted by Dennis Russell Davies

3. Candide, operetta Overture
Composed by Leonard Bernstein
Performed by Rochester Pops
Conducted by Erich Kunzel

4. West Side Story, musical Maria
Composed by Leonard Bernstein
Performed by Royal Promenade Orchestra
Conducted by Alfred Gehardt

5. West Side Story, musical America
Composed by Leonard Bernstein
Performed by Royal Promenade Orchestra
Conducted by Alfred Gehardt

6. West Side Story, musical Tonight
Composed by Leonard Bernstein
Performed by Royal Promenade Orchestra
Conducted by Alfred Gehardt

7. West Side Story, musical Somewhere
Composed by Leonard Bernstein
Performed by Royal Promenade Orchestra
Conducted by Alfred Gehardt

8. West Side Story, musical One Hand, One Heart
Composed by Leonard Bernstein
Performed by Royal Promenade Orchestra
Conducted by Alfred Gehardt

Tracks:

Appalachian Spring: Very Slowly
Appalachian Spring: Allegro
Appalachian Spring: Moderato
Appalachian Spring: Fast
Appalachian Spring: Subito Allegro
Appalachian Spring: As At First (Slowly)
Appalachian Spring: Doppio movimento
Appalachian Spring: Moderato - Coda
Rodeo: Buckaroo Holiday - Allegro con spirito
Rodeo: Corral Nocturne - Moderato
Rodeo: aturday Night Waltz - Introduction - Slow Waltz
Rodeo: Hoe-Down - Allegro
Billy The Kid: Introduction. The Open Prairie
Billy The Kid: Street In A Frontier Town
Billy The Kid: Mexican Dance And Finale
Billy The Kid: Prairie Night (Card Game At Night)
Billy The Kid: Gun Battle
Billy The Kid: Celbration (After Billy's Capture)
Billy The Kid: Billy's Death
Billy The Kid: The Open Prairie Again
Fanfare for the Common Man: Molto deliberato

Amazon.com essential recording

Happy is the composer who has an advocate as passionate and talented as Leonard Bernstein. These Copland performances have been the preferred versions since they were first issued--better even than the composer's own, later recordings. Originally they were spread over two discs, but thanks to the extended playing time of the compact disc, you can now get all three great Copland ballets together, along with the ever popular Fanfare for the Common Man. Bernstein brings to this music the right sharpness of rhythm but also a typically open-hearted warmth. He coaxes a virtuoso response from the New York Philharmonic, which knows this music as well (or better) than anyone. Self- recommending. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

What more could one ask for?.......2007-06-27

Aaron Copland's masterful works are here interpreted by Bernstein. Nothing says the American sound like Copland, and there is no better interpreter than Bernstein. This recording is one of the best in my collection. I would recommend this to anyone (even non-classical music fans).

Definitive Is Right.......2007-02-27

I have the SACD version of these recordings (except for the "Fanfare" which, in this case, is the version taken from Bernstein's recording of Copland's Third Symphony) and I must agree with others here that the performances are definitive. The "Rodeo" has more energy than any other recording I know of, in fact it can almost go over the top! "Billy the Kid" is quiet and tender, dramatic and bold and "Appalachian Spring" is dead-on. The last section of this ballet is one of my very favorite pieces of music and Bernstein's tempo and phrasing here could well be called perfect.

Definitive Recordings of Copland's Popular Ballet Scores From Bernstein, NYPO.......2007-02-11

Without question, this splendid CD is my favorite recording of some of Aaron Copland's most popular orchestral ballet scores. In Leonard Bernstein he had both a good friend and a devout ally, who successfully championed Copland's music, helping to ensure his reputation as one of the greatest - if not the greatest - 20th Century American composer. Sony has done a superb job in digitally remastering this recording, offering some of the best sound I've heard from a vintage Leonard Bernstein/New York Philharmonic recording. But more importantly than the recording's superb sonic quality is the quality of these performances of Copland's scores. Bernstein leads in New York Philharmonic in these virtuoso performances, replete with lush, vibrant playing from the winds, horns and strings. His warm, truly heart-felt interpretation of "Applachian Spring" is truly mesmerizing, and the best I have heard from a recording. And yet, I am am just as impressed with his conducting of both "Rodeo" and "Billy the Kid"; the latter replete with superb solos from the orchestra's timpanist. An elegant performance of "Fanfare for the Common Man" closes out this CD recording. Fans of Aaron Copland, Leonard Bernstein, and the New York Philharmonic Orchestra shouldn't hesitate in acquiring this superb CD.

American Music at its Highest .......2007-02-04

If I was forced to recommend one CD of American music, I would feel very safe in backing this one. These interpretations have yet to be surpassed, and not even Copland himself could muster the same type of perfection that Bernstein and the New York Philharmonic did in this recording. Bernstein's way with Rodeo is unbelievable, and this alone is worth the price of the disc. The music on this recording has a lot to do with why, as Americans, we can all be proud of our place in the history of western music.

With 39 reviews under me, I will dispense with the adjectives to try and describe each interpretation of each piece on this disc, and simply say that these performances have been recommended by almost everyone (professional critics included of course) since they appeared; get it and find out why.

The best of Copland.......2007-01-09

For the Aaron Copland fan, this CD has the essentials: the most popular and easy listening of the Copland body of creations. Enjoy!

