Clarinet Concertos & Arias [Import]

Track Listings

1. Concerto In A For Basset Clarinet, Kv622 - Allegro

2. Concerto In A For Basset Clarinet, Kv622 - Adagio

3. Concerto In A For Basset Clarinet, Kv622 - Rondo

4. Alcandro, Lo Confesso..Non So D'onde Viene, Kv294

5. Vorrei Spiegarvi, Oh Dio! Kv418

6. Nehmt Meinen Dank, Kv383

7. Der Holle Rache (Die Zauberflote)

Editorial Reviews
Album Details
This is the First Australian Recording Made on the Basset Clarinet, the Original Instrument that Mozart Intended. Craig Hill, One of the World's Foremost Players of the Instrument, Delivers a Scintillating Performance. Few Performers have Enthralled an Audience as Much as Soprano Cyndia Sieden. She is Undoubtedly One of the Best Exponents of the Thrilling Queen of the Night Aria from the Magic Flute. Her Sydney Concerts with the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra have Sold Out and Are Being Broadcast Repeatedly on Abc Classic FM. By Popular Demand, These Recordings Are Now on CD.

Tracks:

Horn Concerto No.1 In D, K.412: Allegro
Horn Concerto No.1 In D, K.412: Rondo (Allegro)
Horn Concerto No.2 In E Flat, K.417: Allegro maestoso
Horn Concerto No.2 In E Flat, K.417: Andante
Horn Concerto No.2 In E Flat, K.417: Rondo
Horn Concerto No.3 In E Flat, K.447: Allegro
Horn Concerto No.3 In E Flat, K.447: Romance (Larghetto)
Horn Concerto No.3 In E Flat, K.447: Allegro
Horn Concerto No.4 In E Flat, K.495: Allegro moderato
Horn Concerto No.4 In E Flat, K.495: Romance (Andante)
Horn Concerto No.4 In E Flat, K.495: Rondo (Allegro vivace)
Quintet In E Flat For Piano And Wind K.452: Largo-Allegro moderato
Quintet In E Flat For Piano And Wind K.452: Larghetto
Quintet In E Flat For Piano And Wind K.452: Rondo (Allegro)

Customer Reviews:

What Hath God Wrought?.......2007-04-02

Well ...

If you're reading this, it's likely that you have already have already heard about Dennis Brain and in particular the famous passages where his rapid playing left a generation of listeners shaking their heads in astonishment.

This is how everyone first hears of him: a sort of circus act with lots of notes but without the great tone that distinguishes really good horn playing. This first impression is strengthened by stories about the strange, narrow-bore horn he played and by the sound of occasionally clipped staccato notes and a tight low range. As someone once said, "My faults, according to this calculation, are heavy indeed!"

But in Brain's case as well as in Fitzwilliam Darcy's, closer acquaintance reverses the impression altogether.

At odds with the idea of frenetic speed, Brain produces some of the most sensitive phrase shaping you'll find in any musical recordings. His effortless mastery gives many passages a relaxed feeling that suggests he is playing them a third lower than written. His recordings of hornists' two signature pieces -- Strauss's first horn concerto and Mozart's third -- are both gentler than any other recording in the catalogue. He plays the Mozart third at a surprisingly slow tempo and turns the first page of the Strauss, which most players muscle up on, into a lullaby.

In the middle and upper ranges, Brain's tone, while unobtrusive, is so full and pure that many people say they have a tendency to block out everything else and just listen to that sound. That may not seem an asset for ensemble playing, but his accompaniment playing was wonderful and his reliability a huge asset for his colleagues. The expectation of perfection became so other-worldly that, on the inevitable day when Brain finally flubbed a passage in rehearsal, the always mischievous Sir Thomas Beecham stopped the orchestra, put his baton down, and just said, "Thank God."

Brain's trills, lip trills in particular, are uniquely clear, and at the end of the day, yes, there is that fabulously rapid articulation that leaves listeners wondering whether they were dreaming what they just heard.

This playing all emanated from a personality that was apparently of the utmost simplicity and modesty. Alan Civil had the last word on this forty years ago in his remembrance of Brain on the jacket of "The Art of Dennis Brain" album (Seraphim 60040, if you can find it). Try also [...] Brain's early, accidental death strikes one the same way as Beethoven's deafness does: a hint that higher forces are at play.

No, this is not a review of Brain's Mozart. It is an invitation to begin an acquaintance. Dig in!

World class music.......2007-01-10

By far the best rendition of the Mozart Horn Concertos ever produced. David Brain must be the "El Supremo" of horn playing. An added bonus on this CD is the Quintet in E flat for piano and wind and with Colin Horsley as the pianist is an added treat for New Zealanders. A "MUST HAVE" for all lovers of Mozart.

I Wish Dennis Brain Had Been Born So That His Performing Powers Peaked in 1995.......2006-05-17

I purchased The LP in 1953 and proceeded to 'wear it out.' No, I have not yet thrown it out.

However, I have had the good fortune to find myself a resident of the San Francisco Peninsula since 1970 and, in time, have had the privilege to make the acquaintance of the Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, who perform one of each of their annual subscription concert series locally here in Palo Alto.

In 1992 they recorded the Horn Concertos with Lowell Greer performing them on the natural (valveless) horn, the instrument which was in use at the time Mozart composed them. Given the temperamental nature of the the instrument, the recording is doubtless a composite of many 'takes.' It is also a breathtaking performance and is now my 'standard.' See:

[...]

Take a moment to listen to some of the available tracks.

Form your own opinion.

A Master Performs a Master.......2005-08-20

I'm not much of a classical music reviewer. I've been exposed to a lot of music, but I tend to stick to favorite performances, so I don't have the depth needed to really be authoritative. Except perhaps for oboe, and that's because I grew up listening to John De Lancie and Marcel Tabuteau - and once you hear really good, you know what's what. This album is a similar case. Dennis Brain wasn't a 'good' French horn player, he was probably the best that there ever was or will be.

I've heard a lot of performance horn players. All you have to do to see what I mean is to wander through this website and pick off performances of the first movement of Horn Concerto No. 2 in E flat and you will discover that Brain never blurbles a note, and every attack in the Allegro Maestoso is pinpoint. He is technically and tonally perfect and couples that with a superb musical sensibility. It was one of the great musical tragedies that he died at the age of 36.

Something to keep in mind is that when Mozart wrote these works for his good friend (and cheesemonger) Joseph Leutgeb, the French horn was a very limited instrument. Many of the notes were reached by stopping the bell to some degree, which affected volume and intonation. Mozart wrote to take advantage of Leutgeb's expertise at this, and Dennis Brain chooses to maintain this effect rather than just play his modern instrument with no thought to the past.

