Schubert: Impromptus & Piano Sonata; Beethoven: Pathétique...

On this CD:

1. Impromptus (4) for piano, D. 935 (Op. posth. 142)
Composed by Franz Schubert
Performed by Daniel Barenboim

2. Piano Sonata No. 21 in B flat major, D. 960
Composed by Franz Schubert
Performed by Daniel Barenboim

3. Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor ("Pathétique") Op. 13
Composed by Ludwig van Beethoven
Performed by Daniel Barenboim

4. Aprés une lecture du Dante II, fantasia quasi sonata, for piano (Années II/7) S. 161/7 (LW 159/7)
Composed by Franz Liszt
Performed by Daniel Barenboim

5. Piano Sonata No. 3 in F minor, Op. 5
Composed by Johannes Brahms
Performed by Daniel Barenboim

Tracks:

Concerto for Piano, Strings and Continuo No. 1 in a Minor BWV ... - Dora Milanova, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Piano, Strings and Continuo No. 1 in a Minor BWV ... - Dora Milanova, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Piano, Strings and Continuo No. 1 in a Minor BWV ... - Dora Milanova, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Piano, Strings and Continuo No. 4 in a Minor BWV ... - Dora Milanova, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Piano, Strings and Continuo No. 4 in a Minor BWV ... - Dora Milanova, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Piano, Strings and Continuo No. 4 in a Minor BWV ... - Dora Milanova, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Piano, Strings and Continuo No. 5 in a Minor BWV ... - Dora Milanova, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Piano, Strings and Continuo No. 5 in a Minor BWV ... - Dora Milanova, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Piano, Strings and Continuo No. 5 in a Minor BWV ... - Dora Milanova, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Two Pianos, Strings and Continuo in C Major BWV 1061: ... - Julia Ganev, Konstantin Ganev, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Two Pianos, Strings and Continuo in C Major BWV 1061: ... - Julia Ganev, Konstantin Ganev, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto for Two Pianos, Strings and Continuo in C Major BWV 1061: ... - Julia Ganev, Konstantin Ganev, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, K.467 Elvira Madigan: Allegro - Vilmos Fischer, Vienna Mozart Ensemble
Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, K.467 Elvira Madigan: Andante - Vilmos Fischer, Vienna Mozart Ensemble
Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, K.467 Elvira Madigan: Andante ... - Vilmos Fischer, Vienna Mozart Ensemble
Piano Concerto No. 17 in G Major, K.453: Allegro - Vilmos Fischer, Vienna Mozart Ensemble
Piano Concerto No. 17 in G Major, K.453: Andante - Vilmos Fischer, Vienna Mozart Ensemble
Piano Concerto No. 17 in G Major, K.453: Allegretto - Vilmos Fischer, Vienna Mozart Ensemble

Tracks:

Piano Sonata in a Major K.331: Andante Grazioso: Thema/Variation 1 - Margarete Babinsky
Piano Sonata in a Major K.331: Menuetto - Margarete Babinsky
Piano Sonata in a Major K.331: Alla Turca (Allegretto) - Margarete Babinsky
Piano Sonata in F Major K.332: Allegro - Margarete Babinsky
Piano Sonata in F Major K.332: Adagio - Margarete Babinsky
Piano Sonata in F Major K.332: Allegro Assai - Margarete Babinsky
Piano Sonata in C Major K.330: Allegro Moderato - Margarete Babinsky
Piano Sonata in C Major K.330: Andante Cantabile - Margarete Babinsky
Piano Sonata in C Major K.330: Allegretto - Margarete Babinsky
12 Variations K.265: Ah, Vous Dirai-Je, Maman: Theme/Variation ... - Margarete Babinsky

Tracks:

Concerto in C Major for Piano and Orchestra: Allegro - Capella Coloniensis, Maria Luisa Tanzini
Concerto in C Major for Piano and Orchestra: Larghetto - Capella Coloniensis, Maria Luisa Tanzini
Concerto in C Major for Piano and Orchestra: Rondo - Allegro - Capella Coloniensis, Maria Luisa Tanzini
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Major: Allegro Moderato - Nicolai Evrov, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Major: Adagio Cantabile - Nicolai Evrov, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Major: Rondo - Presto - Nicolai Evrov, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra
Concerto in C Major for Piano and Orchestra: Allegro Con Spirito - Ivan Drenikov, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto in C Major for Piano and Orchestra: Adagio E Cantabile - Ivan Drenikov, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble
Concerto in C Major for Piano and Orchestra: Presto - Ivan Drenikov, Sofia Soloists Chamber Ensemble

Tracks:

Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 5 in E Flat Major Op. 73 Emperor: - Anton Dikov, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 5 in E Flat Major Op. 73 Emperor: - Anton Dikov, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 5 in E Flat Major Op. 73 Emperor: - Anton Dikov, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra
Overture Coriolan Op.62 - Dresdner Philharmonic
Overture Leonore No.2, Op.72 - Dresdner Philharmonic

Tracks:

Op.13, No. 8 in C Minor Pathetique: Grave - Allegro - Di Molto E ... - Istvan Szekely
Op.13, No. 8 in C Minor Pathetique: Adagio Cantabile - Istvan Szekely
Op.13, No. 8 in C Minor Pathetique: Rondo - Allegro - Istvan Szekely
Op.27, No. 14 in C Sharp Minor Moonlight: Adagio Sostenuto - Istvan Szekely
Op.27, No. 14 in C Sharp Minor Moonlight: Allegretto - Istvan Szekely
Op.27, No. 14 in C Sharp Minor Moonlight: Presto Agitato - Istvan Szekely
Op.57, No. 23 in F Minor Appassionata: Allegro Assai - Istvan Szekely
Op.57, No. 23 in F Minor Appassionata: Andante Con Moto - Istvan Szekely
Op.57, No. 23 in F Minor Appassionata: Allegro Ma Non Troppo - Presto - Istvan Szekely
Rondo a Capriccio Op.129: Die Wut er Den Verlorenen - Jennd