Average customer rating:

Good selection
thunderous applause
Good Music at a Great Price
You will like this!
Good for the novice

25 Thunderous Classics

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

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25 Classical Favorites
Symphony (25) Favorites
25 Tchaikovsky Favorites
25 Mozart Favorites
25 Beethoven Favorites

ASIN: B00004Y6SQ
Release Date: 2000-09-05

Tracks:

Also Sprach Zarathustra (Sunrise) - R. Strauss
Mars (The Planets) - Holst
Overture 1812 - Tchaikovsky
Entry Of The Gladiadtors - Fucik
Sabre Dance - Khachaturian
Procession Of The Sardar - Ippolitov Ivanov
Night On Bald Mountain - Mussorgsky
Anvil Chor (II Trovatore) - Verdi
The Thunderer March - Sousa
Thunder & Lightening Polka - J. Strauss
Prelude To Act III : Lohengrin - Wagner
The Ride Of The Valkryies - Wagner
Montagues & Capulets (Romeo & Juliet Ballet Suite) - Prokofiev
The Storm: Symphony No. 6 In F Major, 'Pastorale' - Beethoven
Rondeau - Edward Carroll
Overture: Fireworks Music - Handel
March To The Scaffold: Symphonie Fantastique - Berlioz
LesToreadors - Bizet
William Tell Overture: Finale - Rossini
Revolutionary Study - Abbey Simon
Fanfare For The Common Man - Copland
Sym No. 1 'Titan' IV Sturmisch Bewegt (Excerpt) - Mahler
Augurs Of Spring From Rite Of Spring - Stravinsky
Russian Dance From Petrouchka - Stravinsky
The Great Gate At Kiev From Pictures At An Exhibition - Mussorgsky

Customer Reviews:

Good selection.......2005-10-02

I bought this CD to use in my classroom as listening examples. I'm not just a super big fan of some of the performances, but they are all good and for the price you can't beat it. That's why I gave it 5 stars. It's worth more than it costs by far.

thunderous applause.......2005-08-31

This is a who's-who of great pieces of music you have heard all of your life, and never knew the names and stories! I listened to it over and over in the car and had my own concert! A friend borrowed it to add music to his Home Movies and it was perfect!

Good Music at a Great Price.......2004-03-06

I bought this CD mostly for "Entry of the Gladiators," which everyone will recognize as classic circus music. The performance on this CD (by Erich Kunzel and the Cincinnati Pops) is the best available version of Entry of the Gladiators. The rest of the CD offers mostly excerpts of classical music.

You will like this!.......2004-02-19

I had purchased an abundance of the "Favorites" collection and some were better than others.

This CD is at the top of them all. They may be short, but not that short. Wondrous music.

I can almost guarantee that you will like this music.
Well worth the price!

Good for the novice.......2002-06-08

The recordings on this disc are pretty good. However, the editors selected only the *loud* parts, as indicated by the title. I was pretty disappointed to find that the pieces are, in many cases, edited to reflect the most famous themes, etc, instead of including the whole work. In general, I would recommend this to the classical music novice, or someone who wants to expand their knowledge of classical music in general. Those who already are familiar with these pieces will probably feel gypped.

Copland: Appalachian Spring; Rodeo; Fanfare for the Common Man

Average customer rating:

Theme for the Common Man
Review of Aarom Copland CD: Appalachian Spring
Appalacian Spring
Copland performed at its best
Lane and Copland and Atlanta, what a great team!

Copland: Appalachian Spring; Rodeo; Fanfare for the Common Man

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Gershwin: Rhapsody In Blue/An American In Paris
Copland: The Music of America
Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue - Piano Concerto in F - An American in Paris
Ultimate Copland Album
Copland: Appalachian Spring/Fanfare For The Common Man/El Salón México/Danzón Cubano

ASIN: B000003CSW
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Fanfare For The Common Man
Buckaroo Holiday
Corral Nocturne
Saturday Night Waltz
Hoe-Down
Appalachian Spring (Suite)

Amazon.com

This sonically spectacular disc features three of Aaron Copland's most beloved Americana scores. Drawing on American folk themes, Rodeo and Appalachian Spring originated as ballet music, but they have found a larger life as light classic staples. They are briskly conducted by Louis Lane and played with élan by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. --Sarah Bryan Miller

Customer Reviews:

Theme for the Common Man.......2007-01-13

Beautiful music. Aaron Copland really hit the target with this.

Review of Aarom Copland CD: Appalachian Spring.......2006-08-01

I used this CD as part of a dance history class on American Modern Dance, in conjunction with a DVD on dance pioneer Martha Graham. The music stands alone, and my students got a bit of music history along with their dance history.

Appalacian Spring.......2006-02-01

I bought it as a gift and the receiver LOVED it and plays it frquently.

Copland performed at its best.......2005-12-31

This CD is one of my favorites in my classical collection. Several years ago, I borrowed this recording from the library, and enjoyed it so much that I went out and bought my own Copland CD. I got the CD containing the New York Philharmonic's performance of Appalachain Spring (conducted by Bernstein), but was sorely disappointed. After a few months of searching (this was pre-Amazon days), I tracked down this CD and bought it. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra is superb. I highly recommend this CD for any Copland fan, or anyone who wants to have a "token" classical CD.

Lane and Copland and Atlanta, what a great team!.......2001-01-30

The performance by all is first-rate; and the sonic picture is terrific!

The interpretation of Appalachian Spring is one of my absolute favorites--I treasure it.

