Symphony In 3 Movements

Track Listings

1. Movement #1: Allegro Con Brio; Moderato Legato; Tempo I

2. Movement #2: Andante Caminando

3. Movement #3: Andantino Delerio; Moderato Legato; Allegro Fervente; Moderato Delerio; Moderato Maestoso; Coda: Presto Agitato

Tracks:

Symphony No. 4 In A Major, Op. 90 'Italian': I. Allegro vivace
A Midsummer Night's Dream, Op. 61 (Excerpts): Scherzo
Wedding march
Violin Concerto In E Minor, Op. 64: III. Allegretto non troppo - Allegro molto vivace
Spring Song, Op. 62, No 6
IV. Symphony No. 4 In A Major, Op. 90 'Italian': Saltarello. Presto
Athalie, Op. 74: War March Of The Priests
Songs Without Words, Op. 67, No. 4: Spinning Song
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor, Op. 56 'Scottish': II. Vivace no troppo
On Wings Of Song, Op. 34, No. 2
Octet In E - Flat Major, Op. 20: III. Scherzo. Allegro leggierissimo
Octet In E - Flat Major, Op. 20: IV. Presto
Six Children's Pieces, Op. 72: I. Allegro non troppo
Six Children's Pieces, Op. 72: II. Andante sostenuto
Six Children's Pieces, Op. 72: III. Allegretto
Six Children's Pieces, Op 72: IV. Andante con moto
Six Children's Pieced, Op. 72: V. Allegro assai
Six Children's Pieces, Op. 72: VI. Vivace
Symphony No. 5 In D Major, Op. 107 'Reformation': IV. chorale 'Ein feste burg ist unser Gott!'

Customer Reviews:

A terrific compilation.......2002-06-08

The idea of a greatest hits album for a classical composer is nearly an absurdity,but the selections for this package are almost perfect.The signature magic sound of Ormandy and his great Philly Orchestra open with Symphony 4 movement 1.Ormandy and crew reappear later with the war march from Athalie-a true crowd pleaser.Not to be missed is the On wings of song piece sung by Elly Ameling in all her pristine glory.The song is simply beautiful beyond words.Movements 3&4 of the Incomparable Octet for strings are included. At the tender age of 16 Mendelssohn may have reached his peak with this work.The 6 Children's pieces are delightful,if insubstantial.The 4th movement of the 5th Symphony is a force of nature,perhaps the highlight of the disc.The only quibble is the inclusion of the hackneyed Wedding March instead of the achingly gorgeous Nocturne from A Midsummer Night's Dream.Even for the Mendelssohn fan there are performances here you'll want to add to your collection.At such a low cost you cannot go wrong.

Stravinsky Conducts Stravinsky: Symphony of Psalms/Symphony in 3 Movements

Average customer rating:

About as Good as Stravinsky (the composer) gets.
A prized recording
Essential
History more important than the Sound.
Conductor-Proof Stravinsky: The Best of the Best

Stravinsky Conducts Stravinsky: Symphony of Psalms/Symphony in 3 Movements

Manufacturer: CBS
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Stravinsky Conducts Stravinsky: Petrouchka/ Le Sacre du Printemps
Stravinsky Conducts Stravinsky: Firebird-Complete/Scherzo/Firework
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Stravinsky: Le Sacre du printemps/L'Oiseau de feu/Jeu de cartes/Petrouchka/Pulcinella
Stravinsky: Rite Of Spring, Fireworks, Petrouchka / Ozawa, Tilson Thomas, Chicago Symphony

ASIN: B0000026GK
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Symphony in Three Movements: I - Overture; Allegro
Symphony in Three Movements: II - Andante; Interlude: L'istesso tempo
Symphony in Three Movements: III - Con moto
Symphony In C: I - Moderato alla breve
Symphony In C: II - Larghetto concertante
Symphony In C: III - Allegretto
Symphony In C: IV - Largo; Tempo giusto, alla breve
Symphony Of Psalms: Part I
Symphony Of Psalms: Part II
Symphony Of Psalms: Part III

Amazon.com essential recording

Stravinsky was seldom the best conductor of his own music, but this disc of his three symphonies is an exception. In the first place, none of them are all that difficult to conduct--at least compared to some of his earlier works--and he seems to have been in particularly good form throughout these recording sessions. He gets a particularly enthusiastic response from his Canadian forces in the Symphony of Psalms--one of this century's great choral masterworks, and seems to really enjoy the neo-classical elegance of the Symphony in C. Of all of the individual releases from Sony's complete Stravinsky edition, this one has pride of place. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

About as Good as Stravinsky (the composer) gets........2007-01-16

After listening to several of his 'classical period' stuff, especially his operas, I was really pleased to listen to these works which contain elements which made his ballets the great works they are. Being a sucker for choral works, I especially liked the Symphonie of Psalms. Hurray for CD's of classic recordings.

A prized recording.......2004-07-07

Igor Stravinsky conducts three of his own masterpieces in this compilation of recordings from the 1960's. SYMPHONY IN THREE MOVEMENTS was inspired by wartime newsreels. The vitriolic outer movements show definite jazz and big-band influence - which the CBC orchestra glories in - while the second movement is of a classical tranquility and grace. The elegant SYMPHONY IN C was meant as a tribute to Haydn and Bach; but the haunting, unresolved bitonal chord that dissolves into silence in the end makes the work quintessentially modern. And the SYMPHONY OF PSALMS, one of the great religious works of the 20th century, is heavenly music; Stravinsky and his forces give it an austere reading of almost chamber-music clarity. These performances leave nothing to be desired. This CD has become one of my most prized recordings.

Essential.......2004-05-26

Who better to interpret a composer's music than the composer himself? This CD is an excellent introduction to these 20th-century masterworks. THREE MOVEMENTS bristles with explosive energy and PSALMS is austere and perfectly controlled, the lines of polyphony in the second movement coming through with extraordinary clarity. Not only is this a great recording, but it is an important historical document which tells us how Stravinsky intended these works to sound. As such, it could be an important reference to other conductors. I enjoyed this recording very much and I highly recommend it.

History more important than the Sound........2001-01-12

OK, so this recording was made a long time ago, and it shows.

Never mind! You will never hear grander performances of these three works. Who better to interpret Stravinsky's music than the composer himself?

The two orchestral symphonies are wonderful, but the prize on this recording is the Symphony of Psalms. The first time I ever heard the piece was at a San Francisco Symphony concert with Stravinsky conducting-- an electrifying experience. This recording, though it's of a different performance, captures that moment perfectly. I can close my eyes and see Stravinsky's tight, coiled beat-- can watch the concertmaster's eyes as he was transfixed by the composer's every move-- can see the awe-struck chorus members as they nervously blended with the orchestra.

And I can relive that moment when the sound died finally away and the audience leaped as one person to its feet.

If music can change people (and it can), then this music will change people forever.