These compositions cover a fair range of time. Number 2(K.417) is really the earliest (1783). And the incomplete No. 1 (K.412) is really the last (1791). The best though, in both my mind and Mozart's is the Quintet in E flat for piano & wind. Mozart was a master in using instrument groupings in novel and powerful fashion and this is no exception.

EMI has remastered this CD over their previous release, which enhances clarity, and makes it easier to hear Dennis Brain's considerable finesse. I own their first release and the difference in clarity makes it worth finding this edition. But even the duller production of the 1997 is enjoyable. It you want a good selection of Dennis Brain's work on one CD this is an excellent buy.

Mozart: Horn Concert.......2005-08-14

Great recordings of the century, and that is what it is.
Herbart von Karajan conducting, and Dennis Brain on horn tells it all; a wonderful rich music experience are waiting for you.
In my ears its probably one of the best recordings ever made of the horn concert. And even though its from the mid 50`s it comes in a wonderful remastered CD.
The CD comes with a very good booklet in English; telling the story behind the record.
I highly recommend this album

Mozart: Concertos for Clarinet, Oboe & Bassoon

Average customer rating:

Mi recomerdacion tener este CD como algo muy especial
So beautiful, musical, and superior to Karajan's DG Mozart Symphonies.
most strongly recommended for clarinet concerto
beautiful playing
Karl Leister plays Mozart

Mozart: Concertos for Clarinet, Oboe & Bassoon

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Mozart: Horn Concertos Nos. 1-4
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Mozart: Concerto for clarinet in A; Debussy: Première Rhapsodie

ASIN: B000002S3P
Release Date: 1993-02-16

Tracks:

I: Allergo - Karl Leister
II: Adagio - Karl Leister
III: Rondo (Allegro) - Karl Leister
I: Allegro Aperto - Lothar Koch
II: Adagio Non Troppo - Lothar Koch
III: Rondo (Allegretto) - Lothar Koch
I: Allergo - Gunter Piesk
II: Andante Ma Adagio - Gunter Piesk
III: Rondo (Tempo Di Menuetto) - Gunter Piesk

Customer Reviews:

Mi recomerdacion tener este CD como algo muy especial.......2006-02-25

Mozart interpretado por Leister-Koch Piesk
bajo la direccion de Herbert von Karajan
es una experiencia inolvidable.
Este CD es uno de mis favoritos que escuchare
por largo tiempo.

So beautiful, musical, and superior to Karajan's DG Mozart Symphonies........2005-12-03

Herbert von Karajan's early 1970s EMI recording of Mozart's oft recorded concertos for Clarinet, Oboe, and Bassoon is one of his better Mozart recordings. The Berlin Philharmonic play like angels, and their musical sense, at non rushed, but never too slow tempos, is very effective and beautiful. Mozart's music is well served, and the clarinet, oboe, and bassoon soloists are all 100% first class. This is so beautiful and musical, and superior to Karajan's DG Mozart Symphony recordings - with the same Berlin Philharmonic, made in the late 1970s and 1980s.
Had Karajan conducted the symphonies with the same sense of line and flow he does in these concertos, he would have gone down in history as one of the great Mozart conductors. As it stands with commercial studio recordings that are available, that honor goes to Karl Bohm (DG), Rafael Kubelik (CBS, EMI); Otto Klemperer (EMI); Thomas Beecham (EMI, Sony UK); George Szell (Sony); and Bruno Walter (CBS).

I am not a woodwind player or expert on these works, but I know a great recording when I hear it, and this is one of the great Mozart concerto recordings.

There are other options: Bohm/Vienna Philharmonic with pricipals (DG); Wildner/Vienna Mozart Academy (Naxos); Ormandy/Philadelphia (Sony); and the recently released Brilliant Classics 7 disc box of Mozart Concertos.

most strongly recommended for clarinet concerto.......2005-10-21

I agree with the other reviewer who comments on the wonderful tone of the clarinet soloist. The others are good but this one stands out. The orchestra is fine and acceptably imaged in the recording. This is an excellent disc that is easy to recommend. Edit: I have found since writing this a collection of these works I prefer on Deutche Grammophone on one of their "Trio" collections by Orpheus Chamber Orchestra. Particularly the bassoon and oboe soloists on that recording are better in my opinion and the orchestral textures are lighter -- more appropriate to Mozart in my opinion.

beautiful playing.......2004-04-22

Karl Leister delivers a great performance of the clarinet concerto. His dark sound and amazing intonation and his ability to play with such easy is remarkable.

The oboeist was not near the same level as Mr. Leister. Though he did have a good enterpretation I couldn't get past how unoboe like his sound is. I guess it's hard to find anyone nearly as good as alex klein.

The bassoonist is a delight to listen to. This has to be one of the most relaxed entrepations of the concerto I have heard yet. Everything came out so naturally as if the concert were in the heart of the performer,

I give this recording a 4 star rating, if the oboist had better tone I would have given it a 5 star.

Karl Leister plays Mozart.......2002-02-28

Karl Leister's rendition of the Mozart Clarinet Concerto is a joy to listen to. His beautiful dark sound is perfect for this piece, especially the Adagio. His phrasing and musicality are outstanding. This is a must have, not only for clarinet and Mozart lovers, but for all music lovers.

Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Grand Duo Concertante; Concertino

Average customer rating:

Pleasing interpretations at an excellent price
good
Good Basic Weber CD
Nothing special, but worth a look
An absolute steal!

Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Grand Duo Concertante; Concertino

Manufacturer: Erato
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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French Clarinet Art
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The Essential Clarinet

ASIN: B00005OBRG
Release Date: 2002-02-19

Tracks:

Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.1 In F Minor, Op.73: Allegro
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.1 In F Minor, Op.73: Adagio, Ma Non Troppo
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.1 In F Minor, Op.73: Rondo - Allegretto
Concertino For Clarinet And Orchestra In E Flat Major, Op.26: Adagio Ma Non Troppo - Andante - Allegro
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.2 In E Flat Major, Op.74: Allegro
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.2 In E Flat Major, Op.74: Andante Con Moto
Concerto For Clarinet And Orchestra No.2 In E Flat Major, Op.74: Alla Polacca
Grand Duo Concertant For Clarinet And Piano, Op.48: Allegro Con Fuego - Paul Meyer
Grand Duo Concertant For Clarinet And Piano, Op.48: Andante Con Moto - Paul Meyer
Grand Duo Concertant For Clarinet And Piano, Op.48: Rondo - Paul Meyer

Customer Reviews:

Pleasing interpretations at an excellent price.......2006-11-06

These are not overly flashy performances, just very musical. Boeykens is technically secure, and he makes these works sound easy. His musicality is genial, with dramatic touches as required. His performances naturally delineate the form of the music, while tastefully playing up its early Romantic emotional qualities. Easily the best bargain in Weber clarinet concerto recordings. My opinion of the Meyers performance of the Grand Duo is similar.

good.......2005-08-16

This CD is well recorded and the musicianship is excellent. The compositions seem to me good but not great. A nice listen and good price.