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1 in E Minor, Op.11: Allegro Maestoso - Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra, Sandor Falvai
Piano Concerto No. 1 in E Minor, Op.11: Romanze. Larghetto - Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra, Sandor Falvai
Piano Concerto No. 1 in E Minor, Op.11: Rondo. Vivace - Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra, Sandor Falvai
Piano Concerto No. 2 in F Minor, Op.21: Maestoso - Adam Harasiewicz, Warsaw Philharmonic National Orchestra Of Poland
Piano Concerto No. 2 in F Minor, Op.21: Larghetto - Adam Harasiewicz, Warsaw Philharmonic National Orchestra Of Poland
Piano Concerto No. 2 in F Minor, Op.21: Allegro Vivace - Adam Harasiewicz, Warsaw Philharmonic National Orchestra Of Poland

Tracks:

Piano Sonata No. 2 in B Flat Minor Op.35: Grave - Doppio Movimento [Liv - Ivo Pogoreuch
Piano Sonata No. 2 in B Flat Minor Op.35: Scherzo [Live] - Ivo Pogoreuch
Piano Sonata No. 2 in B Flat Minor Op.35: Marche Fune. Lento [Live] - Ivo Pogoreuch
Piano Sonata No. 2 in B Flat Minor Op.35: Finale. Presto [Live] - Ivo Pogoreuch
Piano Sonata No. 3 in B Minor Op.58: Allegro Maestoso [Live] - Garrick Ohlsson
Piano Sonata No. 3 in B Minor Op.58: Molto Vivace [Live] - Garrick Ohlsson
Piano Sonata No. 3 in B Minor Op.58: Largo [Live] - Garrick Ohlsson
Piano Sonata No. 3 in B Minor Op.58: Presto Ma Non Tanto [Live] - Garrick Ohlsson
Mazurkas Op.59: No. 1 in a Minor [Live] - Ivo Pogoreuch
Mazurkas Op.59: No. 2 in a Flat [Live] - Ivo Pogoreuch
Mazurkas Op.59: No. 3 in F Sharp [Live] - Ivo Pogoreuch

Tracks:

Nocturne in B Major Op.9, No. 3 [Live] - Jean Marc Luisada
Etude in G Flat Major Op.10, No. 5 [Live] - Jean Marc Luisada
Etude in B Minor Op.25, No. 1 [Live] - Jean Marc Luisada
Scherzo No. 1 in B Minor Op. 20 [Live] - Jean Marc Luisada
Scherzo No. 2 in B Flat Minor Op. 31 [Live] - Jean Marc Luisada
Waltz No. 1 in E Flat Major Op. 18 [Live] - Jean Marc Luisada
Four Mazurkas Op.24: No. 1 in G Minor [Live] - Jean Marc Luisada
Four Mazurkas Op.24: No. 2 in C Major [Live] - Jean Marc Luisada
Four Mazurkas Op.24: No. 3 in a Flat Major [Live] - Jean Marc Luisada
Four Mazurkas Op.24: No. 4 in B Flat Minor [Live] - Jean Marc Luisada
Four Mazurkas Op.30: No. 1 in C Minor [Live] - Kemal Gekic
Four Mazurkas Op.30: No. 2 in B Minor [Live] - Kemal Gekic
Four Mazurkas Op.30: No. 3 in D Flat Major [Live] - Kemal Gekic
Four Mazurkas Op.30: No. 4 in C Sharp Minor [Live] - Kemal Gekic

Tracks:

Piano Concerto in a Minor Op.54: Allegro Affettuoso - Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, Heidrun Holtman
Piano Concerto in a Minor Op.54: Intermezzo. Andantino Grazioso - Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, Heidrun Holtman
Piano Concerto in a Minor Op.54: Allegro Vivace - Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, Heidrun Holtman
Introduction and Allegro Appassionato Op.92 - Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, Heidrun Holtman
Concerto Allegro With Introduction Op.134 - Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra, Heidrun Holtman

Tracks:

Rustle of Spring Op.32, No.6 - Jennd
Novelette in F Major Op.21, No.1 - Jennd
Songs Without Words: E Major Op.19, No.1 - Jennd
Songs Without Words: F Sharp Minor Op.30, No.6 - Jennd
Songs Without Words: Duetto in F Major Op.38, No.6 - Jennd
Songs Without Words: G Major Op.62, No.1 - Jennd
Songs Without Words: Spring Song in a Major Op.62, No.6 - Jennd
Intermezzo in a Major, Op.76, No.6 - Jennd
Intermezzo in a Minor Op.76, No.7 - Jennd
Intermezzo in a Major Op.118, No.2 - Jennd
Intermezzo in E Flat Minor Op.118, No.6 - Jennd
Lyric Pieces: Arietta Op.12, No.1 - Jennd
Lyric Pieces: Folkevise Op.12, No.5 - Jennd
Lyric Pieces: Butterfly Op.43, No.1 - Jennd
Lyric Pieces: To Spring Op.43, No.6 - Jennd
Lyric Pieces: Notturno Op.54, No.4 - Jennd
Lyric Pieces: Bryllupsdag Pa Troldhaugen Op.65, No.6 - Jennd
Saisons Op.37b, No. 6 Juin Barcarolle - Jennd
Chant Sans Paroles: Souvenir de Hapsal Op.2, No.3 - Jennd
Melody in F Op.3, No.1 - Jennd
Humoresque in G Flat Major Op.101, No.7 - Jennd

Tracks:

Impromptu in B Flat Major D.935, No.3: Theme: Andante - Jennd
Impromptu in B Flat Major D.935, No.3: Variation 1 - Jennd
Impromptu in B Flat Major D.935, No.3: Variation 2 - Jennd
Impromptu in B Flat Major D.935, No.3: Variation 3 - Jennd
Impromptu in B Flat Major D.935, No.3: Variation 4 - Jennd
Impromptu in B Flat Major D.935, No.3: Variation 5 - Jennd
Impromptu in B Flat Major D.935, No.3: Pito - Jennd
6 Moments Musicaux D.780: No. 1 in C Major - Jennd
6 Moments Musicaux D.780: No. 2 in a Flat Major - Jennd
6 Moments Musicaux D.780: No. 6 in F Minor - Jennd
4 Impromptus D.899: No. 1 in C Minor - Jennd
4 Impromptus D.899: No. 2 in E Flat Major - Jennd
4 Impromptus D.899: No. 3 in G Flat Major - Jennd
4 Impromptus D.899: No. 4 in a Flat Major - Jennd