Tracks:

Appalachian Spring: Very Slowly
Appalachian Spring: Allegro
Appalachian Spring: Moderato
Appalachian Spring: Fast
Appalachian Spring: Subito allegro
Appalachian Spring: As At First (Slowly)
Appalachian Spring: Doppio movimento (Shaker Melody 'The Gift To Be Simple')
Fanfare For The Common Man
El Salon Mexico
Danzon Cubano

Amazon.com

If Copland's own recordings of his music have the warmth of a soft summer night, those by Leonard Bernstein convey the blazing heat of noon. In his later remakes of several of these scores for Deutsche Grammophon, Bernstein exhibited a tendency toward overly-nuanced readings. But his earlier accounts with the New York Philharmonic, recorded by CBS in the late 1950s and early 1960s, are still incomparable in their vitality and impetus. Bernstein's way with the Western ballets is exuberantly personal and persuasive. He has the ability to move between delicacy and brashness, always getting the gestures right, and he delivers magical characterizations of both scores. The Phiharmonic's playing, while sometimes a bit raw, is confident and rhythmically secure; there is certainly nothing to apologize for here. There is a wonderful sense of immediacy to Bernstein's account of the Appalachian Spring Suite, in which the New Yorkers give a virtuosic account of themselves, playing in a rhythmically incisive fashion that puts Copland's account with the London Symphony in the shadows. The couplings are a mixed bag, however. Bernstein always had the measure of El Salon Mexico, and gives a rousing account of it here. But the so-called Fanfare for the Common Man is lifted from his recording of the Third Symphony; its beginning is not the same as that of the real fanfare. Both recordings have been wonderfully remastered by their original producer, John McClure, and have excellent presence and a palpable sense of atmosphere in the quiet pages. --Ted Libbey

Amazon.com

Leonard Bernstein was a friend of Aaron Copland's, and he approaches this music with rare flair and verve--as well as with sympathy and warmth--and, we can assume, with a good idea of the composer's intentions regarding it. This is a classic album, containing several of the works in the essential Copland oeuvre; the sound is not as good as you'll find in a more contemporary recording, but for most listeners the spirit will make up for that. --Sarah Bryan Miller

Customer Reviews:

Universal music.......2006-07-14

This recording, aside of bringing back great memories of a live performance of Mr. Bernstein more than 25 years ago directing Mexico State Philarmonic Orchestra playing Salon Mexico, is of grand quality and Aaron Coplands music selection is escellent as is performed and recorded. My mom (77) and my daughter (8) enjoy it just the same.

Long-Time Favorite.......2005-03-16

When I was in the fifth grade, there was a district-wide competition called music memory, and one of the pieces I had to memorize for the competition was the last movement of Appalachian Spring. And I fell in love with that song. I went and bought the cassette of Appalachian Spring with Bernstein conducting the New York Philharmonic, and I listened to it almost every night before going to sleep. I even remember that one night I was listening to that final movement through my walkman as I was laying in bed. Evidently, I was humming along without realizing it, and I woke my parents, who slept downstairs and across the house, with my humming. Anyway, that's how good this recording is. And I'm still amazed at what great taste I had at that age. Now, eleven years later, I have upgraded to a CD, but I still listen to Copeland's masterpiece just about as much. I've heard a lot of great music in those intervening years, but I've still never heard anything quite this perfect. I doubt I ever do.

Best Copland Album I've Ever Listened To.......2004-05-15

I love Appalachian Spring Suite! When I went out to buy the music CD, I got This one because of the cool newspaper cover and it turned out to be the best one out there. I've listened to other recordings of Appalachian Spring performed by other orchestras, they just aren't as good. This is the absolute best one. Not only is this one of my favorite classical albums of all time, it's one of my favorite albums period. Every single track on this CD is money.

Test of Time--Passed with honors!.......2003-07-21

I have been a fan of Aaron Copland's from an early age--in fact, so early that I can hardly remember not knowing "Fanfare for the Common Man". As I became older, my appreciation grew and deepened. I still remember my first exposure to the "Gift to Be Simple" section of Appalachian Spring...it was in history class, played as part of a presentation. I can't even remember the subject of the presentation anymore--all I remember is that at that wild, joyous crescendo, I was not in the room. I was somewhere far away, flying. That is the power in a piece like this, and the standard to which I hold any musical recording.

When I began seeking a full version of Appalachian Spring for my own collection, I had the good fortune to get a "recommendation" of sorts for the definitive recording: Richard Wright, keyboardist of Pink Floyd, has more of a Copland influence than you might suspect. When I read his article in Record Collector Magazine, the particular rendition he recommended was this one--the 1962 recording for CBS, of which he seemed to have the original LP. Imagine my surprise and delight to find that it was still in print and easy to find in stores!

"Aaron Copland's an American classical composer," summarizes Mr. Wright, "and [Appalachian Spring] is his most famous work...Like all of my favourite music there's something in his material that touches me; I think it's the chordal progression and the melodic lines just above them that do it for me here - and the fact that it's very peaceful. When I listen to a lot of the stuff that I've played over the years I feel I've been heavily influenced by Copland, albeit subconsciously." (Note to Pink Floyd fans: Comparing the basic approach in "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" and Copland's "Quiet City" may prove interesting.)

