Rachmaninov: Symphonies 1-3

On this CD:

1. Symphony No. 1 in D minor, Op. 13 (lost; reconstructed from piano duets and orch. fragments)
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Andrew Litton

2. Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op. 27
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Andrew Litton

3. Symphony No. 3 in A minor, Op. 44
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by Andrew Litton

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: I. Grave - Allegro ma non troppo
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: II. Allegro animato
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: III. Larghetto
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: IV. Allegro con fuoco
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: I. Non allegro
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: II. Andante con moto (Tempo di valse)
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: III. Lento assai - Allegro vivace

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: I. Largo - Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: II. Allegro molto
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: III. Adagio
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: IV. Allegro vivace
The Isle of the Dead, Op.29

Tracks:

Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: I. Lento - Allegro Moderato
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: II. Adagio ma non troppo - Allegro vivace
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: III. Allegro
The Bells, Op.35: I. Allegro ma non tanto
The Bells, Op.35: II. Lento
The Bells, Op.35: III. Presto
The Bells, Op.35: IV. Lento Lugubre

Customer Reviews:

Excellent recordings, all worth getting at any price!!!.......2005-04-01

Different people have different tastes. Without wishing to malign those who don't care as much (or at all) for this set, I'll dare say that this set is an absolute classic. [Why go only for the 2-disc set of just the symphonies instead of getting also Ostróva Mjórtvïkh (The Isle of the Dead), the Symphonic Dances and Kolokóla (The Bells) that come automatically as part of this 3-disc set?]

It was the Ashkenazy recording of Ostróva Mjórtvïkh that introduced me to what has since become my favourite symphonic poem ever (roll over Richard Strauss - this one together with Schönberg's "Pelléas et Mélisande" take the cake!) as well as the Symphonic Dances - and also Kolokóla as well as the 1st & 3rd Symphonies. [Prévin did as much for the 2nd Symphony in my case and his recording is a more than worthy competitor - his and this one are as good as tied for top spot in my honest opinion - get them BOTH if possible!!!!] At all times, these interpretations proved Sjergjéy Vassíljevich Rakhmáñinov as one of the greatest composers of the 1850-1950 period, even if he wasn't the most prolific (my biggest regret is that death stopped him from benefitting us organists with an Organ Concerto meant for Charles Courboin). [He was the type that could only concentrate on one thing at a time - be it composition, piano concertising, or conducting, at all of which he was outstanding; however, when he went into exile after the Russian Revolutions, he found himself mainly working as one of the greatest pianists of all time in order to secure his future and feed his family.] Obviously his mentor Pjótr Iljích Chaykóvskiy was a powerful influence on him; however, Rakhmáñinov never loses his individuality at any point!

Certainly his symphonic output is uniformly high: his 1st Symphony, while not always the most cohesive at times, still deserved a heck of a lot better fate than it received at the hands of Glazunóv - it's extremely inspired and there's no question that it deserves a high place in the repertoire. The 3rd Symphony - and the Symphonic Dances - not only proved that Rakhmáñinov had lost none of his mastery or inspiration in exile; they're both absolute masterpieces in their own right! [As to the 2nd, it would be my 2nd-favourite symphony, period, right behind Chaykóvskiy's 6th (Pathétique). The 3rd movement, if a question of falling in love for some, is for me a point of grieving for a lost love (which is very much still in my life after many years - I still cry bitterly on hearing this and the 1st movement!) and letting gradually go, though with greatest pain...] Finally, Kolokóla: another great masterpiece (the 2nd movement is especially moving and wonderful!).

Most definitely, Ashkenazy does full justice to all of these works. Of course, one can disagree with this or that aspect or instant in this or that work (e.g., I could have wished a slower accelerando in the 2nd movement of the Symphonic Dances from the waltz tempo - that way one misses the otherwise obvious allusion to Chaykóvskiy's "Flowers' Waltz" from Shchjeljkúnchik {Nutcracker}); however, the overall merits of these recordings truly deserve the fullest 5 stars possible - I'd myself go for 6! Go get it in all events!!!!

Outstanding Set, But Get Temirkanov for The Symphonic Dances.......2004-08-07

This is an outstanding set, with the exception of the Symphonic Dances, where Ashkenazy conveys some of the passion in this work but doesn't attain nearly the same level of emotional intensity as Kondrashin's or Temirkanov's versions.

