Elgar Organ Music (Donald Hunt)

Track Listings

1. Allegro moderato

2. Allegretto

3. Andante esprssivo

4. Presto comodo

5. Introduction

6. Andante

7. Allegro

8. Andantino

9. Allegretto piacevole / Adagio

10. Poco lento

11. Moderato

12. Allegretto pensono

13. Poco allegro / Adagio

14. Introduction

15. Toccata

16. Fugue

17. Cadenza

18. Coda

19. NIMROD (from Carisle Cathedral)

20. IMPERIAL MARCH (from Leeds Parish Church)

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
From Worcester Cathedral Dr. Donald Hunt OBE Organ Sonatas No.1 in G major, No.2 in B Flat also "NIMROD" "IMPERIAL MARCH" (transcriptions)

Tracks:

Enigma Variations, Op. 36: Theme
Enigma Variations, Op. 36: I. C.A.E. (Caroline Alice Elgar, The Composer's Wife)
Enigma Variations, Op. 36: II. H.D.S.-P. (Hew Daivd Steuart-Powell)
Enigma Variations, Op. 36: III. R.B.T. (Richard Baxtet Townshend)
Enigma Variations, Op. 36: IV. W.M.B. (William Beath Baker)
Enigma Variations, Op.36: V. R.P.A. ( Richard Penrose Arnold)
Enigma Variations, Op.36: VI. Ysobel (Isabel Fitton)
Enigma Variations, Op.36: VII. Troyte (Troyte Griffith)
Enigma Variations, Op.36: VIII. W.N. (Winifred Norbury)
Enigma Variations, Op.36: IX. Nimrod (A. J. Jaeger)
Enigma Variations, Op.36: X. Intermezzo: Dorabella (Dora Penny)
Enigma Variations, Op.36: XI. G.R.S. (George Robertson Sinclair)
Enigma Variations, Op.36: XII. B.G.N. (Basil G. Nevinson)
Enigma Variations, Op.36: XIII. Romanza: (Lady Mary Lygon)
Enigma Variations, Op.36: XIV. Finale: E.D.U. (The Composer)
Pomp & Circumstance Marches, Op.39: No.1 in D
Pomp & Circumstance Marches, Op.39: No.2 In A Minor
Pomp & Circumstance Marches, Op.39: No.3 In C Minor
Pomp & Circumstance Marches, Op.39: No.4 In G
Pomp & Circumstance Marches, Op.39: No.5 In C
Cockaigne (In London Town) - Concert Overture, Op.40

Customer Reviews:

Great recording, great price. Buy this without question!!!!!.......2007-07-08

I stumbled across this little gem for the low price of about $3.00. I almost kept going assuming that the price was an indication of the quality. Glad I looked twice.

This is a wonderful album with respectful treatments and excellent sound quality, performed by the some of the greatest musicians in the world from the London Symphony Orchestra, the London Philharmonic Orchestra and the Philharmonica Orchestra.

The Enigma Variations, a Theme and 15 short orchestrations that Sir Edward then named after his friends and family based on personality traits, are a wonderful, uncelebrated Opus. I love these pieces. They truly showcase the power of Elgar's compositional style and flair. They certainly rival his more famous Pomp and Circumstance, in my humble opinion. The recording is sharp, well mixed, with no perceivable noise.

As for the Pomp and Circumstance recordings, well done throughout. All 5 pieces are played wonderfully and recorded beautifully with excellent sound mixing and very little, if any, background noise.

Cockaigne Overture is, once again, perfect. Marvelous treatment, wonderful musicianship, excellent sound and quality.

THIS HAS GOT TO BE THE GREATEST MUSICAL VALUE ON THE SHELVES RIGHT NOW. I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE I ONLY PAID $3.00 FOR THIS RECORDING. I WOULD HAVE GLADLY SHELLED OUT THE OBLIGATORY $15.00 - $20.00 CONSIDERING THE QUALITY OF THIS CD.

IF YOU ARE READING THIS, YOU MUST BUY RIGHT NOW, BEFORE THEY COME TO THEIR SENSES AND RAISE THE PRICE!

CLASSICAL MASTERS.......2007-05-12

I BOUGHT THE CD FOR POMP AND CIRCUMSTANCE BUT QUICKLY FELL IN LOVE WITH THE ENTIRE PIECE. IT IS WONDERFUL!

Noble Elgar, unbelievable price.......2007-05-05

This is not some schlock budget disc, which the price might suggest. Boult was one of the great Elgar interpretors (Barbirolli too) and these performances, especially the inspired Enigma Variations, bring out the very soul of Elgar. Sound quality, by the way, is excellent--warm and rich analog glow.

Great for High School Graduations!.......2007-03-12

I am the Principal of a small private boarding school that opened just last year. We do not have a school orchestra, so when the time came for us to plan our graduation ceremony, I searched all over the web for the traditional music. I heard some awful, piano versions of Pomp and Circumstance #4, and some other lackluster symphonic versions. Seraphim's CD of Elgar's works is by far the best. It is warm, heartfelt, inspiring, rich and incredibly well produced. Perhaps having the London Symphony Orchestra and the London Philharmonic Orchestra was the best choice, as they are playing the works of a fellow countryman. Several people came up to me after the ceremony to comment on the music, saying they were extremely moved by the music. Not bad for just playing it over a boombox!

By the way, if you are planning on using this for a graduation, know that you will have to edit out the long introductory passage and figure out how to loop the most famous "graduation" section over enough times to get through your ceremony!

Elgar's Greatest Hits at a Rock Bottom Price!.......2006-09-28

You just can't go wrong with this compilation of Elgar works and this super-cheap price. The performances are full-priced quality. This is a great introduction to Elgar CD. The Enigma Variations will bring tears to your eyes!

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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The Most Relaxing Classical Album In the World Ever, Volume II
The Most Relaxing Piano Album in the World...Ever!
The Most Relaxing Classical Music in the Universe
25 Classical Favorites
Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits

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 !!!!!!!!!!

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

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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.

Elgar: Cello Concerto; Sea Pictures; Cockaigne Overture

Average customer rating:

Wonderful performances and remastering
DuPre at her best
Don't even think about buying another performance!
Sea Pictures, a life changing event, Lord Elgar, I worship thee!
The Definitive Elgar Cello Concerto

Elgar: Cello Concerto; Sea Pictures; Cockaigne Overture

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0002VEQGG
Release Date: 2004-09-07

Tracks:

Concert Overture: Cockaigne (In London Town) Op.40 - Philharmonia Orchestra
I. Adagio - Moderato - Jacqueline Du Pre
II. Lento - Allegro Molto - Jacqueline Du Pre
III. Adagio - Jacqueline Du Pre
IV. Allegro - Moderato - Allegro, Ma Non Troppo - Jacqueline Du Pre
I. Sea Slumber-Song - Janet Baker
II. In Haven (Capri) - Janet Baker
III. Sabbath Morning At Sea - Janet Baker
IV.Where Corals Lie - Janet Baker
V. The Swimmer - Janet Baker

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful performances and remastering.......2007-02-19

This legendary Du Pre recording of the Elgar Cello Concerto is certainly one of the titles I've been waiting to see in the Great Recordings of the Century. Du Pre gives a passionate reading of the concerto, capturing all the pathos in this immensely tragic work, with able support from Barbirolli and the London Symphony Orchestra, drawing upon his expertise in this music. Barbirolli and the LSO also ably support Dame Janet Baker in her rendition of the Sea Pictures. Dame Janet sings with a light touch and a tonal beauty that befits the music, and one can hear everyone making the most of this underrated Elgar work and unearthing the many nuances in his depiction of the sea.

You'll wonder what the Cello Concerto and the Sea Pictures have in common besides boasting great performances in this disc. Well, from my reading of it, they both harbour sentiments of unpredictability in life. The Cello Concerto is laden with yearning for a lost world, a world torn apart by the First World War, and the Sea Pictures features some depictions of how the sea destroys love.

As expected, this reissue in the Great Recordings of the Century series offers the best remastering that these performances could ever deserve. They emerge as if they were clean, full and vibrant recordings that sound like they were only recorded yesterday. My only quibble is that the CD producers decided to throw in the Cockaigne Overture, which is a rather frivolous piece in relation to the deep, sober mood of the original record. I know that we must get bang for our dollars with the capacity of a CD, but the Cockaigne really spoils the mood of the other two pieces. Thankfully the listener can programme it out and get to the Concerto and the Sea Pictures.

But don't let this deter you from grabbing a copy of this legendary recording that surely deserves its coveted place in this superb EMI series.

DuPre at her best.......2007-02-19

The Elgar belongs to no other. Jackie may have been a bit high-strung, but there's more emotion in this recording that one can find in any other recording of anything in the universe.

Don't even think about buying another performance!.......2006-09-28

... unless you already have this one and want to appreciate it even more!

This is Du Pre's signature piece and she OWNS it.

And Janet Baker, knowing she is dying of cancer, sings Sea Pictures like there is literally no tomorrow.

This is one of those rare recordings where the planets perfectly align to give you music, performers, recording and MOMENT that together exceed the sum of the parts.

Sea Pictures, a life changing event, Lord Elgar, I worship thee!.......2006-01-01

Hello my name is Marcus. You may remember me from such films as the Flintsto... well I'll save my Troy McKlure impersonation for later. Right now its all about Elgar. Or should I say "SIR" Edward Elgar.

The rules for entry into my own "Immortal Composers Club" are insanely strict. I myself a music instructor, composer recording artist have not even been allowed in the club officially as a member yet. I'm like an apprentice to these masters. Or dare I say I am a "padawan learner" still learning.

The Yoda master of the club is of course J.S. Bach, the Obi-Wan of the club, easily Elgar. Myself a practitioner of the archaic non-commercial art of "Art Song" have been moved to tears a few times by both Elgars Sea Pictures and the flawless mezzo performance on this awesome recording. Everything on the CD is of course great but in my opinion the Sea Pictures is one of the greatest art song cycles in human history.

Myself just completing my first modern art song cycle called " Harmonious Haiku " (which you can check out with any basic Google search,) can greatly appreciate the unfortunately to unappreciated form of Art Song.

Sea Pictures is one of my favorites of the Genre. Forget the movies, forget drug store fiction, put on some Sea Pictures, close your eyes and experience what song writing could have been if not for the L. A. Record companies and the well I can't say "Fab" but you know, those four guys with the hair.

Elgar is how a real Englishman makes music! Ride on Brother! Ride on!

Thank you,
Your friend in great music
~ MarcusUnlimited :)

The Definitive Elgar Cello Concerto.......2005-05-04

This performance is hands down the single best recording of the Elgar Cello Concerto. Other accounts are good -- Tortelier, Navarra, Yo-Yo Ma -- but only one stereo reading was good enough to replace the composer's own historical recording with Beatrice Harrison and that is this one by Jacqueline du Pre. Sir John Barbirolli and the Halle Orchestra accompany the cellist in this definitive 1965 performance, which for all intents and purposes, launched her career. Du Pre's playing has the quality and delivery of a great singer, so it is only fitting that the Concerto be coupled with another legendary performance -- Janet Baker's "Sea Pictures" again with JB and the lads from Manchester. This CD has been available for years as a full-price title, but it is great to see it now at midline in the "GROTC" series. In fact, for more in depth reviews of these performances, including one from esteemed music critic David Hurwitz, you should consult this reissue's predecessor.

Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis; Fantasia on

Average customer rating:

Fantasia on a Theme-Vaughan Williams
barbirolli at his best
Wonderful!
Still the best after 40 years!
Barbirolli at his most warm-hearted and passionate

Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis; Fantasia on

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Elgar: Cello Concerto; Sea Pictures; Cockaigne Overture
Mahler: Das Lied von der Erde

ASIN: B00004R95R
Release Date: 2000-03-14

Tracks:

Introduction And Allegro, Op.47
I. Allegro Piacevole
II. Larghetto
III. Allegretto - Come Prima
Elegy, Op.58
Sospiri, Op. 70
Fantasia On A Theme By Thomas Tallis
Fantasia On 'Greensleeves' - Ralph Vaughan Williams

Customer Reviews:

Fantasia on a Theme-Vaughan Williams.......2007-03-28

This is beautiful. Imagine music to the sun rising, or the view from a mountain top, above the clouds, the sun rising and the grandeur of the vision before you is put to music. This is it.

barbirolli at his best.......2007-03-10

I first heard Elgar's Introduction and Allegro for Strings in a DG recording by the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra; when I saw this recording in my college library, I thought to myself, "I wonder if Barbirolli can play it better..."

Barbirolli seems to have Midas' touch with British orchestral music - and this repertoire brings out some of his best qualities (namely the string playing). The London Sinfonia is just as good as any chamber orchestra out there (including their fellow countrymen, the Academy of St Martin in the Fields), and overall this is a wonderful performance. Both Vaughan Williams pieces are especially refreshing - especially the Thomas Tallis Fantasia.

Wonderful!.......2007-01-11

This CD is a must have if you are an Elgar and Vaughan Williams fan, particularly the Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis, which is one of the most beautiful pieces of music ever written. This particular 1966 recording with the Sinfonia of London, Allegri String Quartet and the New Philharmonia Orc. under the baton of Sir John Barbirolli is unsurpassed and Wonderful.

Still the best after 40 years!.......2006-10-29

I can't believe that it is nearly 40 years since I first bought this record on LP!
I was a teenager and it was a revelation. I have never been without it and it has been one of my favorite discs ever since.

The newer CD has some extra music from the LP and the new transfer is even better than before.

I had the pleasure of seeing and listening to Barbirolli talk about music when I was at school and I feel that his achievements sometimes are relatively neglected. This disc though should dispel any doubts that he was a great conductor of English music. (Of course he was "glorious" in other composers too)!

If you have just one disc of English String Music - get this disc - you won't regret it!

Barbirolli at his most warm-hearted and passionate.......2006-07-12

In some ways the greatness of Sir John Barbirolli was masked by his devotion to the Halle Orchestra, an ensemble that was in a shambles when he arrived in WW II and was raised to the level of pretty decent. Despite their love affair, the Halle wasn't worthy of Barbirolli's talents, and on the rare occasions when he recorded with other orhestras--especially his late-life engagements in Berlin--the veil dropped away.

That's certainly true in this transcendent recording of string music by Elgar and Vaughan Williams, which features the rich sound of a group I associate only with this CD, the City of London Sinfonia. They are very able musicians, and when joined by the highly expressive Allegri Qt. for Elgar's Introduction and Allegro, the results are superlative. EMI's remastering has removed hints of glare and edginess in the upper registers, allowing Barbirolli's uniquely passionate conducting to shine through. This is very warm-hearted, often measured musicmaking, at times almost too itense and breathless in the Tallis Fantasia. But it's undeniably great, and I've listened to it with deep admiration for forty years.

Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits

Average customer rating:

Waste of money
Great Music Compilation
If you like classical music don't buy this CD.
A must for anyone wanting the staples of classical music
A great compilation

Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits

Manufacturer: Utv Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

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The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever!
Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music
25 Classical Favorites
The Most Relaxing Classical Album In the World Ever, Volume II
The Most Relaxing Classical Music in the Universe

ASIN: B00004GOZA
Release Date: 2000-02-08

Tracks:

Adagio In G Minor
Jesu, Joy OF Man's Desiring
Moonlight Sonata - Adagio sostenuto
March Of The Toreadors (Carmen)
Celebrated Minuet
Polovtsian Dance No. 1 (Prince Igor)
Cradle Song
'Minute' Waltz
Suite Bergamasque: Clair de Lune
Largo
Pomp And Circumstance March No. 1
Rhapsody In Blue - Andante And Finale
Peer Gynt Suite: Morning
Messiah: Hallelujah Chorus
Liebestraum
Cavalleria Rusticana: Intermezzo
A Midsummer Night's Dream: Wedding March
'Masterpiece Theater' Theme: Rondau (First Symphonic Suite)
The Great Gate Of Kiev

Tracks:

Eine klein Nachtmusik - Allegro: Eine kleine Nachtmusik - Allegro
Orpheus In The Underworld: Cancan
Carmina Burana - O Fortuna
Canon In D
Lietenant Kije Suite - Troika
Turandot: Nessun dorma
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini - 18th Variation: Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini- 18th Variation
Bolero - Conclusion
The Tale Of Czar Sultan: Flight Of The Bumblebee
William Tell Overture - Finale
Carnival Of The Animals: The Swan
Gymnopedie No. 3
Ave Maria
Blue Danube Waltz
Thus Spake Zarathustra - Sunrise
Firebird Suite - Finale
1812 Overture - Finale: 1812 Overtune - Finale
Fantasia On 'Greensleeves'
Anvil Chorus (II Trovatore)
The Four Seasons - Largo From 'Winter'
Die Walkure: Ride Of The Valkyries

Amazon.com

For those who want the most remembered passages of classical music's best-loved works, here's a package for you. On this bargain priced double-CD, you'll find music from 40 different classical composers; for the most part, the recordings excerpted here are some of the very best. Of course, you only get one Bach sampling (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, played by the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra) and one Mozart (A Little Night Music conducted by Herbert von Karajan), but this is still a nice collection--perhaps the starting point for a budding collection of classical music. This set's downfall? Unfortunately, though the liner notes discuss the evolution of classical music chronologically, the tracks are programmed in alphabetical order by composer's last name. This makes for some startling transitions! Emil Gilels's reflective performance of the Adagio from Beethoven's "Moonlight" sonata is followed by the crashing cymbals and bombast of Carmen's "March of the Toreadors," a recipe for a heart attack if there ever was one. Still, there's something here for everyone and the liner notes even explain what movies this music can be found in. A nice touch. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

Waste of money.......2006-01-12

Watch out for the volume leveling mentioned in another review. Surely the compliers could have come up with a better sort order than by composer. The change in tempo/volume between pieces makes it impossible to enjoy. My two CD's ended up in the trash.

Ken

Great Music Compilation.......2005-08-15

This is a great CD full of many songs that you will recognize and enjoy. If you are someone who likes classical music but doesn't necessarily know which songs or which composers you like, then this CD is for you. You will likely recognize many of the songs as the classical songs you would have picked out to be your favorites.

If you like classical music don't buy this CD........2005-03-11

Most of the tracks were chopped down to 3-4 minutes so some of the best parts of the compositions are missing. I don't know what I was thinking trying to buy 40 classical songs on two CD's. If you really want to enjoy the music you would do better to purchase a CD with fewer, but better quality tracks.

A must for anyone wanting the staples of classical music.......2005-02-23

In my years of experience teaching Fine Arts to high school students, I know that the majority, if not all, of the music included on this album is commonly used in collge music appreciation courses. This is an excellent sample of truly all the "greatest hits" of classical music. My students enjoy listening to the music and have later told me when take their required music apreciation courses in college that they "already know it all" because of this CD! The recordings are clear, the selections are passionate, and the listener will gain a familiarity with all of the most commonly heard classical music used in tv commercials, movies, etc.
I recommend this album, along with the boxed set, "Age of the Classics" for anyone who is interested in becoming familiar with the most famous staples of classical music.

A great compilation.......2005-02-09

This cd somes up some of the greatest pieces of instrumental (and is some cases choral) music ever written. It is a great starter for a beginning classical music lover or a quick and easy all-in-one for those of us who study classical music for a living. I highly recommend this cd to anyone who wants to love or already does love classical music.

Average customer rating:

GREAT WEDDING MUSIC!
Good Music
A very complete selection of ceremony music!
Comprehensive Classical Selection
Just one note...

A Bride's Guide to Wedding Music

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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General | Classical | Styles | Music

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General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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The Knot Collection of Ceremony and Wedding Music Selected by the Knot's Carley Roney
Bride's Guide to Wedding Music, Vol. II
The Ultimate Wedding Album
Bride's Guide to Wedding Music
25 Wedding Favorites

ASIN: B00005YD53
Release Date: 2002-02-19

Tracks:

Bach: Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Vivaldi: Largo Winter
Bach: Air On A G String
Torelli: Trumpet Concerto
Bach: Sheep May Safely Graze
Handel: Let The Bright Seraphim
Handel: Pastoral Symphony
Boccherini: String Quintet, Minuet
Mendelssohn: On Wings Of Song
Liszt: Dream Of Love
Rachmaninov: Vocalise
Debussy: Claire De Lune
Satie: Gymnopedie No.1
Gluck: Dance Of The Blessed Spirits
Debussy: Arabesque
Bizet: Intermezzo
Elgar: Salut D'amour
Debussy: Prelude A L'apres - Midi D'un Faun

Tracks:

Wagner: Bridal Chorus
Clarke: Trumpet Voluntary
Handel: Royal Fireworks Music, Overture
Gabrieli: Canzon V
Charpentier: Te Deum
Purcell: Trumpet Tune
Mussorgsky: Promenade
Pachebel: Canon In D
Handel: Larghetto
Vivaldi: Guitar Concerto In D Major, Largo
Handel: Water Music, Air
Macdowell: To A Wild Rose
Beethoven: Pathetique Sonata, Adagio
Melchior: Adagio
Gounod: Ave Maria
Schubert: Ave Maria
Franck: Panis Angelicus
Faure: Pie Jesu
Rachmaninov: Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini
Schumann: Romance For Violin And Piano
Massenet: Meditation

Tracks:

Mendelssohn: Wedding March
Vivaldi: Concerto For Two Trumpets In B, Allegro
Telemann: Trumpet Concerto In D, Allegro
Vivaldi: Spring, Allegro
Telemann: Trumpet Concerto In B, Allegro
Handel: Concerto Grosso, Hornpipe
Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No.4, Allegro
Handel: Arrival Of The Queen Of Sheba
Schumann: Piano Quintet In E Flat Major
Widor: Toccata
Dubois: Toccata
Walton: Crown Imperial
Bach: Cantata No.51. 'Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen.' Alleluia
Mozart: Exsultate Jubilate, Alleluia
Handel: Water Music, Hornpipe
Chopin; Variations On A Theme From 'La Cenerentola'
Faure: Sicilienne
Offenbach: Barcarolle
Faure: Berceuse
Saint-Saens: The Swan
Brahms: Waltz In A Flat
Grieg: Wedding Day At Troldhaugen

Album Description

The process of choosing music for a wedding day can certainly be a daunting process for any couple. There are many choices and the questions can be endless. Traditional music or something off the beaten path? Will your Mom cry (and not in a good way) if you do not come down the aisle to the traditional Wedding March from Wagner, or are you eager to try something new? This collection is designed to give the bridal couple some key pointers to navigate the world of classical music for their wedding day. The package includes over 3 1/2 hours of music on 3 CDs for all portions of the wedding service, all from the Naxos classical label (known for high-quality recordings at inexpensive prices). Wedding day favorites are there, along with new discoveries and tunes you may have never considered for a wedding. All pieces are hand selected by professional wedding musicians and consultants. As a bonus, the 20 page booklet will lead you through the process of choosing music, from hiring musicians to sample programs. Everything you need to create your own unique personal wedding soundtrack.

Customer Reviews:

GREAT WEDDING MUSIC!.......2007-01-24

I used these CD's for my wedding, and I was so happy I did. You need to buy this CD if you like having a traditional wedding! :)

Good Music.......2006-07-05

I bought these CDs for my wedding, in ceremony and reception. Also, when I created my own wedding video, I used it as background music.

A very complete selection of ceremony music!.......2005-02-02

I am getting married in several months and we couldn't decide what music we wanted at our wedding ceremony. This three disk compilation reminded us of all the great ones- including new options we hadn't thought about. I really enjoyed hearing the organ and strings versions of the songs. If you're someone who hears a classical or baroque piece of music, but can't remember the name or the precise tune, this is a must-have to jog your memory and trigger the tear ducts!

Comprehensive Classical Selection.......2004-04-15

I searched all over for a CD set that had a somewhat comprehensive list of classical selections that are traditionally played at weddings. When I found this 3 CD set, I was very pleased. It contains 61 works from almost as many composers. This set might not contain the "best recording ever" of each of the selections, however it is very well done and the quality is very good. I used it primarily to choose the pieces that I wanted to have played by the church organist, and so the actual recordings were more for my consumption rather than for use in the ceremony/reception itself. However, I would not have hestitated to use the CD's in the wedding itself if needed. The book inside includes a list of suggested songs for various wedding styles (formal, outside, morning, etc.). From the classical neophyte to the seasoned classical music expert, this CD set will meet if not exceed expectations.

Just one note..........2003-06-07

I have not heard this album, so I cannot rate it as a whole. (The form made me include a rating, but disregard that.) However, I want to point out that track 36, the Pie Jesu from Gabriel Faure's Requiem is - well, from a requiem, a mass for the dead. The Pie Jesu is a lovely, gentle movement, and it has a beautiful and pure sound that does seem to fit the mood of a wedding. The Latin words, however, mean "Merciful Lord Jesus, grant them everlasting rest," where "them" refers to the dead.

Tracks:

Crown Imperial
Jerusalem
Enigma Variations, Op 36, Variation No 9 (Nimrod)
Fantasia on British Sea Songs: The Saucy Arethusa
Fantasia on British Sea Songs: Tom Bowling
Fantasia on British Sea Songs: Jack's The Lad
Fantasia on British Sea Songs: Farewell Ye Spanish Ladies
Fantasia on British Sea Songs: Home Sweet Home
Fantasia on British Sea Songs: See The Conquering Hero
Fantasia on British Sea Songs: Rule Britannia
Overture: 'Tam O'Shanter', Op. 51
I Was Glad When They Said Unto Me
Orb And Sceptre
Pomp and Circumstance, Op. 39, March No. 1

Customer Reviews:

Music from the empire.......2007-06-01

From the 1700s to the mid-1900s, Britian ruled most of the world at some time or another. Part of this experience was the exportation of the English language, English bureaucracy, and the British school system (headmasters, uniforms, standardized testing) to places as disparate as Canada, Singapore, India and Egypt. Yet somehow, music students around the world learn to play Mozart, Beethoven, Bach, or some other continental composer. British music did not get widespread attention until the Beatles. This is surprising given that English composers produced music in ballets, symphonies, overtures, operas and just about every other style and form known. Maybe the reason why is that many locals' first taste of British music was imperial music played upon the entrance of their overlords, or in military parades meant to cower them. Samples of such music are provided in this CD from naxos. Offering works from various English composers from the 1800s to early 1900s, this album leaves out the more melodic and evocative works of English music such as Vaughn-Williams' Greensleeves, Elgar's Pomp and Circumstance, or Jupiter by Holst. Instead, the focus is on music played at ceremonies, whether they be parades, crownings, burials, etc... The result is a nicely-themed CD that is unique in its contents. The sound quality is great, though the orchestration is only good. For example, title piece of Rule Britannia is played much better on other albums. Note that the works on this CD are pure British; no Irish, Scottish or Welsh influences. Overall, a nice CD to listen to.

The British and their music.......2007-05-30

This CD offers an excellent sampler of traditional British music. If you have watched Chariots Of Fire you will recognize Jerusalem By Parry(the final scene at Harold Abraham's funeral). This is a beautiful selection. The Tam O'Shanter Overture dispells the often unjustified characterization of the stuffy Englishman and is a rousing piece. All in all a very enjoyable CD. Buy it!

A good choice of tunes.......2005-06-29

It is a good choice of tunes played often in England. The quality of recording is good, the choice of tunes is good too and the orchestration is good too. It is a good CD to buy.

A beautiful CD!.......2001-12-16

This one is for all those who want a splendid introduction to the music this CD offers. It would make a lovely Christmas present for the discriminating listener. My favorite is "Jerusalem!"

Average customer rating:

Agnus Dei music of Inner Harmony
Simply The Best
Wow!
Profound sublimity
Beautiful music

Agnus Dei: Music of Inner Harmony

Manufacturer: Erato
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Agnus Dei II: Music to soothe the soul
O Magnum Mysterium
Barber's Adagio / Munch, Galway, Boston SO Strings
Choral Masterpieces
Gloria: Music of Praise & Inspiration

ASIN: B000005E4J
Release Date: 1997-02-18

Tracks:

Agnus Dei, op.11 - Barber
Cantique de Jean Racine, op.11 - Faure
Kyrie - Palestrina
Ave Verum Corpus K 618 - Mozart
Jesus bleibet meine Freude - Bach
Ave Maria, op.37 No.6 - Choir Of New College Oxford
Lux Aeterna - Choir Of New College Oxford
Totus Tuus - Choir Of New College Oxford
Hear my prayer - Mendelssohn
The Lamb - Tavener
In paradisum - Faure
Miserere mei, Deus - Choir Of New College Oxford

Amazon.com

Beyond this recording's new age packaging and title is a splendid sampling of some of the world's finest choral music, sung by one of the world's outstanding choirs. This "anthology of sacred choral music" spans 400 years and includes such masterpieces as Allegri's Miserere, Bach's "Jesu, joy of man's desiring," and Barber's exquisite Agnus Dei, which is the composer's choral setting of his famous Adagio for Strings. Along the way we also hear Mozart's sublime "Ave verum corpus," Elgar's "Lux aeterna," and the Kyrie from Palestrina's Missa Papae Marcelli. There has been a choir at England's New College, Oxford, since the year 1379, and this impressive line of experience shows in the intelligent, unfaltering, and finely polished performances by today's ensemble of 16 boys and 12 adults. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Agnus Dei music of Inner Harmony.......2007-05-14

Not really my thing but mother in law loved it.

Simply The Best.......2007-02-23

You'll love this music. This is music for all moments of your life

Wow!.......2006-07-08

I'm a long-time listener of all things rock-'n-roll, from Classic rock, to Alternative, and even a little Metal. I first heard this CD while having dinner at a friends house a long time ago, and I loved it. I've always been enchanted with choir music, so I bought this CD. Well, after years of listening to it to help me to unwind in the evening, I somehow misplaced it. So I came to Amazon to order both I and II. Of the two CD's, the first one is still the best, and it still helps me to relax after a long day. The choir show tremendous range in their singing, the assorted instruments are well-played, and I can almost imagine myself sitting in a centuries-old cathedral, enjoying the music and how it rings throughout the cathedral.

Buy it. You won't be disappointed.

Profound sublimity.......2006-02-27

This album offers music that is profoundly moving and sumbline. It takes the listener onto an inner journal of extraordinary emotional depths and heights

Beautiful music.......2006-01-18

The first song I've heard on this CD is "Miserere Mei..." and I loved it the first minute. I've heard it from a friend who likes classical, and I would've never bought this on my own.

All other versions of these songs I've heard since don't compare to the versions on this CD. Maybe because it was my first listen, maybe they're just good.

Average customer rating:

Enigma
A Moving Experience
Great performance; great recording
Gardiner shines in Elgar, but it's the orchestra you'll want this CD for
Convincing interpretations, not so convincing sound

Elgar: Enigma Variations
Edward Elgar , John Eliot Gardiner , and Wiener Philharmoniker
Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
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Best of Elgar
Elgar: Pomp and Circumstance Marches Op. 39; Enigma Variations Op. 36
Elgar: Cello Concerto; Sea Pictures; Cockaigne Overture
Schubert: 8 Symphonies
Saint-Saëns: Piano Concertos 1-5

ASIN: B00005UW3R
Release Date: 2002-03-12

Tracks:

In The South (Alassio)
Introduction And Allegro
Sospiri
Enigma Variations - Andante
Enigma Variations - I, C.A.E
Enigma Variations - Ii, H.D.S.-P.
Enigma Variations - Iii, R.B.T.
Enigma Variations - Iv, W.M.B.
Enigma Variations - V, R.P.A.
Enigma Variations - Vi, Ysobel
Enigma Variations - Vii, Troyte
Enigma Variations - Viii, W.N.
Enigma Variations - Ix, Nimrod
Enigma Variations - X, Intermezzo- Dorabella
Enigma Variations - Xi, G.R.S.
Enigma Variations - Xii, B.G.N.
Enigma Variations - Xiii, Romanza- ---
Enigma Variations - Xiv, Finale- E.D.U.

Customer Reviews:

Enigma.......2007-01-11

What a wonderful performance of this beloved piece. The orchestra is very responsive to the conductor who is probably one of the finest in our age.

A Moving Experience.......2007-01-09

For anyone who enjoys classical music, beware. This is some of the most powerful music this or that side of Beethoven. Excellent sound quality as well, this CD is a real treat.

Great performance; great recording.......2006-02-13

These Enigma Variations are as good as any I've ever heard, and better than most. That dark, fullbodied sound really helps. The Alassio overture is indeed Straussian, and that's no drawback. The great Sospiri, one of the most beautiful works I know, doesn't match Hurst's or Barbirolli's versions precisely because the sound is too big, with an overabundance of strings. But Gardiner's version is still a wonderful experience. Try his Chabrier disc, also with the VPO--it's fine also.

Gardiner shines in Elgar, but it's the orchestra you'll want this CD for.......2005-09-24

Gardiner is a fairly ordinary conductor technically, not remotely in the same league as the great ones who have appeared with the Vienna Phil. But here the sheer luxury of hearing that amazing orchestra doing Elgar, especially "In the South," makes this a very special CD. I can think of greater readings of each piece, particularly under Barbirolli, but who has ever heard them in such aristocratic surroundings?

Convincing interpretations, not so convincing sound.......2005-07-26

When I purchased this CD, it was solely for the Enigma Variations, as I had never heard the three other pieces before. This changed, but more on that in a bit. I hoped that Gardiner might make some sense out of one of Elgar's most popular pieces, and it seems he has.
This performance is cohesive and the music flows naturally. Gardiner uses a lot of tempo fluctuation and rubato, but he does it naturally and doesn't force anything. He follows Elgar's tempos about half of the time, and if he doesn't, it isn't in blatant disregard. There are no variations that stand out in this bunch, and all the movements relate to each other. All too often Nimrod is given "special treatment" and as the centerpiece of many conductors' interpretations, it becomes bloated. While it was a special variation to Elgar, and Gardiner gives a little more emphasis to it, he manages to "beat the bloat" and doesn't pour syrup all over the music.
I should mention the other selections before I go any further. This was the first time I had heard 'In the South', 'Introduction and Allegro', and 'Sospiri'. In the South is, in my opinion, Elgar's best concert overture, and it has never ceased to thrill me. As another reviewer pointed out, these pieces are not just filler pieces, they are substantial works, and underperformed as well.
After listening to these works for a while, I am surprised at the distinct German style that is inherent in the recordings. The Enigma Variations here resemble Brahms more than any of Elgar's English counterparts. Likewise with In the South and its striking affinity to Strauss - a lot like Don Juan. The program notes even mentioned Sospiri resembling late Mahler in its oblique relationship between melody and harmony. It is clear that Gardiner places at least some of the music of Elgar with the late German romantics, and he chose this program as the best representation of that idea. There are a lot of links already, actually. To name two of them, the Elgars visited Bavaria several times, and Hans Richter, the well-known Brahms/Dvorak interpreter, was a good friend and conducted Elgar's works frequently. Gardiner's conducting style, his choice of collaboration with the Vienna Philharmonic, and even the recording style (mentioned by another reviewer) all seem to point Elgar in the direction of German music. Whether or not it is a good choice is up to the listener, of course. In my opinion, there are drawbacks. One is that he mic placements wreak havoc on the balance. There is something else I would also like to point out that hasn't already been mentioned. The Vienna Philharmonic usually doesn't do too much English music. While they are one of the world's best orchestras and respond confidently to Gardiner's direction, they can still be intimidated. The high technical demands this music makes of them combined with the unfamiliar territory lead them to underemphasize the meticulous dynamic contrasts which Elgar wrote. Ususally the brisk passages which are marked ff and fff are underplayed, and as if to compensate for this, the lyrical passages, often marked pp or ppp, are played somewhere between p and mp, and with too much angst (the close miking only makes it worse). This can often ruin a piece, though in this case the VP doesn't do it all the time, and at the same time, they are still technically outstanding and devastatingly musical. I give them four stars. An English orchestra would probably receive 5 due to the experience. Listen to Gardiner's Holst CD with the Philharmonia and you will see what I'm talking about.
Gardiner gets four stars as well for an intelligent and thoughtful interpretation, though sometimes I might not agree with it. The sound gets two stars - bad balance and stuffiness. Overall, this is an excellent recording to which I give the benefit of the doubt (thus 4 stars instead of 3), and I highly recommend it.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

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Classical Music classical-music-14

Jazz Ballads

1. Allegro moderato
2. Allegretto
3. Andante esprssivo
4. Presto comodo
5. Introduction
6. Andante
7. Allegro
8. Andantino
9. Allegretto piacevole / Adagio
10. Poco lento
11. Moderato
12. Allegretto pensono
13. Poco allegro / Adagio
14. Introduction
15. Toccata
16. Fugue
17. Cadenza
18. Coda
19. NIMROD (from Carisle Cathedral)
20. IMPERIAL MARCH (from Leeds Parish Church)