Good Basic Weber CD.......2004-09-06

Boeyken's rendition of the Weber pieces are very good. I may agree with a previous poster that the performances aren't spectacularly exciting. However, as a clarinetist I've played and heard these pieces performed so many times that it would be next to impossible to create a "ground-breaking" recording, no matter how hard the clarinetist tries. That being said, Boeyken's renditions are very pleasant and played with technical perfection. They will not disappoint.

I personally like Paul Meyer's rendition of Grand Duo Concertante. It is quite fast, so many passages that might be intricately phrased at a slower tempo are just torn through by Meyer, but if you are looking for a technically impressive performance, this will do.

At the price, this is a great CD, especially for someone wanting to hear the Concerti played in a conservative style. My favorite Weber Concerti is Sabine Meyer's on EMI (her interpretations are much more daring than Boeykens), so you might check that out also. Any music fan's CD library should have enough room for many renditions of these famous staples from the clarinet world.

Nothing special, but worth a look.......2004-06-16

Walter Boeykens does not have a stand-out, easy-to-identify tone, and does not play with an outward charm. But however, the performance is technically flawless and confidently played. James Conlon, one of the great American conductors today, leads the Rotterdam to a phenominal accompainment.
In the Concertante, Paul Meyer plays his typical fast rendition. Though he pulled it off, this recording of the concertante seems a bit sloppy and unattractive to me. Perhaps it is because this is one of Meyer's earlier recording jobs prior to hitting it big with Denon in the early 90's. Anyway, his tonguing, especially in movement 1 was not quite sharp, and he also takes a long annoying repeat that rarely shows on any other recordings (and for good reason, too!), as a result prolonging the length of the first movement to well over 7 minutes.

Still, this disc is well worth buying. At a measly 6.98 bucks, it contains a lot of music: 4 complete pieces including 2 concertos, a set of variations (the concertino), and the concertante which is really a sonata-like composition. All centerpieces of romantic era solo clarinet literature.

An absolute steal!.......2004-04-15

What you get for $6 is absolutely amazing! Walter Boeykens takes the Weber Clarinet Concerti to new heights. In particular, his playing during the alla polacca of the Concerto in E-flat Major is nothing short of supberb. It is the most effortless version of these pieces that I have ever heard. I am buying more of these for family members; it's probably the best-valued clarinet CD out there today.

Prokofiev: The Five Piano Concertos; Overture on Hebrew Themes

Average customer rating:

Not only for the performances and the recording quality --
Sheesh
I guess the score doesn't matter
Piano could stand out a little more
awesome and terrifying

Prokofiev: The Five Piano Concertos; Overture on Hebrew Themes

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Rachmaninoff Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 3 / Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini / Muti, Gavrilov
Prokofiev Plays Prokofiev
Saint-Saëns: Piano Concertos 1-5; Wedding Cake Caprice-Valse
Shostakovich: The Complete Symphonies - Mariss Jansons (10 CD)
Prokofiev: The Five Piano Concertos

ASIN: B000002S09
Release Date: 1992-09-29

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No 1 In D Major, Op.10: I. Allegro Brioso
Piano Concerto No 1 In D Major, Op.10: II. Andante assai
Piano Concerto No 1 In D Major, Op.10: III. Allegro scherzando
Piano Concerto No 2 In G Minor, Op.16: I. Andantino - Allegretto
Piano Concerto No 2 In G Minor, Op.16: II. Scherzo (vivace)
Piano Concerto No 2 In G Minor, Op.16: III. Intermezzo (allegro moderato)
Piano Concerto No 2 In G Minor, Op.16: IV. Finale (allegro tempestuoso)
Piano Concerto No.3 In C Major, Op.26: I. Andante - Allegro
Piano Concerto No.3 In C Major, Op.26: II. Theme et variations
Piano Concerto No.3 In C Major, Op.26: III. Allegro ma non troppo

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No.4 In B Flat Major, Op.53,'For The Left Hand': I. Vivace
Piano Concerto No.4 In B Flat Major, Op.53,'For The Left Hand': II. Andante
Piano Concerto No.4 In B Flat Major, Op.53,'For The Left Hand': III. Moderato
Piano Concerto No.4 In B Flat Major, Op.53,'For The Left Hand': IV. Vivace
Piano Concerto No.5 In G Major, Op. 55: I. Allegro con brio
Piano Concerto No.5 In G Major, Op. 55: II. Moderato ben accentuato
Piano Concerto No.5 In G Major, Op. 55: III. Toccata (allegro con fuoco)
Piano Concerto No.5 In G Major, Op. 55: IV. Larghetto
Piano Concerto No.5 In G Major, Op. 55: V. Vivo
Overture on Hebrew Themes, Op. 34
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 1. Lentamente
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 2. Andante
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 3. Allegretto
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 4. Animato
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 5. Molto giocoso
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 6. Con eleganza
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 7. Pittoresco
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 8. Commodo
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 9. Allegretto tranquillo
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 10. Ridicolosamente
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 11. Con vivacita
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 12. Assai moderato
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 13. Allegretto
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 14. Feroce
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 15. Inquieto
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 16. Dolente
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 17. Poetico
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 18. Con una dolce lentezza
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 19. Presto agitatissimo e molto accentuato
Visions fugitives, Op. 22: No 20. Lento irrealmente

Customer Reviews:

Not only for the performances and the recording quality --.......2005-12-07

-- I even like the cover art!

Sheesh.......2003-11-05

I'm reading the reviews here because I just adore this recording and wonder why it's so rarely the recommended choice in CD guides, etc... Maybe there are individual moments in other recordings that surpass individual moments here, but as a whole I don't think any of the other sets are nearly as effective.

But anyway - the review below really annoyed me so I just wanted to weigh in: Beroff's is a really lovely rendition of the Visions Fugitives, and the "ppp" in question (that prompted my fellow reviewer to impress us all with his lordly inability to tolerate philistinism by hurling his CDs into the trash like the filth they are) - ahem - the "ppp" in question applies WITHOUT ANY DOUBT only to the inner voice - I don't know what edition Mr. Landkamer has, but the two that I just looked at both make special effort to place the "ppp" on the page in a way that communicates this. It also bears mentioning that this "ppp" does not appear in the first edition at all.