A fantastically passionate performance of The Symphonic Dances is the 1963 recording by the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra, with Kiril Kondrashin as conductor (RCA; Catalog # 32046; ASIN: B000003ETI). With Kondrashin, the power and passion of The Symphonic Dances sweeps the listener away and takes him to an inspirational level. The performance is so burning hot that it throws off sparks. However, this CD may be out-of-print.

Another excellent and passionate interpretation of The Symphonic Dances is the 1992 recording by Yuri Temirkanov and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra (RCA; Catalog Number 62710; ASIN: B000003FRT). The Temirkanov CD also has a beautiful performance of the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, with the pianist Dmitri Alexeev.

The rest of this 3-CD set, consisting of the three symphonies and the Isle of the Dead, is outstanding. In the symphonies, the balance and the dynamic interplay between the strings, horns, and winds are brought out beautifully and the sound quality is crystal clear. The Isle of the Dead is very movingly performed, from the opening passage, where Ashkenazy establishes a somber ominous mood, to the sweeping majesty of the most powerful moments.

The CD booklet has a well-written, detailed, and informative essay on all of the compositions. The full text of The Bells, based on a reinterpretation of Edgar Allan Poe's verses by the Russian symbolist poet Konstantin Balmont (1867 - 1943), is also included in Russian, English, French, and German.

Highly recommended, with the additional recommendation of supplementing this set with Kondrashin's or Temirkanov's recording of The Symphonic Dances.

A noteworthy Rachmaninov set.......2004-07-30

These were outstanding recordings when they were released individually in the 1980's, and as a complete set they make quite a bargain. Ashkenazy finds just the right tempi in most cases, particularly in the spectacular Symphonic Dances, one of the best versions of this piece ever recorded. Somehow he manages to combine his no-nonsense approach while still letting Rachmaninov's long melodic lines glow.

The dark Concertgebouw tone suits this program perfectly. If the First and Third Symphonies aren't exactly the composer at his most inspired (don't get me wrong -- not bad, just not his best), you are not likely to hear either one performed as dazzlingly as they are here. Many listeners will already have a recording of the Second Symphony, probably the composer's most popular work, and I'm not convinced that Ashkenazy's is the one and only, but you may want it just for the quality of the playing from the orchestra. And there is no shortage of good recordings of the Isle of the Dead, either, but again, the mood conjured up here is considerable.

In short, this is an excellent set -- gorgeously played, and spectacularly recorded. And now it's at a price that makes it hard to beat.

BRILLIANT!!!.......2003-09-22

I cannot believe what great quality this package is for such a great price!

The music itself is divine. The mixing is spot on (A very rare compliment to hear from my mouth). What more could I want? More works by Rachmaninov like this please!

Oh, Rachy, what beautiful music!.......2003-04-24

This is a lovely set of Rachmaninoff's three symphonies. As with his other works, these pieces are melodic and full of passion. Rachmaninoff may get a little moody at times, but he will never leave you in the doldrums. These are exciting works, and Ashkenazy brings them to life. The orchestra responds well. As a real bonus, this set includes other orchestral works. Of these, the Symphonic Dances have been performed more frequently lately. Ashkenazy handles these Dances admirably.

The sound quality of these digital Decca releases is excellent. The upper range of the brass has a little bite to it, but it does not detract from the deep, rich sound of the Concertgebouw Orchestra. The dynamic range is extensive. Don't be afraid to turn up the volume and give your speakers a workout.

Tracks:

I. Allegro Ma Non Troppo
II. Allegro Animato
III. Larghetto
IV. Allegro Con Fuoco
I. Largo - Allegro Moderato
II. Allegro Molto

Tracks:

III. Adagio
IV. Allegro Vivace
I. Lento - Allegro Moderato
II. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
III. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

Overlooked by the Critics!.......2001-05-28

You will never see this collection of the Rachmaninoff Symphonies in any of the established literarture of CD ratings. Nevertheless, this collection is very worthy of respect and deserves attention. Perhaps the greatest attribute of this collection is its availability, which goes back at least ten years--no small feat for any classical recording. This is an especially good collection if you enjoyed the long and honorable association of Leonard Slatkin and St. Louis Symphony Orchestra with the music of Russian composers, and Rachmaninoff in particular. Moreover, this is the only readily available collection of the three symphonies of Rachmaninoff by an American orchestra available after the historic (but heavily cut) recordings of Eugene Ormandy and the Philadelphia Orchestra; Zinman and Baltimore have done Nos. 2 and 3.