Tracks:

Sonata in a Major D.959: Allegro - Michael Endres
Sonata in a Major D.959: Andantino - Michael Endres
Sonata in a Major D.959: Scherzo: Allegro Vivace - Michael Endres
Sonata in a Major D.959: Rondo: Allegretto - Michael Endres
Sonata in B Flat Major D.960: Molto Moderato - Michael Endres
Sonata in B Flat Major D.960: Andante Sostenuto - Michael Endres
Sonata in B Flat Major D.960: Scherzo: Allegro Vivace - Michael Endres
Sonata in B Flat Major D.960: Allegro Ma Non Troppo - Michael Endres

Tracks:

Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 1 in B Flat Minor Op.23: ... - Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra, Jennd
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 1 in B Flat Minor Op.23: ... - Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra, Jennd
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 1 in B Flat Minor Op.23: ... - Budapest Philharmonic Orchestra, Jennd
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in a Minor Op.16: Allegro Molto ... - Daniel Gerard, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in a Minor Op.16: Adagio - Daniel Gerard, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in a Minor Op.16: Allegro Molto E ... - Daniel Gerard, Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major Op.83: Allegro Non Troppo - Dimitris Sgouros, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major Op.83: Allegro Appassionato - Dimitris Sgouros, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major Op.83: Andante - Dimitris Sgouros, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra
Piano Concerto No. 2 in B Flat Major Op.83: Allegro Giocoso - Dimitris Sgouros, Sofia Philharmonic Orchestra

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 2 in a Major Hungarian Fantasy: Adagio ... - Budapest Symphony Orchestra, Jennd
Piano Concerto No. 2 in a Major Hungarian Fantasy: Allegro Agitato ... - Budapest Symphony Orchestra, Jennd
Piano Concerto No. 2 in a Major Hungarian Fantasy: Allegro Moderato - Budapest Symphony Orchestra, Jennd
Piano Concerto No. 2 in a Major Hungarian Fantasy: Allegro Deciso - Budapest Symphony Orchestra, Jennd
Piano Concerto No. 2 in a Major Hungarian Fantasy: Marziale, Un ... - Budapest Symphony Orchestra, Jennd
Piano Concerto No. 2 in a Major Hungarian Fantasy: Allegro Animato - Budapest Symphony Orchestra, Jennd
Fantasy on Hungarian Folk-Tunes - Budapest Symphony Orchestra, Jennd
Polonaise Brillante (After Weber) - Budapest Symphony Orchestra, Jennd
Fantasy on Weber's FreischVilmos Fischer

Tracks:

Pictures at an Exhibition: Promenade. Allegro Giusto, Nel Modo ...
Pictures at an Exhibition: Gnomus. Sempre Vivo
Pictures at an Exhibition: Promenade. Moderato Commodo Assai E Con ...
Pictures at an Exhibition: Il Vechhio Castello (The Old Castle) . ...
Pictures at an Exhibition: Promenade. Moderato Non Tanto, Pesamente
Pictures at an Exhibition: Tuileries. Allegretto Non Troppo, ...
Pictures at an Exhibition: Bydlo. Sempre Moderato, Pesante
Pictures at an Exhibition: Promenade. Tranquillo
Pictures at an Exhibition: Ballet of the Chickens in Their Shells. ...
Pictures at an Exhibition: Samuel Goldenberg and Schmuyle. ...
Pictures at an Exhibition: Promenade. Allegro Giusto, Nel Modo ...
Pictures at an Exhibition: Limoges. Le MarchThe Market Place) . ...
Pictures at an Exhibition: Catacombae. Sepulcrum Romanum. Largo
Pictures at an Exhibition: Cum Mortuis in Lingua Mortua. Adante ...
Pictures at an Exhibition: The Hut on Fowls' Legs - Baba-Yaga. Allegro
Pictures at an Exhibition: The Great Gate of Kiev - Allegro Alla ...
Three Intermezzos Op.117: Intermezzo in E Flat Major. Andante Moderato
Three Intermezzos Op.117: Intermezzo in B Flat Minor. Andante Non ...
Three Intermezzos Op.117: Intermezzo in C Sharp Minor. Andante Con ...
Piano Pieces Op.118: No. 1 Intermezzo in a Minor (Allegro Non Assai)
Piano Pieces Op.118: No. 2 Intermezzo in a Major (Andante Teneramente)
Piano Pieces Op.118: No. 3 Ballad in G Minor (Allegro Energico)
Piano Pieces Op.118: No. 4 Intermezzo in F Minor (Andante - Allegretto
Piano Pieces Op.118: No. 5 Romance in F Major (Andante - ...)
Piano Pieces Op.118: No. 6 Intermezzo in E Flat Minor (Andante, ...)

Tracks:

Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 2 in C Minor Op.18: Moderato - Bulgarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ivan Drenikov
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 2 in C Minor Op.18: Adagio ... - Bulgarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ivan Drenikov
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 2 in C Minor Op.18: Allegro ... - Bulgarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ivan Drenikov
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Minor Op.40: Allegro ... - Bulgarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ivan Drenikov
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Minor Op.40: Largo - Bulgarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ivan Drenikov
Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No. 4 in G Minor Op.40: Allegro ... - Bulgarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, Ivan Drenikov

Tracks:

Prde Op.3, No.2 - Margarete Babinsky
Mdie Op.3, No.3 - Margarete Babinsky
Polichinelle Op.3, No.4 - Margarete Babinsky
Moment Musical Op.16, No.3 - Margarete Babinsky
Moment Musical Op.16, No.5 - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op.42 - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Variations on a Theme by Corelli Op. 42 (Continued) - Margarete Babinsky
Prde Op.23, No.5 - Margarete Babinsky