In conclusion: this set is an amazing deal and, regardless of what people say about Ashkenazy or Argerich or Richter or whomever else, is utterly satisfying. It's one of the few recordings of Prokofiev I've heard where the performance is GENUINELY CONVINCED of the idea that this music is utterly coherent and human. Even supposedly "sensitive" Prokofiev performances often underestimate the fluidity of his musical expression and decide to let things seem thorny and chaotic rather than doing the work necessary to clarify the enigmatic elements. Beroff and Masur are so in tune with the spirit of Prokofiev's screwball jokes and whimsically meandering emotions that you feel you're hearing the piece direct from the composer. Very rare thing, that. There are no more and no fewer fireworks in these performances than Prokofiev put in the score - which is plenty! - and I don't know about you but that's how I like my classical recordings.

I guess the score doesn't matter.......2003-04-26

A few minutes ago, for lack of anything better to do, I put on the Visions Fugitives as played by Michel Beroff on this CD. In bar 14 there is a two-note pickup starting a repeat of the opening melody, here marked "p semplice". Then, on beat 1 of the next bar, the marking is "ppp" implying that the repeat of the theme is to *begin* like a routine restatement but then shift without warning into a new, quieter dreamlike realm. Beroff makes ABSOLUTELY NO CHANGE at the ppp. It might as well not be there. These CD's are about to go into the trash.

There, gone.

Addendum (5/31/03)...I purchased another recording of Visions Fugitives, by Boris Berman, and he played this part the same way. Looking again at the score, I think I can see why...the ppp is being interpreted as applying only to the chromatically winding inner voice. I'm not certain that's right, but it's at least not completely unreasonable. Sorry, Michel, I take it all back.

(11/28/03) in response to my courageously anonymous fellow reviewer ("music fan" above) the edition I have is MCA and the ppp is placed between the upper an lower staves but somewhat above-center. I'm not sure this qualifies as a special effort to communicate the intent.

Piano could stand out a little more.......2002-09-21

I agree with other reviewers this is a very good recording, of very difficult works. But it is especially good for the orchestral part. I am not saying Beroff is not a good pianist dont get me wrong. I am just saying there is better.
For the piano (and those are PIANO concertos my friends :) I have to say that I like the Ashkenazy/Previn recording better especially for #2 and #3 The piano sounds much clearer and less hesitating. The opening of 4th movement of #2 for example is 100 times better as played by Ashkenazy. Those chords are so much more precisely dropped. The orchestra though in many passages is more overwhelming (as it should be in this piece) in the Beroff/Masur recording.
If you want the complete set. Get both this recording and the Ashkenazy/Previn. They complement one another really well.
Now if you want the best recording of #3. You want to get the Argerich/Abbado recording. It ROCKS its is way above any other. Better rythmic precision , better phrasing, faster tempo. It is just amazing.

awesome and terrifying.......2002-09-21

This CD is another example of good price, comprehensiveness, and outstanding quality combining to make a powerhouse recording. I cannot overstate how dazzling Beroff's performance is. To hear pianistic technique at its pinnacle, just listen to the cadenza of the Second Concerto's opening movement--it'll take your breath away (you'll swear that it cannot be played by just a single player--examining the score will compound the disbelief). Beroff's swift hammering, mastery of dynamics, and perfect grasp of both Prokofiev's wit and rage, will have you coming back to this CD set for years. Concerto No. 3, by the way, is the best performance I've heard besides that given by Martha Argerich. With expert performance by Maestro Masur and the Gewandhaus Orchestra, these five neoclassical works have rarely received such musical justice. The second CD also features Prokofiev's delightful ethnographic chamber piece, "Overture on Hebrew Themes," as well as his solo piano work, "Fugitive Visions" (not quite as notable as, say, his late sonatas). I consider this CD set one of the best in my collection, and I recommend it without any reservations.

Average customer rating:

Mixed bag
Not the best bass album out there
Bottessini
Excellent Variety, Outstanding Execution
More fun than a barrel of monkeys

Meyer & Bottesini Concertos
Edgar Meyer
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Bach Unaccompanied Cello Suites: Performed on Double Bass
Edgar Meyer
Uncommon Ritual
Short Trip Home
Bottesini;Music for Double Bass & Piano Vol.1

ASIN: B0000667R3
Release Date: 2002-06-11

Tracks:

Meyer: Double Concerto for Cello and Double Bass: Movement I
Meyer: Double Concerto for Cello and Double Bass: Movement II
Meyer: Double Concerto for Cello and Double Bass: Movement III
Bottesini: Concerto No. 2 in B Minor for Double Bass and Orchestra: Movement I-allegro moderato
Bottesini: Concerto No. 2 in B Minor for Double Bass and Orchestra: Movement II-Andante
Bottesini: Concerto No. 2 in B Minor for Double Bass and Orchestra: Movement III-allegro
Meyer: Concerto in D for Double Bass and Orchestra: Movement I
Meyer: Concerto in D for Double Bass and Orchestra: Movement II
Meyer: Concerto in D for Double Bass and Orchestra: Movement III
Bottesini: Gran Duo Concertante

Amazon.com

On this record, featuring Edgar Meyer as both composer and bassist, the playing's the thing, and it is spectacular. His performance of four virtuoso concertos, two by himself and two by Bottesini, eclipses his compositions, though his stylistic versatility is in full evidence in both his works. The Concerto for Bass has elements of jazz and blues, and a good deal of textural contrast and imaginative orchestration, but it is repetitive and a bit dreary. In the hair-raisingly difficult Bottesini Concerto, Meyer performs every imaginable and many unimaginable technical feats, covering a range of more than six octaves and producing sounds from growls to flutelike harmonics. Apparently craving even more pyrotechnics, he substitutes his own cadenzas for the composer's.

Two equally stunning virtuosos join him for the other works. In his Double Concerto for Cello and Bass, he and Yo-Yo Ma chase each other up the fingerboard to the highest register, where, with their lines answering and interweaving, it is sometimes impossible to tell them apart. The piece is tonal and modal and supposedly classical in form, but quite dissonant. The middle movement alternates motoric outbursts with eerie, unvibrated sustained passages; the finale combines folk-fiddling with blues. Joshua Bell and Meyer play Bottesini's Duo Concertante for Violin and Bass with incredible virtuosity and obvious relish. Bell's tone is ravishingly beautiful and his charm, flair, and style are irresistible. Like his older compatriot Paganini, Bottesini was enthralled by Italian opera. The piece is full of dramatic recitatives and meltingly songful cantilenas, with the soloists bursting into arias and love duets and the orchestra setting the stage and providing the atmosphere. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

Mixed bag.......2007-07-05

Meyer's playing is, to my ear, impeccable, and with the addition of Bell and Yo-Yo Ma you have three great virtuosos playing on this CD.

My only problem is that I love the Bottesini works and feel so-so on his own compositions. I feel that the audience would have been better served if he had created two CDs; one with Bottesini bass works (and other standard classical music) and one with his own "Appalachian-style" compositions.

I don't think that his own compositions are necessarily bad; I just don't particularly appreciate them as much as I do his playing of classical repertoire.

One thing to commend, though, is that Meyer is taking an instrument that lacks a large library of music and featuring it in remarkable performances of existant pieces as well as creating his own works.

Not the best bass album out there.......2006-12-26

Edgar Meyer is an incredible talent on the instrument. The two classical CD's of his that I've heard, this and the Bach, have flawless intonation and attack on every note. While it's great to raise the bar for double bassists, I feel his musicality both as a performer and as a composer is decidedly lacking, now that there are many great performers on the instrument. When I listen to him next to, say, Gary Karr, Eugene Levinson, and Jeff Bradetich, his sound is nowhere near as interesting. It's solid, but not complex, and multiple listenings haven't led me to discover new things about the music, which is quite the opposite on those of his competitors. He plays the Bottesini like he's only half enjoying himself. Frankly, that is not acceptable for music like this. Meyer, to me, is just playing notes on a page. Gary Karr, on the other hand, lives every note that he plays...he wastes nothing (at least on most of his recordings). I've given blind listening tests to non-musicians and right from the first note of Gary Karr they prefer him; his sound grabs them and doesn't let go.

Also, for a more historically accurate performance, you can get the Thomas Martin Bottesini album with the other Bottesini concerto (F# minor) on it. Thomas Martin studied Bottesini's method books, fingerings, and virtually tried to become Bottesini. And all the other bassists I listed (and there are others as well) play with more passion and a more interesting sound. Don't be fooled just by technique--this music should have much more to it than that.

Meyer admitted in a phone interview published in a Chicago newspaper that he doesn't like the double bass repertoire one bit...which is why he mostly performs his own works. That being said, Bottesini's Grand Duo with Josh Bell is probably my favorite piece on the CD, maybe the only memorable one. Meyer is a good composer, I think; his Appalachian and bluegrass-style pieces are so much fun to listen to. I feel he should stick to that as a composer and performer. His two concertos here have some great moments, but overall are shallow and boring.

I realize I'm extremely opinionated about Meyer, but I think it's necessary to give voice to honest criticism, and I'm not the only double bassist who feels the way I do. It's sort of like listening to jazz and only checking out Wynton Marsalis--there is much better music out there, more authentically played if it's older music, and better musicianship if it's more contemporary jazz that Marsalis really doesn't do. If you really love Meyer's playing over Gary Karr, Eugene Levinson, Jeff Bradetich, Thomas Martin, Franco Petracchi, and Edwin Barker, then support him. Don't just support him because he's on the Sony Classical label and he's the only double bassist you've ever heard of.

Other suggestions:
Anything by Eugene Levinson
Gary Karr--Spirit of Koussevitzky, Virtuoso D.B. Concertos
Anything by Jeff Bradetich
Thomas Martin--recordings of Bottesini works
Franco Petracchi--an EMI album, hard to find on CD, of a Bottesini Duo
Jeremy McCoy--Dialogues with Double Bass (superb musicianship)

These gentlemen are excellent classical soloists, not just masters of their instrument. Happy listening!

Bottessini.......2006-08-15

This CD was interesting, but most of the selections were not good music. There was one selection out of all, which was probably why I wanted to own this CD. Interesting double bass works.

Excellent Variety, Outstanding Execution.......2006-01-05

This album is a must have. No one ever really thinks of double bass used much as a solo instrument. It tends to fade into the woodwork in symphony orchestra as the foundation of orchestral works. Enter Edgar Meyer. Meyer is probably one of the most accomplished musicians I have ever heard on ANY instrument. Meyer is an unbelievable virtuoso possessing all of the great qualities of an outstanding musician. His speed is unreal, his tone is nothing short of beautiful, his sensitivity is full of emotion and his dynamic playing leaves the audience captivated by all the things that a double bass can do that we never even thought about. Meyer is without a doubt one of the most outstanding musicians around today.

This disc has two extremes of music for the double bass. We hear the everything from Edgar Meyer's genre-crossing, ground breaking compositions to the traditional 19th century work of Giovanni Bottesini. Meyer's work as a composer is just as excellent as his work as a performer. He pushes the boundaries of classical music by incorporating other genres but stays within the framework of the tradition of classical music. The result is quite phenominal.

It is also wonderful to hear the other performances of Meyer with Joshua Bell and Yo-Yo Ma. Essentially, this disc acts as a who's who of the bowed instruments. Both Ma and Bell are also very amazing players and really contribute to the sound of the recording. The cello and the violin add a nice touch variety to the album as well. It is especially refreshing to hear the piercing high tone of Joshua Bell at the end. His playing is absolutely gorgeous. I have reason to believe that Mr. Bell could make me cry if he played right.

This disc is quite outstanding. Any lover of classical music will find absolute elation in it. This is truely outstanding work.

More fun than a barrel of monkeys.......2003-03-21

In this digitally mastered age where perfectly virtuosic performances threaten to lose their capacity to amaze, Edgar Meyer does it brilliantly by making the most unwieldy of behemoth instruments dance on its toes. ...his compositional skills, while impressive, lose some of their glitz paired with his incredible virtuosity. But, they are very enjoyable works. The concerto for Bass works particularly well, I feel: it is effective as both a showcase of his abilities as a performer, has real musical interest, and pulls traditionally American musical ideas into the mix without sounding trite.

As an aside, not since Glenn Gould have I enjoyed a performer's "spontaneous vocal improvisation" additions on a recording. Meyer's percussive exhalations on off-beats in the highly rhythmic passages (especially in the 3rd movement of the Bottesini concerto and in the duet) are too much fun!

Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Concertino; Clarinet Quintet
Average customer rating:

Polished playing, but somewhat aloof

Sabine Meyer - Best clarinetist alive

Just okay

Meyer's Recordings are the Best!

Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Concertino; Clarinet Quintet

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Weber | Weber, Carl Maria von | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Clarinet | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Great Recordings Of The Century - Mozart: Clarinet Concerto, Sinfonia Concertante / Meyer, Vonk

Mozart: Concerto for clarinet in A; Debussy: Première Rhapsodie

Johann & Carl Stamitz: Clarinet Concertos

Sabine Meyer - A Night at the Opera

Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Grand Duo Concertante; Concertino

ASIN: B00008QSCT
Release Date: 2003-04-08

Tracks:

I. Allegro (Cadenza - Heinrich Joseph Barmann)
II. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
III. Rondo (Allegretto)
I. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
II. Andante
III. Allegro
I.Allegro
II. Romanza (Andante)
III. Alla Polacca
I. Allegro - Wurttembergisches Kammerorchester Heilbronn
II. Fantasia (Adagio Ma Non Troppo) - Wurttembergisches Kammerorchester
III. Menuetto (Capriccio Presto) & Trio - Wurttembergisches Kammerorchester Heilbronn
IV. Rondo (Allegro Giocoso) - Wurttembergisches Kammerorchester Heilbronn

Customer Reviews:

Polished playing, but somewhat aloof.......2006-11-06

For masterful clarinetistry and good taste, Ms. Meyer's Weber is first rate. My only issue is that she is often somewhat businesslike in her approach to the music. Weber was an early Romanticist, and much of his musical impetus comes from opera. Therefore, I would have liked to hear more Romantic expressiveness in these performances. Having said that, I still believe this recording is worth having, especially for clarinetists.

Sabine Meyer - Best clarinetist alive.......2006-06-18

She has evrything, extrordinary technique, fabulous intonation, inovative musical ideas that are all her own, and a beautiful, clear, clean, german tone that we all seem to strive for. What more could you ask for?

I saw her perform Mozart's clarinet quintet with the tokyo string quartet last Januery. The performance was unparalled. There was not one squeake, crack, or flaw in the technique, the interpratation was very fresh and new, and the exitment and spontaneity was never lost, even in the most carefully planed out passages.

This CD of Weber's clarinet works is absolutly definitive. These peices are performed so often nowadays that it is hard to give an original interpretation. Most recent recordings sound dry, over practiced, and cautious to the point where one recording sounds hardly different from the next.

The case is quite the contrary with this recording. Ms. Meyer makes each one of these warhorses sound so fresh and vital. The fast movements are played with much flare, drama, and enthusiasm. She tends to rush the ends passages before an orchestral tutti, but the effect just adds to the exicitment, you get the feeling of listening in a live performance. After all, there is nothing in the music that says not to rush, and each one is entitled to his own interpretation. In the slower movments she takes time to showcase her silvery tone and lyrical playing. The second movment of the the second concerto is *sung* as if it were from one of Weber's operas.

This recording belongs in every music lover's library. Very rarely do you hear a soloist play on the level of Ms. Meyer.

Just okay.......2006-05-28

While her technical proficiency is obvious, I don't enjoy the rampant rushing involved on almost every track of this cd. Overall, I will allow my students to listen to this cd once for an idea of the piece, but I would never allow them to study this recording in depth.

Meyer's Recordings are the Best!.......2006-03-13

I am a clarinet student at the CSULB College of the Arts and was referred to this recording by my private clarinet instructor. Meyer's interpretation and execution of the Weber Clarinet Concertos, Concertinos and Quintet are, by far, the most musical and advanced performances I have ever heard. Meyer's sheer technique is something to marvel at. Although she plays in the German school and performs on a German set-up, it gives those who plan to perform this piece a fabulous rendition to emulate. I couldn't be happier with this purchase, and though it is one of the more expensive recordings of the Weber Concertos, it is worth EVERY PENNY. An invaluable addition to any musical recording library.

Average customer rating:

Fantastic compilation
Stravinsky sorprendente
Wonderful - Especially The Violin Concerto!
A Great Compilation for Stravinsky Music!

Stravinsky: Symphonies and Concertos

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Marches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Classic Big Band | Swing Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Stravinsky: Three Greek Ballets (Apollo, Agon, Orpheus)
Schumann: The 4 Symphonies
Bartók: Concertos
Stravinsky: Works for Piano
Alban Berg: Violin Concerto "To the Memory of an Angel" (1935) / Wolfgang Rihm: "Time Chant" Music for Violin & Orchestra (1991-92) - Anne-Sophie Mutter

ASIN: B0000041AF
Release Date: 1995-02-14

Tracks:

Symphony In C: Moderato alla breve - Tempo agitato senza troppo accelerare - Tempo I
Symphony In C: Larghetto concertante
Symphony In C: Allegretto - meno mosso - Tempo I - Piu mosso - Tempo I
Symphony In C: Largo - Tempo giusto, alla breve - Poco meno mosso
Symphony in Three Movements: Allegro
Symphony in Three Movements: Andante - Interlude (L'istesso tempo)
Symphony in Three Movements: Con moto
Symphonies for Wind Instruments

Tracks:

Violin Concerto In D: Toccata
Violin Concerto In D: Aria
Violin Concerto In D: Aria
Violin Concerto In D: Capriccio
Ebony Concerto: Allegro moderato
Ebony Concerto: Andante
Ebony Concerto: Moderato
Symphony Of Psalms: Exaudi orationem mea, Domine
Symphony Of Psalms: Expectans expectavi Dominum
Symphony Of Psalms: Alleluia, laudate Dominum

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic compilation.......2006-04-17

You won't be disappointed in this compilation ....all great
choices in the selection of numbers, although the highlight
does seem to be "Violin Concerto".

In terms of sound, it's also very clear, very well recorded,
and there's a balanced selection of moods on these 2 CD.

Stravinsky sorprendente.......2004-12-03

Que Stravinsky nos sorprenda no es algo nuevo, fue y sera para siempre un compositor innovador y sorprendente, pero al oir estas obras sabra que habia mas sorpresas en la cabeza del compositor ruso.
Comienza la audicion y nos encontramos con una sinfonia postmodernista en la linea clasica, brillante, genial; continua en esta linea la sinfonia en tres movimientos que es una obra extraordinaria, poco compleja para el genio rusa pero encantadora.
Sir Colin Davis se hace cargo de estas obras y al igual que como lo hace con Sibelius nos demuestra su versatilidad y manejo de la obrea sinfonica de cualquier autor.
Edo de Waart junto al conjunto de instrumentos de viento de Holanda se encarga de dos bellezas musicales de estructura casi camaresca son bellisimos, simples y originales.
Aparece ahora una genialidad, un concierto para violin cercano a Bartok si se quiere, solo para aproximarlo, grandioso, innovador, genial en la soberbia interpretacion del afamado Arthur Grumiax. Para este solista nada mejor que la orquesta del concertgebouw (de recio sonido)dirigidos por el prolijo Ernest Bour.
Finalizamos esta sorprendente coleccion con la Sinfonia de los Salmos, que es casi un oratorio,partes que podrian ser los tiempos de una sinfonia pero que, se acercan mas a momentos de una liturgia, son bellos simples, exultantes de luminosidad y reflexion. Igor Markevitch el director ruso de tomo y lomo, se une a la sinfonica de Rusia, a coros masculinos y otros solistas para entregarnos esta version generosa e impactante.

Wonderful - Especially The Violin Concerto!.......2004-05-28

This set is worth its modest price just to have Grumiaux in the Violin Concerto, with Ernest Bour and the Concertgebouw providing a virtual x-ray of this marvelous score. Grumiaux provides an object lesson for other violinists in how to combine extraordinarily crisp rhythm with soaring lyricism. Bour demonstrates once again how he was one of the 20th Century's most eloquent advocates of modern music. This is far and away the finest current reading - it very nearly eclipses my benchmark for this piece: Samuel Dushkin with the composer conducting in a 1935 Paris recording on DG.

A wonderful bonus is Markevitch performing the Symphony of Psalms. What a stunning reading! And such a glorious chorus! I actually prefer this reading to Stravinsky's own stereo account, and it comes close to the sheer ecstacy of the composer's antique 1931 recording.

Colin Davis is not one of my favorites, but I have to say he delivers crisp, no-nonsense accounts in both the Sym. in C and the Sym. in 3 Movements. Here, though, I still prefer the composer's various accounts in each work. Finally, the virtuoso Netherlands Wind Ensemble provides the best played versions of the Symphonies for Wind Instruments and the Ebony concerto I have had the pleasure of hearing. Once again, I marginally prefer the composer's mono accounts here: his version of the former was slower and more mysterious, and in the latter he had Woody Herman & Co. in full swing. But neither was as expertly played as these Dutch readings - and the sound here is simply terrific.

This CD set is a wonderful introduction to the kaleidoscopic variety of Stravinsky's music. Be sure to hear that Violin Concerto - it's one of the great performances of ANY concerto.

A Great Compilation for Stravinsky Music!.......2000-05-18

I have to say that I'm not the biggest Stravinsky fan and in fact I have something of a dislike for a lot of 20th Century music if you even call some of the 20th Century works music. So, why did I buy this CD? I'll get to that in a second. You see, I have only truly cared for one of Stravinsky's masterpieces and that was his Symphony of Psalms.

The Symphony of Psalms has always appealed to me for some reason or another and I can never quite put my finger on exactly what that one thing or another is. Perhaps it's the haunting melody that begins the piece in "Exaudi orationem meam" due to its sort of sensation of being forced along at a tempo that never rests and only builds. Then again, perhaps its the amazing "Expectans expectavi Dominum" with it's constant fading in and out of the main melody and constant evolution on throughout the end. There is also a section in "Laudate Dominum" which sounds as if it belonged in a horror movie scene due to the chant which the choir sings and the pianos accompany. What ever the reason there was something about this piece and this piece alone that I simply clingged on to.

So, why buy this CD? More importantly why even dare buy anything but just that piece of music and that piece of music alone. Well, I thought that I might as well, get this CD even though I knew, I just knew, I would dread all the other pieces on it. I just knew that I'd regret that I couldnt just buy the sections of the 2CD set that contained the Symphony of Psalms tracks. I just knew it.

To my surprise, I was dead wrong about this. I was so wrong in fact that when listening to the music you cant help but to feel as if it's slapping you for even doubting it's ability to entertain you and prove it's worthiness. I actually found myself listening to Stravinsky's Symphony in C and his Symphony in Three Movements along with his Violin Concerto in D and even listened to his Ebony Concerto. More surprising then that is that I actually enjoyed listening to them. I think it almost felt unbelievable even to myself that I was repeating a few of the tracks over and listening to them again and again. My only one that I didnt care for was his Symphonies for Wind Instruments which may simply require a hardcore Stravinsky fan to get into. These Symphonies before the Psalms pieces on the 2CD set were such fulfilling appetizers that when the "main course" so to speak came along I was just so captivated by this CD set that I almost didnt need to hear the choir pieces to know I had struck gold with this Stravinsky compilation. Incredible job by all conductors and their orchestra's from the always magnificent Sir Colin Davis to Igor Markevitch. Great CD that all Stravinsky hard cores simply must buy.

MOZART and OGNENOVSKI Clarinet Concertos
Average customer rating:

Mozart Born Anew! Outstanding Musical Interpretation ...

MOZART and OGNENOVSKI Clarinet Concertos

Manufacturer: Independent Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000ENV2BE
Release Date: 2006-01-24

Tracks:

1. Clarinet Concerto in A Major, K.622: Allegro
2. Clarinet Concerto in A Major, K.622: Adagio
3. Clarinet Concerto in A Major, K.622: Rondo-Allegr
4. Tale Ognenovski Concert for Clarinet No. 1

Product Description

This recording is sensational. Tale Ognenovski arranged parts of the Mozart's clarinet concerto for two clarinets. The clarinet in standard performance is always accompanied by the Orchestra. In this recording the clarinet is accompanied by drum performed by his son Stevan Ognenovski or by drum and second clarinet (performed by Tale Ognenovski). Tale Ognenovski gives a splendid account of Mozart's most beautiful concerto. The full, wonderful sound of the modern A clarinet is rich and Ognenovski's playing is superb, with good tempo and intonation throughout. His sound is full and expressive, his phrasing is lyrical, his articulations clear, and his tone is beautiful. Tale Ognenovski's performance is the most beautiful and the fastest performance of Mozart's clarinet concerto of all time. Mozart's clarinet concerto is certainly one of the most beautiful works to emerge from the Classical era. Musical genius Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born on January 27, 1756. Two! hundred years later, on January 27, 1956, another genius of music, Tale Ognenovski, performed as a virtuoso clarinet and reed pipe soloist folk dances in the world-famous Carnegie Hall. Together, he and the other members of the Macedonian Ensemble 'Tanec' appeared at Carnegie Hall in a display of tremendous skill, which was a sheer joy to watch. Tale Ognenovski Concert for Clarinet No. 1 is the most beautiful and the most difficult Clarinet Concerto of all time. Variety of phrasing, spectacular clarinet solos are both interesting and fascinating for people to listen to and to admire. Tale Ognenovski has opened up new possibilities for the clarinet that no one could have predicted. He is the greatest clarinetist, reed piper, zourlist and small bagpiper of all time, demonstrating unique skill, a wealth of invention, amazing improvisational virtuosity and outstanding musical competence in all areas of music. He is one of the greatest composers in the world of music. 'Tanec's American tour began with their debut on one of the most successful cultural magazine series in the history of U.S. commercial television, the Ford Foundation TV Program OMNIBUS (on CBS Television Network), on January 22, 1956. This program was seen by millions of Americans. During an 84-day tour throughout the United States of America and Canada, Tale Ognenovski with Ensemble 'Tanec' traveled 10,000 kilometers and performed 66 concerts in 53 different towns. These concerts were heralded as great cultural events by the American press. January 27, 2006, marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Customer Reviews:

Mozart Born Anew! Outstanding Musical Interpretation ..........2006-04-13

This reviewer is familiar with the three B's of classical music: Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms and can distinguish their styles, one can *now* add a fourth "B" which stands for "Balkan" as played by Tale Ognenovski ... Mr. Ognenovski plays Mozart with his own inimitable personal style making the classical music take on mysterious and exotic characteristics and overtones. His virtuosity possesses special qualities related to the Balkan clarinet that would make even Mozart blush with pleasure. Strict classical music is not my overall favorite because the patterns of sound are too prescribed, quite similar sounding as played by most musicians. Not so with Ognenovski whose elegant virtuosity sets him apart, the distinct Balkan flavor and improvisations are extraordinairy and appealing to those who love a more free form fluid style. Music played on the Macedonian clarinet has a long and distinguished history and when it marries classical music: the outcome is superb.

Ognenovski explodes with passion as he performs his own "Tale Ognenovski Concerto for Clarinet No. 1" ... The labyrinthine musical pathways he creates are enormously pleasing to the listener. The pentatonic scale and odd metered rhythms of Macedonia awaken the listener to new vistas of musical excitement and enjoyment. Anyone who loves jazz improvisation and the sounds of the clarinet will immediately recognize the superior creativity, breath control and complete mastery of this instrument as played by Mr. Ognenovski. It is no surprise that his music has been played on the radio and Mr. Ognenovski has appeared on the television in Macedonia during various occasions for the past 50 years. The music of the Balkans has stayed hidden too long, it deserves wider playing and world wide recognition. Perhaps on his third CD, Mr. Ognenovski will explore the realm of traditional music of Macedonia and share it with the world. His superior talent and expressive lyrical style leaves many possibilities for the future ... we who love clarinet music can only hope for another CD by this grand master. Erika Borsos (erikab93)

Johann & Carl Stamitz: Clarinet Concertos

Average customer rating:

Simply AMAZING!!!
Nothing short of amazing
What an outstanding record!

Johann & Carl Stamitz: Clarinet Concertos

Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Carl Stamitz: Clarinet Concertos, Vol. II
Weber: Clarinet Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Concertino; Clarinet Quintet
Sabine Meyer - A Night at the Opera
Great Recordings Of The Century - Mozart: Clarinet Concerto, Sinfonia Concertante / Meyer, Vonk
Mozart: Concerto for clarinet in A; Debussy: Première Rhapsodie

ASIN: B000002RTJ
Release Date: 2001-03-06

Tracks:

Cl Con No.3 in B flat: I. Allegro moderato
Cl Con No.3 in B flat: II. Romanze
Cl Con No.3 in B flat: III. Rondo
Cl Con No.11 in E flat: I. Allegro
Cl Con No.11 in E flat: II. Aria (Andante Moderato)
Cl Con No.11 in E flat: III. Rondo alla Scherzo (Allegro moderato)
Cl Con in B flat: I. Allegro moderato
Cl Con in B flat: II. Adagio
Cl Con in B flat: III. Poco presto
Cl Con No.10 in B flat: I. [Allegro]
Cl Con No.10 in B flat: II. [Andante sostenuto]
Cl Con No.10 in B flat: III. [Rondo (Poco allegro)]

Customer Reviews:

Simply AMAZING!!!.......2004-11-08

If Carl and Johann Stamitz were alive, they wouldn't believe how flawless and beautiful Sabine Meyer has played their songs in this CD. Concerto No.3 is just simply charming, with her own alterations and add-ins to make the original song, giving it an amusing and snazzy feel.

I have been playing clarinet for 4 years now, and currently I am working on all three of the movements in Concerto No.3. My clarinet teacher gave this CD a while back and I absolutely love it. There is nothing wrong with the song, but because Meyer adds many little tidbits of her own, it doesn't correspond in many places to the original score, making following along the music challenging. My clarinet teacher did say that she did overdo the added stuff to the music, and i always regarded it as her sticking her tounge out at the composers =P If you compare the original score with her score, you will definately enjoy hers much more.

As I continue to work on C no3, I may even decide myself to add some of what she has changed into my own score.

The Stamitzes would be proud of her recording, and if you buy this cd i garentee you will enjoy it and hopefully give it a wonderful review as I and the other two reviewers have done !

Nothing short of amazing.......2003-04-29

This is a must have album for any clarinetist or any music lover. What Sabine Meyer does with Stamitz is nothing short of amazing. She puts to shame anyone who attempts to play the Third Concerto. The others are equally as astounding. I highly recommend this one!

What an outstanding record!.......2001-04-05

This record proves that Sabine Meyer must be considered to be among the world's top clarinetists. Her performance on this new release of Clarinet Concertos by Johann and Carl Stamitz is simply amazing. Not only is her technique flawless, her sensible interpretation makes you feel the joy and sentimentality with which this music was composed and thought to be performed: Just listen to the second movement of Concerto No. 3 by Carl Stamitz and you will see what I mean. There can be no doubt that this CD is an absolute highlight in my collection and one of the real great recordings of this year!

Average customer rating:

Danish music with Danish spirit

Nielsen: The Complete Concertos

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Nielsen: Orchestral Works
Nielsen: Symphonies no 1-3 / Blomstedt, San Francisco Symphony Orchestra
Nielsen: Symphonies no 4-6 / Blomstedt, San Francisco Symphony Orchestra
Nielsen: Symphonies (Complete)
Haydn: Piano Sonatas

ASIN: B000000ALP
Release Date: 1992-10-28

Tracks:

Violin Concerto, Op. 33: Praeludium - Largo, part 1
Violin Concerto, Op. 33: Allegro cavalleresco, part 1
Violin Concerto, Op. 33: Poco adagio, part 2
Violin Concerto, Op. 33: Rondo (Allegretto scherzando), part 2
Flute Concerto: Movement I : Allegro moderato
Flute Concerto: Movement II : Allegretto - Adagio ma non troppo
Clarinet Concerto, Op. 57: Allegretto un poco - Poco adagio - Allegro vivace -Tempo primo ma tranquillo

Customer Reviews:

Danish music with Danish spirit.......2000-12-30

I don't have a lot to compare by on the flute and violin concerti, but as a clarinet player who has heard a lot of recordings of the clarinet concerto, none can compare to Mr. Thomsen's recording of the clarinet concerto. It's full of the necessary "piss and vinegar" spirit that this concerto demands, with the tenderness that slow moments require, as well. Going on knowledge of how Mr. Nielsen's music is to be performed, all of the soloists do a fabulous job of playing this exceedingly difficult music. The Danish National Radio Symphony Orchestra also provides a fine, spirited accompaniment to these solo pieces. For authenticity of style, I can't recommend a better recording. And for all those clarinetists out there, do yourself a favor and AVOID Drucker's recording in favor of this. He has no emotion!

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

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Tchaikovsky & Mendelssohn: Concertos

Tanto Tempo

1. Concerto In A For Basset Clarinet, Kv622 - Allegro
2. Concerto In A For Basset Clarinet, Kv622 - Adagio
3. Concerto In A For Basset Clarinet, Kv622 - Rondo
4. Alcandro, Lo Confesso..Non So D'onde Viene, Kv294
5. Vorrei Spiegarvi, Oh Dio! Kv418
6. Nehmt Meinen Dank, Kv383
7. Der Holle Rache (Die Zauberflote)