I am in full agreement here...it is absolutely striking what Copland was capable of creating. In his hands, simple, traditional harmonies were transformed into breathtakingly original works that reflect the best of the American spirit...innovative, beautiful, optimistic, and slightly wild. It never ceases to amaze me how he could weave such a beautiful musical texture with so few notes at times--it is indeed a gift to be simple. But Copland's work is not boring by any means--he also knows the place for grand, sweeping statements and shockingly unique, beautiful chord changes that occur seemingly out of nowhere.

As soon as I heard this disc, in comparison to other recordings I'd sampled, it was immediately obvious why this one survived the test of time, why it was still so vivid in the mind of Richard Wright. Copland and Bernstein seem always to be a good match for each other, but there was something very special going on the night this was recorded. Even if you own other renditions of "Appalachian Spring", even if you are interested in no other composition on this disc, this is an absolute must-have.

As for the other pieces, recorded in the early 60s as well, there's a similar magic--even though the "Fanfare" version is radically different, it's a real ear-opener. The pitch changes are done with a shocking fluidity, but it brings new interest to the piece. It is no replacement for the original; it's probably best to treat it as a different song. "Salon Mexicano" and "Danzón Cubano" are also excellently rendered and timeless.

All in all, this is a fantastic album--a must for any classical collection.

the PERFECT Bernstein recording.......2002-12-16

I have heard A LOT and i mean A LOT of Bernstein recordings...and...as far as post-Beethoven works go...this is it...this may only be comparable to his multiple Beethoven 5th Symphonies...
If you own ANYTHING with Leonard Bernstein's name on it...one should say "Beethoven's Fifth Symphony" on it...and the other should be this disc.

Average customer rating:

Best of the the popular Copland...
A Great American Album
Must have this one...

Ultimate Copland Album

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Copland: Appalachian Spring; Rodeo; Fanfare for the Common Man
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Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue - Piano Concerto in F - An American in Paris

ASIN: B00002S5EW
Release Date: 1999-11-09

Tracks:

Fanfare For The Common Man
From Four Dance Episodes From 'Rodeo': Saturday Night Waltz
From Four Dance Episodes From 'Rodeo': Hoe-Down
From Old American Songs: Simple Gifts
Appalachian Spring: Variations On A Shaker Hymn
From Music For Movies: Grovers Corners (From Our Town)
From Billy The Kid: Introduction - The Open Prairie
From Billy The Kid: Street In A Frontier Town
From Billy The Kid: Mexican Dance
From Billy The Kid: Gun Battle
From Billy The Kid: Celebration (After Billy's Capture)
From Billy The Kid: The Open Prairie Again
From Billy The Kid: El Salon Mexico
Appalachian Spring: Very Slowly
Appalachian Spring: Allegro
Appalachian Spring: Moderato: The Bride And Her Intended
Appalachian Spring: Fast: The Revivalist And His Flock
Appalachian Spring: Allegro: Solo Dance Of The Bride
Appalachian Spring: Meno Mosso
Appalachian Spring: Doppio Movimento: Variations On A Shaker Hymn
Appalachian Spring: Moderato: Coda

Customer Reviews:

Best of the the popular Copland..........2004-12-26

Here's a great introduction to the popular music of Aaron Copland. When "Fanfare for the Common Man" begins, sparks of recognition will fly for most listeners. This song has been everywhere: presidential inaugurations, the olympics, commercials, movies, etc. Some flatten it as hopelessly clichéd, while others find it moving and inspiring. Copland also reprised it in the finale of his Third Symphony. Arguably Copland's most famous piece, "Appalachian Spring" closes the CD. In between, more great Copland: excerpts from 'Rodeo' (apparently the beef lobby has appropriated "Hoe-Down" as one of their themes); a great vocal rendition of "Simple Gifts" and a large chunk of another of Copland's best known works: "Billy the Kid". The only confusing piece is the "Variations on a Shaker Hymn" from Appalachian Spring when the entire Appalachian Spring is already included. Seems slightly redundant.

Though most of the pieces on this CD were written in the 1930s and 1940s, they tend to evoke the old west. With titles such as "Rodeo" and "Billy the Kid" this shouldn't surprise too many people.

Copland went on to compose more dissonant and twelve tone compositions later on in his career. These obviously weren't as popular with the public in general as the pieces on this CD. Nonetheless, if this disc whets the appetite, a foray into Copland's less popular works will yield much. It will help to expose the totality of Copland's output. This disc only represents a small portion of his work. Regardless, this disc is a great starting point for getting to know one of the United States' best known composers of the twentieth century.

A Great American Album.......2004-02-13

This is a great album representing true patriotic American music. Songs like "Hoe-Down" are lively and energetic and give rememberance to what one can imagine as the true American spirit.

Must have this one..........2002-09-17

I like all types of music, I wanted this album because I liked the song "RODEO" that is used on the beef commercials. This CD has made me into a Copland fan. It has many great songs. If you want a CD that says "I am an American." This is it. I am sending copies to a friend in Bombay and Tel Aviv. This is who I am put to music.