Tracks:

Rhapsody in Blue - Cle Ousset, , Radio Symphony Orchestra of Stuttgart
Concerto in F for Piano and Orchestra: Allegro - Cle Ousset, , Radio Symphony Orchestra of Stuttgart
Concerto in F for Piano and Orchestra: Adagio. Andante Con Moto - Cle Ousset, , Radio Symphony Orchestra of Stuttgart
Concerto in F for Piano and Orchestra: Allegro Agitato - Cle Ousset, , Radio Symphony Orchestra of Stuttgart
American in Paris - Cle Ousset, , Radio Symphony Orchestra of Stuttgart

Album Description

This amazing 20-CD set truly is the ultimate piano collection! With over 20 hours of the greatest piano classics, from Mozart's priceless Piano Concertos and Sonatas to Gershwin's legendary Rhapsody in Blue, this set is a must have for everyone's collection. So sit back, relax and drift away on the beautiful melodic waves of classical piano at its very best.

Customer Reviews:

Ultimate music for every time of day and every mood.......2007-07-03

With 20 CDs in the collection, we have classical music for every mood and atime of day.

Would give 5 stars if sound quality where better.......2007-06-30

This Classical collection is one of great length and breadth ,and is well worth purchasing ,if you want an abundance of music at a low price.The sound quality is decent,however it is not great.This set will not provide you with the crisp,clear sound quality of a RCA,CBS or other well known label,so some classical aficionados may not appreciate it much.It all depends on what your looking for ,I guess.

Great collection for a great price.......2007-06-27

I did not expect much in buying this collection, but I was greatly surpeised. There were no reviews of the product at the time, and I bought the collection simply as a sampler of many great piano pieces. Most of the recordings are exquisite and of decent recording quality. This collection was well worth the price.

20 Fabulous Discs.......2007-06-08

I am surprised that this set has been out for 4 years and nobody reviewed it here yet. This is a lovely and occasionally amazing compilation. I was moved by many of the compositions. I really enhanced my classical music collection with this set. You have so many legends here to enjoy, from Bach to Brahms, Mozart to Beethoven, Chopin, Liszt, Rachmaninov, Gershwin, and more. If you love classical piano music and don't already have most of these works then this is a must buy for you. The price may go up, but I was fortunate to cash in on the $17.97 price. Quite a bargain for 20 fabulous discs.

Average customer rating:

Super Chamber Music
Great Schubert, but add some schmaltz please!
Brendel displaying his greatness
little music
Good. But...just good.

Schubert: The Complete Impromptus
Franz Schubert , and Alfred Brendel
Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Schubert: The Piano Sonatas
Schubert: Impromptus For Piano
Franz Schubert: Complete Trios
Schubert: 8 Symphonies
Schubert: The Last Three Piano Sonatas

ASIN: B0000041MS
Release Date: 1997-03-11

Tracks:

Impromptus, D.899: No. 1 In C Minor
Impromptus, D.899: No. 2 In E-Flat
Impromptus, D.899: No. 1 In G-Flat
Impromptus, D.899: No. 4 In A-Flat
Impromptus. D.935: No. 1 In F Minor
Impromptus. D.935: No. 2 In A-Flat
Impromptus. D.935: No. 3 In B-Flat
Impromptus. D.935: No. 3 In B-Flat
16 German Dances, D.783: Deutsche Tanze - Danses allemandes

Tracks:

3 Klavierstucke (Impropmtus), D. 946: No. 1 In E-Flat Minor
3 Klavierstucke (Impropmtus), D. 946: No. 2 In E-Flat
3 Klavierstucke (Impropmtus), D. 946: No. 3 In C Major
6 Moments Musicaux, D. 780: No. 1 in C - Moderato
6 Moments Musicaux, D. 780: No.2 In A-Flat - Andantino
6 Moments Musicaux, D. 780: No. 3 - In F Minor - Allegro moderato
6 Moments Musicaux, D. 780: No. 4 In C-Sharp Minor - Moderato
6 Moments Musicaux, D. 780: No. 5 In F Minor - Allegro vivace
6 Moments Musicaux, D. 780: No. 6 In A-Flat - Allegretto
12 German Dances, D. 790: Deutsche Tanze - Danses Allemandes

Customer Reviews:

Super Chamber Music.......2007-05-31

As I was listening to this while gardening, I forgot for a moment that I was listening to Schubert, and thought 'My, what good Chopin this is!'. Well, I caught myself and realized my little slip revealed the fact that even though solo piano may not have been Schubert's strongest suit, he still managed to do it as well or better than the great classic Mr. Piano Man himself. This is an excellent bargain package with two CD's for the price of one and a complete set of a major composer's genre. I'm not a student of piano style, but Alfred Brendel seems to realize these in a better than workmanlike fashion. He may not be Murray Perahia, but he's no slouch.

Great Schubert, but add some schmaltz please!.......2007-03-18

I was greatly disappointed with my reaction to these CDs. There is nothing specific that I can say against the CDs, but....I was completely and totally uninvolved. I tried multiple listening, but it did not help. I was standing outside the music, and was examining it like I would an ant under the microscope. I know it is not my reaction to Schubert's impromptus, simply because I just adored them when I heard them performed by Krystian Zimerman.
The only thing I figured out is that Mr. Brendel was just too elegant and detached here for my taste. To use a metaphor, he was as elegant as a black cocktail dress, while a dress with some frills, colors, lace, and something soft would have been more appropriate here, I felt. In my view, even some schmaltz would be welcome here.
I guess it all depends on how you would be affected by this CD, so I do encourage you to try it!

Brendel displaying his greatness.......2007-02-05

I've always heard Brendel was a great interpreter of Beethoven, but have not heard his recordings before this work of Schubert. Brendel is an amazing pianist, and Schubert an inspiring composer. Some say this work by Brendel doesn't bring out the fullness of Schubert, but if this isn't one of the best recordings of Schubert, I'll eat my hat.

little music.......2007-01-02

Franz Schubert's piano impromptus are not big music.

Not only are the pieces relatively brief, but the absence of instruments other than solo piano and the evasion of bombast by Schubert altogether make these compositions small music.

But small is beautiful.

Alfred Brendel is at his understated best in his mastery of this genre. Lovers of the keyboard already know that Brendel can flow with Beethovian grandeur together with the best of them. He approaches Schubert's Impromptus, Deutsche Tanze, and Moment Musicaux as an artist with nothing to prove. The result is a pure reading of Schubert that leaves one savoring the music rather than the performer. That's a nice result that credits rather than demeans the pianist.

The Philips Classic ('Duo') series is at its usual peak form for quality, price, and therefore value.

Good. But...just good........2005-12-21

Schubert is my favourite composer, and I regard the impromptus as one of the most aesthetically pleasing of his piano works. I personally have played the D.899 pieces, and I find them very simple to play, they are not by any means technically demanding. But to play them well is in fact extremely difficult.

Control of speed and pressure on the keys is critical in every piece, especially no.3 and no.4 in D.899.

With that said, Brendel's playing is very straightforward and textbook to the very core essentials. The playing is very clean, and his tempo is well under control. However, that's where it ends, as he doesn't bring the liveliness into these works of beauty. Schubert sounds nothing more than a . If you want the music itself without any passion, then this is the album to get. Sound quality is excellent.

The best schubert impromptus I have heard thus far is from Murray Perahia and Radu Lupu. Of the two, I prefer Murray Perahia's. His playing really defines Schubert as a composer - the emotional output is all there, in every note, every phrase. There is not a single part in any of the impromptus where it can be considered dull. Listen to his recording and you will see what I mean. Radu Lupu tends to put more emphasis on the lyrical qualities of these pieces by using strong vibrato. If you really want something out of this world, then try Mitsuko Uchida's version, which is the complete opposite of Brendel, with erratic playing (much like her own personality).

-Sail

Average customer rating:

Perahia is magical, but buy the new reissue on BMG
Dead On!
Great Schubertian Sound
Quite possibly, the definitive "Schubert Impromptus" album
Schubert's best work ?

Schubert: Impromptus For Piano

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000025N5
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Four Impromptus For Piano, D 899 (Op.90): No.1 In C Minor (Allegro molto moderato)
Four Impromptus For Piano, D 899 (Op.90): No. 2 In E-Flat Major (Allegro)
Four Impromptus For Piano, D 899 (Op.90): No. 3 In G-Flat Major (Andante)
Four Impromptus For Piano, D 899 (Op.90): No. 4 In A-Flat Major (Allegretto)
Four Impromptus For Piano, D 935 (Op.142): No. 1 In F Minor (Allegro moderato)
Four Impromptus For Piano, D 935 (Op.142): No.2 In A-Flat Major (Allegretto - Trio)
Four Impromptus For Piano, D 935 (Op.142): No. 3 In B-Flat Major (Thema. Andante - Var. l-V)
Four Impromptus For Piano, D 935 (Op.142): No. 4 In F Minor (Allegro scherzando)

Customer Reviews:

Perahia is magical, but buy the new reissue on BMG.......2006-07-24

It gets a bit confusing now that Sony and BMG are merged--these recordings of the eight Schubert Impromptus originaly apeared on Sony in 1990. They were greeted rapturously by critics, and one can immediately hear why. Murray Perhaia was at the absolute peak of his art, giving us a magical blend of alert rhythms, inner bitalaity, sparkling fingerwork, and an instinctive feeling for Schubert's melodies.

Now you can get these performances ar mid-price on BMG, and the CD is generously filled out (76 min.) with Schubert song transcriptions by Liszt. Those are later recordings, by hwich time Perahia had become tamer an more cautious, but they are still beautifully done.

Dead On!.......2006-01-09

I own five other versions but this recording, more than the others, posseses from first note to last a sense of rightness that overshadows the competition. Pehaps Perahia's best single recording.

Great Schubertian Sound.......2003-08-01

Perahia has a great touch, wonderful sound and exquisite phrasing. Brendel's version though not as versatile as Perahia's has an extra flavour, more mature perhaps, more 'Viennese'.

Quite possibly, the definitive "Schubert Impromptus" album.......2001-12-28

Murray Perahia is one of the most lyrical pianists of our time. In his hands, the "Schubert Impromptus" album is quite possibly the definitive interpretation of these equally lyrical piano works by Franz Schubert. His delicate playing of the shifting minor and major keys and modulations makes the listener pause to absorb every nuance and phrasing.

Listen to how he plays the middle part of the Impromptu Op. 90 No. 1 in C-minor and the more popular Impromptu Op. 90 No. 4 in A-Flat. The piano sings at his touch and how! Then there's the Impromptu in G-Flat, my personal favorite and one which I have endeavored hard to play. This is one of the highlights of the album, and Perahia's playing is fantastic. The delicate tone which he coaxes out of the piano is one of sheer beauty.

In my books, Murray Perahia is in the same class as Artur Rubinstein, the definitive interpreter of Chopin. This collection of Schubert Impromptus is a gift from Mr. Perahia to those who know how to appreciate beautiful piano music. I am proud to have this album in my collection.

Schubert's best work ?.......2001-11-14

I am going to review the music and not the performance. Unless you're Rubinstein or rachmaninov I find it pointless to criticize a pianist, particularly one as good as Murray Perahia.
I am somewhat biased because i have played these impromptus for a long time, but I've found few other pieces which combine the grace, romance, introspection and simplicity of the impromptus. Op. 90, no. 3 is my favorite. It modulates - and ondulates - from major to minor keys with beautiful bass accents expressing an overall melancholy mood that reminds me of the Andante from Mozart's Piano concerto no. 21 (also available by Perahia) and a Chopin Nocturne, though perhaps expressing more depth than the latter. Schubert unfortunately died in Beethoven's shadow though his music is no less important. Enjoy these hidden treasures of music. i also recommend Schubert's Fantasia for 2 hands (made famous ny the film Sunshine). Wunderschon!

Schubert: Impromptus D 899 & D 935 / Radu Lupu

Average customer rating:

Ultimate godly sound
Schubert Impromptus at their best
a urgent experience in Music !
Lupu is a poet in Schubert!
One of the truly great piano recordings of all time.

Schubert: Impromptus D 899 & D 935 / Radu Lupu

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Schubert: Impromptus For Piano

ASIN: B00000JXZ5
Release Date: 1999-08-10

Tracks:

Four Impromptus, D899 - No.1 In C Minor: Allegro molto moderato
Four Impromptus, D899 - No.2 In E Flat Major: Allegro
Four Impromptus, D899 - No.3 In G Flat Major: Andante
Four Impromptus, D899 - No.4 In A Flat Major: Allegretto
Four Impromptus, D935 - No.1 In F Minor: Allegro moderato
Four Impromptus, D935 - No.2 In A Flat Major: Allegretto
Four Impromptus, D935 - No.3 In B Flat Major: Theme And Variations
Four Impromptus, D935 - No.4 In F Minor: Allegro Scherzando

Amazon.com

Lupu is a keyboard poet, and Schubert's lyrical gems seem as though they were written for his interpretive artistry. He sings the gorgeous melodies with limpid, beautiful tone. The intimacy Lupu achieves in the G-flat impromptu sounds almost personal, an effect heightened by the transparent engineering. There's a luminosity to Lupu's traversal of these remarkable works that's irresistible; his pianism alternates subtle lights and shades. While the playing is elegant and refined, he doesn't stint on the dramatic contrasts in the music, nor does he neglect the dark poetry that pulls it into deeper regions. There are many fine versions of these classics; Lupu's stands with the best. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Ultimate godly sound.......2006-06-28

No one plays the Impromptus like Lupu: his touch and tone quality, his voicing, his dynamics, his color shade, his vision of the work as a whole, he dexterity, his technique --- all perfection, absolute god-like perfection.

Schubert Impromptus at their best.......2006-04-21

For this record review, I plan to examine to a recording of the eight Schubert Impromptus, D899 and D935, performed by famed pianist Radu Lupu and recorded by Decca Records in 1982. This album has special significance to me as I have personally learnt and performed two of the tracks on the album. In my sophomore year of high school, I was studying the Schubert Impromptu in E Flat Major, a beautiful romantic piece structured in ABA format. It begins with a complex melodic run in Part A, and then changes courses completely, modulating into b minor in a stormy series of chords. Later, the piece recapitulates into the transparent and soothing melody of part A.

My piano teacher had a philosophy in music education that students should always begin learning a piece by understanding how it should be performed. Therefore, she would require me to listen to recordings of the experts: for Chopin, I listened to Rubinstein for inspiration, for Rachmaninoff, Van Cliburn; for Bach, Glenn Gould, and for Schubert, the legendary Radu Lupu.

I was immediately impressed by the quality of Radu Lupu's performance. He had taken such great care in combining his technical prowess with the emotion and subtlety required to carry a romantic piece. I appreciated (and tried hard to replicate) his nuanced use of the pedal and his careful inflection, as well his dramatic yet appropriately timed dynamic contrasts. Because I enjoyed the E Flat Major piece so much, I listened to the entire album, electing to study the a flat minor impromptu as one of my next pieces. I also particularly enjoyed the theme-and-variation Impromptu in B Flat Major and the Rondo-styled impromptu in f minor. All the pieces are performed with incredible technical felicity, yet demonstrate such passion. I quickly realized why my teacher had picked out this recording for me specifically.

The recording itself is of high quality. Clearly, care was taken in selecting a quality piano (probably a Steinway Grand) with the appropriate pure tone and resonance necessary to do justice to Schubert's romantic style. It also appears that the recording was done in a concert hall or large room with considerable reverberation effects in order to simulate a live performance. There was probably little mixing involved, as Radu Lupu was known for taking great pride in the authenticity of his recordings. I decided to experiment by listening to each speaker separately to determine whether the balance levels had been changed; I could not identify any significant difference between the sounds coming from each individual speaker. However, I must admit some bias here. Because I have a preset expectation of what the pieces are supposed to sound like, it is harder for me to determine subtle differences in the actual recording.

If you have a love for classical music from the romantic era, Schubert, or just incredible virtuosity, I highly recommend this album.

a urgent experience in Music !.......2005-09-04

in addition to what other reviewers said very well, just a remark regarding another version in comparison :
I have listened lately to the recordings of Alfred Brendel, it is so disappointing that i prefer no to play them anymore and consider Brendel as the fine Beethovenist that he can be.
A simple example is the impromptu op. 90 number 4. The sense of emergency is so incredible in the version of Lupu. It is like it was the very last time he could express himself at the piano. The vivid intensity of every tone will touch you to tears. In comparison, it is barely the same composition with Brendel. I would not say it is boring, but it is flat, it lacks inspiration. Brendel tends to executes mechanically the sheet of music.

Radu Lupu plays music in every instant. It is as simple as that.

The comparison shows an abyss between the two approaches.
Interesting though !

Lupu is a poet in Schubert!.......2005-04-12

I felt hesitant buying this recording: My standard for beauty and poetry in Schubert's piano music is the Piano Sonatas, less so the Impromptus. I read how good Radu Lupu was in Schubert but could only find his recording of the Impromptus at my local store - not the Sonatas. I also felt I had heard the Impromptus so many times that I wondered what Lupu could bring to them.

Was I wrong!

Hearing Lupu in the Schubert Impromptus is like hearing them for the first time! A revelation. Lupu is an absolute poet. His playing is so stunning that I bought his recording of the Schubert C Minor Sonata and Moments musicaux (excellent) - and want to hear his other recordings of Schubert. I also got Alfred Brendel's recording of the Schubert Impromptus, which was supposed to be very fine, for comparison (Philips Duo).

At mid price, with digital recording, this CD is a steal.

One of the truly great piano recordings of all time........2003-10-01

I have the impromptus recorded individually or in complete sets by Lupu, Schnabel, Schiff, Rubinstein, as well as others I am sure.

Customer Reviews:

Awesome.......2007-05-15

Schubert was a phenomenal composer. This set of CD's is now one of my most treasured possessions. His last sonata is almost 45 min long, an epic peice. Not for one second does Uchida's playing slow; she holds you completely engrossed in music so beautiful.

The sound quality is superb, the playing dense in personality and detail. As the previous reviewer mentioned, anyone interested in the piano, Uchida or Schubert this is a must have masterpeice.

Days and Evenings with Schubert and Uchida.......2006-01-31

Mitsuko Uchida is one of the major stars of the piano keyboard today and while her repertoire is wide, her interpretation of Franz Schubert's piano music is among the finest both on the concert stage and on recording. The two seem to be from the same soul: Uchida somehow finds the spiritual core of Schubert and traverses the hurdles of his Olympian pieces with complete ease and assurance.

This 8 CD set includes three sets of Impromptus (D899, 935, 946), Moments musicaux D780, German Dances D 820 an D790, and the Piano Sonatas numbers 4, 7, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, and 21. The placing of these works on the individual CDs creates a series of eight recitals and each disc is rich and satisfying. Playing all eight CDs in one day makes for one of the most rewarding musical experiences available.

The recorded sound is superb and Uchida is in top form for each selection. This is fine as Schubert gets and the entire set is more than well worth the relatively modest price. For lovers of the piano, of Mitsuko Uchida, and of Schubert this is zenith release. Highly recommended. Grady Harp, January 06

Average customer rating:

One of Uchida's best recordings
Warm and Free-Spirited Impromptus

Schubert: Impromptus

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000041N2
Release Date: 1997-04-15

Tracks:

4 Impromptus, Op. 90, D. 899: No. 1 In C Minor - Allegro molto moderato
4 Impromptus, Op. 90, D. 899: No. 2 In E Flat - Allegro
4 Impromptus, Op. 90, D. 899: No. 3 In G Flat - Andante
4 Impromptus, Op. 90, D. 899: No. 4 In A Flat - Allegretto
4 Impromptus, Op. 142, D. 935: No. 1 In F Minor - Allegro moderato
4 Impromptus, Op. 142, D. 935: No. 2 In A Flat - Allegretto
4 Impromptus, Op. 142, D. 935: No. 3 In B Flat - Theme (Andante) With Variations
4 Impromptus, Op. 142, D. 935: No. 4 In F Minor - Allegro scherzando

Customer Reviews:

One of Uchida's best recordings.......2006-08-22

It would seem from the scarce response to this recording that Mitsuko Uchida isn't a favorite at Amazon. But anyone who stumbles across her 1996 reading of the eight Schubert Impromptus will certianly fall in love with these sublime works, and Uchida's playing of them is limpid and delicate. Often I find her too mannered in Schubert, whose style was above all natural, and there are moments when she adds a touch of hesitation that breaks up a phrase. But this quirk is kept to a minimum, and with such good paino sound from Philips, I'd rate this CD as one of her best.

Warm and Free-Spirited Impromptus.......2001-01-21

Schubert's Impromptus show free-sprited and romantic side of Schubert, and also it is free from the shadow of Beethven, by which Schubert sometimes felt pressured in his piano sonatas. Mitsuko Uchida maximizes this quality without losing spontaneity. Her tone is light and soft, yet it's got an enough weight which intelligently frames each piece. The recording sound of the piano itself is very soft to create more personal atmosphere. There are many great recordings of Schubert Impromptus by such greats as Kempff, Perahia, Brendel, Schiff, Richter etc. Uchida's Impromptu certainly joins these, but with more personal and softer touch than those guys' austere and more objective Impromptus. I strongly recommend this disc to anyone.

Average customer rating:

Mad about Piano

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Mad About Mad About

ASIN: B000001GL3
Release Date: 1993-08-10

Tracks:

Turkish Rondo: Mozart: Sonata In A, K.331 - 'Turkish Rondo'
Pathetique: Beethoven: 'Pathetique Sonata' - Adagio Cantabile
Clair de Lune: Debussy: Clair De Lune
Prelude No. 12 In G-Sharp Minor: Rachmaninoff: Prelude No. 12 In G-Sharp Minor
Ballade No. 1 In G Minor: Chopin: Ballade No. 1 In G Minor
Fur Elise: Beethoven: Fur Elise
Impromptu No. 2 In E-Flat: Shubert: Impromptu No. 2 In E-Flat
Prelude No. 2: Gershwin: Prelude No. 2
Moonlight Sonata: Beethoven: 'Moonlight Sonata' - Adagio Sostenuto
Sonata In C, K.545: Mozart: Sonata In C, K.545 - Allegro
Scenes From Childhood - Traumerei: Shumann: Scenes From Childhood - Traumerei
Moments Musicaux No. 3 In F Minor: Shubert: Moments Musicaux No. 3 In F Minor
'Minute' Waltz: Chopin: 'Minute' Waltz
Arabesque: Shumann: Arabesque
Children's Corner - Golliwogg's Cake-Walk: Debussy: Children's Corner - Golliwogg's Cake-Walk
Liszt: Hungarian Rhapsody No. 12

Average customer rating:

The best
Pure Piano
Not quite for that candle-light dinner ....
Classic
Great compilation

Für Elise: Romantic Piano Music

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000013VM
Release Date: 1995-03-21

Tracks:

Impromptu in A Flat Major, Op.142 (D.935),No.2
Etude in E major, Op.10, No.3
Bagatelle in A minor, WoO 59 'Fur Elise': Bagatelle in A minor, WoO 59
Waltz in A flat major,Op. 39, No.15
June: Bacarolle from the Seasons,Op.37b
pring Song in A major,Op.62,No.6 From Songs Without Words: Spring Song in A major,Op.62,No.6 From Songs Without Words
Clair de lune from Suite bergamasque
Troiseme Gymnompedie
Andante in F major, WoO 57 'Adante favori': Andante in F major, WoO 57
Nocturne in E flat major, Op.9,No.2
Liebestraum No 3 in AFlat Major, Op.62 (S.541) No.3
Impromptu in G flat major,Op. 90(D.899), No.3
Romance in F Minor,Op.5
Alla turca from Piano Sonata No.11 in Major, K.331
Trerei from Kinderszenen,Op.15
Prelude no 15 in D Flat Major, Op.28 'Raindrop': Prelude no 15 in D Flat Major, Op.28
Tango in D major
Prelude in C sharp minor, Op.3 No.2

Customer Reviews:

The best.......2007-04-10

The CD I bought is great. The music is great. I love Fur Elise music.

Pure Piano.......2007-01-11

This is one of the clearest and most enjoyable CDs I have purchased. The music is pure and all piano, no frills. I feel like I can play, which of course I can not. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys excellent piano.

Not quite for that candle-light dinner .... .......2006-03-02

Perhaps its best to first clarify the context of this CD's title, "Romantic Piano Music." The word "Romantic" here is not about sensuous mood music to share with your significant other. Rather, it refers to the musical era labeled "Romanticism" which started around Beethoven and ended around 1900 with the development of the "modern era." It is odd that Mozart is featured here as he clearly belongs to the preceeding "classical" era (but the piece here is one of his best). So, this CD features solo piano music of that era which has musical characteristics like expressive lyricism ... passionate, personal and poetic emotional displays ... more experimenting with tonal color and harmony ... and frequent shifts of key, tempo and dynamic range (very soft to very loud). So, with especially with this last characteristic in mind, don't expect "Romantic music for a candle light dinner" here as several of the pieces go from quiet, introspective melodies to fast-paced runs or loud, dissonant chords (just hear the first bar of the last track). But, such is "romantic expression" in music. If you are just looking for some nice solo-piano dinner music, try John Field's serene Nocturnes or Chopin's uplifting Waltzes or the quiet compliation disc, "Chopin for Relaxation."

But, if your interest is to explore the great composers and piano literature of the Romantic era, this is a fine CD to do that for many reasons. One reason is the variety of styles and nationalities featured here. One other characteristic of the music of this period was the expression of pride in one's country (Nationalism movement). Nearly all of the composers whose works are featured on this disc were major influences in music history and showed varying degress of Nationism: Beethoven, Schubert, Schumann, Brahms and Liszt from Germany ... Chopin from Poland ... Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov from Russian ... Debussy and Satie from France ... and Albeniz from Spain. With such an international line-up of famous composers, you will find a wide range of musical styles, flavors and expressions to discover and enjoy. Most of the selections here are among the more famous piano pieces, so it is a good place to start. And supported by capable artists, good sound quality and some decent liner notes giving the history of the music, this CD provides a compelling journey into the piano music of the mid-late 19th century ... but maybe not ideal for that romantic interlude you might have had in mind.

PS: The title song of this CD, "Fur (for) Elise," is one of Beethoven's most recognizable and simple tunes, often heard in those miniature music boxes or even cell-phone ring tones.

Classic.......2004-04-08

This is classic. I like this music, because this is piano music.
And I love piano music, because I like to play piano. Don't buy it, if you like pop music, not classic ! Buy it, if you like classic. Trust me.

Great compilation.......2002-12-09

Although you may never have heard of any of these pianists, they're all very good and solid performers. It does in no way sound like a budget disc. The programmed pieces work really well together, especially with such a (shatteringly played) finale: Rachmaninov's "Bells of Moscow" Prelude!

Average customer rating:

Stunning Goldberg Aria
Great CD
Piano Perfection!
A Classic in Every Sense!
How disappointing

50 Most Loved Piano Classics

Manufacturer: Capitol
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Gymnopedie No.I - 50 Most Loved Piano Songs
The Maiden And The Nightengale - 50 Most Loved Piano Songs
Prelude Op.3 No.2 In C-Sharp Minor - 50 Most Loved Piano Songs
Prelude Op.23 No.5 Ini G Minor - 50 Most Loved Piano Songs
I. Pavane - 50 Most Loved Piano Songs

Customer Reviews:

Stunning Goldberg Aria.......2006-02-21

Who is the performer of that amazing recording of the Goldberg Aria??!?! It must be Gould.

Great CD.......2006-01-29

Nice set of songs. I enjoyed it a lot, I see no reason why anyone wouldn't like this CD set.

Piano Perfection!.......2005-10-16

Saw it on TV and thought the music was beautiful, but forgot to write the information down... but managed to buy it online (now I see it frequently at the music stores)and I absolutely love this album -- all my favorite pieces! (I'm not big on writing comments or reviews, but was compelled by the artistry and passion I heard throughout this CD!)

A Classic in Every Sense!.......2005-10-12

I overheard some people at the record store talking about this album - one guy was actually a piano teacher and couldn't stop raving about it. I bought the album on his recommendation and couldn't be happier - it's stunningly beautiful. Beethoven's "Moonlight" sonata is haunting and Chopin's "Minute Waltz" is spectacular in its precision and speed! This will make a great stocking stuffer at Christmas for my friends (... I'm getting them now cause I've gone to a couple places and they're out of stock). If you're into piano, this is truly a classic!

How disappointing.......2005-10-08

I was watching t.v. one Saturday and saw the ad for this CD. It promised that all pieces were "presented in their entirety." Hmmm, well sure if by "entirety" you mean only one movement of a particular piece. But if you are expecting, oh say, all three movements of Moonlight Sonata, then you'll be disappointed.

As for the pieces themselves, I was not impressed with the quality. I don't know whether that is a problem with the production process or the particular performers used. I was not moved by the performance of a single piece--and with 50 of the most loved piano classics, I epxected at least one to make me go "wow." I'm still waiting.

Finally, anytime you produce a CD and call it "The 50 Most Loved" anything, you are opening yourself up for criticism of the works selected. Where's the Rach 3? Mozart gets short shiff. I loved that Chopin's "Raindrops" was included but where was the "Heroic Polanaise"? The "Libestraume"? "Rhapsody in Blue"?

So, incomplete works, poor tone/lack of richness and depth in sound and questionable selection of "most loved" pieces. I'd save my money if I were you.