Conductor-Proof Stravinsky: The Best of the Best.......2000-10-09

Stravinsky's version of "Symphony of Psalms" is MUCH, MUCH better than the Bernstein version picked over it in the Penguin Classical guide. It's odd that Stravinsky himself liked Bernstein's interpretation of his famous piece, considering his openly stated horror of 'interpretations' (such as Karajan's and Stokowoski's) and his life-long quest to write conductor-proof music, because his own version couldn't be more different; it has all the rough edges, rhythmic vitality, sense of danger, and precisely controlled tempos that Bernstein's lacks. Bernstein's version is for sleepwalkers only.

Tracks:

Orchestral Suite #3, 1/Minuet in G+/Gigue in G+ (French Suite #5) - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring/Chromatic Fantasy/Prelude in B - (WTC1) - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Introducing the Orchestra/Organ: Chorale Preludes, "Allein Gott" - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Brandenberg Concerto #5, MVT. 3 - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Flute Sonata C+, MVT. 2/Organ; "Es Ist das Heil"/Orchestral Suite ... - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Prelude in C (WTC1)/Orchestral Suite #2, MVT. 2 - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Bist du Bei Mir - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Orchestral Suite #2, Badinerie - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Orchestrak Suite #3, Air for the G-String - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Orchestral Suite #3, Gigue - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
"Adventure in Music" - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
Goldberg Variations/Art of Fugue - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
"Liebster Jesu"/Flute Sonata in C, MVT. 4 - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir
"We Hasten, " Cantata #78 - Studio Arts Orchestra, The Toronto Boys' Choir

Tracks:

Symphony #7, MVT. 2
Symphony #5, MVT. 1
Piano Sonata, Op 90, MVT. 2/Flute Serenade, Op 23, MVT. 3/Violin ...
Pathue Sonata, Op 13, MVT. 2/Contradanse #1 in Major
Symphony #5, MVT. 2/Piano Sonata, Op 14 #2, MVT. 2/Flute Serenade, ...
Polonaise/La Marmotte/Country Dance in a Major/Fse/Flutnuhr
Sonatina in G Major/Minuet in G Major/Violin "Spring" Sonata, MVT. 1
Moonlight Sonata, Op 27 #2, MVT. 1
Flute Serenade, MVT. 2
Symphony #6, Storm
Nel Cor Piu Variations
Piano Concerto #1, MVT. 1/Piano Concerto #5, MVT. 2
Bass Excerpts from Symphony #9/Violin"Spring Sonata"/Rage Over a ...
Symphony #9, MVT. 4
Sonata Opus 49 #2, MVT. 2
Symphony #6, Shepherd's Theme

Tracks:

Lost in the Opera House: Oh Help Me (Zu Hilfe) - Nils Brown, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Papageno and the Birds: The Best Birdcatcher (Der Vogelfer) - Russell Braun, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Queen of the Night: You Must Free My Daughter (O Zittre Nicht) - Marjorie Sparks, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Pamina Arrives, Papageno's Magic Bells: A Girlfriend (Ein Mhen) - Russell Braun, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Castle of Sarastro: O Endless Night (O Ew'ge Nacht) - Nils Brown, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Magic Flute: O Listen (Wie Stark) - Nils Brown, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Escape: Let Us Hurry (Schnelle FWhat Tinkles So Brightly ... - Russell Braun, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra, Monica Whicher
Sarastro's Welcome: The Gods Above (O Isis) - Gordon McLeod, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Attack of the Queen: The Powers of Night (Der H Rache)/This ... - Marjorie Sparks, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Pamina's Lament: Oh, My Heart Is Broken (Ach, Ich F - St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra, Monica Whicher
In the Labrynth: Seekers of the Light (Der, Welcher ...) - Nils Brown, Gordon McLeod, Marjorie Sparks, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra, Monica Whicher
Papageno and Papagena: Ring, O Bells (Klinget Glhen) - Adriana Braun, Russell Braun, St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra
Conclusion: Our Journey Is Over [Bei Mern] - St. Simon's Choir, Studio Arts Orchestra

Tracks:

Four Seasons, Spring, I, RV 269
Piccolo Concerto, II, RV 293
Arriving at the Pietour Seasons, Autumn, I RV 293/Guitar/Flute ...
Violin Concerto in a Minor, I, RV 356
Four Seasons, Winter, II, RV 297
Guitar Concerto, II, RV 93
Venice by Day/Guitar Concerto, III, RV 93/Four Seasons, Autumn, ...
Sonata for Two Violins, II, RV 50/"Farnace", RV 711, [Recording Premier
Violin Concerto in a Minor, II, RV 356
Venice by Night/La Notte, I, II, III, RV 439
Island of the Dead/Four Seasons, Autumn, II, RV 293
Gardellino, RV 90/Beatus Vir, RV 597/Alma del Core/Violin Sonata ...
Concert Preparations/Piccolo Concerto, I, RV 443/Guitar Concerto, III,
Conclusion/Double Orchestra Concerto, II, RV 585/Guitar Concerto, ...

Customer Reviews:

It stays with them..........2005-10-24

I enjoyed reading the reviews of parents whose kids have recently discovered "Classical Kids." I'm about to order the boxed set for my kids, ages 21, 19 and 16 because the nineteen-year-old, who has a college radio show and loves a wide variety of music, remembers this series (then only on cassette) with great affection and wants to hear them again. Those of you wondering whether it's worth it or not to try to introduce kids to classical music this way, be assured it works. We've turned one of Mr. Bach's lines into a family "saying:" "the more you study, the more you know; the more you know, the more you appreciate; the more you appreciate, the more you love." A great series!

It all started with Beethoven.......2004-02-03

Many years ago I purchased my first CD in this series, "Beethoven Lives Upstairs." My children and I were delighted with it. I then discovered that there were more and searched them all out, one by one. My children, now 11, 9 & 5, have listened to these stories as they fall asleep for years. They each have a favorite composer and have gone on to learn more about them. These stories are a great introduction to some of our greatest composers. Not to mention a good intro to history, too!

Imagine my delight that they are now in one boxed set! Now when asked, I suggest this set. What a great way to get it ALL! I truly believe that by surrounding our children with a variety of good music (including POP music) and information they will grow up with a greater appreciation for music and the arts.

Not What I expected.......2002-09-20

I love the idea, but I don't want to expose my children to the stories in these cd's. They contain children talking back to their parents, disrespectful language, sorcery, etc. If you don't like Harry Potter, you won't like these CD's.

Music, history, culture, & intriguing story -Amazing!.......2002-04-08

My 6 year old son loves music...and stories! Here is the prefect combo. Lovely music of the composer accomapnies a fictional story which weaves the composer's life, the culture of his homeland as well as history...in an intriguing and fun way! Now, my son can pick out pieces he hears on the classical radio station. He really enjoys the stories and can tell people @ carnival in Venice, Italy and tidbits @ Beetoven and the Magic Flute by Mozart! A must for any child with any of these interests! We also have enjoyed the CD's and have learned lots!
I only can wonder...what took whomever so long to broaden our horizons in such a way! BRAVO!

Great series, great collection.......2001-04-22

We've had the CDs in this boxed set for over a year now. The Classical Kids series has been wonderful. We have two boys (now 6 and 8) and this has been a great introduction to classical music. At first, the kids loved the stories which provide a sense of history and place and, ultimately, keep the kids interested in the entire CD. As they listened (time and time again), they started to pay more attention to the musical portions. Recently, we've been able to tell that they've picked up a sense of the music as we've listed to classical music on the car radio. Time and again, they perk up when listening to a piece of music and surprise us by saying "That's Beethoven". Sure enough - they've picked up something about the style of music that's characteristic of Beethoven. Sometimes it's the snippet of music from the CD and other times it's just the rhythms that are characteristic of that piece. As a family, we all recommend this.

William Grant Still: Afro-American Symphony; In Memoriam; Africa (Symphonic Poem)

Average customer rating:

Great Music
The Very American Music of William Grant Still
Long Lost Symphony
Amazing!
Dynamic Orchestra

William Grant Still: Afro-American Symphony; In Memoriam; Africa (Symphonic Poem)

Manufacturer: Naxos American
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Classical | Styles | Music

$6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Works By William Grant Still
Amy Beach: "Gaelic" Symphony; Piano Concerto
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Rorem: Three Symphonies
Still/Dawson/Ellington: Symphony No. 2/Negro Folk Symphony/Harlem

ASIN: B0007ORDYU
Release Date: 2005-03-22

Tracks:

In Memoriam
Land Of Peace
Land Of Romance
Land Of Superstition
Moderato Assai
Adagio
Animato
Lento, Con Risoluzione

Customer Reviews:

Great Music.......2007-05-13

This is a great CD that's not only extremely affordable but is also extremely enjoyable. The music of William Grant Still stands out as some of the finest music composed by American composers of the 20th century. In Memorium is particularly poignant. The rest of the CD is great too.

The Very American Music of William Grant Still.......2005-08-05

To tell the truth, I wanted to start this review by saying that William Grant Still is one of those one-work wonders of a composer of which the opera world has so many examples (Leoncavallo, Giordano, etc., etc.). But then I listened a few times more to "Africa," given its premiere recording here. Its melodies and musical gestures may be less striking than those in Still's one big work, the Afro-American Symphony, also included on this disc. On the other hand, "Africa" has some very compelling music, too, and is colorfully orchestrated in Still's signature manner. Just listen to the soft solo for timpani at the start: this sets the mood immediately for the first movement, entitled "Land of Peace." It is indeed peaceful music but with some added spice to keep the listener on his or her toes. The last movement, "Land of Superstition," seems to me rather bland given its title, but overall, this music is an attractive travelogue in the manner of Virgil Thomson's film scores from the 1930s, anticipating them in fact by several years. Along with Thomson, Still can probably be credited with pioneering the use of pop-musical influences to effectively create local color.

That truth is even more evident in the Afro-American Symphony. You have to sit up and take notice when a symphony begins with a blues refrain that's quickly answered by a quirky little jazz riff in the winds. It's like a little scene from a musical of the 1930s: chase your blues away, says that little jazz riff. But then you realize this is a genuine symphonic first movement in well-argued sonata form, and you've got to be impressed.

The notes to this recording point out that the bouncy third movement (with banjo obbligato, first time in a symphony certainly!) has a main theme very similar to George Gershwin's "I Got Rhythm." Actually, Still came up with his melody before Gershwin wrote his song, but Still and Gershwin supposedly influenced one another, so maybe Gershwin cribbed a bit from Still. Hearing the very dramatic episodes in the first and last movements that seem to forecast scenes in "Porgy and Bess," I wonder if Still didn't influence Gershwin much more than the reverse.

Be that as it may, I find, as with "Africa," that the symphony is let down a bit by the finale, though it does end with an appropriately dramatic peroration, leaving a bold impression. All things considered, this is one of the best symphonies written by an American and certainly one of the most American of all.

I have nothing but praise for the performances. The Fort Smith Symphony takes this music to heart and presents it with great feeling and with the kind of abandon that comes when musicians have lived with music for a while and have gotten it into their blood. Sure, this is a regional orchestra instead of one of America's Big Five, but if so, these excellent performances just speak to the general quality of American orchestras even out in the hinterlands. Conductor John Jeter probably deserves a good deal of credit as well. And while I'm at it, kudos to the Naxos engineers too. The recording has fine presence and detail. Given Naxos' price, this disc is the way to go if you want to acquire William Grant Still's classic.

Long Lost Symphony.......2005-07-28

It's one of the tragedies of the 20th century that Still's Symphonic Suite AFRICA has never been recorded in its symphonic version before. Two versions for piano don't begin to give an idea of its rich color and expressiveness. In spite of the no-name orchestra (so to speak) this is a good recording of a truly beautiful work. I don't think Still ever composed anything better. The opening track, IN MEMORIAM, is also a novelty. Sit back and enjoy!
Catherine Parsons Smith (author of WILLIAM GRANT STILL: A STUDY IN CONTRADICTIONS)

Amazing!.......2005-04-21

This is a great CD of the world premiere recording of the remarkable American classical music composer, William Grant Still. Performed by the Fort Smith Symphony, under the direction of John Jeter, it is beautiful and inspiring. The viola section plays exceptionally well.

Dynamic Orchestra.......2005-04-10

The Fort Smith Symphony under the direction of John Jeter is a dynamic orchestra. This CD is an excellent example of the talents of the musicians synchronized by their director's many worldwide experiences conducting symphonies. Fort Smith is a moderate sized community located in the heartland of the U.S. The community and the region are fortunate to have such dedicated talent in their local culture. I hope to see future CD recordings of this caliber from the Fort Smith Symphony.

Mendelssohn: Symphonies Nos. 4 "Italian" & 5 "Reformation"

Average customer rating:

Mendelssohn: Symphonies by Felix Mendelssohn, John Eliot Gardiner
Polished document of an inveterate musical self-critic
Mendelssohn Served with Utmost Elegance
Popular classics
Absolutely wonderful

Mendelssohn: Symphonies Nos. 4 "Italian" & 5 "Reformation"

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
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ASIN: B00000I93Q
Release Date: 1999-03-09

Tracks:

1. Allegro vivace
2. Andante con moto
3. Con moto moderato
4. Saltarello. Presto
1. Andante - Allegro con fuoco
2. Allegro vivace
3. Andante - attacca
4. Choral (Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott) Andante con moto - Allegro vivace - Allegro maestoso
2. Andante con moto
3. Menuetto. Con moto grazioso
4. Saltarello. Allegro di molto

Amazon.com

Mendelssohn was not like Beethoven or Verdi--his second thoughts were not always better than his first. In fact, not one of the changes he made in his 1834 revision to the Italian Symphony--recorded here for the first time, alongside the original version of 1833--strikes me as an improvement; indeed, the later effort sounds more like a first draft, thinner, more repetitive, melodically less engaging. Nonetheless, it's good to have the composer's refashioning of the score on disc, especially when it's performed as confidently as here, if only to give us a renewed appreciation of what he achieved the first time around. For the familiar version of the Italian Symphony is certainly a masterpiece. And the performance it receives here from the Vienna Philharmonic and John Eliot Gardiner is one of the best currently available: polished and energetic, with plenty of the elegance one expects in Mendelssohn, even when he's at his most animated. The account of the Reformation Symphony, recorded live, is marginally less successful as an interpretation, though the orchestra's playing leaves little to be desired. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

Mendelssohn: Symphonies by Felix Mendelssohn, John Eliot Gardiner.......2007-01-12

A super recording with a dynamic conductor

Polished document of an inveterate musical self-critic.......2006-08-10

The ease and elegance of his music makes it tempting to believe that for Felix Mendelssohn, one of the great musical prodigies of history, the creative process was spontaneous and effortless. This CD of both the original and the recently unearthed revision of one of his most beloved works, the "Italian" Symphony No. 4, gives the lie to this myth. After successfully premiering the work in London in 1833, Mendelssohn, dissatisfied with the score, almost immediately began revising the last three movements--he desisted from tinkering with the first only because he was convinced a complete rewriting would be necessary, and hesitated to tackle such a Herculean task. In fact the changes in the movements that were revised are noticeable even to a listener not following a score.

It would be pleasant to report that the later revisions make a lovely work even more satisfying. In truth, they leave a mixed impression. In the 1834 version Mendelssohn retouches many details of the orchestration, giving more prominence overall to the winds. He simplifies the solemn theme of the second movement, but undercuts the apparent aim of increased austerity with the richer and more colorful scoring. The third movement receives the most extensive changes. With the arguable exception of a new and interesting transition back to the main section from the central trio, none of the alterations in the melodic line is any more beautiful than the flowing, graceful original. The central trio discards the dotted rhythms of the earlier version in favor of smooth interjections from the violins, pointing up the relationship to the main section but losing the airiness and grace that most listeners find to be one of Mendelssohn's most appealing traits. In comparison the insertion of an additional section, repeating an earlier theme, in the Presto finale seems a relatively minor alteration.

Even Fanny Hensel, Mendelssohn's sister and an accomplished composer in her own right, occasionally lamented her brother's inability to leave a good thing well enough alone. Schumann in his later years revised many of his most famous early piano works. Posterity has judged his alterations to be inferior to the freshness and fantasy of the originals. One has the feeling that the revised "Italian" Symphony may suffer the same fate.

If indeed this is the case, it won't be the fault of the performances on this disc. Only in some slightly scrappy string passages in the first movement of the "Italian" do the Vienna Philharmonic and Gardiner sound a bit ill at ease. Otherwise orchestra and conductor capture the polished grace of both versions of the Symphony to perfection, and also make a strong case for the Symphony No. 5, the "Reformation," (actually written earlier than No. 4 and similarly unpublished during the composer's lifetime) bringing out its drama and varied moods, and minimizing its tendencies toward sanctimony. This CD is an essential addition to anyone's symphonic library.

Mendelssohn Served with Utmost Elegance.......2006-04-05

John Eliot Gardiner may have been specializing in choral works with his fine forays into the Bach cantata series and his recordings of opera and oratorio, but his ability to spring to life the old standards of the repertoire was never more evident than in this fine recording of the Mendelssohn Symphonies 4 and 5. And in keeping with his academic penchant for 'true performances' he has graciously included Mendelssohn's own revisions to his symphony No. 4. It makes for an interesting survey for the aficionado and proves that composers' second thoughts are at times not as engaging as their intial spurt of inspiration!

Gardiner conducts the Salzburg Vienna Philharmoniker in what seems to be the finest recorded version of Symphony No. 4 in A major ("Italian"), Op. 90 in the catalogue. It is sprightly, full of zest and warmth, and yet always elegant. It is a masterful performance. The added revisions are likewise well performed, but serve as only interesting addenda to the wonderful reading of the original.

Gardiner's performance of the Symphony No. 5 in D major/D minor ("Reformation"), Op. 107 is also a model of superior architecture. His attention to inner voices and details in orchestration never impede the overall impact of the spirit of the symphony. Both of these symphonies are given fresh light and greater dignity and it is satisfying to hear the standard repertoire works handled so expertly. Grady Harp, April 06

Popular classics.......2006-01-07

Felix Mendelssohn was a Romantic composer who embraced the ideals of classicism when that trend in the Germanic countries were falling out of favor, save a few. The two symphonies represented on this disk show both the Romantic and Classicist: Symphony No. 4 "Italian" and Symphony No. 5 "Reformation".

The famous Symphony No. 4 is inspired after a trip to Italy, and so subtitled the Italian symphony. Like in his third symphony, the Scottish, Mendelssohn stays away from any direct quotes of folk music, but uses the ideas, modes, and dance rhythms of the culture in his symphony. The sunny first movement has the famous leaping melody, which literally drips with joy. The clarinets and bassoon have a secondary melody of simplicity, but still with optimism. The development, with whimsical strings, leads to a darker march, but all gloom is pushed aside for a happy conclusion. The mood quickly changes in the second movement with unison woodwinds and strings, and a mournful bassoon/oboe duet. The unswerving walking bass throughout gives the movement perpetual motion and an almost martial quality. Some serenity shines through when the flute ensemble sings, but the gloom prevails. The third movement is more a courtly dance in the style of Mozart. Woodwinds dot the string-based movement, and besides a bassoon/horn call, gentility presides. The whirlwind fourth movement is in the form of an Italian dance known as the Saltarello. The movement is almost menacing, with constantly repeated unison notes and an uneven switch between duples and triples. Gardiner chooses forward-moving tempos throughout, but especially in the Saltarello, where the Vienna Philharmonic show their virtuosity. He gives the triplets a fleet-footed quality, whereas the duples get extra weight, adding to the menacing sound. In addition, throughout the work, great work and detail has been put into the inner parts, which now receive as much attention by the listener, as the melody. Gardiner's love of the work is evident, and his swifter approach works well, without losing musicality. Many of the movements are based in dance forms, and the Vienna Philharmonic, whose history is steeped in dance forms, makes the music sparkle, not dwelling in unneeded heaviness or stuffiness. A fresh perspective of a popular work.

Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 5 (chronologically his 2nd) was written for the 300th anniversary of the Augsburg Confession, hence the subtitle Reformation symphony. A bit more serious sounding than the Fourth Symphony, it opens with a grand processional, and eventually into a faster section whose theme is a perfect fifth, much like a trumpet call. The action is interrupted occasionally, by a Dresden Amen cadence, a reminder of the religious subject. The second movement is a bit more upbeat, with an almost waltz-like feel. The third movement, primarily strings, seems to be a short prelude to the final movement, especially since there is no break. The finale is heralded on flute alone on the famous chorale, Ein feste Burg (A Mighty Fortress). An ingenious natural crescendo (by adding instruments) is very effective as it dramatically builds into an emotional cadence into the final fast section. The British march section (or so it sounds) has a stately melody mingled with quotations of the chorale, and a forceful conclusion. John Eliot Gardiner is faithful to the score, relishing in Mendelssohn's own dynamic and articulation markings, and bringing out the natural melodic materials. Again, great attention to detail, capturing a totally different mood than the previous symphony, with great success.

In addition, 20+ minutes of Mendelssohn's revisions of the Italian Symphony has been restored and performed. Probably only interesting to die-hard Mendelssohn fans, a unique addition to the disk. As mentioned, a fresh look at Mendelssohn's music, bringing out detail and the composer's innate classicism, with Vienna's lightness and fruity sound. An easy choice for anyone who wants these symphonies.

Absolutely wonderful.......2005-11-28

Wonderful recordings of Mendelssohn #4 & #5.

The recording of the conventional 4 is stunning. So clear and many inner parts come out which are not normally heard. So this is now my favourite recording of this wonderfully fresh piece.

#5 is done just as nicely: fresh and clear.

Interesting to have the other version of #4 too.

Average customer rating:

A Fabulous Introduction to Igor Stravinsky!!

The Essential Igor Stravinsky

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Octets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Septets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Musical Theater | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
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ASIN: B00008NGAW
Release Date: 2003-03-25

Tracks:

Fireworks, Op.4 - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Danse Infernale De Tous Les Sujets De Kastchei - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Berceuse (L'Oiseau De Feu) - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Reveil De Kastchei - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Mort De Kastchei - Profonds Tenebres - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Disparition Du Palais Et Des Sortileges De Kastchei, Animation Des Chevaliers Petrifies Allegresse Generale - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Opening - Philharmonia Orchestra
The Shrove-tide Fair - Philharmonia Orchestra
The Charlatan's Booth - Philharmonia Orchestra
Russian Dance - Philharmonia Orchestra
Petrushka's Room - Philharmonia Orchestra
Introduction - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Les Augures Printanieres (Danse Des Adolescentes) - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Jeu Du Rapt - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Rondes Printanieres - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Jeux Des Cites Rivales - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Cortege Du Sage - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Adoration De La Terre (Le Sage) - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Danse De La Terre - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
I. Andante - Members Of The CBC Symphony Orchestra
II. Napolitana - Members Of The CBC Symphony Orchestra
III. Espanola - Members Of The CBC Symphony Orchestra
IV. Balalaika - Members Of The CBC Symphony Orchestra
Ragtime For 11 Instruments - Toni Koves
Marche Royale - Columbia Chamber Ensemble
Petit Concert - Columbia Chamber Ensemble
Piano Rag Music - Igor Stravinsky
Sinfonia (Ouverture) - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Gavotta Con Due Variazioni - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
I. Sinfonia - London Sinfonietta
III. Allegro - Philippe Entremont

Tracks:

Part I. Exaudi Orationem Meam - London Symphony Chorus
IV. Capriccio - Cho-Liang Lin
Chant Sants Paroles - Israel Baker
Premiere Donne - Cleveland Orchestra
I. Tempo Giusto - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
III. Allegretto - London Symphony Orchestra
The Star-Spangled Banner - The Festival Singers Of Toronto
I. Intrada - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Circus Polka (For A Young Elephant) - CBC Symphony Orchestra
Scherzo A La Russe - Philharmonia Orchestra
III. Con Moto - London Symphony Orchestra
I. Allegro Moderato - Benny Goodman
Good People, Just A Moment - Colin Tilney
Tango - Columbia Jazz Combo
Greeting Prelude (For The Eightieth Birthday Of Pierre Monteux) - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
II. Ma Tu, Cagion Di Quella - Columbia Symphony Orchestra
Elegy For J.F.K. - Charles Russo
Fanfare For A New Theatre - Robert Nagel
II. Exaudi - Donald Gramm
III. Dies Irae - Donald Gramm
IV. Tuba Mirum - Donald Gramm
The Owl And The Pussycat - Robert Craft
Stravinsky In His Own Words - John McClure

Customer Reviews:

A Fabulous Introduction to Igor Stravinsky!!.......2004-05-19

Sony Music's "The Essential Igor Stravinsky" truly lives up to its title. This double-CD set includes nearly every important piece of work (either in part or in whole) by the great Russian composer. The set also presents the pieces in chronological order beginning in 1908 with "Fireworks" and ending in 1966 with his final piece, the short but simple "Owl and The Pussycat". In between, there are excerpts from Stravinsky's most famous works including the first part of "The Rite Of Spring" and highlights from the "Firebird" and "Petrushka" ballets. There are also lesser-known works included as well as his harmonically rearranged version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" (a rendition which caused a stir in the early 1940's). The entire collection concludes with a rare recorded interview with Igor Stravinsky himself in which he remembers the infamous premere of "The Rite Of Spring".
The CD booklet includes detailed liner notes as well as a written tribute by Trey Anastasio of the band Phish. The sound quality of the recordings is amazing (even on the historic 1934 recording of "Piano Rag Music"). All in all, this an excellent collection of works by the great Igor Stravinsky. In a sense, this compilation gives the composer the 'rock musician' treatment. It's a 'greatest hits' album and a career-spanning retrospective that serves as an ideal introduction to Igor's music. Even if your not a fan of Classical music, it isn't difficult to listen to the works of Stravinsky and not be stirred.
Definitely The Essential Igor Stravinsky!!!

Average customer rating:

Good for what it is, however narrow.

Telarc SACD Sampler: The Absolute Sound

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B000CRR3Q0
Release Date: 2006-01-24

Customer Reviews:

Good for what it is, however narrow........2006-11-09

The Absolute Sound has been a premiere audiophile rag for decades. If you are one, you already know them. If not, then there is only a small chance their magazine will be useful to you. They have another publication for home theatre, "Perfect Vision" which has far broader appeal these days. SACD is the format for this disk. Many of them are pressed in "hybrid" for use on conventional CD players. SACD is a significant improvement on the CD, which initially promised "perfect sound forever".

Telarc is a particularly high quality label that supports SACD. They have a fine list of recordings that extends far beyond these chestnuts.

To appreciate this improvement you need to have a SACD player. So the best use of this disk is to bring it with you to different audio stores to audition their equipment. Over time it functions as a reference disk, or benchmark, as you compare different sound systems.

Because it has only bleeding hunks of well known classical music, it has little other value unless you are interested in classical music but have little experience of it. In that case it may serve as a sampler to lead you to buy complete recordings of these selections. But again you need the SACD player, which you may already have if you are a jazz or rock audiophile. Otherwise, pass it by.

Average customer rating:

Best Comprehensive Survey of Canadian Music Available

Introduction to Canadian Music

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Percussion | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

Marches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B0000014C7
Release Date: 2006-03-01

Tracks:

Marche Indienne - Hannaford Street Silver Band
Fiesta: Vif Et Bien Rythme - Neil Chotem
The Contented House - Mario Bernardi
Carnival Overture - Kazuhiro Koizumi
Fall Fair - Uri Mayer
Harbours - Nimmons 'N' Nine Plus Six
Andante Allegro - Orford Quartet
Fast And Frenzied - Robert Aitken
Mont-aux-Sources - Mario Bernardi
Allegro - Robert Silverman
Allegro Vivace - Lento - Franco Mannino
Giocoso (With A Touch Of The Absurd) - Janina Fialkowska
Thunder Dragon - Espirit Orchestra
Romance For Brass Band - Steven Chenette
Akasha (Sky) - Bramwell Tovey
Elan - Walter Boudreau

Tracks:

Magnus Dominus - Patrick Wedd
Hodie, Christus Natus Est - Elmer Iseler Singers
Feller From Fortune - Elmer Iseler
Soleils Couchants - Patrick Wedd
Ave, Verum Corpus - Vancouver Chamber Choir
Notre Seigneur En Pauvre - Saint John String Quartet
Pemoengkah - Robert Aitken
Quarks - Judy Loman
Toccata For Flute And Soprano - Robert Aitken
No.2 - Valerie Tryon
African Funeral Song - Nexus
Chanson Du Matin - David Kent
Six Themes-Solaires - No.1 - Piano Soleil - Richard Raymond
Le Jeu De Telephone - Ensemble Koln
Alma Chillin - Mark Duggan
Dripsody - Hugh Le Caine
Big Bang II - Marcelle Deschenes
Nadir - Douglas Perry

Customer Reviews:

Best Comprehensive Survey of Canadian Music Available.......1999-01-19

This anthology of three Centuries(!) of Canadian music was assembled by a former producer from the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation who now works for Naxos Canada. This producer is also active in the Canadian music world, so he knows whereof he speaks (or selects, as in this case). Liscensing the best performances available from major Canadian and International labels, this is the best collection of, and introudction to, the entire Canadian music scene that I have ever come across. The booklet is informative and is as enjoyable a read as is the 2 CD set is to listen. I doubt there will ever be anything quite like it again. If only NAXOS would now start recording Canadian music on top of the Canadian artists they already record, than they will truly have one of the finest and most comprehensive classical catalogues in the world. As for now, don't pass this one up.

Average customer rating:

Excellent Webern from the master Boulez and company.
Webern may grow on you and Boulez et al. are worth every penny.
Interesting and Challenging
The original and still the best
Boulez's Webern -- brilliant modern miniatures

Anton Webern: Complete Works, Opp. 1-31
Anton Webern , Pierre Boulez , Heather Harper , Charles Rosen , Isaac Stern , Halina Lukomska , Colin Bradbury , John [guitar] Williams , Daniel Majeske , Robert Marcellus , Abraham Weinstein , and Barry McDaniel
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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Arnold Schoenberg: Piano Music

ASIN: B000002707
Release Date: 1991-02-08

Tracks:

Passacaglia fur grobes Orch Op.1 - LSO/Pierre Boulez
'Entflieht auf leichten Kahnen' Op.2 (Text: Stefan George) - John Alldis Chor/Pierre Boulez
Funf Lieder Op.3, aus 'Der siebente Ring' von Stefan George: I. Dies ist ein Lied fur dich allein... - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Funf Lieder Op.3, aus 'Der siebente Ring' von Stefan George: II. Im Windesweben-Sehr fliebend - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Funf Lieder Op.3, aus 'Der siebente Ring' von Stefan George: III. Am Bachesranft-Ziemlich rasch - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Funf Lieder Op.3, aus 'Der siebente Ring' von Stefan George: IV. Im Morgentaun-Fliebend - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Funf Lieder Op.3, aus 'Der siebente Ring' von Stefan George: V. Kahl reckt der Baum-Langsam - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Funf Lieder Op.4, nach Gedichten von Stefan George: I. Eingang-Ruhevoll - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Funf Lieder Op.4, nach Gedichten von Stefan George: II. Noch zwingt mich Treue-Bewgt - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Funf Lieder Op.4, nach Gedichten von Stefan George: III. Ja Heil und Dank-Sehr langsam - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Funf Lieder Op.4, nach Gedichten von Stefan George: IV. So ich traurig bin-Sehr fliebend und zart - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Funf Lieder Op.4, nach Gedichten von Stefan George: V. Ihr tratet zu dem Herde-Langsam - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Funf Satze fur Streichquartett Op.5: I. Heftig bewegt - Juilliard Str Qt
Funf Satze fur Streichquartett Op.5: II. Sehr langsam - Juilliard Str Qt
Funf Satze fur Streichquartett Op.5: III. Sehr bewget - Juilliard Str Qt
Funf Satze fur Streichquartett Op.5: IV. Sehr langsam - Juilliard Str Qt
Funf Satze fur Streichquartett Op.5: V. In zarter Bewegung - Juilliard Str Qt
Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: I. Etwas bewegte Achtel - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: II. Bewgt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: III. Zart bewegt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: IV. Langsam - LSO/Pierre Boulez L
Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: V. Sehr langsam - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: VI. Zart bewegt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Vier Stucke fur Geige und Klavier Op.7: I. Sehr langsam - Isaac Stern/Charles Rosen
Vier Stucke fur Geige und Klavier Op.7: II. Rasch - Isaac Stern/Charles Rosen
Vier Stucke fur Geige und Klavier Op.7: III. Sehr langsam - Isaac Stern/Charles Rosen
Vier Stucke fur Geige und Klavier Op.7: IV. Bewegt - Isaac Stern/Charles Rosen
Zwei Lieder fur mittlere Stimme und acht Instrumente Op.8, nach gedichten von Rainer Maria Rikle:... - Heather Harper
Zwei Lieder fur mittlere Stimme und acht Instrumente Op.8, nach gedichten von Rainer Maria Rikle:... - Heather Harper
Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: I. Mabig - Juilliard Str Qt
Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: II. Leicht bewegt - Juilliard Str Qt
Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: III. Zeimlich fliebend - Juilliard Str Qt
Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: IV. Sehr langsam - Juilliard Str Qt
Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: V. Auberst langsam - Juilliard Str Qt
Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: VI. Fliebend - Juilliard Str Qt
Funf Stucke fur Orchester Op.10: I. Sehr ruhig und zart - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Funf Stucke fur Orchester Op.10: II. Lebhaft und zart bewegt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Funf Stucke fur Orchester Op.10: III. Sehr langsam und auberst ruhig - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Funf Stucke fur Orchester Op.10: IV. Fliebend, auberst zart - LSO/Pierre Boulez L
Funf Stucke fur Orchester Op.10: V. Sehr fliebend - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Drei kleine Stucke fur Violoncello und Klavier Op.11: I. Mabige Achtel - Gregor Piatigorsky/Charles Rosen
Drei kleine Stucke fur Violoncello und Klavier Op.11: II. Sehr bewegt - Gregor Piatigorsky/Charles Rosen
Drei kleine Stucke fur Violoncello und Klavier Op.11: III. Auberst ruhig - Gregor Piatigorsky/Charles Rosen
Vier Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.12: I. Der Tag ist vergangen (Volkslied)-Sehr ruhig - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Vier Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.12: II. Die geheimnisvolle Flote (Li Tai po/Bethge)-... - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Vier Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.12: III. Schein mir's als ich sah die (aus August ... - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
Vier Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.12: IV. Ein Winterabend (Goethe0-Sehr flieBend - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen

Tracks:

Vier Lieder fur Sopran und Orch Op.13: I. Wiese im Park (karl Kraus)-Sehr ruhig - Heather Harper
Vier Lieder fur Sopran und Orch Op.13: II. Die Einsame (Wang Xen Yu/Bethge)-Bewegt - Heather Harper
Vier Lieder fur Sopran und Orch Op.13: III. In der Fremde (Li Tai Po/Bethge)-FlieBend - Heather Harper
Vier Lieder fur Sopran und Orch Op.13: IV. Ein Winterabend (Georg Trakl)-Sehr ruhig - Heather Harper
Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: I. Die... - Heather Harper
Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: II. ... - Heather Harper
Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: III. ... - Heather Harper
Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: IV. ... - Heather Harper
Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: V. Nachts... - Heather Harper
Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: VI. Gesang.. - Heather Harper
Funf geistliche lieder fur Sopran und funf Instrumente Op.15: I. Das Kreuz-Getragen - Halina Lukomska
Funf geistliche lieder fur Sopran und funf Instrumente Op.15: II. Morgenlied (aus'Des Knaben... - Halina Lukomska
Funf geistliche lieder fur Sopran und funf Instrumente Op.15: III. In Gottes Namen aufstehn-... - Halina Lukomska
Funf geistliche lieder fur Sopran und funf Instrumente Op.15: IV. Mein Weg geht jetzt voruber-... - Halina Lukomska
Funf geistliche lieder fur Sopran und funf Instrumente Op.15: V. Fahr hin , o Seel'-FlieBend - Halina Lukomska
Funf Kanons nach lateinischen Texten fur Sopran, Klarineete und BaBklarinette Op.16: I. Christus... - Halina Lukomska
Funf Kanons nach lateinischen Texten fur Sopran, Klarineete und BaBklarinette Op.16: II. Dormi... - Halina Lukomska
Funf Kanons nach lateinischen Texten fur Sopran, Klarineete und BaBklarinette Op.16: III. Crux... - Halina Lukomska
Funf Kanons nach lateinischen Texten fur Sopran, Klarineete und BaBklarinette Op.16: IV. Asperges... - Halina Lukomska
Funf Kanons nach lateinischen Texten fur Sopran, Klarineete und BaBklarinette Op.16: V. Crucem... - Halina Lukomska
Drei Volkstexte fur Singstimme und drei Instrumente Op.17: I. Armer Sunder, du - Halina Lukomska
Drei Volkstexte fur Singstimme und drei Instrumente Op.17: II. Liebste Jungfrau, wir sind dein - Halina Lukomska
Drei Volkstexte fur Singstimme und drei Instrumente Op.17: III. Heiland, unsre Missetaten - Halina Lukomska
Drei Lieder fur Singstimme, Es-Klarinette und Gitarre Op.18: I. Schatzerl klein - Halina Lukomska/John Williams/Colin Bradley
Drei Lieder fur Singstimme, Es-Klarinette und Gitarre Op.18: II. Erlosung - Halina Lukomska/John Williams/Colin Bradley
Drei Lieder fur Singstimme, Es-Klarinette und Gitarre Op.18: III. Ave Regina - Halina Lukomska/John Williams/Colin Bradley
Zwei Lieder fur gemischten Chor und funf Instrumente Op.19, aus'Chinesisch-deutsche Jahres-... - John Alldis Choir/Pierre Boulez
Zwei Lieder fur gemischten Chor und funf Instrumente Op.19, aus'Chinesisch-deutsche Jahres-... - John Alldis Choir/Pierre Boulez
Streichtrio Op.20: I. Sehr langsam - Members of the Juilliard Str Qt
Streichtrio Op.20: II. Sehr getragen und ausdrucksvoll - Members of the Juilliard Str Qt
Sym Op.21: I. Ruhig schreitend - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Sym Op.21: II. Variationen - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Qt fur Geige, Klarinette, Tenorsaxophon un Klavier Op.22: I. Sehr maBig - Charles Rosen/Daniel Majeske/Robert Marcellus/Abraham Weinstein
Qt fur Geige, Klarinette, Tenorsaxophon un Klavier Op.22: II. Sehr schwungvoll - Charles Rosen/Daniel Majeske/Robert Marcellus/Abraham Weinstein
Drei Gesange Op.23, aus 'Viae inviae' von Hildegard Jone: I. Das dunkle Herz-Getragen - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen
Drei Gesange Op.23, aus 'Viae inviae' von Hildegard Jone: II. Es sturzt aus hohen Frisch-Bewegt - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen
Drei Gesange Op.23, aus 'Viae inviae' von Hildegard Jone: III. Herr Jesus mein-Langsam - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen
Konzert fur neum Instrumente Op.24: I. Etwas lebhaft - Members of the LSO/Pierre Boulez
Konzert fur neum Instrumente Op.24: II. Sehr langsam - Members of the LSO/Pierre Boulez
Konzert fur neum Instrumente Op.24: III. Sehr rasch - Members of the LSO/Pierre Boulez
Drei Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.25, nach Gedichten von Hildegard Jone: I. Wie bin ich... - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen
Drei Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.25, nach Gedichten von Hildegard Jone: II. Des Herzens... - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen
Drei Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.25, nach Gedichten von Hildegard Jone: III. Sterne, Ihr... - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen

Tracks:

'Das Augenlicht' fur gemischten Chor und Orch Op.26, Worte von Hildegard Jone - John Alldis Chor/Pierre Boulez
Variationen fur Klavier Op.27: I. Sehr maBig - Charles Rosen
Variationen fur Klavier Op.27: II. Sehr schnell - Charles Rosen
Variationen fur Klavier Op.27: III. Ruhig flieBend - Charles Rosen
Streichquartett Op.28: I. MaBig - Juilliard Str Qt
Streichquartett Op.28: II. Gemachlich - Juilliard Str Qt
Streichquartett Op.28: III. Sehr flieBend - Juilliard Str Qt
Kantate Nr.1 Op.29, Worte von Hildegard Jone: I. Zundender Lichtblitz-Getragen - Halina Lukomska/John Alldis Chor
Kantate Nr.1 Op.29, Worte von Hildegard Jone: II. Kleiner Flugel, Ahornsamen-Leicht bewegt - Halina Lukomska/John Alldis Chor
Kantate Nr.1 Op.29, Worte von Hildegard Jone: III. Tonen die seligen Saiten -Ruhig - Halina Lukomska/John Alldis Chor
Variationen fur Orch Op.30 - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: I. BaB. Schweigt auch die Welt - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: II. BaB. Sehr tiefverhalten - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: III. Chor. Schopfen aus Brunnen des Himmels - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: IV. Sopran. Leichteste Burden der Baume - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: V. Chor. Freundselig ist das Wort - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: VI. Chor. Gelockert aus dem SchoBe - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
Funf Satze fur Streinchquartett Op.5: I. Heftig bewegt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Funf Satze fur Streinchquartett Op.5: II. Sehr langsam - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Funf Satze fur Streinchquartett Op.5: III. Sehr bewegt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Funf Satze fur Streinchquartett Op.5: IV. Sehr langsam - LSO/Pierre Boulez
Funf Satze fur Streinchquartett Op.5: V. In zarter Bewegung - LSO/Pierre Boulez
J.S. Bach/A. Webern: Fuga (Ricercata) Nr.2 aus dem 'Musikalischen Opfer' - LSO/Pierre Boulez
F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): I. - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern
F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): II. (I.Da capo) - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern
F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): III. (I.Da capo) - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern
F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): IV. - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern
F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): V. (IV. Da capo) - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern
F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): VI. (IV. Da capo) - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern

Amazon.com essential recording

This collection presents all Webern's works with opus numbers in chronological order, allowing listeners to scrutinize the inner workings of this influential composer's intense, compressed style from the lush Passacaglia to the starkness of his late vocal works. A broadcast recording of Webern conducting a group of Schubert Dances makes a lively bonus. --Jed Distler

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Webern from the master Boulez and company........2006-09-12

Boulez has a DG recording, which I have several singles from that set. The DG is very good and recommended as a second set. This Sony recording is outstanding and the finest in my Webern collection. If you have this set , you still may want to look at the DG set. Why? Because this music is so wonderful, so that another experience is well worth the price of say $40. But if you have the DG set, you definetly want to keep that set and also get this Sony set.
Notice how few new Webern recordings are released. When conductors hear this set, I guess they feel its pointless to try to meet these standards. The artists here are all in excellent form and understanding of this extremely difficult but rewarding music.

Webern may grow on you and Boulez et al. are worth every penny........2005-09-18

If you are looking for an introduction to Webern, give this a try. It has the advatage of being comprehensive and well played. If you don't like all of Webern, so be it. If you buy this recording and give it a few listenings you will have heard enough to make an informed judgement.

I have found that Webern's music demands mutiple hearings before you can say you've really heard it. When you are in the mood for some 20th century pioneering work, turn to this recording and listen. Over time, you will be glad you did.

Interesting and Challenging.......2004-04-09

I don't know if I "like" Webern, but he is certainly interesting and challenging. The textures of his music are very fragile and transparent. The pieces are extraordinarily economical (the average Webern piece, I would guess, is about two minutes in duration, maybe less). The dissonances are extreme (strange to say, twelve-tone music can vary in how dissonant it sounds, as some twelve-tone composers (Berg, for example) use "easier" tone rows as the bases of their works). Webern was a musician of great integrity, and he pushed twelve-tone music to the radical extreme (as compared his more conservative teacher, Schoenberg, and fellow-pupil, Berg.) Again, I don't know if it works, and I don't know if I like it. I will definitely continue to listen to it. What I definitely like is this wonderful recording, with performances lovingly rendered. For this reason, I'm giving the recording five stars. However, if you want an "easier" introduction to twelve-tone and atonal music, get Berg's Violin Concerto, or even Schoenberg's piano concerto. With respect to the Schoenberg piano concerto, Mitsuko Uchida's disc is wonderful, and is highly recommended.

The original and still the best.......2003-11-25

Boulez's seminal original recordings of Webern are still important today. They capture the extraordinary distance this composer travelled from his tonal opus 1 passacaglia, though the atonal expressionism of the opus 5 and opus 6 pieces, the extreme compression of the opus 9 bagatelles, the contrapuntal abstraction of the mid-period songs to the serial masterpieces of his later years. These pieces still divide concert audiences today--I've been to Webern performances where half the audience was electrified and the other half clearly wanted to be elsewhere--but their historical significance cannot be denied. I believe their musical significance cannot either: close on a dozen of these works are amongst the finest pieces the 20th century has to offer. This set of performances, dating from the late 1960s and early 1970s and largely recorded under the direction by Pierre Boulez, has long since been regarded as being as close to definitive as one can get. I wouldn't go so far--there are occasional less impressive performances (such as the saxophone quartet) amongst the very fine ones. However, as complete sets go, I find the performances here largely superior to Boulez's more recent traversal on DG.

Technically, this set is not a Complete Works. It only includes those works that Webern published with an opus number, with the addition of the composer's wonderful orchestral transcription of the Ricercare a 6 from Bach's Musical Offering, and an old recording of Webern conducting his orchestrations of Schubert's German Dances. There are more works included on Boulez's rival set on DG--at twice the price--but most of what you gain are juvenilia.

And, for those who remain unconvinced that they'd like Webern, check out http://www.antonwebern.com -- a website that has free streaming mp3s of several of the recordings on this set. Listen to a few of them a few times (though skip the opus 16-18 songs, some of his driest works), and then decide.

Boulez's Webern -- brilliant modern miniatures.......2001-11-27

All 31 works that Webern gave official Opus numbers on 3 discs, conducted by Boulez (not Kolbe!), with the Juilliard Quartet and the London Symphony Orchestra, and a superb booklet with commentary and lyrics -- so why only 4 stars? My objection is the strictly chronological presentation, and the fact that I am not won over by Webern's vocal works -- I would vastly prefer grouping the music by form. Everything is brilliantly performed, and Charles Rosen, who accompanies sopranos on piano on several pieces, plays with sparkling luminosity. But the reason I sought out this collection is because I wanted to hear Boulez's versions of Webern's masterpieces, the "Symphony (Op. 21)" and "Variations for Orchestra (Op. 30)," as well as the string trios and quartets. Here these instrumental works are mixed among the lieders, Webern's many vocal works, and I find this frustrating. I prefer hearing the instrumental pieces grouped together, as on the Dohnanyi or Sinopoli discs of orchestral works (see my reviews of both), or the Schoenberg or Emerson Quartet's discs of the string trios and quartets (see my reviews of both). Unfortunately there is not a Boulez disc comparable to the Dohnanyi (on London) or Sinopoli (on Teldec). So it's either this Sony box or the several more recently recorded discs on DG, unless of course you are a total Webern fanatic and want the Ultra-Complete box with all the numbered AND un-numbered pieces...

It's really hard to fault this excellent Webern collection. Obviously if you have a more catholic appreciation of Webern's music than I (including the vocal works), my criticism is irrelevant. If you are a completist on a budget, this is a clear choice over the more expensive box. But if you are looking for an introduction to Webern's music, the best of which is some of the best of the 20th century in my opinion, I suggest that you begin with 1) Dohnanyi and the Cleveland Orchestra, and 2) the Schoenberg Quartet.

[There is a mistake on the site. Pierre Boulez is the conductor, not Helmuth Kolbe. Careful inspection of the box reveals that Kolbe was the engineer...]

Average customer rating:

Stravinsky the Composer, not Stravinsky the Conductor
Staggering! All the Stravinsky I'll ever need!
Magnificent!
Where's my Petrushka?
legendary

Stravinsky Conducts Stravinsky

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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

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

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ASIN: B000031X11
Release Date: 1999-12-07

Customer Reviews:

1. Movement #1: Allegro Con Brio; Moderato Legato; Tempo I
2. Movement #2: Andante Caminando
3. Movement #3: Andantino Delerio; Moderato Legato; Allegro Fervente; Moderato Delerio; Moderato Maestoso; Coda: Presto Agitato