Mozart: Piano Sonatas 5

On this CD:

1. Piano Sonata No. 4 in E flat major, K. 282 (K. 189g)
Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Performed by Ingrid Haebler

2. Piano Sonata No. 7 in C major, K. 309 (K. 284b)
Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Performed by Ingrid Haebler

3. Piano Sonata No. 2 in F major, K. 280 (K. 189e)
Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Performed by Ingrid Haebler

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 46d: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 46d: 2. Menuetto I - II
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 46e: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 46e: 2. Menuetto
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 279: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 279: 2. Andante
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 279: 3. Allegro
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 280: 1. Allegro assai
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 280: 2. Adagio
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 280: 3. Presto
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 281: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 281: 2. Andante amoroso
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 281: 3. Rondeau. Allegro
Piano Sonata In E Flat Major, K. 282: 1. Adagio
Piano Sonata In E Flat Major, K. 282: 2. Menuetto I - II
Piano Sonata In E Flat Major, K. 282: 3. Allegro

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In G Major, K. 283: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In G Major, K. 283: 2. Andante
Piano Sonata In G Major, K. 283: 3. Presto
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 284: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 284: 2. Rondo en Polonaise. Andante
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 284: 3. Andante - Thema - Variations I-XII
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 309: 1. Allegro con spirito
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 309: 2. Andante un poco adagio
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 309: 3. Rondeau. Allegretto grazioso
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 311: 1. Allegro con spirito
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 311: 2. Andante con espressione
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 311: 3. Rondo. Allegro

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: 1. Allegro maestoso
Piano Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: 2. Andante cantabile con espressione
Piano Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: 3. Presto
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 330: 1. Allegro moderato
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 330: 2. Andante cantabile
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 330: 3. Allegretto
Piano Sonata In A Major, K. 331: 1. Andante grazioso - Thema - Variations I - VI
Piano Sonata In A Major, K. 331: 2. Menuetto - Trio
Piano Sonata In A Major, K. 331: 3. Alla turca. Allegretto

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 332: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 332: 2. Adagio
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 332: 3. Allegro assai
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 333: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 333: 2. Andante cantabile
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 333: 3. Allegretto grazioso
Fantasia In C Minor, K. 475: Adagio - Allegro - Andantino - Piu allegro - Primo tempo
Piano Sonata In C Minor, K. 457: 1. Molto allegro
Piano Sonata In C Minor, K. 457: 2. Adagio
Piano Sonata In C Minor, K. 457: 3. Allegro assai

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 533: 1. Allegro (K. 533)
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 533: 2. Andante (K. 533)
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 533: 3. Rondo. Allegretto (K. 494)
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 545: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 545: 2. Andante
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 545: 3. Rondo. Allegretto
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 570: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 570: 2. Adagio
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 570: 3. Allegretto
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 576: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 576: 2. Adagio
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 576: 3. Allegretto

Customer Reviews:

Mozart-A prisoner of his own time........2006-09-08

If you were to clump all of the composers of the classical era together, mix them up, and listen to them willy-nilly in a blind hearing test, you'll never be able to tell the difference between them... until you hear Mozart. Mozart's era was not rich in harmony. To me, Haydn wrote the same symphony over and over. Stamitz and Gossec... love 'em, but they were also prisoners of this classical harmony. But Mozart was able to put his fingerprint on all of his music. You can pick his music out blindly with ease because it is unmistakingly Mozart. That's why we have a mostly Mozart festival and not a mostly Kraus (who?) festival.

As this cd shows, Mozart's music was sublime. But even he struggled with using this "harmony of the day". If you were to study the catalogues of Mozart's symphonies, sonatas, and chamber music, let's face it; you would hear a lot of turkies before you made it to the peacocks. We would have to wait until Chopin until the harmonies fattened up a little.

Having said that, you have to completely hail Mozart for taking what was available to him in his day and creating some of the most sublime music with it. It would be like for the next ten years all the world had available to eat was peas, and 200 years from now one man became immortal for the many interesting ways he was able to manipulate peas into a meal.

Good music and good value.......2006-08-28

Bought this for my son who is learning to play piano. Lots of good music, not too expensive.

Five and a half hours of joy for not much bucks.......2005-11-11

This is just about the best money I've ever spent on music. I love Eschenbach's interpretations: tenderness and emotional intimacy in spades---and dazzling effects without self-consciousness or "athletic" display of technique. I would say that he "lets Mozart be Mozart," except that these interpretations have so much personality that Eschenbach's own life-energy must be coming through. I just think that his own personality complements Mozart's perfectly.

FINALLY.......2004-08-05

I've searched the world over for a box set of all of Mozart's piano sonatas that I liked. The first one I heard was the Glenn Gould version, which in retrospect was not so smart. I like his playing but he hums into the mic during the recording. Real smart.

Anyways, Eschenbach plays these with all the virtuosity and feeling they demand. My favorite piano sonata is Mozart's 12th and he plays it flawlessly; the only thing remotely lacking is that he doesn't quite dig in as much as Alicia de la Roccha does when she plays it on the Allegro movement, but he more than makes up for it with his playing on the Adagio movement.

If it's not your cup of tea it might be worthwhile getting the de la Roccha box set, but personally I think the Eschenbach recording is the best out of all of them.

Neglected recording.......2003-02-03

As I remember, Eschenbach's DGG recording of the Mozart sonatas didn't make a big splash when it was released. Maybe another set of these familiar works wasn't what the reviewers wanted to hear at that time. However, repeated listenings over the past three decades have borne out that these are indeed fine performances, with certain among my favorites. The recording is rather close-up, which suits Eschenbach's generally crisp and bold style. Haven't heard the CDs, but the LPs had the typical DGG bass-shyness of the period. However, lack of thunderous bass is hardly fatal to Mozart piano works.

Listeners may want to investigate a new set by Elizabeth Rich being released on Connoisseur Society. The first two CDs are outstanding, with that company's beautiful recorded sound to boot.

Now an afterthought: In connection with the review I posted in February 2003, I am happy to report that the bass-shyness I noted on the LPs is NOT a problem on the CDs. Apparently good, solid bass was present on the original tapes, but DGG cut it back, as they did on many of their piano recordings of that era.

So I would recommend Eschenbach's CD set heartily. Further, Elizabeth Rich's set on Connoisseur Society is now complete, and no one will regret owning that one as well. (Unfortunately, it's at full price, expensive even on the Web.)

After the other reviewer's comments about the notes, I decided to read them and, yes, they are indeed kind of ditzy. I suspect that the translator is at least partly at fault.

Mozart:The Complete Piano Sonatas and Variations

Average customer rating:

like sparkling mineral water
Soulless Rendition
Lovely
Top notch performances
Very good, but a bit misleading?

Mozart:The Complete Piano Sonatas and Variations

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Beethoven: Complete Piano Sonatas / Daniel Barenboim
Mozart: The Complete Piano Concertos
Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos
Mozart: The Violin Sonatas
Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet

ASIN: B00004YA0U
Release Date: 2000-11-07

Tracks:

I: Allegro
II: Andante
III: Allegro
I: Allegro Assai
II: Adagio
III: Presto
I: Allegro Moderato
II: Andante Amoroso
III: Rondeau: Allegro
I: Adagio
II: Menuetto I - Menuetto II
III: Allegro
I: Allegro
II: Andante
III: Presto

Tracks:

I: Allegro
II: Rondeau En Polonaise: Andante
III: Tema (Andante) Con Variazioni (I-XII)
I: Allegro Con Spirito
II: Andante Un Poco Adagio
III: Rondeau: Allegretto Grazioso
I: Allegro Maestoso
II: Andante Cantabile Con Espressione
III: Presto

Tracks:

I: Allegro Con Spirito
II: Andantino Con Espressione
III: Rondeau: Allegro
I: Allegro Moderato
II: Andante Cantabile
III: Allegretto
I: Tema (Andante Grazioso) Con Variazioni (I-VI)
II: Menuetto - Trio
III: Alla Turca: Allegretto
I: Allegro
II: Adagio
III: Allegro Assai

Tracks:

I: Allegro
II: Andante Cantabile
III: Allegretto Grazioso
Adagio - Allegro - Andantino - Piu Allegro - Tempo I
I: Molto Allegro
II: Adagio
III: Allegro Assai

Tracks:

I: Allegro
II: Andante Cantabile
III: Allegretto
I: Allegro
II: Andante
III: Rondo
I: Allegro
II: Adagio
III: Allegretto
I: Allegro
II: Adagio
III: Allegretto

Tracks:

Tema ('Laat Ons Juichen'): Allegretto
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7: Adagio
Variation 8: Tempo I
Tema (Air): Allegro
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5: Adagio
Variation 6: Tempo I
Variation 7
Tema (Menuetto): Andante
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5: Adagio
Variation 6: Allegretto
Tema (Menuet)
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11: Adagio
Variation 12: Allegro
Tema (Air): Allegretto
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8: Tempo Di Menuetto
Variation 9
Variation 10: Allegretto
Variation 11
Variation 12: Molto Adagio
Allegretto

Tracks:

Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11: Adagio
Variation 12: Allegro
Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11: Adagio
Variation 12: Presto
Tema: Andante
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8: Adagio
Variation 9: Allegro
Tempo Di Tema
Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7: Adagio
Variation 8: Allegro
Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6

Tracks:

Tema: Allegretto
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9: Adagio
Variation 10: Allegro
(Tempo I)
Tema: Allegretto
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11: Adagio
Variation 12: Allegro
(Tempo I)
Tema: Allegretto
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8: Adagio
Variation 9: Allegro
(Tempo I)
Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7: Adagio
Variation 8: Allegro
(Tempo I)

Customer Reviews:

like sparkling mineral water.......2006-12-22

It is something near to a cleansing experience to listen through the Mozart piano repertoire as performed by Daniel Barenboim.

For starters, Mozart achieves his sparest, cleanest, most limpid lines when writing for solo piano. Then comes Daniel Barenboim, whose reading of Mozart is crisply and unemotionally classical. Not for him the drawn-out keyboard soliloquy. On the contrary, Barenboim gives us Mozart, only Mozart, and nothing but Mozart, clean and shimmering as sparkling mineral water.

This is not to say that Barenboim as pianist is unfeeling. On the contrary, the Fantasia in C Minor - to choose just one example with almost random lack of care - is quite moving. But not with a flourish. Rather, with almost sinewy restraint. The presentation represents a fine grasp of the master composer, nurtured with discipline across the length and breadth of the voluminous sonatas.

Indeed, the sheer volume of the Mozart piano sonatas is intimidating. It is astonishing to imagine one man having mastered it as Barenboim has. EMI Classics has done us the favor of collecting these two gentlemen's asynchronic collaboration in one set, affordable at that.

If Mozart is a musician for the ages and Barenboim a performer who left a formidable imprint on the twentieth century, their collaboration as represented in these recordings is a watershed that will need to be referenced by students of classical piano for at least another hundred years, or until people can only remember as far back as the Dixie Chicks.

Buy Barenboim on Mozart before that happens, and so stick your thumb in the dike against the evil day.

Soulless Rendition.......2005-10-16

I have several artists' renditions of Mozart's piano sonatas in my library. Daniel Barenboim's is the worst. His technique is timid. His rendition is soulless and perfunctory. I regret purchasing this collection. The best rendition I have is the collection of Glenn Gould. If you like Mozart's piano sonatas played the way Mozart intended, give Barenboim a pass and listen to Gould.

Lovely.......2005-03-17

As a pianist myself, I love Barenboim's playing. He does not play Mozart too Beethoven like. His performances are usually VERY good, and this is one example. Also includes the complete variations, which are very nice. The sound quality is excellent. Very highly recommended.

"The sonatas of Mozart are unique: too easy for children, too difficult for adults. Children are given Mozart to play because of the quantity of notes; grown ups avoid him because of the quality of notes." - Artur Schnabel

Top notch performances.......2004-06-17

Daniel Barenboim played this whole set with an interesting approach to WAM . The notations about classical , beethovenian style are always hazardous.
When you are a musician you must avoid in the cliche , and you should feel the music as a whole and the playing must be the consequence of a overlong process that begins in your soul , then your inner mood , your intellect and finally your fingers. I remark the aspect when you are in front of Mozart, Beethoven Wagner, Bruckner, Bach , Schubert and Bartok , because these composers are in a highest level than the others and the music itself is merely a device for expressing deeper issues.
That's why this set is superb. Barenboim plays a Mozart rich in expresiveness , he gives to Mozart presence .
Barenboim plays music as Vegh or Furtwangler did it , always seeking the landscape far beyond the score . That's why they are so original in their performances . The rapture is not a device for exhibite his skills , it''s the final product of a long process.
Acquire this set. It's an unvaluable treasure.

Very good, but a bit misleading?.......2004-05-15

Barenboim playing Mozart has his critics, who say he's "too Beethovian" when performing Mozart's piano sonatas and piano concertos. I disagree; I love his style. Others might not.

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In C,Kv 279[189d]-Allegro
Piano Sonata In C,Kv 279[189d]-Andante
Piano Sonata In C,Kv 279[189d]-Allegro
Piano Sonata In F,Kv 280[189e]-Allegro Assai
Piano Sonata In F,Kv 280[189e]-Adagio
Piano Sonata In F,Kv 280[189e]-Presto
Piano Sonata In Bb,Kv 281[189f]-Allegro
Piano Sonata In Bb,Kv 281[189f]-Andante Amoroso
Piano Sonata In Bb,Kv 281[189f]-Rondeau[Allegro]
Piano Sonata In Eb,Kv 282[189g]-Adagio
Piano Sonata In Eb,Kv 282[189g]-Menuetto 1 & 2
Piano Sonata In Eb,Kv 282[189g]-Allegro
Piano Sonata In G,Kv 283[189h]-Allegro
Piano Sonata In G,Kv 283[189h]-Andante
Piano Sonata In G,Kv 283[189h]-Presto
Allegro
Rondeau En Polonaise (Andante)
Tema Con Variazioni
1. Allegro Con Spirito
2. Andante, Un Poco Adagio
3. Rondeau (Allegretto Grazioso)
1. Allegro Maestoso
2. Andante Cantabile Con Espressione
3. Presto
1. Allegro Con Spirito
2. Andantino Con Espressione
3. Rondeau (Allegro)
1. Allegro Moderato
2. Andante Cantabile
3. Allegretto
1. Tema (Andante Grazioso) Con Variazioni
2. Menuetto
3. Alla Turca (Allegretto)
1- Sonata In F, Kv 332-300k - Allegro
2- Adagio
3- Allegro Assai
1- Sonata In B Flat, Kv 333-315c - Allegro
2- Andante Cantabile
3- Allegretto Grazioso
Fantasia In C Minor Kv 475 (Adagio - Allegro - Andantino - Piu` Alleg Ro - Tempo I)
1- Sonata In C Minor, Kv 457 - Molto Allegro
2- Adagio
3- Allegro Assai
1. Allegro
2. Andante
3. Rondo (Allegro)
1. Allegro
2. Adagio
3. Allegretto
1. Allegro
2. Adagio
3. Allegretto
1. Allegro, Kv 533
2. Andante, Kv 533
3. Rondo (Allegretto ), Kv 494

Customer Reviews:

One of the best compilations.......2007-05-06

Classic Mitsuko Uchida. She loves Mozart, and you can tell from this ultra slim box set.

Mitsuko the light on keybord........2007-01-12

always wanted the complete piano sonatas from Mozart on my player to hear it uninterrupted, and this recording gives me the greates listening pleasure. i fallowed Miss Uchida from Wienna, when she was a sudent there in the late 1950's, and her playing became the finest interpretation of Mozart;-and she must have known Bela Bartok's take on the piano as a percussion instrument, and her oriental background help to bring wonderful coloration to her sound,palyfulness, and lightness,as if sunlight bouces off from fresh snow.
--would Mozart love to hear her playing? he would dance with her.--A B Vizy.

Please ignore the low reviews on this set!.......2006-04-12

There are already several excellent reviews of Uchida's performance of Mozart's piano sonatas, so no need to repeat or elaborate on these well done efforts. But I must warn against putting much credence into the lowly ratings (of 1 to 2 *) - these should be stricken from the reviews listing. I bought this set when released based on having own several single discs in the past, the excellent reviews received in several of the publications already mentioned, and opinions of those I respect in the Good Music Guide forum (good-music-guide.com); if fact, there is an ongoing thread there w/ a poll, and Uchida is receiving about a third of the votes (dozen or so pianists listed) as the top cycle for these compositions. Surprisingly, Klara Wurtz's box set of these pieces on the Brilliant label (i.e. a great value) is in second in the poll - indeed, I purchased this as a 'second' set elsewhere for only $20 - just superb (5* ratings on Amazon), and will need several more hearings to see who I prefer. But, I don't believe you can go wrong w/ either of these box sets.

Weird, weird recording.......2006-03-09

I only gave this 1 star because its a required feild, I can't enter 0.
I am still finding it hard to believe this set of recordings passed quality control before being burnt to CD.
Didn't anyone listen to them first?
The recording technique is trully awful and given that this is modern recording, there is no excuse. There are a lot of strange resonances going on at a level which seriously interferes with the actual music. Not only that, arpeggios are like Uzzi submachine guns wherein the sound of the ivories hitting the wooden keyboard base are so much louder than the notes it's like a woodpecker hacking into a redwood while very quietly humming the tune in the background.
In fact this is a great recording of everything except the music.
Weird!
I didn't understand someones comment until I heard Barenboims set of sonatas, but now I do. Uchidas' playing here really is like someone reading it for the first time, no colour, no life. In fact a painting by numbers picture before being coloured in.
Don't get me wrong, I wish I could play half as well as her but if you want to hear the best, this isn't it.
So far the best I've heard is Barenboim but I'll soon investigate Brautigam, Baruda-Skoda and Moravec... great fun but i guess we have to accept a few disappointments like this on our expedition.

1991 Gramophone Award Winner.......2005-02-12

Mozart's piano sonatas are sometimes devalued by critics as "lesser compositions" in Mozart's vast output. Of course when there are 626 works in total, some will be truly monumental, some merely masterful and others somewhat average and less consequential compared to the creme. To fully appreciate the piano sonatas of Mozart, one needs a little perspective. In Mozart's piano sonatas we see a bit more of the utilitarian need to produce music suitable for the "home market" - sometimes even used merely for musical lessons for a patron's child. What we often have here is typically pleasant parlor music - which was one goal of the more "simple" compositions in this set. This is one of the minor downsides of "let's hear it all" complete collections like this ... not all pieces will be stunning masterpieces. So, to one not familiar with this context, there can be feeling of the music being a bit "let down" after listening to some of these more simple sonatas - especially if there is an expectation for them to possess the magnitude of Beethoven's or Schubert's grand piano sonata conceptions.

Although more humble as a whole, Mozart's Piano Sonatas still possess a brilliance and that magical "Mozart touch." Take sonatas like K570 which have a surface innocence over a foundation of serious emotional and intellectual depth. Clearly, Mozart had a way of taking a simple, child-like lyrical theme and developing it via sonata form into something effortlessly melodic and classically perfected. All the sonatas are here enjoyable and highly musical in their own right. Additionally, I also think much of this music really fits well into the world of young children: innocent, lyrical, gentle and not too much at once. But, like Artur Schnabel once said, "Mozart's sonatas are easy for children but difficult for adults." While some pieces are seemingly simple and make for wonderful, soothing background music (disc 5), there are plenty of dynamic, vituostic sonatas here - such as the popular K.330-333, the pathos-laden K.310 (a rare minor-key sonata) and especially the two passionate works in C minor (K457 and K475).

The typically warm, sensitive and expressive style of Mitsuko Uchida brings out the best in Mozart's sonatas as she finds just the right "classical-era spirit" in the music. In the lilting allegros and rondos, Uchida recreates that legendary "bouncy" Mozart tempo and youthful enthusiasm, while still finding the occasional pathos when called for in certain moments. The sound of her piano is somewhat reminicent of a Mozart-era fortepiano with its sharp attack and quick decay. In fact, Mozart took such instrument dynamics into consideration in his fast-moving legato writing. For some at first (me included), this kind of sound may seem somewhat "dry" (as another Amazon reviewer notes as well). But perhaps Ms. Uchida is trying to stay closer to the spirit of the music by her choice of instrument, following Mozart's markings (minimal changes in dynamics) and minimizing the power of the modern grand by largely avoiding use of the sustaining pedal (an invention which arrived late in Mozart's time that whose potential fascinated to him). So, I think the sound fits the idiom well ... but I still find the sound quality a bit thin and slightly unfulfilling nevertheless. However, it is certainly not disappointing enough to keep one from acquiring the set and fully enjoying the music. Just imagine Mozart playing his little fortepiano to tickle the fancy of the fickle Viennese aristocrats, and the sound of Uchida's piano and playing fall nicely into place.

This set received two legendary critic awards: a coveted Penquin Guide "Rosette" and the 1991 Gramophone Award as well as a listing as a top "Recommended Recording" - which certainly is fine critical acclaim. Additionally, Gramophone says of this landmark set: "This is unfailing clean, crisp and elegant playing that avoids anything like a romanticised view. Indeed her complete series is a remarkable achievement, comparable with her fine account of the piano concertos ... an unqualified recommendation is in order for what must be one of the most valuable volumes in the Philips's Complete Mozart Edition."

Another complete set that is high on many's list and worth hearing comes is by Eshenbach. His was my second choice. Andras Schiff is also known for a very lyrical and warm-sounding Mozart and his Decca complete cycle is also satisfying (but it lacks some of the magic Uchida brings). A cycle that did not seem to recreate the 18th-century spirit of these sonatas was that of Spaniard Alicia de Larrocha - whose full, grand piano sound and greater embellishments did not seem to fit the genre as well as Uchida's more intimate pianism and sound (to me at least). Russian pianist Mikhail Pletnev brings his characteristic dynamism and dazzling velocity to K.330-332/K.457 in a 2006 DG release (that did not garner great music-industry reviews though). But, it really comes down to what stylistic nuances most captures your interest and emotion, so it is best to pick what you like best and enjoy the music. But it may be hard to top Mitsuko Uchida in Mozart's sonatas. Most major reviews I have read seem to think so too. Compositions - 4 stars; Performance - 5 stars; Sound - 4 stars.

Mozart: The Piano Sonatas; Fantasias & Rondos

Average customer rating:

Wonderful articulation is her hallmark
Amazing performances of amazing music!
Good Performance, bad recording
Devoted collection by a mature virtuoso.

Mozart: The Piano Sonatas; Fantasias & Rondos

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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Beethoven: The 5 Piano Concertos; Choral Fantasy
Favourite Spanish Encores
Music of Spain
Mozart: Six Quartets Dedicated to Haydn
Mozart: Piano Sonatas

ASIN: B0000CNTLW
Release Date: 2003-12-09

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful articulation is her hallmark.......2007-07-09

The collection is spectacular. Larrocha's nimble fingers and clear articulation make it a joy to listen to her interpretations of Mozart. The very familiar "A la turca" is given a lighthearted yet sensitive interpretation that makes it a great listening experience. This is definitely a set to own.

Amazing performances of amazing music!.......2006-09-27

I can't compare this to other Mozart Sonata cycles, but after looking hard at which set to purchase, I bought these and have been extremely pleased. I have not noticed any recording problems with the 2nd and 3rd disks, but I am no expert. I think the whole set sounds wonderful! And you cannot beat the price. I just wish she had a complete cycle of Mozart's Piano Concerti available!

Good Performance, bad recording.......2004-09-14

The performance of Laroccha is exceptional, the trills are fantastic and some of the sonatas are almost perfect. The whole compilation sounds very mozartian and may disturb some people that are used into more sweet and passion performances. However the recording of the 2nd and 3rd CD is terrible, it sounds like there is echo in the recording and it becomes very annoying and fuzzy. The key of a good mozart recording is brightness and music purity, which definately this compilation lacks.
Brendel's mozart sonatas sound better for me, however he has not recorded all of them in a single complilation such as this.

Devoted collection by a mature virtuoso........2004-02-07

Listen to Alicia de Larrocha performing the exposition of the first movement of Mozart's Piano Sonata in Bb major, K. 333--my favorite of the great composer's sonata; the absolute pinnacle of Classical beauty. You will hear a consummate artist devoted to the detail and refinement of this glorious music. Collected here in 5 CDs are the complete Mozart Sonatas and a few minor works to fill out the discs. I don't believe in the concept of a 'definitive' performance or recording-especially for a body of work as extensive and diverse as this, and so would never claim such a title for this or any performance-but de Larrocha's set is definitely worth having. She takes a refined, subtle approach, never exaggerating or turning Mozart into a Romantic, but always emphasizing the Classical sense of balance. Even in as "romantic" a work as the Presto of the Sonata in A minor K. 310, she plays expressively and emotionally, but within a Classical aesthetic, always exercising great control and touch. Dynamics and tempi are varied, certainly, but within a more discrete range than some of our more flamboyant pianists. This, for me, is the charm of de Larrocha's approach-perhaps, for some listeners, its downfall. Here's where the concept of definitive recordings fails completely. Do we try to listen to Mozart in an historical context, as he himself might have heard it, or do we take a Postmodern approach? Having lived after the Romantic period and even the Twentieth Century now, do we perform and prefer Mozart played on an instrument he never knew, allowing innovations of interpretation developed after his death to shape a new vision of his works? Both are possible, and in today's world, where Bond and Maksim pass unremarked as Classical musicians to my great disgust, mass audiences give no favor to historical context. De Larrocha clearly prefers the informed, appropriate approach, although she plays on a modern grand piano, and the music glows under her loving hands. Listen, for example, to the lovely Adagio from K. 280, one of Mozart's earlier sonatas.

These performances are not newly recorded-once again, the recording companies are putting out new product by repackaging old material. But in this case, the quality of the material is so good that I can scarcely complain-its old wine in new bottles! The CDs were recorded in 1990 and 1991, when the Barcelonian pianist was almost 70 years old. I certainly hope that I'm capable of similar accomplishment at that age-so I'd better sign off now and get practicing!

Beethoven: Complete Sonatas for Piano & Cello
Average customer rating:

Good Alternative Beethoven Cello Set...

Great Stuff

Ma and Ax do it again!

Beethoven: Complete Sonatas for Piano & Cello

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Brahms: Sonatas for Cello and Piano

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Beethoven: The Complete Piano Sonatas

ASIN: B0000026GN
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Sonata No. 1 For Piano & Cello, Op. 5, No. 1 (F Major): I - Adagio sostenuto; Allegro
Sonata No. 1 For Piano & Cello, Op. 5, No. 1 (F Major): II - Rondo: Allegro vivace
Sonata No. 2 For Piano & Cello, Op. 5, No. 2 (G Minor): I - Adagio sostenuto ed espressivo; Allegro molto piu tosto presto
Sonata No. 2 For Piano & Cello, Op. 5, No. 2 (G Minor): II - Rondo: Allegro
Sonata No. 4 For Piano & Cello, Op. 102, No. 1 (C Major): I - Andante; Allegro vivace
Sonata No. 4 For Piano & Cello, Op. 102, No. 1 (C Major): II - Adagio; Allegro vivace

Tracks:

Sonata No. 3 For Piano & Cello, Op. 69 (A Major): I - Allegro ma non tanto
Sonata No. 3 For Piano & Cello, Op. 69 (A Major): II - Scherzo: Allegro molto
Sonata No. 3 For Piano & Cello, Op. 69 (A Major): III - Adagio cantabile; Allegro vivace
Sonata No. 5 For Piano & Cello, Op. 102, No. 2 (D Major): I - Allegro con brio
Sonata No. 5 For Piano & Cello, Op. 102, No. 2 (D Major): II - Adagio con molto sentimento d'affetto
Sonata No. 5 For Piano & Cello, Op. 102, No. 2 (D Major): III - Allegro fugato
Seven Variations On The Theme 'In Men, Who Know The Feeling Of Love' From Mozart's (From Mozart's 'The Magic Flute, For Cello And Piano, WoO 46)
Twelve Variations On The Theme 'A Maiden Or A Wife' (From Mozart's 'The Magic Flute, For Cello And Piano, Op. 66)

Amazon.com essential recording

These are among the finest modern recordings of Beethoven's Cello Sonatas. The two players are well matched, as they should be in this music, which is just as demanding for the pianist as for the cellist, if not more so. They don't try to differentiate stylistically among early, middle, and late sonatas. They play them all in a large scale, concert-hall manner, which actually suits all of them very well. Unfortunately, in reducing this recording to two CDs, the producers have dropped one set of Variations, which was recorded. What is present, though, is choice. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Good Alternative Beethoven Cello Set..........2005-11-16

Seems to be a lot of disagreement on this set. I have both this one and the Fournier & Kempff set. I like them both. I can say that Ma & Ax take all repeats, thusly extending the playing time of each movement anywhere from 3-5mins over the Fournier & Kempff set. I've always thought Ma a fine cellist. I rate his Bach solo cello second only to Casals, and tied with Fournier. Ax is a solid pianist, if not brilliant. Kempff is preferred with Beethoven, however.

Anyway, this is a solid set: can't go wrong. The Fournier & Kempff set, likewise.

Great Stuff.......2003-06-23

I have listened to many recordings of these sonatas and I have to admit that these are amazing!
Although I agree that Yo-Yo Ma is not the best cellist to have ever walked the earth (anyone who knows anythign about cello playing would admit this) he is certainly without doubt the best around at the moment!!! Who knows who he rates better than Ma. Du Pre?? I hope not!
People often forget that a sonata is a piece of chamber music! Ma and Ax, certainly not forgeting this play so beautifully together in this that this is a piece of chamber music that cannot be missed!
BUY IT!!!!!!!! (Whilst throwing away any recordings of du pre!)

Ma and Ax do it again!.......2000-06-13

At first I was hesitant to buy this set because of the price. But later I found out that it was well worth it. Their ability to basically control the instruments that they are playing is incredible. Most importantly is the feeling that they have put in to the Beethoven cello sonatas. I have noticed that of all the classical duos and trios that i have heard, Ma and Ax are the best. They seem to communicate well together while playing. This selection definitely receives five stars.

Average customer rating:

"Real" classical music for little ones
Very Relaxing, yet still super
Just what we harried ADULTS need to unwind!
Beautiful bedtime music for babies
Peaceful, beautiful, soothing piano music

Perchance to Dream

Manufacturer: Delos Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

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Reverie: Carol Rosenberger
Such Stuff As Dreams
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Singing on the Water
This Little Piggy with CD: Lap Songs, Finger Plays, Clapping Games and Pantomime Rhymes

ASIN: B0000006X2
Release Date: 1992-05-22

Tracks:

Short Story
My Deal Little Mother (Mein Mein)
Andante from Sonata in C, K. 545
Erinnerung (Remembrance)
Sehr Langsam (Very Slowly)
Abendlied (Evening Song)
Schlummerlied (Slumber Song)
Mignon
Des Abends (Evening)
Berceuse, Op. 56, No. 1
Prelude Op. 28, No. 7 in a Major
Mazurka Op. 68, No. 2 in a Minor
Adagio from Sonata in F Major, Hob Xvi:23
Sinfonia V in E-Flat Major
Prelude in C Major from the Well-Tempered Clavier
Aria in G Major from the Goldberg Variations
Andante from Sonata in a Major, Op. 120, D. 664
Intermezzo Op. 117, No. 1
Bagatelle, Op. 119, No. 1
Adagio Cantabile from Sonata Op. 13 (Pathque)

Amazon.com

This is a lovingly-presented and very touching recording. Solo piano works by such composers as Kabalevsky, Tchaikovsky, Mozart, Schumann, and Ravel come together in this collection intended to promote restfulness and calm in both children and adult listeners. With Carol Rosenberger's gentle playing, it succeeds marvellously. This disc is absolutely ideal for bedtime or times of quiet reflection. It might serve well in the car during traffic jams, too. Rather than just throwing together performances packaged on a theme (as a number of record companies are doing), Delos and Rosenberger seem to have tailored the interpretations to achieve the desired musical goal here. The liner notes have a lively section just for young readers. --Gwendolyn Freed

Product Description

Music for Babies/Childrem

Customer Reviews:

"Real" classical music for little ones.......2003-02-27

I bought this CD for my elder son when he was tiny; he listened to it nightly (and often for afternoon naps), and his little brother is continuing the tradition. What I like best about this compilation is that this is REAL music - real Brahms, Mozart, etc - and not watered-down versions or arrangements of the classics (like the vast majority of "classical" compilations on the market these days). (I suppose I am just a crank about this, but I grew up listening to real music, and I want my kids to do the same.) The performances are gentle and understated - not what you would want in a concert, but just right for sedating a small one.

Very Relaxing, yet still super.......1999-06-16

This CD is just wonderful for babies and adults and children. It has a good blend of music to introduce children to beautiful classical music. I think that the playing is just superb.

Just what we harried ADULTS need to unwind!.......1999-02-12

An almost perfect combination of selections for relaxing background music, which is played frequently as our dinner music.

I would have appreciated a little less "electronic doctoring" as some notes (especially the lower range) don't sound quite "true", but then again it could be my ears!

Anyway, am delighted that it does what it was designed to do...provide an enjoyable time of relaxation. Thanks.

Beautiful bedtime music for babies.......1999-01-04

This CD was given to us as a gift when our daughter was born and we always play it when putting her down for a nap or to sleep for the night. When we travel, we take it along to ensure that she will fall asleep as easily on the road as she does at home.The music is absolutely lovely and very soothing for infants and adults alike. We even ordered a second copy in case we were ever to lose or wear out the first one!

Peaceful, beautiful, soothing piano music.......1998-10-22

This is one of the most peaceful, soothing and beautiful CD's I have ever heard. I think it would put you or your baby to sleep every night. The music selection is wonderful and the artist has a beautiful technique on the piano. I loved it.

Mozart: The Complete Sonatas; Fantasias, K397 & K475

Average customer rating:

Gould and Mozart...
Genius plays Genius
SCARY !
Good for playing in shopping malls or "romantic evenings"...
Mozart For Masochists

Mozart: The Complete Sonatas; Fantasias, K397 & K475

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Beethoven: Piano Sonatas, Vol. 1 - Nos, 1-3, 5-10, 12-14
The Glenn Gould Edition: Ludwig Van Beethoven Piano Sonatas, Volume II
Glenn Gould Edition: Chopin / Mendelssohn / Scriabin / Prokofiev
Beethoven: The 5 Piano Concertos
Gould Meets Menuhin

ASIN: B0000028NT
Release Date: 1995-02-07

Tracks:

Sonata No. 1 In C Major, K.279: I. Allegro
Sonata No. 1 In C Major, K.279: II. Andante
Sonata No. 1 In C Major, K.279: III. Allegro
Sonata No. 2 In F Major, K.280: I. Allegro Assai
Sonata No. 2 In F Major, K.280: II. Adagio
Sonata No. 2 In F Major, K.280: III. Presto
Sonata No. 3 In B Flat Major, K.281: I. Allegro
Sonata No. 3 In B Flat Major, K.281: II. Andante Amoroso
Sonata No. 3 In B Flat Major, K.281: III. Rondeau. Allegro
Sonata No. 4 In E Flat Major, K.282: I. Adagio
Sonata No. 4 In E Flat Major, K.282: II. Menuetto I - Menuetto II
Sonata No. 4 In E Flat Major, K.282: III. Allegro
Sonata No. 5 In G Major, K.283: I. Allegro
Sonata No. 5 In G Major, K.283: II. Andante
Sonata No. 5 In G Major, K.283: III. Presto
Sonata No. 6 In D Major, K.284: I. Allegro
Sonata No. 6 In D Major, K.284: II. Rondeau en Polonaise. Andante
Sonata No. 6 In D Major, K.284: III. Theme. Andante - Variationen I - XII

Tracks:

Sonata No. 7 In C Major, K.309: I. Allegro Con Spirito
Sonata No. 7 In C Major, K.309: II. Andante Un Poco Adagio
Sonata No. 7 In C Major, K.309: III. Rondeau. Allegretto Grazioso
Sonata No. 8 In A Minor, K.310: I. Allegro Maestoso
Sonata No. 8 In A Minor, K.310: II. Andante Cantabile Con Espressione
Sonata No. 8 In A Minor, K.310: III. Presto
Sonata No. 9 In D Major, K.311: I. Allegro Con Spirito
Sonata No. 9 In D Major, K.311: II. Andante Con Espressione
Sonata No. 9 In D Major, K.311: III. Rondeau. Allegro
Sonata No. 10 In C Major, K.330: I. Allegro Moderato
Sonata No. 10 In C Major, K.330: II. Andante Cantabile
Sonata No. 10 In C Major, K.330: III. Allegretto

Tracks:

Sonata No. 11 In A Major, K.331: I. Tema. Andante Grazioso E Variazioni
Sonata No. 11 In A Major, K.331: II. Menuet -Trio
Sonata No. 11 In A Major, K.331: III. (Rondo) Alla Turca. Allegretto
Sonata No. 12 In F Major, K.332: I. Allegro
Sonata No. 12 In F Major, K.332: II. Adagio
Sonata No. 12 In F Major, K.332: III. Allegro Assai
Sonata No. 13 In B Flat Major, K.333: I. (Allegro)
Sonata No. 13 In B Flat Major, K.333: II. (Andante Cantabile)
Sonata No. 13 In B Flat Major, K.333: III. (Allegretto Grazioso)
Sonata No. 14 In C Minor, K.457: I. Allegro
Sonata No. 14 In C Minor, K.457: II. Adagio
Sonata No. 14 In C Minor, K.457: III. Molto Allegro

Tracks:

Sonata No. 15 In F Major, K.533: I Allegro (K.533)
Sonata No. 15 In F Major, K.533: II. Andante (K.533)
Sonata No. 15 In F Major, K.533: III. Rondo. Allegretto (K.494)
Sonata No. 16 In C Major, K.545 'Sonata Facile': I. Allegro
Sonata No. 16 In C Major, K.545 'Sonata Facile': II. Andante
Sonata No. 16 In C Major, K.545 'Sonata Facile': III. Rondo. Allegretto
Sonata No. 17 In B Flat Major, K.570: I. Allegro
Sonata No. 17 In B Flat Major, K.570: II. Adagio
Sonata No. 17 In B Flat Major, K.570: III. Allegretto
Sonata No. 18 In D Major, K.576: I. Allegro
Sonata No. 18 In D Major, K.576: II. Adagio
Sonata No. 18 In D Major, K.576: III. Allegretto
Fantasia In D Minor, K.397: Andante
Fantasia In C Minor, K.475: Adagio

Customer Reviews:

Gould and Mozart..........2006-10-27

Anyone who is a fan of Gould knows his personal opinion of the Mozart sonatas. Listening to this interpretation of Mozart is about as entertaining as being in a room full of typewriters and screaming infants--both monotonous and completely irritating at the same time. If you're new to Gould go to his interpretation of Bach's Well Tempered Clavier or the English suites...if you want definitive recordings of the Mozart sonatas try Brendel, Eschenbach or Uchida. There is no denying Gould's genius...it just not found in this recording.

Genius plays Genius.......2006-10-22

Gould has the most crisp keyboard execution and the brighest tone I've ever heard. His clarity during the fastest passages is frightening. My favorite of his playing in the box set is: Sonata no.8, 1st movement-extreme powerhouse virtuoso performance(I get quite worked up when I listen to it!) His rendition of Sonata no.11 Ronda Alla Turca may be annoying to some(slow); also some people may think many of the adagios are too slow; But the first and third movements make up for that; And when it comes to counterpoint, technique, clarity of voicings, and spirit, Gould is the best.

SCARY !.......2006-08-04

I guess I'd have to agree with those who feel that Gould was somehow ridiculing Mozart with this interpretation. It's all a matter of taste, and some obviously find this bizarre, eccentric recording to their liking, but if you're an average listener who is not into the weird stuff and just wants a decent set of Mozart's Piano Sonatas, this probably isn't for you, as it isn't for me.

Good for playing in shopping malls or "romantic evenings"..........2006-05-13

I gave up an initial idea to be a referee to all these pro et contra comments; simply, because I eternally love Mozart, and this ridiculous playing really harms me. People are looking for a quality entertainment, not for some silly demonstration. Mr. Gould should be awared that his crisp technique means absolutely nothing to millions who are looking for right performance of Mozart's "11.-14." sonatas. Nevertheless, his knowing of style is undeniable which makes impression that his neglect playing is deeply purposeful. The question arises who he tries to intrigue, an audience or Mozart; an audience won't tolerate it. Mozart, on the contrary, "knew" that the world is full of different kinds of "wizards" and "creative genius" so his A-dur sonata is probably his testimony to all these "humans".

An A-dur sonata is a kind of "board exam" to all eminent keyboardists. Some of them play brilliantly just one of movements but have no energy to make complete sonata polished. Even though the style is well-known ,"or is it?", pianists usually lack the energy in the allegretto which lids them to bring just an ordinary performance. Glenn Gould,a smarty guy, avoids any personal inconvenience by a little "recreating" the whole piece. Changing a tempos, he brakes the sonata in to three pieces with ambiguous concept.

Sonatas 12. and 14. are tent to be Ok. I'l let it go, just as it is- a little tolerance of mine. Now, a famous "c-mol" K.457 is totally ruined. It starts with a good tempo which is introduction to a great tragedy that might follow. However, Glenn Gould misses to underline beginnings and ends of phrases in the exposition of the themes, so he misses the whole Allegro movement, then his escape is a make up, adding ornamentations in "Allegro assai" which I found complete lack of wisdom and good sense. The rest of sonatas is just demonstration of his superior technique which is completely unbearable.

In addition, a "closer look" to tempos of "c-mol" pair, fantasia and sonata, reveals a question whether Glenn Gould is able to make the whole idea realized, particularly if a concept is embedded with a new material such as tonalities and tempi. He just elaborates his own stubborn concept, based on virtuoso technique, and unchangeable, perfect but pointless even disturbing articulation- what a horrable iterpretation! This two pieces were turnover in Mozart's style and, thus, ask for really intelligent musician to reveal full blast of new ideas charged with personal emotions and inner tensions. It is -too much, for Glenn.

(we live in a real world and I find myself as a medioceree among other people devoted to science, my job)- but I love Mozart!

For the A-dur sonata I'd highly recommend Anthony Newman's recordings, also Newman is the best at Tragic K.310, Sonata Semplice and all early sonatas, particularly K.280 and the following G-dur; and following is my list of favorite recordings: Jos Van Immerseel and Demus Jorg- concertos, Ton Koopman and Pierre Hantai early works for harpsichord, Jeno Jando K.311, Bart Van Oort pair "c-mol" fantasia and sonata, and "d-mol" fantasia, as well, John Van Buskirk K.282, Rampe K.332, Lars-Urlik Mortnsen three concertos K.107, Levin early concertos 1-4 after C.P.E.Bach...Also I highly recomend virtuoso duos: Immerseel- Schroeder 6 Vienna sonatas K.296- 380; and Davos- Kuijken K. 526...
Mirro

Mozart For Masochists.......2006-04-06

I love Glenn Gould -- when he's playing Bach, that is. But Gould hated Mozart, and while some of his early Mozart recordings are quite nice, the Mozart recordings he did in the 60's and 70's (i.e., on these discs) were simply bizarre. And not in a good way. They are exhibitions in spite, and spite is not fun to listen to. Granted, some of the slow movements are played beautifully -- but there's more to Mozart than slow movements. The fast movements (i.e., two thirds of the music in the average sonata) are a horror.

If you want to hear Gould at his eccentric best, buy anything he did with Bach -- or his Haydn albums, his early Beethoven sonatas (avoid Sonata No. 23, though), his Sibelius, Scriabin, Schoenberg or his Byrd & Gibbons albums. But stay clear of Mozart.

Casals Edition - Beethoven: Complete Cello Sonatas

Average customer rating:

Spectacular recording of spectacular music
Disappointing Sound Quality
Very touching performance.
Casals and Serkin play Beethoven for the Gods
Deeply-probing classic interpretations (but not *quite* complete)

Casals Edition - Beethoven: Complete Cello Sonatas

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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

Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Bach: Cello Suites
J. S. Bach: Suites for Cello, 4, 5 & 6; Pablo Casals
Franz Schubert: Quintet/Symphony No.5
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J. S. Bach: Suites for Cello, 1, 2 & 3; Pablo Casals

ASIN: B0000029L7
Release Date: 1994-02-22

Tracks:

I. Adagio Sostenuto - Allegro-Adagio-Presto
II. Rondo. Allegro Vivace
I. Adagio Sostenuto E Espressivo/Allegro Molto Piu Tosto Presto
II. Rondo. Allegro
I. Andante - Allegro Vivace
II. Adagio - Allegro Vivace

Tracks:

I. Allegro Ma Non Troppo
II. Scherzo. Allegro Molto
III. Adagio Cantabile - Allegro Vivace
I. Allegro Con Brio
II. Adagio Con Molto Sentimento D'affetto
III. Allegro - Allegro Fugato
7 Variations On/Uber/Sur 'Bei Mannern, Welche Liebe Fuhlen' From/Aus/De Mozart's 'Die Zauberflote'/ < > WoO.46
12 Variations On/Uber/Sur 'Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen' From/Aus/De Mozart's 'Die Zauberflote'/ < > WoO.66

Customer Reviews:

Spectacular recording of spectacular music.......2007-06-08

I didn't even know that Beethoven wrote sonatas for cello and piano until I came across this recording; both the music and the musicians are spectacularly good. Get it today!

Disappointing Sound Quality.......2007-01-09

I have heard of these sonatas for years, but had never heard them. I chose the Casals/Serkin set because of my familiarity with other performances by him. Although Casals and Serkin are unassailable as interpreters and performers, I found this set disappointing because of what I can only describe as ugly sounds - there is a harshness to the sound quality, at least in places, which I think is probably to be ascribed to the age of the recording rather than the performance. Still, I found it jarring, and it marred my enjoyment.

Very touching performance. .......2007-01-03

This album is one of the most beautiful music experiences I had in many years; I'm amateur listener but I can say that both interpreters are playing these compositions with such a passion and love that is probably not too common these days anymore. Originally I felt that the technical quality of this mono recording is bit distracting, but after a few weeks of listening this album over and over I don't mind the sound at all - the quality of music makes up for it, and I actually like the recording as it is presented to us, wouldn't want any change. I very much recommend this album. I'm planning to buy another copy as a gift for someone close.

Casals and Serkin play Beethoven for the Gods .......2006-03-29

This set is desert island gorgeous. Playing with passion, elegance, at times abandon, the performers are completely in tune with each other. This is elevated chamber music playing of an aristocratic order.

You can hear Casals grunting and moaning with pleasure through the performances - it sounds as though he's making love to his cello. Serkin's playing is simply beautiful - lucid and warm with some of the best trills I've heard - his playing in opus 60 is thrilling. Good clear sound allows you to listen unencumbered by distraction to this spectacular music-making.

The Schnabel - Fournier set of these pieces is quite wonderful, too - spunky and sparkling with Schnabel's great paced and joyous playing. The Schnabel virile luminosity is all there, partnered by Fournier's richly expressive and dignified cello. While it sounds like the historic performance it is, I rarely mind or notice. Art is what counts and the beauty of these performances shines through with radiant surrender. Who cares about a little interference - it adds to the wonder of the experience, knowing that this was recorded almost 60 years ago and we are priviliged to hear it today....

The dvd with Rostropovich and Richter playing Beethoven's cello sonatas is also splendid - Rostropovich is a marvelous musician to watch - he's in an altered state and quite uninhibited about his relationship with his instrument. Yes there are some incorrect notes played, but who cares? Rostropovich is demonically possessed at times and it's fascinating to watch his transformations and responses as he literally attacks his cello, especially in the rondo of opus 5 no. 2. Richter is a large man nearly bursting out of his tails. With his enormous hands he looks more like he could be unloading freight down at the docks, yet he plays these sonatas with such refined manners and sensitivity that it's heart rending to see this big, uncomfortable man playing such magnificent music.

Deeply-probing classic interpretations (but not *quite* complete).......2005-10-25

I was recently listening to this set and the new Schiff-Perenyi recordings on ECM for the purpose of comparing them and writing a review about my impressions. "Compare and contrast the sets, class, and write a review for Monday. Minimum of five pages, single-spaced, typed. --And don't ask your parents for help, because I can always tell."

Well, I was weird as a school kid, because I always loved assignments like that and never was inclined to ask my parents or anyone else. Not that we ever got to write about Beethoven cello sonatas--usually it was on something boring like Beowulf. So I've been comparing Serkin and Casals to Schiff-Perenyi, and, in the interest of efficiency, was going to write a review dealing with both sets and paste two copies on Amazon, one under this recording and one under the Schiff-Perenyi disc, thereby scoring two reviews with one effort. Then I discovered that apparently the ECM isn't available in America--or at least not through Amazon's American website. (It is on their UK page.) So much for my attempt at efficiency. At any rate, you can consider this a review of both recordings, and maybe I'll even mosey on over to the UK side and post this review with them.

Anyway, after listening to the two sets, it's clear the Serkin-Casals stands head and shoulders above Schiff-Perenyi. What's frustrating is trying to explain why the latter, despite immacualte playing (or maybe because of it?) is devoid of meaning, while the former, despite finger-slips and lapses of intonation (as well as more cautious tempi and less free abandon) displays a deep understanding of the works' structures and nuances. Take, for just one small example, the second movement of Op.5, No. 2: in the hands of less skilled interpreters, the waltz seems to be repetitious and too long, distended from the rest of the work. I always thought it was that way, and figured Beethoven just hadn't really mastered proportion yet.

Well, perhaps he hadn't, but Casals and Serkin make us believe he has. They find infinite variety in the theme, so that it doesn't sound redundant as it keeps returning. And I don't just mean they vary the dynamics or insert a pause here or there; they find just the proper weight for the pieces as it morphs from section to section. No one else has convinced me so much in this music, not even Heidsieck-Tortelier (a set I am very enthusiastic about nonetheless).

Some other moments are just unforgettable. Listen to the opening of Op. 102, No. 1: does anyone play music this way anymore? Pay attention to the way Serkin answers Casals in the introduction's main phrase. Then listen to the low tremolos in Serkin's left hand, with Casals the background, just before the main theme begins. It's positively heartbreaking! After a plaintive introduction like that, it seems logical to me that the main theme should have to *fight* for its very existence when it appears, and this is just how Casals and Serkin take it. (Listen to the dynamic interplay!) By contrast, Schiff-Perenyi play it relatively straight-laced, without much dynamics, and don't convince me they have anything to say; their mission seems to be just to play prettily. ("For extra credit class, contrast their handling of the last murmuring bars of the introduction with Serkin-Casals. Which one makes your hair stand up on your back?") When the latter two get to the first movement's second theme, that struggle from the terse introduction is absent, and the whole dramatic "point" of the piece is lost, to my ears. These musicians are more convincing in the facile works, such as the Op. 66 Magic Flute Variations--they're pretty, sweet-sounding, and not as deep as the triple-digit opus works.

I think the best way to put it is to say that I feel that Schiff-Perenyi have thought about the notes, and play them perfectly. They can play rings around Casals and Serkin, and generally do. But Casals and Serkin spent their study time thinking about the music, what it meant, why Beethoven started this one with a brooding introduction but not that one; how the absense of such an introduction changes the qualities of the movement's secondary theme, when the works get "dark" and when they get "light," and so on. So many of today's musicians, unfortunately, see the little squiggles on paper as technical obstacles to be hurdled; Casals and Serkin saw them as clues to divine what was inside the composer's head. And if they didn't always clear the hurdle--and sometimes they don't--so what? You understood what they meant.

I guess in the interest of full disclosure, I should mention that while the Schiff-Perenyi are in immaculate sound, the Serkin-Casals recordings were made in the early 50s and are mono. This shouldn't stop anyone from buying them, but if you must have everything in your collection writ in large DDD letters, you should look elsewhere. And it will be your loss.

My only slight complaint is the titling of the Casals and Serkin set "The Complete Edition." Not quite. Missing is the little-known sonata in F Major, Op. 17, a transcription, as well as a theme and variations on Handel's Judas Maccabaus, WoO 45. These aren't major omissions that should dissuade you from buying the set, but it's not "complete," either. But even my beloved Heidsieck-Tortelier lacks the Op 17 sonata. Only the ECM has every last scraping of Beethoven's cello music.

Okay, that's my comparative essay. Hope you give me an A.

Average customer rating:

Glib and Dull Playing!!!
This is one of the great recordings of the century
beautiful playing, bargain price
Walter Klien's Mozart is dynamite!

Mozart: Piano Sonatas, Vol. 1

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

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Mozart: Piano Sonatas Vol 2 / Walter Klien
Schubert: Complete Piano Sonatas, Vol. 1
Walter Klien plays Brahms
Mozart: Twelve Great Piano Concerti
Schubert: Complete Piano Sonatas, Vol.2

ASIN: B000001K2G
Release Date: 1992-11-04

Tracks:

Sonata In G Major, K. 283: I. Allegro
Sonata In G Major, K. 283: II. Andante
Sonata In G Major, K. 283: III. Presto
Sonata In C Major, K. 309: I. Allegro con spirito
Sonata In C Major, K. 309: II. Andante un poco adagio
Sonata In C Major, K. 309: III. Rondo: Allegretto grazioso
Sonata In B-Flat Major, K. 281: I. Allegro
Sonata In B-Flat Major, K. 281: II. Andante amoroso
Sonata In B-Flat Major, K. 281: III. Rondo: Allegro
Sonata In E-Flat Major, K. 282: I. Adagio
Sonata In E-Flat Major, K. 282: II. Menuetto I; Menuetto II
Sonata In E-Flat Major, K. 282: III. Allegro
Sonata In C major, K. 279: I. Allegro
Sonata In C major, K. 279: II. Adagio
Sonata In C major, K. 279: III. Presto
Sonata In F Major, K. 280: I. Allegro assai
Sonata In F Major, K. 280: II. Adagio
Sonata In F Major, K. 280: III. Presto

Tracks:

Sonata In D Major, K. 284: I. Allegro
Sonata In D Major, K. 284: II. Rondeau in Polonaise: Andante
Sonata In D Major, K. 284: III. Theme With 12 Variations
Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: I. Allegro maestoso
Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: II. Andante cantabile con espressione
Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: III. Presto
Sonata In D Major, K. 311: I. Allegro con spirito
Sonata In D Major, K. 311: II. Andante con espressione
Sonata In D Major, K. 311: III. Rondo: Allegro
Sonata In C Major, K. 330: I. Allegro moderato
Sonata In C Major, K. 330: II. Andante cantabile
Sonata In C Major, K. 330: III. Allegretto

Customer Reviews:

Glib and Dull Playing!!!.......2005-07-18

This is dull for repeated listening.The Playing is glib and superficial.Very monotonous with all the pieces sounding pretty much the same!Was Mozart lacking in variety or creativity?You will be tempted to say YES after listening to this set.Just no variation in Dynamics or tempo.Better to go in for the Complete set by Eschenbach or even Barenboim.

This is one of the great recordings of the century.......2000-04-11

I share the enthusiasm of the two reviewers in this page in the sense that I, too, think this is Mozart in its most glorious state.

In a musical world so flooded with Argerichs and Brendels, the late Walter Klien shines with sovereign light in this so very intimate world of Mozart piano solo music.

I have listened to the two volumes time and again and I just can't get over how delicate, suave, liquid and natural Klien's touch is. Although Uchida or de Larrocha (considered by many as Mozart specialists and supreme exponents of this music) have their own merit, no doubt Walter Klien will remain unrivaled, for this is truly ineffable art.

Artists like Klien give me back my confidence in true artists.

beautiful playing, bargain price.......1999-11-10

Klien's recording of Mozart's piano sonatas are an absolute delight. His articulation is extremely crisp yet the tone is light and ever so delicate. His playing never gets weighty or forceful like Gould's but rather maintains a beautiful tenderness. Along with the clean recording transfer this CD would be a good buy even if it weren't bargain-priced. (Volume 2 is excellent as well).

Walter Klien's Mozart is dynamite!.......1999-06-08

This recording of the Mozart Piano Sonatas is one of the most exquisite ever committed to disc. Klien's execution is absolutely "clean", and his interpretations are thoroughly mesmerizing for their style, panache, tenderness, drama, and pearly tone. Every not speaks and every phrase sings in a way only Klien can produce. Little else can be said about how exceptional this recording is because it speaks for itself. And at such an exceptional price, there is absolutely no reason not to buy this set!

Mozart: The Complete Piano Sonatas / Ronald Brautigam

Average customer rating:

Possibly the best complete Mozart sonata set
An absolute stunner!
Magic
brilliant period performances
Period Instrument performance with power

Mozart: The Complete Piano Sonatas / Ronald Brautigam

Manufacturer: Bis
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Mozart: Complete Piano Variations
Beethoven: Early Vienna Sonatas - Sonatas Op. 2, Nos. 1-3; Op. 29, Nos. 1-2 (Complete Works for Solo Piano Vol 2) /Brautigam
Beethoven: Die Verliebte - Sonatas Op 7; Op 10 Nos 1-3 (Complete Works for Solo Piano Vol 3) /Brautigam
Beethoven: Mondschein & Pastorale - Sonatas Op 26, 27 & 28 (Complete Works for Solo Piano Vol 4) /Brautigam
Mozart: Piano Sonatas (Box Set)

ASIN: B0000016P2
Release Date: 2000-09-19

Customer Reviews:

Possibly the best complete Mozart sonata set.......2007-02-25

A great combination of a musican, instrument and recording quality. You will never hear a fortepiano sound so full-bodied, and Brautigam has the just right talent: an astonishing tonal palette. Sometimes in a repeat, he'll alter the dynamics at an almost imperceptible level of difference and maintain it with perfect consistency. Clearly his remarkable instrument is a godsend or his touch would be wasted. Unlike what usually happens when someone sets out to record a complete set, Brautigam always establishes a unique character for each movement and sticks with it. Given his intensity and breadth of expression, his Mozart is - as a previous reviewer insightfully characterized it - "pre-Beethovenian."

An absolute stunner!.......2007-02-14

I own at least two complete recordings of these sonatas on modern pianos and numerous recording of individual sonatas on both modern and period instruments; moreover I was fortunate enough to hear a complete traversal of them in live performance during the 2006 Mozart birthday year. In short, I thought I knew these works pretty well, but Brautigam's performances have been a revelation: they are crisp & clear and reveal details I'd never heard before; there is grace and beauty here that could move one to tears. Musically and sonically (hats off to BIS!) this is a stunning set - to be returned to often. This, surely, is Mozart as Mozart would have wished to hear it.

Magic.......2006-03-21

I was sick of hearing the feeble, watered down Mozart of the likes of Perahia and Uchida, and wow! along comes Brautigam and blows all that Dresden china into smithereens. Not to say his playing is lacking in poetry or finesee. Far from it. But the music lives and breaths under Brautigam's fingers in a way that makes Uchida et al sound turgid. At last! we can hear those wonderfully dynamic bass parts Mozart wrote for the left hand and instead of a muddy boom we get a sparkling interplay of musical line. I love the entire set!! Humour, wit, fire, impetuosity, grace, beauty, feeling - it's all here. I'm sure Mozart himself would've approved. THIS was the instrument Mozart composed for, a Walter fortepiano, and its response to the music is sheer delight.

Now we want to have Brautigam playing the concertos with Pinnock and the English Concert!!

brilliant period performances.......2003-05-13

These recordings have changed my opinion of Mozart's sonatas. Brautigam uses a copy of a 1795 fortepiano with spectacular results. The attack of this instrument is much more defined, which makes these pieces come alive. His tempos are fast, which adds to the energy and excitement of these performances. Recording quality is superb, and the price is a true value. I used to think Mozart's sonatas were sluggish and not of the same caliber of much of his other compositions (Haydn's sonatas seemed to sparkle in comparison). With this set, I have changed my mind... truly first class.

Period Instrument performance with power.......2003-03-17

These performances are probably not to all tastes. Speeds are often very aggressive and the piano sound percussive and exciting, not qualities often associated with Mozart. Still, there are moments of great beauty here and the playing never sacrifices expressiveness for the sake of virtuosity. Brautigam is even better in his excellent Haydn series, and many may find his generally brisk approach easier to accept with Haydn. This is my first choice for these pieces, and if you appreciate the pre-Beethovenian aspects of Mozart's style you will not be disappointed.

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