Aaron Copland: Billy the Kid and Rodeo Suite; Ferde Grofé:Grand Canyon Suite

Average customer rating:

Astounding "Canyon"; "Rodeo" Rivals NYP
Superb recordings of American classics.
Copland and Gould - LSC-2195
Gould conducts Copland and Grofe
Superlative performance of Copeland

Aaron Copland: Billy the Kid and Rodeo Suite; Ferde Grofé:Grand Canyon Suite

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Copland: Appalachian Spring; Rodeo; Fanfare for the Common Man

ASIN: B000003FGZ
Release Date: 1993-05-11

Tracks:

Billy The Kid: Suite: Introduction: The Open Prarie
Billy The Kid: Suite: Street In A Frontier Town
Billy The Kid: Suite: Mexican Dance And Finale
Billy The Kid: Suite: Prairie Night: Card Game
Billy The Kid: Suite: Gun Battle
Billy The Kid: Suite: Celebration: After Billy's Capture
Billy The Kid: Suite: Billy's Death
Billy The Kid: Suite: The Open Prairie (reprise)
Rodeo: Suite: Buckaroo Holiday
Rodeo: Suite: Corral Nocturne
Rodeo: Suite: Honky Tonk Interlude
Rodeo: Suite: Saturday Night Waltz
Rodeo: Suite: Hoe-Down
Grand Canyon Suite: Sunrise
Grand Canyon Suite: Painted Desert
Grand Canyon Suite: On The Trail
Grand Canyon Suite: Sunset
Grand Canyon Suite: Cloudburst

Customer Reviews:

Astounding "Canyon"; "Rodeo" Rivals NYP.......2007-01-05

Close your eyes and be transported to the Canyon. In this remastering of a 1960 recording, Morton Gould shows his chops as a superlative conductor and interpreter of this Grofe classic. The work itself is wonderful, but Gould and his orchestra provide nuances that absolutely delight. Of the five movements of "Grand Canyon Suite", the final, "Cloudburst", ceases becoming music and is elevated to pure sensory experience. It is no longer notes on a page finely executed; it IS the sky, the wind, the sheets of rain (a sheer, shimmering slide of sound), the thunder, and it is perfect. The four prior movements are nearly as excellent, with the second, "Painted Desert", casting an eerie shadow over the listener's mind with spellbinding brush strokes. This is a performance delivered with painstaking care.

Gould's treatment of Copland's works, recorded three years earlier, were of great personal interest, as one of my earliest exposures to "serious" music was the great Bernstein recording of "Rodeo", and "Buckaroo Holiday" in particular. Surprisingly, Gould and company give the NYPO a run for its money. They are just as energized, brash and even raw (hear the horns, and it's fitting) as New York; ditto the "Gun Battle" episode of "Billy". Gould threw himself into Copland's scores and whipped his musicians into a frenzy when called for, and the results place Gould's readings of these two pieces of Americana right behind Bernstein.

This CD - beautifully remastered - is a bargain.

Superb recordings of American classics........2004-04-27

I thoroughly agree with all other reviewers (though I wish some would spell Copland's name right!) Morton Gould conducts with great verve and sensitivity. "Rodeo" is terrific and it also includes the seldom heard "Honky-Tonk Interlude" which is a delight in itself.
The Grand Canyon Suite is a highlight with its marvellous orchestration and melodic richness. Although the score is influenced by a number of composers such as Dukas, Ravel, Respighi and even Richard Strauss, it nevertheless feels entirely
original. "On the trail" is beautifully rhythmical,one can really feel the trotting
of the donkeys, and the sound effects are pure joy. Note the
ee-ah-ing of the donkeys, so superbly part of the music. (somewhat reminescent of Mendelssohn's Midsummer Night's Dream overture.) The Cloudburst is a sonic triumph.
This recording comes from 1957, but digitally remastered. Sound is demonstration quality. Still probably the best available, highly recommended.

Copland and Gould - LSC-2195.......2004-02-12

I've heard Copland conducting these two works on recordings and I've heard the famous NYPO/Bernstein's 1960 recording of these two works on Columbia Records, yet Gould and his Orchestra fills in the blank spaces that was left out in previous and recent recordings.

He takes his troup to NYC to Manhatten Center, in Oct of 1957, and have the legendary RCA producer, John Pfeiffer and Lewis Layton, produce and engineer this recording session to be encaptured on 3-track tape (where the "Billy the Kid" was released on RCA "New Orthophonic tape recording" - the BCS-130), then to eventual vinyl (LM/LSC-2195). Gould, being somewhat of an arrangement conductor in the 50's, manage to pull the stops out in how these two Copland pieces are to be presented-to where the listener can feel that they themselves are back in the Wild, Wild West of the 1880's. He doesn't rush through these two pieces like some other conductors do. Gould takes his time trying to tell the story within the music. He uses emphasis, emotion, tempo and dynamics where it should be per each chapter in a story. Excellent listening for all!

This BMG "Living Stereo" release of the LSC-2195 Copland/Gould is a faithful reproduction as it can be of the original vinyl release.

Gould conducts Copland and Grofe.......2003-11-21

It may surprise some to discover that American composer/conductor Morton Gould conducted such fine performances of other American composers' music. These RCA Victor "Living Stereo" recordings are vivid, excellent proof that Gould was a really fine conductor and not just of his own music.

The performances of the suites from Copland's ballets "Billy the Kid" and "Rodeo" are among the best ever recorded. They benefit not only from Gould's wonderful sensitivity and appreciation but from excellent playing by the "pickup" orchestra and the still remarkable "Living Stereo" recording process, in which RCA used only three microphones and advanced mastering techniques.

Ferde Grofe's "Grand Canyon Suite" was a "labor of love" as the skilled composer/arranger spent considerable time carefully depicting his impressions of one of the greatest natural wonders of the world. Grofe had been a very successful arranger for Paul Whiteman and is still remembered for the very first orchestration of George Gershwin's "An American in Paris," premiered by Gershwin at the piano with Whiteman conducting in New York's Aeolian Hall in February 1924.