I find the Third Symphony the most captivating of the three. It holds it own among the more recognized recordings of Ashkenazy and Stokowski. You will find radiance and good orchestral detail in it. The Second Symphony omits the optional repeat of the exposition of the first movement, yet is satisfying throughout. The First Symphony also finds a strong reading from the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. The recording quality is perfectly acceptable in all three.

Finally, at bargain price, this is an solid collection for an additional recording of these great symphonies or for the newcomer. I highly recommend this set which, though not crtically acclaimed, has stood the test of time with many other listeners.

A classic set.......2000-09-02

So many the world over have latched onto this Slatkin set for so many years, that it's of classic status...and there are good reasons.

First, the St. Louis Symphony is a jewel with technique at full service of the music. Slatkin's control and insight is imparted to the orchestra so fully that they all disappear and the spirit of the composer is quite simply summoned before the listener. The result is engulfing and absorbing. No greater accolade can be given to conductor and orchestra for accomplishment in the recording arts.

Marc Aubort and Joanna Nickrenz deserve kudos for their careful engineering of the sonic picture and sensitivity to the character of the congenial venue. Their work has survived the innumerable issues of these performances...and while it might be at its best on clean vinyl, it's commendable here, too.

Quite simply a classic release that sets itself apart, despite the laudatory accomplishments of Ormandy, DeWaart, Previn among others.

Breathtaking.......1999-11-26

A must have! Music so beautiful it will take your breath away

Sturdy Rachmaninoff.......1999-11-22

The 2nd is worthy here, but other recordings have more excitement, such as Temirakinov (sp!) and even Lopez-Cobos on his recent Telarc disc. However, 3 and especially 1 are worth seeking out. Great playing, good performances. Engineering is uneven; #1 seems to have been treated the best, but all are definitely listenable.

Tracks:

Hot To Trot
Ordinary People - Pachelbel
The Witches Of Eastwick
Eine kleine Nachtmusik Serenade In G Major, K.525: Amadeus & The Wiches Of Eastwick - Allegro
Barry Lyndon
My Geisha
Somewhere In Time
Moonstruck
Raging Bull
Who Framed Roger Rabbit? - Friska
Driving Miss Daisy
Elvira Madigan
Diva
Kramer Vs. Kramer
Brief Encounter & More
A Room With A View
The Elephant Man & Platoon

Symphonies 1-3 / Piano Concerto 1-4 / Isle of Dead

Average customer rating:

An excellent set now as a compilation.

Symphonies 1-3 / Piano Concerto 1-4 / Isle of Dead

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies & Tone Poems
Strauss: Orchestral Works
Liszt: Works for Piano and Orchestra
Debussy, Ravel: Orchestral Works
Bruckner: The Complete Symphonies

ASIN: B00006HM8V
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

I: Grave - Allegro Ma Non Troppo
II: Scherzo: Allegro Animato
III: Larghetto
IV: Allegro Con Fuoco
The Isle Of The Dead, Op.29

Tracks:

I: Largo
I: Allegro Moderato
II: Allegro Molto
III: Adagio
IV: Allegro Vivace
Scherzo In D Minor
Vocalise, Op.34 No.14

Tracks:

I: Lento - Allegro Moderato
II: Adagio Ma Non Troppo
III: Allegro
I: Non Allegro
II: Andante Con Moto (Tempo Di Valse)
III: Lento Assai - Allegro Vivace

Tracks:

I: Allegro Vivace (Alla Breve)
II: Largo
III: Allegro Vivace (1941 Version)
III: Allegro Vivace (1926 Version)
I: Vivace - Moderato - Vivace
II: Andante
III: Allegro Vivace

Tracks:

I: Allegro Non Troppo E Molto Maestoso
II: Andante Semplice - Prestissimo - Tempo Primo
III: Allegro Con Fuoco
I: Moderato
II: Adagio Sostenuto
III: Allegro Scherzando

Tracks:

I: Allegro Ma Non Tanto
II: Intermezzo: Adagio
III: Finale: Alla Breve
Introduction: Allegro Vivace
Variation 1: (Precedente)
Thema: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 2: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 3: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 4: Piu Vivo
Variation 5: Tempo Precedente
Variation 6: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 7: Meno Mosso, A Tempo Moderato
Variation 8: Tempo 1
Variation 9: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 10
Variation 11: Moderato
Variation 12: Tempo Di Minuetto
Variation 13: Allegro
Variation 14: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 15: Piu Vivo. Scherzando
Variation 16: Allegretto
Variation 17
Variation 18: Andante Cantabile
Variation 19: A Tempo Vivace
Variation 20: Un Poco Piu Vivo
Variation 21: Un Poco Piu Vivo
Variation 22: Un Poco Piu Vivo (Alla Breve)
Variation 23: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 24: A Tempo Un Poco Mosso

Customer Reviews:

An excellent set now as a compilation........2003-07-11

This is a great set of Rachmaninov recordings, which until recently could only be bought in pieces. EMI deserves praise for making these worthy performances, under direction of Mariss Jansons, available in a box set.

Not only as a recording accomplishment but on artistic grounds as well does this set deserve to be offered as a compilation. The piano concertos are all distinguished and really have not received the exposure that they deserve. Mikhail Rudy offers a fine performance throughout. This set, if it is a straight reissue of the previous Piano Concertos, should also include the original, and very interesting, conclusion to the 4th Piano Concerto. The recording of the Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1 is also a fine work that has been put into this Rachmaninov box set.

In the symphonies Mariss Jansons makes his own unique stamp on these works and the result is very satisfactory throughout. While one may disagree with some elements of his interpretations, such as his election to do the 2nd and 3rd Symphonies without the exposition repeats, one cannot fault his overall approach and vitality.

In addition to the well-known Vocalise, the listener gets the mysterious and rarely-recorded Scherzo as an additional filler piece.

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: Grave - Allegro ma non troppo
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: Allegro animato
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: Larghetto
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: Allegro con fuoco
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: Largo - Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: Allegro molto

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: Adagio
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: Allegro vivace
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: Lento - Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: Adagio ma non troppo
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: Allegro

Amazon.com

At two discs for the price of one, and three outstanding performances, this set offers great value. Most impressive is the performance of the First Symphony, the disastrous premiere of which precipitated a nervous breakdown. As a consequence, the work was not revived until after the composer's death. In many ways, it's his most closely argued symphony--each movement begins with the same theme, and they share other melodic material as well. Vladimir Ashkenazy's performance is simply the finest ever committed to disc. He's just about as impressive in the two later works, though there the competition is tougher. The magnificent playing of the Concertgebouw Orchestra certainly adds to this set's attractions. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

top selection .......2006-01-21

All symphonies. As far as I am concerned, particularly symphonie 1 is very allright. The others are good too, but this one number one is really brilliant. Warm music. Picture a group of Chossacs preparing for battle on horse with horns for this music. Absolute. Almost evrything this Ashkenazy does with Rach music is great.

A Top Selection for your CD collection.......2001-03-10

In my years of buying classical CDs I would consider these two discs to stand among the most truly distinctive and excellent recordings that I have ever owned. I have heard very few recordings of any composer's music that rival this set on combined criteria of recording engineering, artistic interpretation, and sheer listening excitement. In addtion, I would place these recordings among the very finest I have ever heard conducted by Vladimir Ashkenazy and of the London/Decca recording company.

The First Symphony, whose traumatic premiere still seems to haunt Rachmaninoff by the very writing of it by 20th century commentators, is thoroughly vindicated in this recording. Ashkenazy manages to produce high drama and a peerless musical response from the Concertgebouw Orchestra. You will find it a superb alternative to other recordings available.

The Second Symphony, in which the highest degree of competition exists among other outstanding recordings, Ashkenazy elicits a first-rate recording and interpretation. The first movement allows the listener to hear with great detail the full dimension and scale of the great Concertgebouw Orchestra. The early 1980s recording quality of this--and the other two--symphony are of the highest demonstration quality.

The Third Symphony is my favorite. Ashkenazy brings out the Slavic qualities intended by the composer. In the exposition, which is repeated in the first movement--something not found in all recordings, caution--the bells of the orchestra show the Russian Orthodox overtones to this work. The second and third movements are full of emotion and energy. You will find passages that offer sublime drama, a strong understanding of the composer's intentions, and window-rattling sound reproduction.

These are beautiful recordings. I offer an unqualified recommendation to anyone interested. And as a two-for-the-price-of-one these recordings are of unparalleled value.

Highest expression after-war.......2000-08-17

This significan work of Rachmaninov I think is the beginning of his career as a compositor. The perfect match of sounds, and the use of exact mottos to create this masterpiece of the classical music during the beginning of the last century. It take him about five months to compose the second symphony, three months to get the first movement and two months to get the other two movements, time enough to improve and perform every single detail of this magnificent symphony covered by a tiny and complex cape of armonic sounds, a rich variety of inventions. This "music designer" deservers our time to enjoy this masterpiece, and I think He wish us to take our time to taste every note and every sound of this entire structure, this righorously compose structure, appealing and affecting. The transformation of the mottos in every symphony give us an example of Rachmaninov's essence and give the sharp of the symphony. I feel very good when I listen to it, it's a beautiful masterpiece that everyone should listen.

Ashkenazy hits the mark!.......2000-06-13

Ashkenazy is the best interpreter of Rachmaninov's music, be it piano or symphonic works. This set is incredible, and I would heartily recommend it to anyone!

Average customer rating:

Rachmaninov: Symphonies 1-3

Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Douglas Lilburn: A Song of Islands; Aotearoa Overture; Forest

ASIN: B00005UNXH
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Serge Rachmaninoff: 3 Symphonies/The Rock

Average customer rating:

Nicely balanced contrasts and tunefully alive
Rarely played orchestral works
Gorgeous!
The Best Recording Ever!

Serge Rachmaninoff: 3 Symphonies/The Rock

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Serge Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 1-4/Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini
Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 2
Schumann: The 4 Symphonies
Sibelius: The 7 Symphonies; Finlandia; Kullervo; etc.
Bruckner: The Complete Symphonies

ASIN: B00000417J
Release Date: 1994-02-15

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: 1. Largo - Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: 2. Allegro molto
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: 3. Adagio
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: 4. Allegro vivace
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: 1. Grave - Allegro ma non troppo
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: 2. Allegro animato

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: 3. Larghetto
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: 4. Allegro con fuoco
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: 1. Lento - Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: 2. Adagio ma non troppo
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: 3. Allegro
The Rock, Op. 7: Fantasy For Orchestra

Customer Reviews:

Nicely balanced contrasts and tunefully alive.......2004-06-06

My guess is that if out of the clear blue one was given a choice between Ashkenazy/Concertgebouw or de Waart/Rotterdam performing the Rachmaninoff Symphonies, most respondents would not hesitate to pick the former which, after all, has been praised highly. One fellow, in a currently popular book dealing with reviewed recordings even refers to de Waart's readings as 'ordinary'. Well, I don't agree with him, and after listening to both sets, my conclusion is that de Waart/Rotterdam accomplishes a better job of holding my interest throughout and leaving me more pleasantly fulfilled. Ashkenazy's Rachmaninoff is painted with a slightly darker, thicker brush than deWaart's. His tempos seem to be a bit slower as well. Perhaps, the denser sound of the Concertgebouw contributes to this impression, which some might prefer. But what I get more frequently with de Waart/Rotterdam is greater radiance, and it is radiance which I consider to be one of the most salient features promoting the enjoyment of Rachmaninoff's music. I am not implying de Waart downplays or suppresses the composer's darker or brooding moments. He should not and he does not. But he seems to be in greater touch with Rachmaninoff's somewhat Rembrandt-like tonal contrasts. Further, I find his style more scintillating, and, during more romantic moments, more warmly expressive. Finally, under de Waart, passages sing more openly. If you are interested in acquiring a set of these symphonies, before you make a decision based on either what I have said or anyone else has said, take the opportunity to listen to audio samples offered by those in the business of selling this music on cd. Good luck with your choices.

Rarely played orchestral works.......2003-05-13

The Rachmaninoff concertos are well-known. The symphonies are not. One is a youth work (The First, heavily edited later by Rachmaninoff, possibly to remove too much Tschaikovsky influence) and the other two are magnificent. If you love rich orchestration, Russian-style, this is for you.

The Seagull and the Rock is a minor symphonic poem, not my favorite, but with some pretty string and flute sounds imitating a bird floating around a crag in the ocean--not major music but always pleasant.

If you love the Rachmaninoff concertos, you might like the symphonies, too.

Gorgeous!.......2002-12-21

This is the collection of Rachmaninoff's symphonies I listen to a couple times a week, as well as the one I send as a present to my closest friends. Its only weaknessess are (1) the inclusion of "the Rock" to fill out the second disk -- it's an early work of no great note, and (2) Rachmaninoff's own departures from his best style in the development section of the opening movement of the third, where for a few bars it seems he's trying to sound more like an impressionist than the late romantic throwback he really was. Still, the rendition of the second symphony, most people's favorite, is consistently beautiful; the third symphony is so well done in spite of Rachmaninoff's own weaknesses that the second theme of the 1st movement, welling up out of the cello section, is a good candidate for "most beautiful lyric melody of all time," and the rendition of the youthful first symphony is a real "Ring the Bells of Moscow" war horse in the first and fourth movements. The Rotterdam Phil has the requisite lush, romantic string section, very good solo woodwinds, and a rock-solid brass section which gives the impression of a brass pipe organ in the tutti sections, a remarkably well-blended mix of the cylindrical trumpets and trombones with the conical horns and tubas, somehow achieving the consistency of attack and articulation across the spectrum which is so hard for many brass sections to achieve. They make the opening of the finale of the first one of those things you use to crank up the volume and roll down the car windows to get back at the kid who drives up alongside you bumping rap! I can't imagine my life without this collection!

The Best Recording Ever!.......2001-08-08

The Rotterdam Philharmonic is truly spectacular in this recording. Each Rachmaninoff symphony is a uniqe gem and this orchestra adds a special touch of class and beauty which I have never grown tired of. The complexity of Rachmaninoff's music is clearly articulated yet never overpowers the beautiful themes and melodies that are inherent in this music. The most notable movement of Symphony 2 is the scherzo, which is played in a beautiful yet precise manner. The often misunderstood first symphony is played with an agility and finesse that relives this classic. The third symphony's modern charm is really brought out through the RDP's soaring crescendoes and diminuendos. Finally, the mystery of "The Rock" is not revealed in this majical and provocative recording. This is truly and amazing collection and a best buy for a two CD set.

Rachmaninov: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos

Average customer rating:

Another Triumph for the White Box

Rachmaninov: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos
Sergey Rachmaninov , Antoni Wit , Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra , National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland , and Alexander Anissimov
Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Mendelssohn: The Complete Symphonies & String Symphonies
Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies, Kullervo
Chopin: The Piano Works
Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures
Liszt: Piano Works

ASIN: B00005QISD
Release Date: 2002-02-19

Tracks:

Caprice Bohemien - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Grave - Allegro Ma Non Troppo Vivace - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Animato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Larghetto - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Con Fuoco - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

Largo: Allegro Moderato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Molto - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Adagio - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro Vivace - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

Lento - Allegro Moderato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Adagio Ma Non Troppo - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Allegro - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Melodie In E - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
Polichinelle Op.3, No.4 - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

Vivace
Andante
Allegro Vivace - Andante Ma Non Troppo - Tempo Primo
Allegro Vivace
Largo
Allegro Vivace
Introduction
Variation 1
Theme
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11
Variation 12
Variation 13
Variation 14
Variation 15
Variation 16
Variation 17
Variation 18
Variation 19
Variation 20
Variation 21
Variation 22
Variation 23
Variation 24

Tracks:

Moderato
Adagio Sostenuto
Allegro Scherzando
Allegro Ma Non Tanto
Intermezzo: Adagio
Finale: Alla Breve

Customer Reviews:

Another Triumph for the White Box.......2006-01-12

It is both a tremendous honor and a great surprise that I am the first to review this item. It is another triumph for Naxos, and their flagship series, "The White Box." Presented here are Rachmaninov's 4 complete Piano Concertos, 3 Symphonies (including the reconstructed and rarely heard 1st) and some standard concert favorites like the Caprice Bohemien, and the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. This compellation is the result of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, and more preeminently, the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Antoni Wit. And he does a fantastic job. (Wit's competency can also be seen in his work on Tchaikovsky's complete symphonies and piano concertos, also for Naxos' "White Box" series.) The pianist here is Bernd Glemser. His playing is both flawless and graceful, and with a composer like Rachmaninov, that effect is not easy to produce. Those chords don't exactly play themselves. As far as I'm concerned there is no legitimate reason for why he is not well known. (Another great Glemser performance is his recording of Schumann's 3 piano sonatas, also for Naxos, which I would highly recommend.)

A real surprise for me was the first symphony. The score was lost until 1945, and it was only ever performed once in Rachmaninov's lifetime. It is really a forgotten gem in every sense, and I would venture to say it is actually the best of the three symphonies although I'm sure others would vehemently disagree. I am also very pleased to say that the sound and recording quality, which can be something of a toss up with Naxos, is impeccable on all 5 discs.

If you are looking for a complete set of Rachmaninov's Piano Concertos, there is really no reason not to get this set. As for the symphonies, although there probably are better renditions out there, they are played very expertly on this set. In terms of musical quality, I never compromise, and what you would gain by buying the symphonies separately through a more expensive label would ultimately be very, VERY minute, and most likely financially unjustifiable.

And there you have it. This set is a winner through and through, and I recommend it highly.

Rakhmaninov: Piano Concertos 1-4; Symphonies 1-3; Orchestral Works

Average customer rating:

At this price, you can't go wrong

Rakhmaninov: Piano Concertos 1-4; Symphonies 1-3; Orchestral Works
Sergei Rachmaninov , Tadaaki Otaka , and BBC National Orchestra of Wales
Manufacturer: Nimbus Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Tracks:

Pno Con No.2 in c, Op.18: I. Moderato
Pno Con No.2 in c, Op.18: II. Adagio Sostenuto
Pno Con No.2 in c, Op.18: III. Allegro Scherzando
Pno Con No.1 in f#, Op.12: I. Vivace
Pno Con No.1 in f#, Op.12: II. Andante
Pno Con No.1 in f#, Op.12: III. Allegro Vivace

Tracks:

Pno Son No.2 in b flat, Op.36: I. Allegro Agitato
Pno Son No.2 in b flat, Op.36: II. Non Allegro-Lento
Pno Son No.2 in b flat, Op.36: III. Allegro Molto
Pno Con No.3 in d, Op.30: I. Allegro Ma Non Tanto
Pno Con No.3 in d, Op.30: II. Intermezzo: Adagio
Pno Con No.3 in d, Op.30: III. Finale (Alla Breve)

Tracks:

Pno Con No.4 in g, Op.40: Allegro Vivace
Pno Con No.4 in g, Op.40: Largo
Pno Con No.4 in g, Op.40: Allegro Vivace
Vars On A Theme Of Corelli, Op.42: Them Andante/Var I: Poco Piu Moso/Var II: L'istesso Tempo...
Rhap On A Theme Of Paganini, Op.43: Intro: Allegro Vivace/Var I: (Precedente)/Tema: L'istesso Tempo.

Tracks:

Sym No.1 in d, Op.13: Grave-Allegro Ma Non Troppo
Sym No.1 in d, Op.13: Allegro Animato
Sym No.1 in d, Op.13: Larghetto
Sym No.1 in d, Op.13: Allegro Con Fuoco-Grave
4 Etudes-Tableaux, Op.39: The Sea And Seagulls, Op.39 No.2
4 Etudes-Tableaux, Op.39: Red Riding Hood And The Wolf, Op.39 No.6
4 Etudes-Tableaux, Op.39: Funeral March, Op.39 No.7
4 Etudes-tableaux, Op.39: March, Op.39 No.9

Tracks:

Sym No.2 in e, Op.27: I. Largo-Allegro Moderato
Sym No.2 in e, Op.27: II. Allegro Molto
Sym No.2 in e, Op.27: III. Adagio
Sym No.2 in e, Op.27: IV. Allegro Vivace
Vocalise, Op.34 No.14

Tracks:

The Isle Of The Dead, Op.29
Sym No.3 in a, Op.44: I. Lento-Allegro Moderato
Sym No.3 in a, Op.44: II. Adagio Ma Non Troppo-Allegro Vivace-Tempo Come Prima
Sym No.3 in a, Op.44: III. Allegro

Customer Reviews:

At this price, you can't go wrong.......1999-03-02

Six CDs for under $30, all in glorious Nimbus digital sound, with a couple of really good performances.... you cannot go wrong. No, this set will not displace Ashkenazy, Previn, Argerich, Stokowski and other famous artists who've recorded these works in more definitive performances. However, it's a great way to get to know this music, and several of the performances (the 3rd piano concerto and 3rd Symphony) are competitive. At a higher price, I'd have given it 4 stars, but it earned an extra star for excellent value.

Rachmaninov: The Symphonies (3), Vocalise

Average customer rating:

Magnificent Performances
The performances of passion and emotional zest.

Rachmaninov: The Symphonies (3), Vocalise

Manufacturer: Melodiya
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: 1. Grave - Allegro ma non troppo - Allegro vivace - Sergei Rachmaninov
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: 2. Allegro animato - Sergei Rachmaninov
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: 3. Larghetto - Sergei Rachmaninov
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 13: 4. Allegro con fuoco - Sergei Rachmaninov
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: 1. Largo - Allegro moderato - Sergei Rachmaninov
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: 2. Allegro molto - Sergei Rachmaninov

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: 3. Adagio - S. Rachmaninoff
Symphony No. In E Minor, Op. 27: 4. Allegro vivace - S. Rachmaninoff
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: 1. Lento - Allegro moderato - Allegro - S. Rachmaninoff
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: 2. Adagio ma non troppo - Allegro vivace - S. Rachmaninoff
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 44: 3. Allegro - Allegro vivace - S. Rachmaninoff
Vocalise, Op. 34 No. 14 - S. Rachmaninoff

Customer Reviews:

Magnificent Performances.......2007-04-11

I was privileged to attend a performance of the Rachmaninov First Symphony (composed 1895/96)conducted by Maestro Yevgeney Svetlanov conducting his USSR Symphony Orchestra, and it was an unforgettable experience. The recording in this set of the First brings that performance back to life and is certainly the best recording of the work available; no other recording has been able to match the depth of emotion and expression that Maestro Svetlanov has achieved. The only recording that comes close to the same visceral performance is Eugene Ormandy and the Philadelphia Orchestra. The turmoil reflected in the First Symphony was possible mirrored in the composer's life at the time; the symphony is dedicated to Anna Alexandrovna Ladyzhenskaya, a married woman of Gypsy extraction with who Rachmaninov was probably in love with. The symphony contains some gypsy-like melodies including a fragment from the Dies irae. The score quoted a live from Deuteronomy that was also quoted by Tolstoy in Anna Karenina: "To me belongeth vengeance, and recompense."

The Second Symphony (1906/07) is a world apart from the First reflecting a settled middle-life. The music was composed in Dresden, which was an international music center at the time. The Second is probably considered Rachmaninov's most "romantic" work but careful listening reveals the tensions underlying the music. The first movement is has an atmosphere of brooding broken by stormy passages and the second movement is a Scherzo that is frenzied and includes a brief quote from the Dies irae in the form of a brass chorale. The third Adagio movement begins with a lovely, romantic melody that has been popularized in "pop" music; the finale brings together theme from the prior movements with glorious effect. Because of the 60 minute length of the symphony and that the composer was unsure of himself as a symphonist; the Second was subjected to some cuts. I grew up listening to a recording by Ormandy and was very much surprised to discover that there was much more music to be heard. The cuts have been restored but there are several recordings prior to the 1960's that played the cut version. Maestro Svetlanov's performance is uncut.

The Third Symphony (1935/36) comes from the composer's exile in Switzerland and is cast in three movements. Once again, Rachmaninov has used the Dies irae theme in the final movement and also in the ghostly beginning notes of the first. The Third is pessimistic music; Rachmaninov no longer believed in the moral growth of people and the martial music, particularly in the first movement, suggests the cataclysmic war that was coming.

The sound of these recordings is not the best but the performances are among the best available. There are times during the First Symphony when the loudness of the orchestra (particularly the tympani) distorts the sound; however, the sheer power of the performance demands that it be heard. The Bolshoi Theater Orchestra performs the Second Symphony with great beauty and the recording quality is much improved but a bit cavernous sounding. The Third Symphony is better engineered even though it is the earliest (1962) of the recordings. If you already have other Rachmaninov symphony cycles you should try this one as well.

The performances of passion and emotional zest........1999-12-11

Svetlanov performances with the USSR State Symphony (Symphony #1 and Vocalise), with the Bolshoi Theater Orchestra (Symphony #2), and with the USSR Radio and Television Large Symphony Orchestra (Symphony #3) were done with passion and conviction. Sergei Rachmaninov (1873-1943) wrote the symphonies and other works out of the Tchaikovkyian sentimentality, beauty, and emotionism and Svetlanov and the above-mentioned orchestras managed to capture the essence and even the greatness of Rachmaninov' music. Well done.

The recording sound is somewhat shallow and raw, but adequate. Of the other recordings of Rachmaninov symphonies, Svetlanov was most effective in bringing out the Russian-ness of Rachmaninov symphonies without exaggerations. Rachmaninov was Russian and proud of it and Svetlanov portrayed this great composer without a hint of under-representation.

Highly recommendable.

Music Review: