Carnival of the Animals

Track Listings

1. Introduction Et Marche Royale Du Lion

2. Poules Et Cogs

3. Hemiones (Animaux Veloces)

4. Tortues

5. L'elephant

6. Kangourous

7. Aguarium

8. Personnages A Longues Oreilles

9. Le Coucou Au Fond Des Bois

10. Voliteres

11. Pianistes

12. Fossiles

13. Le Cygne

14. Final

15. Ferdinand

16. Gebet Des Ochsen

17. Gebet Der Maus

18. Gebet Der Katze

19. Gebet Des Hundes

20. Gebet Der Ameise

See all 28 tracks on this disc

Tracks:

O mio babbino caro (from 'Gianni Schicchi')
The Girl With Flaxen Hair (from Preludes, Book I; La fille aux cheveux delin: Prelude for Piano L 117/8)
Nocturne in C sharp minor (Op Post)
The Swan (from Carnival of the Animals)
Serenade (from 'Schwanengesang' song cycle for voice and piano, D 957
Casta Diva (from 'Norma')
Andante from Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major K. 467
Nocturne from Quartet for Strings No. 2 in D Major: 3rd movement
Dance of the Blessed Spirits (from 'Orfeo ed Euridice')
Songs My Mother Taught Me, song for voice and piano B104/4 Op 55/4
Pur ti Miro (from 'L'incoronazione di Poppea')
Elegie (Elegie 'O doux printemps d'autrefois' for voice and piano)
Traumerei ('Kinderszenen' for piano, Op 15, No. 7 'Dreaming')

Amazon.com

Every track on this CD contains a beautiful melody, many of them easily recognizable, all of them exuding tranquility. "O mio babbino caro" from Puccini's Gianni Schicchi opens the disc, with Bell delicately accompanied by a harp and spinning the long melody with great sensitivity. Bellini's "Casta diva" from Norma lives up to its reputation as the epitome of bel canto in Bell's hands; his violin sings. The middle movement of Mozart's 21st Piano Concerto takes well to the violin, and Debussy's "The Girl with the Flaxen Hair" is played with great warmth and sensuality. It would be easy to turn a recital like this into treacle, but Bell is wise enough to realize that the music is already sweet enough and he plays with great reserve and a minimum of sentimental slides. The light accompaniments always support, with woodwinds prominent but used with grace. This CD, in short, is a beauty: a fine gift, a lovely mood setter. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

End of the Day.......2007-06-08

I am a Joshua Bell fan, and this album is the one that I enjoy with my dessert, it calms me at the end of the day, and makes me think of my 6 year old granddaughter's visit. She has to have music on during meals at her home. Usually it is some kid stuff, but I do not have anything like she has at home, so I chose to play Joshua Bell during our dinner. When I placed the dessert before her, she looked up at me and said: "This music is so beautiful, I want to play the violin just like that". What more could I say.
He is inspiring, and she is right. This album is beautiful.

Wonderful!.......2007-05-30

I play this for my grandson to nap by. It is so relaxing and wonderful!

Over and over and over...........2007-05-17

That's how I want to play this CD! It's a wonderful line-up of rich, mellow, captivating compositions played with a warmth and vibrancy that is seldom heard. Joshua at his very best. You won't be disappointed.

Non-standard CD format.......2007-04-22

The music on this CD deserves five stars, but the CD itself is a non-standard format that doesn't work on all players. There's a tiny warning on the back of the CD. You won't notice the warning until you discover that the CD doesn't work on your player. My Macintosh computer wouldn't read the non-standard format so there was no way for me to listen in my office or put the music on my iPod.

A friend's PC was able to read the CD and make a copy in standard format that can be read on any player, including my Mac. The story had a happy ending, but I can not comprehend why the publisher chose the oddball CD specification.

The music is excellent and worth the trouble of making a copy, but the publisher really shouldn't make you go to that effort just to listen to a CD that you paid for.

wonderful surprise.......2007-04-13

This recording has quickly become a most favorite cd in my collection. My personal preference had always been for opera and not symphony concert. To hear the violin replace the voice and line of the opera singer (in two of the excerpts) was a wonderful surprise for me, and has enhanced my enjoyment of all of this recording.

The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever!

Average customer rating:

Lives Up To The Title, Fine Variety Of Genre's.
Good for relaxing pregnant women
Too much opera
Does what it set out to do, very well
TRULY The most relaxing and beautiful music ever written.

The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever!
Johann Sebastian Bach , Léo Delibes , Gabriel Fauré , Erik Satie , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Edvard Grieg , Johann Pachelbel , Claude Debussy , Felix Mendelssohn , Camille Saint-Saens , Henryk Gorecki , Antonio Vivaldi , Edward Elgar , Jocelyn Pook , Sergey Rachmaninov , Tomaso Giovanni Albinoni , Luigi Boccherini , Jules Massenet , Ludwig van Beethoven , Jacques Offenbach , Pietro Mascagni , Antonin Dvorak , Giacomo Puccini , Ralph Vaughan Williams , Alexander Borodin , Joaquin Rodrigo , and Samuel Barber
Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00000I93Z
Release Date: 1999-03-30

Tracks:

Air 'On the G String' - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
Morning - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
Canon In D - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
Gymnopedie No.1 - City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
II. Andante - Stephen Hough
Viens, Mallika - Mady Mesple
In Paradisum - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
Clair De Lune - Dame Moura Lympany
II. Andate - Yehudi Menuhin
The Swan - Osian Ellis
II. Lento E Largo - Tranquillissimo - Zofia Kilanowicz
II. Andantino - James Galway
II. Largo - Yehudi Menuhin
Nimrod - London Symphony Orchestra
Blow the Wind - Pie Jesu - Jocelyn Pook
Variation 18 - Cecile Ousset
Pavane Op.50 - Gareth Morris

Tracks:

Zion Hort Die Wachter Singen - South German Madrigal Choir
Adagio In G Minor - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
Minuet - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
II. Largo - Andrei Gavrilov
Meditation - Hans Kalafusz
I. Adagio Sostenuto - Dame Moura Lympany
Belle Nuit, O Nuit D'amour (Barcarolle) - Elisabeth Schwarzkopf
II. Andante - Nigel North
II. Adagio - Jack Brymer
Intermezzo - Philharmonia Orchestra
I. Moderato - London Chamber Orchestra
O Mio Babbino Caro - Montserrat Caballe
Fantasia On 'Greensleeves' - Sinfonia Of London
II. Adagio Sostenuto (Opening) - Cecile Ousset
Nocturne - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
II. Adagio (Opening) - Julian Bream
Adagio For Strings Op.11a - The Philadelphia Orchestra
Entr'acte To Act III - Orchestre National De France

Amazon.com

You want relaxing classical music that'll soothe your soul but won't lull you into sleep? Here's a double CD for you. The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World ... Ever! does its best to cover both well-worn classical favorites (Bach's "Air on the G String," Pachelbel's "Cannon," Debussy's "Clair de Lune") and some eclectic left-field choices (an excerpt from Górecki's Symphony No. 3, Jocelyn Pook's "Blow the Wind," and Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings. The performances of most of these excerpts are top-notch--artists include Sir Neville Marriner, James Galway, Jacqueline du Pré and the Philadelphia Orchestra--and there's enough variety here for everyone. --Edward Garabedian

Customer Reviews:

Lives Up To The Title, Fine Variety Of Genre's........2007-02-04

This CD is a great way to enjoy a large variety of Classical Composers & many of their best known pieces. Vivaldi's "Four Seasons," is an all time favorite. There are vocals, Piano pieces, & some fine Violins. I found the latter the most enjoyable. Here you can find Rodrigo & Pachelbell. Samuel Barber's haunting Adagio will make your skin tingle. This may not be to everyones taste, but if you wish to relax? Give this a couple of listens.

Good for relaxing pregnant women.......2007-01-17

I stumbled onto this album whilst searching bit torrent websites for classical music. I don't normally listen to classical music but thought it might be relaxing for my pregnant wife. After hearing the quality of the performances, the arrangement, and the recording I decided to buy the album from amazon. All the songs you would expect from a "best album in the world" are there and they are not boring to listen to like a lot of other classical albums. I now play this album in the car constantly and the wife requested it be played at the hospital during the birth.

Too much opera.......2007-01-10

If it wasn't for the opera this would be a great CD.

Does what it set out to do, very well.......2006-11-15

So i'm a classical music veteran, someone who prefers to collect a complete work, rather than classical compilations. I probably would not have listened to this album at all if my dad didnt buy it for me as a gift. By now, i own the complete works that over half of the excepts on this disc come from. I am a purist if ever there was one.

That said, i totally adore this set because i have learned to take it on its own terms. These discs weren't meant for expert classical listeners, so a review from that sort of mindset is useless. This set was meant for pure, easy listening, and for a basic starters kit for classical newbies. Most of all, it was just meant to do what the title says, to relax the average human being. classical expert or not.

Yes, some of these pieces have been altered or shortened, like Mozart's Flute and Harp Concerto Andantino, but they have been edited for a good enough reason: the full versions would have been too long to flow with the rest of the album. And also, the full versions contain so much development that they don't become easy listening anymore. The shortened versions work in the context of the album. Most essentially, the shortened versions on the discs still convey the main flavor the composers were going for. The melodies and themes remain unchanged.

To sum up, it is true that when i want to actually listen deeply to classical music, this album would never be a choice. I would want to hear the complete works like the composers intended. But at certain times when i simply don't mind about that stuff, when i just need to loosen up and free my mind of stress with some nice melodies, this set does the job well enough.

Last but not least: being a purist and a classical buff, i am very particular about performance quality. I was very glad to find that EMI did not get lazy about this. All the artists are world-class, and all the performances are at least exceptional. Some performances are even quite excellent, like the Clair De Lune, which is one of the best i've heard. (Credit to Dame Lympany, the pianist.)

So once again, recommended for its stated purpose, to relax. I am a purist, a classical buff, and i still enjoy this disc. That says something.

TRULY The most relaxing and beautiful music ever written........2006-11-10

This album along with Volume 2 are now the two most valued albums in my music collection. I have all of the songs contained on these two albums but they are scattered through at least a dozen different albums and several are not performed by artists such as those that recorded this album and Volume 2.
SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL !!!!!!!!!!

Average customer rating:

Carnival of the Animals
Carnival...
This is a Carnival of Fun
Musical Playfulness at it's finest
Magnificent

Saint-Saens: Carnival of the Animals

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000041QC
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

The Carnival Of The Animals: Introduction And Royal March Of The Lion
The Carnival Of The Animals: Hens And Cockerels
The Carnival Of The Animals: Wild Asses
The Carnival Of The Animals: Tortoises
The Carnival Of The Animals: The Elephant
The Carnival Of The Animals: Kangaroos
The Carnival Of The Animals: Aquarium
The Carnival Of The Animals: Persons With Long Ears
The Carnival Of The Animals: The Cuckoo In The Depths Of The Woods
The Carnival Of The Animals: Aviary
The Carnival Of The Animals: Pianists
The Carnival Of The Animals: Fossils
The Carnival Of The Animals: The Swan
The Carnival Of The Animals: Finale
Phaeton, Op.39
Le Rouet d'Omphale, Op.31
Danse macabre, Op.40

Customer Reviews:

Carnival of the Animals.......2007-01-10

The music is beautiful. I used it for a music lesson for Kindergarten on how to interpret animals using music. It is also very soothing in the background for working.

Carnival..........2005-07-26

I found this disk to be "adequate." Other than The Swan, nothing really moved me. The swan rates five stars, the rest, four! You might like it more than I did...

This is a Carnival of Fun.......2005-06-29

I had been a fan of this recording when it was first released. While looking for the recording for my daughter, I fell upon this release.
Sensational! Who can't love the Romantics?

Musical Playfulness at it's finest.......2005-02-20

This CD is absolutely charming. The Carnival of the Animals is so full of different expressions- the majestic lion, the agonizingly slow tortoise, the free-flying birds, the dancing fossils, and the regal swan. Phaeton is amazing, as is le Rouet d'Omphale and the Danse Macabre. I wasn't into Saint-Saens before this CD, but now I'm hooked. For model romantic era music, buy this CD without delay :)

Magnificent.......2002-01-31

It's humourous, it's simple, it's great. Those three words best describe Carnvial of Animals. From the lovely and beautiful Aquarium and Aviary to the more serious, respectable March of the Royal Lion, this musical composistion goes everywhere and does everything in great strides. A must-have for any classical music fan

Average customer rating:

pure genius
Another great Yo-Yo Disc
first disc great- second a flop
Encore
The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma

The Essential Yo-Yo Ma

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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II. Largo from "Winter", Op. 8, No. 4, RV 297 from the Four Seasons
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Pickin' from Three Pieces for Solo Cello
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The Eternal Vow from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
The Cellist of Sarajevo - A Lament in Rondo Form for Solo 'Cello, Op. 12
Chi passa per'sta strada
Mido Mountain (Chinese Traditional)
Mohini (Enchantment)
Baroque in Rhythm from Suite for Cello and Jazz Piano Trio
Anything Goes Instrumental
I Could Have Danced All Night Extended version

Amazon.com

Here are three dozen pieces of music, all played by Yo-Yo Ma, culled from his extensive discography. Aside from the technical mastery and beautiful tone that are absolutes in all of his playing, one is dazzled by his curiosity and ability to adapt to so many forms and types of music. His Bach and Vivaldi are pellucid and played with non-sentimental crispness, his tango music gritty and rhythmically pungent, his jazz seemingly spontaneous, the "Meditation" from Thais simply ravishing, "Anything Goes" a romp, and the Appalachian music performed with both respect and a great twang, while the traditional Chinese music is fascinating. It's really a matter of how much Ma loves whatever he plays here, how entirely he becomes involved in it, and what a fine partner he invariably is to other musicians. This collection is a doozy--it is truly "essential." --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

pure genius.......2007-05-21

No instrument asks more from the soul of an artist as the cello does.
Yo Yo Ma shows to be master of the instrument and his interpretations en technique are pure genius. Everyone should have this album in his (or hers of course) basic classical collection

Another great Yo-Yo Disc.......2007-05-15

The set-up with the classical pieces on the first disc and the other on the second is excellent.

first disc great- second a flop.......2007-04-12

the first disc is awesome. the second disc is weird and boring.

Encore.......2007-03-31

Incredible. My young cellist (son) loves it. Beautiful music. The album is well organized and each song transitions nicely.

The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma.......2007-03-29

I've found this collection to be extremely delightful! It gives you a sense of the versatility of Yo-Yo Ma like no other, with one disc being dedicated more to his classical side, while the other explores jazz and world music venues. Not your typical "greatest hits" collection.

Bernstein Favorites: Children's Classics

Average customer rating:

Brings back old memories
Could be better
Surprised at how wonderful this is -- a huge hit!
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ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Carnival Of The Animals: I - Introduction And Royal March Of The Lion
The Carnival Of The Animals: II - Hens And Cocks
The Carnival Of The Animals: III - Mules
The Carnival Of The Animals: IV - Tortoises
The Carnival Of The Animals: V - The Elephant
The Carnival Of The Animals: VI - Kangaroos
The Carnival Of The Animals: VII - Aquarium
The Carnival Of The Animals: VIII - Personages With Long Ears
The Carnival Of The Animals: IX - The Cuckoo In The Woods
The Carnival Of The Animals: X - Aviary
The Carnival Of The Animals: XI - Pianists
The Carnival Of The Animals: XII - Fossils
The Carnival Of The Animals: XIII - The Swan
The Carnival Of The Animals: XIV - Finale
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Allegro maestoso e largamente (Full Orchestra)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Theme B (Woodwinds)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Theme C (Brass)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Theme D (Strings)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Theme E (Percussion)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Theme F (Full Orchestra)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation A (Piccolo & Flutes)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation B: Lento (Oboes)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation C: Moderato (Clarinets)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation D: Allegro alla marcia (Bassoons)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation E: Brillante - alla polacca (Violins)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation F: Meno mosso (Violas)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation G (Cellos)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation H: Communinciando lento ma poco a poco accel. al Allegro (Double basses)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation I: Maestoso (Harp)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation J: L'istesso tempo (French Horns)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation K: Vivace (Trumpets)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation L: Allegro pomposo (Trombones & Tuba)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Variation M: Moderato (Percussion)
The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra (Variations And Fugue On A Theme By Purcell): Fugue: Allegro molto (Full Orchestra)

Customer Reviews:

Brings back old memories.......2007-05-13

Excellent, Excellent, Excellent!!!! I remember listening to Peter and the Wolf as a child and loving it. Now that I have three kids of my own, I thought this would be a great purchase. My 5, 3, and 1 year olds love it. Plus if you are a parent who wants your kids to appreciate music, Peter and the Wolf (Leonard Bernstein's narration is the best), The Carnival Of The Animals, and the introduction to the orchestra will give them a goods start. For $6.97 you cannot beat the price, and it would be an affordable and memorable gift to give friends as they begin to raise their own little ones.

Could be better.......2007-03-29

I am a little dissappointed with Bernstein's narration of Peter and the Wolf. I prefer the Disney rendition with Sterling Holloway. Bernstein didn't seem to put much drama into it, he sounded distracted and it just plain fell flat. The music was fine, and he did much better with The Carnival of Animals.

Surprised at how wonderful this is -- a huge hit!.......2007-03-18

I bought this for "music appreciation" education for my 6 yr. old. I thought it would be challenging to get him, as well as my 2 1/2 and 1 1/2 yr. olds, to let me play it in the car. I also thought it would bore and/or irritate my husband -- so I was nervous a bit. Well, I was completely wrong. We all "love" it.

It is high quality and pleasant to the ears. We play it whenever we are in the car. The narratives in "Peter and the Wolf" and "Carnival of the Animals" are very engaging and hold their attention. At home, my 6 yr. old sits at the dinner table and recites the entire narrative (along with the appropriate tune representing the characters) of Peter and the Wolf -- complete with Bernstein's accent! Great memory/recitation exercise and he does it voluntarily. My two year old asks for it EVERY TIME we're in the car and many times my 1 1/2 yr. old is fussy until we turn it on, then she's as content as can be.

All the kids have picked out characters to "be" in Peter and the Wolf and have assigned them to Mom and Dad. It's a lot of fun. My 2 yr. old always calls out when the cat comes along, "That's me!!" and my 1 1/2 yr. old always says, "Correct!" just before Bernstein does. The littlest to the oldest listen intently and engage with the narrator.

The last piece is my personal favorite, as it introduces each instrument in the orchestra and how it all fits together, and the music is beautiful (the kids like the music too, but prefer "Peter..."). My 6 yr. old has learned a lot from the last piece without realizing it; when I explain instruments of music we hear elsewhere, he calmly informs me, "I know that, Mom."

This fascination with the CD has lasted a long time; we did not just start listening to it last week. I think that reflects on how enjoyable it is for the whole family. My husband has told me repeatedly how glad he is we bought this. It is also a good buy here on Amazon -- I paid several dollars more for it.

Leonard Bernstein and Peter and the Wolf.......2006-11-10

I listened to this recording as a child and now will pass it on to my child!

Peter and the Wolf, Prokovief read by L. Bernstein.......2006-02-25

Great! my granddaughter (age 3) loves it. She listens to it several times aday! We have drawn the characters on a card for her to follow the story. I will keep the Saint Saens (Carnival of the Animals) for later.

Average customer rating:

Children's Favorites a solid purchase
The perfect package
A Wonderful Introduction to the Classics

Children's Favorites

Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
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Pavarotti's Opera Made Easy-My Favourite Opera For Children
Bernstein Favorites: Children's Classics
World's Very Best Opera for Kids... in English!

ASIN: B00004Y6T3
Release Date: 2000-09-05

Tracks:

March Of The Tin Soldiers - Leon Jessel
Variations On 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star' - Walter Klien
The Nutcracker: Dance Of The Reed Flutes - Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky
The Nutcracker: Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy - Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky
The Sorceror's Apprentice - Paul Dukas
Peter And The Wolf (Extract) - Brandon de Wilde
Invention No. 8 In F Major - Christiane Jaccottet
Invention No. 11 in G Minor - Christiane Jaccottet
Invention No. 13 in A Minor - Christiane Jaccottet
Prelude And Fugue No. 21 In B Flat Major (Book 1) - Christiane Jaccottet
Sonata For 2 Pianos In D Major, K. 448, 1st Mvt. - Rudolf Firkusny
III. Allegretto - Walter Klien
Kinderszenen: Of Strange Lands And People - Walter Klien
Kinderszenen: Curious Story - Walter Klien
Kinderszenen: Entreating Child - Walter Klien
Kinderszenen: Perfect Happiness - Walter Klien
Introduction And Royal March - Marylene Dosse
The Elephant - Marylene Dosse
Kangaroos - Marylene Dosse
The Aquarium - Marylene Dosse
Cuckoo In The Woods - Marylene Dosse
Birds - Marylene Dosse
Fossils - Marylene Dosse
The Swan - Marylene Dosse
Finale - Marylene Dosse

Customer Reviews:

Children's Favorites a solid purchase.......2006-03-09

This CD mostly delivered what was expected of it. The only critique I have is that some of the tempos could have been cleaner, and that it should be cross-referenced by the other composers besides J. S. Bach.

The perfect package.......2005-10-23

This is the most wonderful collection to have on 1 CD. Children from birth on up can benefit from this musical collage.
Songs from the "Nutcracker" are familiar and comfortable for many children. What child wouldn't love "March of the Tin Soldiers?"
Selections from Saint-Saens' "Carnival of the Animals" is a must in my creative movement library. Every child should be exposed to this music. Well,I believe every age should be.

A Wonderful Introduction to the Classics.......2003-03-11

With total playing time clocking in at 78:04 minutes of music, you'll be paying about 6-cents/minute, which is a better bargain than long distance phone calls, and often more rewarding!

This disc is far superior than most other "Classics for Kids"-type recordings I've sampled for a number of reasons:

1) This album was expertly engineered. The production quality on this disc is first-rate from start to finish with crisp, clear sound.

2) The pieces were expertly picked. There is wonderful sonic variety here, spanning hundreds of years of wonderful melodies. There are orchestral pieces, harpsichord pieces, solo piano, and a piano concerto, capped off with Saint-Seans whimsical Carnival of the Animals. What kid (or adult) wouldn't love that?

3) The performances are, without exeption, expert! The pieces were definately screened for quality as well as content. Many are simply a joy to behold. Walter Klein is a particular stand-out, almost giddily prancing through Schumann's pieces. Believe it or not, he sounds even more impressive when backed up by the always inspiring Minnesota Orchestra on Mozart's Piano Concerto #17.

Tracks:

Peter And The Wolf, Op. 67
The Carnival Of The Animals: I L'Introduction et Marche royale du Lion
The Carnival Of The Animals: II Poules et coqs, III Hemiones
The Carnival Of The Animals: IV Tortues
The Carnival Of The Animals: V L'Elephant
The Carnival Of The Animals: VI Kangourous
The Carnival Of The Animals: VII Aquarium
The Carnival Of The Animals: VIII Personnages a longues oreilles, IX Le Coucou au fond des bois
The Carnival Of The Animals: X Volieres
The Carnival Of The Animals: XI Pianistes
The Carnival Of The Animals: XII Fossiles
The Carnival Of The Animals: XIII Le Cygne
The Carnival Of The Animals: XIV Finale

Customer Reviews:

Excellent recording of both Peter and the Wolf and Carnival of the Animals.......2007-05-13

Leonard Bernstein makes these already child-accessible pieces even more friendly to the young listener. My 3 year old really enjoys listening to the Peter and the Wolf recording and likes to guess which animal is represented by a particular instrument. The recording of The Carnival of the Animals is also wonderful and is made more fun by bringing in young and very talented artists into the orchestra.

Little bit disapointed.......2007-03-09

I was not informed that this title has a narration in english intercalated with the music. Although I understeood almost everything, my family did not and my translation disrupted the listening. Pity.

May Well Be the Definitive Version But Who Could Tell?.......2006-06-07

Especially when the sound quality is just so bad, you have to strain to hear just what Bernstein is saying for Peter and the Wolf and the volume levels increase only slightly for the Carnival of the Animals making this an extremely boring cd and definitely not worth the money. I'd recommend waiting for a remastered version of this to be released or to get some other version instead.

Very enjoyable for kids!.......2006-02-25

Leonard Bernstein is unmatched. Our kids love this rendition of Peter & the Wolf as well as the Carnival of the Animals. They are nice stories and it fosters an appreciation of classical music themes.

Peter and the Wolf.......2005-09-29

I gave this to my grandson, who loves the music of Peter and the Wolf. He is 2 years old, and from what his mother says, he loves it.

Jacqueline du Pré - a lasting inspiration

Average customer rating:

cello lover
99% perspiration
Immortal Legend
Epitome of Cello
Ooo! Samples!

Jacqueline du Pré - a lasting inspiration
Antonin Dvorak , Franz Joseph Haydn , Edward Elgar , Maria Theresia von Paradis , Robert Schumann , Felix Mendelssohn , Gabriel Faure , Johann Sebastian Bach , Camille Saint-Saens , Manuel de Falla , Max Bruch , Ludwig van Beethoven , Johannes Brahms , Cesar Franck , Chicago Symphony Orchestra , London Symphony Orchestra , Daniel Barenboim , Sir John Barbirolli , Jacqueline du Pré , Pinchas Zukerman , Roy Jesson , Gerald Moore , John [guitar] Williams , and Osian Ellis
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Jacqueline du Pre - Favourite Cello Concertos ~ Boccherini, Dvorak, Elgar, Haydn, Monn, Saint-Saens, Schumann
Jacqueline du Pre In Portrait
Jacqueline du Pré - Chopin: Cello Sonata in G minor, Franck: Sonata in A / Barenboim
Cello for Relaxation
Daniel Barenboim, Pinchas Zukerman & Jacqueline du Pré - Beethoven: Piano Trios

ASIN: B00000K4F9
Release Date: 1999-09-14

Tracks:

Cello Concerto In B Minor Op. 104: I. Allegro - Dvorak
Cello Concerto No.2 In D: I. Allegro moderato
Cello Concerto No.2 In D: II. Adagio
Cello Concerto No.2 In D: III. Allegro
Cello Concerto In E Minor: I. Adagio - Moderato
Cello Concerto In E Minor: II. Lento - Allegro molto
Cello Concerto In E Minor: III. Adagio
Cello Concerto In E Minor: IV. Allegro, Moderato, Allegro ma non troppo

Tracks:

Sicilienne
Three Fantasy Pieces: I. Zart mit Audruck
Three Fantasy Pieces: II. Lebhaft
Three Fantasy Pieces: III. Rasch und mit Feuer
Sing Without Words in D, Op.109
Elegie In C Minor, Op. 24
The Toccata: Adagio
The Carnival Of The Animals: The Swan
Suite populaire espagnole: Jota
Kol nidrei, Op. 47
Piano Trio In B-flat 'Archduke', Op.97
Cello Sonata No.2 In F, Op.99
Sonata in A

Customer Reviews:

cello lover.......2007-05-31

Absoluty the best. It is no wonder she was the world premier cello artist!! Can't say enough. If you love cello, and classical music, this is a must have. Her whole collection is worth every penny!!!

99% perspiration.......2006-11-08

(4.5/5 stars) This is a two-disc collection of musical works, in which the great cellist Jacqueline du Pre plays. The first disc consists of three cello concerti by three different composers: Dvorak (Romantic), Haydn (Classical) and Elgar (Romantic). Very good music, though it might leave you wondering what all the fuss is about. Not to worry: just pop in Disc Two to find out. The second disc contains shorter works by a wider variety of composers. It also might just leave you breathless by its beauty. Saint-Säens' "The Swan" (from "Carnival of the Animals") is nearly indescribable in its elegance, with du Pre's cello dancing with a harp. This haunting recording should not be missed. Bruch's "Kol Nidrei" is magnificently gorgeous as well. Three fantasy pieces from Schumann, one of Mendelssohn's "Lieder Ohne Wörter" and a stunning Brahms sonata infuse this collection with genuine grace. Since these were recorded prior to the advent of digital recordings, you might hear a very slight hiss on some of the recordings. This is barely audible and really does not detract from the pleasure of listening to it. Each disc runs 75 minutes, making this inspiration last long indeed.

Immortal Legend.......2006-10-07

As a cellist, I grew up listening to Jacqueline Du Pre's recordings. Even now as a 35 year old, I'm still enthralled by her amazing talent. This is a great cd if one is looking for a wonderful introduction to this superb cellist or simply wants to savor her most well known recordings. Du Pre owned the "Elgar" concerto. No other words can summarize this fact. Other beautiful and moving pieces are here on this disc: Bruch "Kol Nidrei", Haydn "Concerto No.2", Faure "Elegie", Brahms "Concerto No.2". The cello is a difficult instrument to play due to the strength required in both hands. Du Pre's playing touches the heartstrings with both emotion and depth. The tone that she coaxes from her cello is amazing. Jacqueline Du Pre is a legend.

Epitome of Cello.......2006-06-23

As a cellist, I absolutely love du Pré's work. I actually found this CD when I was looking for a modern recording of "A Jacqueline du Pré Recital", a record compiled of pieces done between July 15, 1962 and April 1, 1969. The second CD in this set contains the same songs as that record.

The concertos on the first CD are spectacular, especially her rendition of the Elgar concerto which has defined the piece since she first performed it. The second CD, however, is just as wonderful as a collection of some of the most loved cello pieces. No cello recording complete without Saint Saen's "The Swan" and du Pré's version is the only one I've ever heard that I actually like. "Elégie in C minor" (composed by Gabriel Fauré) is one of my personal favorites especially since her rapport with the pianist is obvious and the two instruments blend in a way that makes the piece even more poignant.

Overall, this CD is a must-have for anyone who loves cello as a perfect sample of Jacqueline du Pré's work.

Ooo! Samples!.......2005-11-29

As far as the romantic period goes, Jacqueline Du Pre is my personal favorite 'cellist. Her sensitivity to put expression of the musical idea always outweighed the desire to appear impressive. There is a difference in being just a virtuoso and being a musician. A virtuoso has the capability to dazzle and amaze, but music is more than just being impressive, and Du Pre succeeds in becoming, in every sense, a musician first and foremost. The only complaint I have of this album is the fact that you only get one movement of each piece! Even so, this a wonderful "sample dish" of Du Pre's extraordinary playing, mainly meant to get you hooked so you can get more.

Average customer rating:

soothing
great gift idea
Everyday Cello
75 minutes of meditative music

Cello for Relaxation

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005KCH1
Release Date: 2001-06-19

Tracks:

Carnival Of The Animals: The Swan - Steven Isserlis/Michael Tilson Thomas/Dudley Moore
Canzone, Op.55 - Ofra Harnoy
Sicilienne, Op.78 - Steven Isserlis/Pascal Devoyon
Caprice & Elegy: Caprice - Janos Starker
Die Zelle In Nonnenwerth - Steven Isserlis/Stephen Hough
Chant - Steven Isserlis
Adagio & Allegro, Op.70: Adagio - Steven Isserlis/Christoph Eschenbach
Concerto Militaire in G: Andante - Ofra Harnoy
Ste No.6 in D, BWV 1012: Allemande - Janos Starker
Son in g, Op.65: Largo - Ofra Haynoy/Cyprien Katsaris
Con in g, RV 417: Andante - Ofra Harnoy
Funf Stucke In Volkston, Op.102: Langsam - Steven Isserlis/Christoph Eschenbach
Con in C, H.VIIB:1: Adagio - Steven Isserlis
Morceau De Concours - Steven Isserlis/Thomas Ades
From The Bohemian Forest: Silent Woods, Op.68 No.5 - Ofra Harnoy

Customer Reviews:

soothing.......2007-05-28

It's not a bad CD, although I believe there has got to be a better rendition of The Swan somewhere out there. The problem with this version is that the piano overwhelms the cello playing.

The rest of the CD is pretty nice and relaxing. Worth what I paid for it.

great gift idea.......2007-01-13

My wife is a lover of a good cello, so when I gave her this disc for Christmas, she loved it!

Everyday Cello.......2004-03-23

I bought this CD solely based on the fact that I love the cello. I do not pretend to know classical music - I buy what I like to hear, and this CD exceeded my expectations. It is such a pleasure to listen to this disk; it is soothing and every track is worth it!

75 minutes of meditative music.......2001-12-13

The cello is almost always the instrument I turn to for relaxation. It meditates upon a deeper, slower spectrum of emotion than say, a harp or violin.

I put this CD to the ultimate test and took it to the hospital with me, to see if its music could counteract the threat and ultimate deployment of needles---and it was indeed much less painful to be poked while in a state of relaxation, as induced by these (mainly 19th century) compositions.

My two favorite selections from "Cello for Relaxation" are Camille Saint-Saëns' "The Swan" from "Carnival of the Animals," and John Tavener's "Chant," which is an unaccompanied melody, "without barlines or meter, shaped as a palindrome." Steven Isserles performs as the cello soloist for both of these compositions.

Tracks:

Samson et Dalila: Bacchanale
Carnival Of The Animals (Chamber Version): No. 13. The Swan
Carnival Of The Animals (Chamber Version): No. 14: Finale
Dance Macabre, Op.40
Suite algerienne, Op. 60: Marche militaire francaise
Introduction and Rondo capriccioso, Op.28
Samson et Dalila: 'Mon coeur s'ouvre a ta voix'
Concert Piece For Horn & Orchestra, Op.94
Romance, Op.37
Piano Concerto No.2 In G Minor, Op.22: III. Presto
Symphony No.3 In C Minor, Op.78 'Organ': II. Allegro moderato - Presto - Maestoso - Allegro

Customer Reviews:

the most sensetive music ever.......2005-10-26

This music take me away from every day troubles and brings my soul to a beutiful world of music.Saint-Saent's vision of music is different, his creations are sensitive and intence. He is agreat talent.

Cool Camille.......2003-03-06

I think that the sound of Saint Saens Music is very unique. I think that anyone out there wanting to listen to some excellent writing I assure you that Saint Saens has written it. On behalf of Amazon I would definitely rate this music 5 stars. I thank Amazon for a perfect portrayal of his works. You shoppers out there might want to take a look at buying this.

RIGHT AWAY!!!
-Nick

Astounding!!!.......2000-10-06

I have come accross very few CD's that have 74 minutes of music that I enjoy. This CD is one of those. Mason Jones does a great job on Morceau, everyone likes danse bachannalle, the piano concerto is great, it's just a really enjoyable CD to own. I recommend it highly, it's one of my favorites.

Great Selections, So-So Collection.......2000-06-23

As all good elementary school music teachers know, Saint-Saëns could evoke emotions from a rock. I don't know if it's his masterful command (or creation) of the idioms of music, or whether it's the formal structure of his compositions, but there's never any confusion about how one feels when listening to this Apollo.

This Sony recording supposedly collects his best. It does and it doesn't. The "Danse Macabre"--a perennial Saint Saëns fave--is definitely better than any others on the market--crisper, livelier, and ... er... creepier. And the Bacchanale is also superbly done. (Don't take my word for it though--you can compare these yourself from the various samples.) But as great as these individual pieces are, Sony failed to bring to the "Swan" the rest of the zoo from "Carnivale des Animaux," and, worse, they forgot the "Aquarium," too! Plus, the "Organ Symphony" *must* be heard in its entirety to sound like the serious piece of music that it is.

I haven't found the noumenal Saint-Saëns collection yet. But this one surely isn't phenomenal.

Classical is the best.......2000-06-22

It's composition very good. Thanks Sony for this great album.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

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2. Poules Et Cogs
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4. Tortues
5. L'elephant
6. Kangourous
7. Aguarium
8. Personnages A Longues Oreilles
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