Grofe composed a number of original orchestral works in later years and the "Grand Canyon Suite" is probably his best. It contains memorable melodies and is skillfully orchestrated throughout. It so impressed Arturo Toscanini that he recorded it in 1945 for RCA Victor, under the supervision of the composer. Grofe himself conducted a recording of the suite for Everest Records in 1960. Gould's recording is excellent. The final movement, depicting a spectacular thunderstorm, is absolutely awesome. I think this recording may surpass an earlier favorite, also recorded for RCA Victor, by Arthur Fiedler and the Boston "Pops" Orchestra.

This is all very fun and very exciting American music.

Superlative performance of Copeland.......1999-12-26

Billy the Kid & Rodeo were both etched in my soul when as a young boy I listened along with my mother. This performance by Morton Gould remains for me above any other that I have heard and I have heard many given my love for them. This is a re-issue of an original 3 microphone/3 track TRUE stero recording made by RCA in their 'Living Stero' series and originally recorded in 1957. A must have for Copeland listeners. It is a bonus that it also contains 'Grand Canyon Suite.'

Average customer rating:

Excellent Duo
Dynamic Duo
Worth the wait!!!
Worth the wait!

Jubilation

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Grace Like A River - Christopher Parkening
Jubilant
Grace Like a River
David Russell: Art of the Guitar
And On Earth Peace: A Chanticleer Mass

ASIN: B000MGTFG2
Release Date: 2007-03-06

Tracks:

York: Jubilation
The Water Is Wide (Trad., arr. Dave Grusin)
Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child (Trad., arr. Russ)
He's Got the Whole World in His Hands (Trad., arr. Russ)
Myers: Cavatina
Pantoja: Ciranda Bambolé
Villa-Lobos: Modinha
Pantoja: Lamento
Almeida: Caçador
Carlevaro: Campo
Gustavino: La Rosa y El Sauce (arr. Russ)
America (My Country 'Tis of Thee) (Trad., arr. Phillip Lester)
Copland: At the River (arr. Russ)
Copland: Ching-a-ring Chaw (arr. Russ)
Rodrigo: Cançoneta
Anchieta: Con amores, la mi Madre (arr. Russ)
Torre: Pampano Verde (arr. Russ)
Castelnuovo-Tedesco: La Arrulladora (from Platero and I)
Granadinas (Trad., arr. Russ)
Domeniconi: Koyunbaba, Op. 19

Album Description

Christopher Parkening, whose remarkable life and career were recently chronicled in his autobiography and companion CD, Grace Like a River, described the young baritone Jubilant Sykes as "phenomenally gifted". Through the years, as Christopher and Jubilant's friendship grew, so did the scope of their individual careers. The two performed together in concert quite frequently so the idea of recording together seemed a natural progression. When Christopher Parkening and Jubilant Sykes walked into Capitol Studios' famous Studio A, where so many legendary artists have recorded, something special was going to happen. This recording, aptly named Jubilation, is a musical journey through Brazil, Spain and the Americas.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Duo.......2007-04-10

This CD is a collection of music both traditional and modern. Christopher Parkening and Jubilant Sykes are a perfect match for the completion of perfection in this collection of music. Christopher Parkening's performance of solos are brilliant and heart felt. Jubilant Sykes is excellent as well and his deep tones mix so well with the gentle harmony of the classical guitar. This is a must for any music library.

Dynamic Duo .......2007-04-03

Going out on a limb here. This cd may be as good or better than Pleasures of Their Company. There is some real magic going on here. Christopher's sensativity and willingness to let Jubilant take the spot light is really what makes this cd for me. The tunes with the vocalise are particularly satisfying. It's just great to see Christopher continue to put out such quality work so many years into his career. I have seen them play some of these tunes live and hope to again someday in the near future. If you like this cd check them out live... at times I thought Jubilant's voice was going to bring the ceiling down.

Worth the wait!!!.......2007-03-25

After hearing Jubliant and Christopher on a Christmas tour a couple years ago I have been waiting for them to record something since... Finally!!! After listening I am just amazed by Jubliant's virtuoso voice. I think all the Americal Idol hopefuls should really listen to true God given talent versus copying commerical radio stars. Amazingly good voice. Now, I have been playing guitar for 18+ years and am an avid player and fan of classical guitar. Christopher Parkening has always been my inspiration for starting and he shows no signs of letting up on his wonderful styling, phrasing and best of all his sound! This was a match made in Heaven. Literally!

Worth the wait!.......2007-03-16

Finally, these two great musicians who have toured this music for over a year have recorded a delightful collection of songs, spirituals and solo guitar works. Sykes' voice is complimented by Parkening's masterful playing of the classical guitar. I highly recommend this recording. What a treat!

Average customer rating:

The Real Stuff
My Cup of Tea
Get it for the Copland

Collector's Edition

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Mozart at Tanglewood
Preludes Fugues & Riffs: Influence of Jazz
The Essential Clarinet
Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Grand Duo Concertante; Concertino
Clarinet Marmalade: 25 Great Jazz Clarinettists

ASIN: B0000026F3
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Prelude, Fugue And Riffs
Con
Ebony Con: I. Allegro Moderato
Ebony Con: II. Andante
Ebony Con: III. Moderato; Con Moto
Derivations: I. Warm-Up
Derivations: II. Contrapuntal Blues
Derivations: III. Rag
Derivations: IV. Ride Out
Contrast Mono: I. Verbunkos (Recruiting Dance)
Contrast Mono: II. Piheno (Relaxation)
Contrast Mono: III. Sebes (Fast Dance)

Customer Reviews:

The Real Stuff.......2007-03-25

This disk collects Benny Goodman performances with the composers conducting, so it is historic and probably authoritative as to performance, but great to have Copland, Stravinsky, etc. themselves and Goodman in your collection. Nice performances, although sound varies with these vintage sessions.

My Cup of Tea.......2002-05-22

Goodman's performances of all the music on this disc are superb. He (along with violinist Joseph Szigeti) commissioned the Bartok score and, notwithstanding its age (mono/1940) there has never been a better recording than this one. The other performances are first-rate stereo recordings that appeared on a 1966 CBS/Columbia Lp titled "Meeting at the Summit." Morton Gould's music often sounds like watered-down Copland to my ears, but "Derivations" is a really strong piece and quite memorable. The Stravinsky is a true masterpiece that has never sounded better, and the same goes for Bernstein's powerfully imagined, joyous "Prelude, Fugue and Riffs." Having the composers conduct was an inspired idea (in the case of the Bartok, the composer accompanies at the piano); not at all gimmicky. It's amazing how well Goodman still played in the middle '60s. Although he gave solid performances well into the '70s, he was still at or near his peak when these recordings were made and the dead-on intonation and range of color in his playing is simply breathtaking. The other reviewer mostly likes the Copland score. It's nice, but the real show-stopper here is the Bernstein: 7 1/2 minutes of sheer big-band bravado. Not to be missed!

Get it for the Copland.......2001-10-10

Aaron Copland's Clarinet Concerto is one of the most magical pieces of music ever to come out of North America, and for me, this is *the* recording. Fifty years old, but as is so often the case, the original is the best - Mr Goodman's finest twenty minutes. Great value, too! The other pieces (by Bernstein, Stravinsky and Bartok) I can take or leave, but who knows, they might be your cup of tea.

Average customer rating:

Superb
For Rodeo alone, this beats the competition hands down
A TWO-PUNCH PARTNERSHIP
Incomparable!

Copland: Rodeo/Billy The Kid

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Copland: Appalachian Spring/Fanfare For The Common Man/El Salón México/Danzón Cubano
Gershwin: Rhapsody In Blue/An American In Paris
Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition; Night on Bald Mountain
Grofé: Grand Canyon Suite/Mississippi Suite
Prokofiev: Peter And The Wolf/Saint-Saëns: The Carnival Of The Animals

ASIN: B0000025JO
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Rodeo: Four Dance Episodes: I. Buckaroo Holiday
Rodeo: Four Dance Episodes: II. Corral Nocturne
Rodeo: Four Dance Episodes: III. Saturday Night Waltz
Rodeo: Four Dance Episodes: IV. Hoe-Down
Billy The Kid (Ballet Suite): Introduction: The Open Prairie
Billy The Kid (Ballet Suite): Street In A Frontier Town
Billy The Kid (Ballet Suite): Mexican Dance And Finale
Billy The Kid (Ballet Suite): Prairie Night (Card Game At Night)
Billy The Kid (Ballet Suite): Gun Battle
Billy The Kid (Ballet Suite): Celebration (After Billy's Capture)
Billy The Kid (Ballet Suite): Billy's Death
Billy The Kid (Ballet Suite): The Open Prairie Again

Amazon.com

Customer Reviews:

Superb.......2007-03-18

It does not get better than Bernstein conducting Copland. I have seen both ballets many times and this CD brought back vivid memories. No one has ever captured the sounds, rythms and spirit of the West as well as Copland. The album is a treasure. I never tire of listening to it.

For Rodeo alone, this beats the competition hands down.......2005-10-08

Leonard Bernstein's Columbia recording of Copland's "Rodeo" with the New York Philharmonic, made in 1960 still beats the competition hands down for sheer excitement and power. Lenny's "Buckaroo Holiday" (I) is wonderful: very fast and spirited, and no holes barred, like riding a bucking bronco. When I first heard this recording on LP in 1974, I could hardly restrain myself, as it is not only fast, but well accented, and the recording really backs up what Bernstein was trying to do in this piece. Tempos are all sensible, but fast where needed, especially in I and IV, "Hoe down." I have heard other recordings: Dorati/Detroit (London), Johanos/Dallas (Vox), Abravanel/Utah (MCA), and they all have their merits, but for sheer excitement, Bernstein is the best to have.

"Billy the Kid", recorded in 1959, is also well recorded and performed. Bernstein's tempos are sensible, and he does alot with the crescendos and repeats in the final movement, "The Open Prairie" to make it more interesting than some conductors do. I also like recordings of this work by James Judd/New Zealand Symphony (Naxos), Johanos/Dallas (Vox) and Dorati/London Symphony (Philips Mercury - more than just the suite recorded here), but again Bernstein is very fine in comparison with any of them, although he doesn't stand out as much as with "Rodeo."

Recommended, either in this recording, or the Bernstein Century edition, also on Sony Classical, which also includes Bernstein/New York Philharmonic's 1961 Columbia recording of "Appalachian Spring."

A TWO-PUNCH PARTNERSHIP.......2002-05-31

Bernstein and Copland, two of the giants of the American classical scene are here in this excellent recording of the latter's homage to the Old West. Every major filmed western of the 50's owes its score beginnings to themes found in Copland's music.

Just take a listen and "saddle up" for the musical ride.

Incomparable!.......2000-09-01

No one else has come close to Bernstein's accounts Copland's music- including Copland himself. In every respect, this is best recording of Rodeo I've heard. The tempos are, if anything, a bit on the fast side of average. The recording quality is quite good, though the woodwinds can be a bit too quiet.

Average customer rating:

The best Bernstein reading of a nearly great work
Colossal performance!
Late, great Bernstein
spectacular americana
The Great and the Good

Copland: Symphony No. 3; Quiet City

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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Bernstein Century - Copland: Appalachian Spring, Rodeo, etc / Bernstein, New York PO
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Copland: Our Town; The Red Pony Suite; El Salón México; Danzón Cubano; Three Latin American Sketches
Copland: Appalachian Spring/Fanfare For The Common Man/El Salón México/Danzón Cubano
The Copland Collection: Orchestral Works, 1948-1971

ASIN: B000001G7A
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Symphony No. 3: 1. Molto moderato
Symphony No. 3: 2. Allegro molto
Symphony No. 3: 3. Andantino quasi allegretto
Symphony No. 3: 4. Molto deliberator (Fanfare) - Allegro risoluto
Quiet City

Amazon.com essential recording

Late in his career, Leonard Bernstein returned to the greatest orchestral work by his lifelong friend, Aaron Copland, with a performance that eclipsed all others, including Bernstein's own previous recording of the Symphony no. 3 on Sony. Though Copland's stock still hadn't climbed back to its present height, Bernstein gave the music a grandeur that made you forget how much of a cliché the Fanfare for the Common Man--which was worked into the finale of the Third--can be. In fact, many of the world-stopping qualities Bernstein brought to his second Mahler cycle for Deutsche Grammophon seem much in evidence here, with the New York Philharmonic playing as though its collective life depended on it. --David Patrick Stearns

Customer Reviews:

The best Bernstein reading of a nearly great work.......2005-11-01

Copland met a sad end as the result of Alzheimer's, which set in fairly early (when he was about 70, I believe) but was carefully hidden from the public. Bernstein had been his lifelong champion, of course, and here he gives an elegaic, almost melancholy reading of the Third Symphony that is about a minute slower in each movement than his earlier, excellent version from 1966 with the same NY Phil.

There's no comparison betwen the two, given how much more detailed and expressive the 1985 DG version is, and how much better it is recorded. The Third just misses being a great work. It is in Copland's most populist idiom, the same as one hears in Appalachian Spring, but the material is thinner, less organized, ultimately not all that compelling despite many beautiful moments. Bernstein makes the very best of what's there, and his reading of Quiet City is incomparable--it brings tears to one's eyes. This recording stands as a wonderful, if somewhat sad, memorial to a great musical partnership.

Colossal performance!.......2005-01-07

This recording dates of Dec 1985 . It is a live recording from Avery Fisher Hall and it constitutes a true musical document . Bernstein , conducting the N.Y.P made a penetrating version of this fundamental symphony of this notable composer. The wonderful and expansive presence of the strings , metals and woods are demanded requisites if you want to win with this work.

Solemnity ; grace and fevered passion characterize this idiomatic performance .

The last movement, the well know Fanfare for a common man is played with such dignity level that it will let you amazed .

In spite of his fervent wisdom and noblesse , though it lacks the ardour of the version of the sixties but you can not always what you want . This performing is by far unbeatable if you dare to compare with anyone you choice .

Memorable portrait and distinguished recording.

Late, great Bernstein.......2004-07-02

This was one of Leonard Bernstein's last recordings, and turns out to be one of his most memorable ones as well. Copland's Third Symphony uses his "Fanfare for the Common Man" as its climax, and Bernstein mines every bit of emotion you might expect. I'm not completely convinced that the symphony is necessarily one of the composer's tightest works, but Bernstein makes every minute sound essential, and the New York Philharmonic plays with terrific nobility and panache.

"Quiet City" is also beautifully done, with Bernstein capturing its plaintive, idyllic qualities perfectly. The orchestra has an excellent brass section, and some gorgeous work here just confirms it. The sound quality is excellent, not the least in the gleaming, closing pages of the Third Symphony that may have you cheering. A great document of Bernstein's electricity, a quality that was still present right up until the very end.

spectacular americana.......2003-03-20

this is copland at his loudest, brassiest, most longwinded and hymnally whitmanesque. bernstein shapes the performance with an appropriate sense of drama, but free of bombast; the ny philharmonic plays everything beautifully -- the brass and violins in particular. i bought this cd because i'd just heard the work performed by mtt and the sf symphony, and this recording is quite as impressive as that impressive live concert.

The Great and the Good.......2001-07-20

Copland's 3rd Symphony contains some of the most beautiful music he ever wrote, but the sum of the work is not equal to its parts. The best movement is the first, particularly the breathtaking introduction. Here, Copland is in full 'Appalachian Spring' mode, writing in a style that now seems so quintessentially American that it is easy to forget that he virtually invented it. But after this movement, I don't feel as if I'm listening to a symphony any more and the growing lack of cohesion between the ideas isn't helped by the intrusion of the 'Fanfare for the Common Man' in the finale.

But despite it's qualified success as a symphony, this is still a very rewarding work and the other piece, 'Quiet City', is hauntingly beautiful.

Music Review: