Respighi's Rome

On this CD:

1. Fontane di Roma (The Fountains of Rome), symphonic poem, P. 106
Composed by Ottorino Respighi
Performed by Oregon Symphony
Conducted by James DePreist

2. Pini di Roma (The Pines of Rome), symphonic poem, P. 141
Composed by Ottorino Respighi
Performed by Oregon Symphony
Conducted by James DePreist

3. Feste romane (Roman Festivals), symphonic poem, P. 157
Composed by Ottorino Respighi
Performed by Oregon Symphony
Conducted by James DePreist

Customer Reviews:

Definitive SACD of Respighi's Roman music - Outstanding!!!!.......2007-02-18

This multichannel SACD utilizes the front 3 channels only, as this was the sound of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Fritz Reiner that was recorded more than 40 years ago by skilled technicians with top notch analog equipment. Absolutely puts you in the middle of the ninth or tenth row. This is the glorious Pines of Rome and spectacular Fountains of Rome that I grew up with, but with much cleaner and more dynamic sound!

Oh My Goodness Gracious, Yes!.......2006-07-10

The SACD reissues of RCA recordings from their wonderful 'Living Stereo' days is reaching full spate. The Reiner/ChicagoSO Respighi, rapturously acclaimed when it first came out, is heard here in even more glorious sound with the addition of SACD multichannel reproduction. The performance itself, along with the older and now sonically hors de combat Toscanini/NBC SO recording, are possibly the most exciting, the most 'right' I've ever heard. The Chicago was in marvelous condition in those days and the brass are especially glorious in the Pines of the Appian Way section. But lest we slight the winds and strings, they have their day, too, the latter especially deep and satiny in Pines of the Janiculum. Of more recent recordings of 'Pines' I have raved about a 2000 Cincinnati SO recording but this one, frankly, puts it in the shade both sonically and musically. This is a must-have for those who have the appropriate equipment to hear it in SACD.

As for 'La Mer' it too is given a good performance but it is not going to be anyone's primary reason for acquiring this disc. There are too many other La Mer recordings that are its equal or better.

As of the date of this review there are no sound clips for the prospective buyer to hear, but eventually, I assume, Amazon will put up sound clips from this disc and if they have by the time you're reading this I'd urge you to listen just to the first few seconds of the opening of 'Pines.' That high frequency orchestration, so exciting in live performance and so easily compressed and messed up by sound engineers on recordings, is absolutely clear and thrilling.

This is a must-have. It's that simple.

Scott Morrison

Average customer rating:

A classic
The Triumph of Chicago
Only this Respighi and nothing else.
Very Justified Label of "Benchmark"
I want to be buried with this CD!

Respighi: Pines of Rome, etc

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000003FUG
Release Date: 1995-04-11

Tracks:

La Mer: From Dawn Till Noon On The Sea
La Mer: Play Of The Waves
La Mer: Dialogue Of The Wind And The Sea
Fountains Of Rome: The Fountain Of Valle Giulia At Dawn
Fountains Of Rome: The Triton Fountain At Morning
Fountains Of Rome: The Fountain Of Trevi At Midday
Fountains Of Rome: The Villa Medici Fountain At Sunset
Pines Of Rome: The Pines Of The Villa Borghese
Pines Of Rome: Pines Near A Catacomb
Pines Of Rome: The Pines Of The Janiculum
Pines Of Rome: The Pines Of The Appian Way

Amazon.com

Whichever other Respighi tone poem recordings you ultimately purchase, you MUST own this one. Since the early `60s it has been the standard by which all others have been judged, and in terms of both sound and performance, it has never really been surpassed. The final march of Pines is simply incredible: thundering bass drum, crashing cymbals and gongs, bellowing brass--nobody since has brought the whole thing off with the same combination of excitement and discipline. The performance of La Mer has similar virtues. Fritz Reiner was a podium tyrant, but a tremendous musician all the same. This may be his finest recording. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

A classic.......2007-06-19

This is the only recording of the Pines I've heard where the trumpets play the fanfare in the first section open instead of muted as written. It never sounds right to me when played muted and makes every other recording disappointing. This is again the case in the trumpet solo in the beginning of the 3rd movement of La Mer in which Adolph Herseth plays the first line muted and the repeated line open. I've owned about five versions of this recording going back to records that I wore out playing. I have yet to hear a better version, although there are those with more modern sound quality. Still, the three-channel SACD is an improvement over any previous mix.

The Triumph of Chicago .......2005-07-20

Yes, I too despise recordings earlier than about 1970. The recording quality tends to be annoyingly muddy. I did hear remakable things about this recording, however, some of them I even read here at Amazon. And since I revere the CSO anyway( they are my favorite) I decided I would take a chance. When I listened to Pines, it gave me goosebumps. Sure, more contemporary recordings of the CSO have more in-your-face brass but for the year this was recorded in, it is astounding. The more and more I listened to Pines of the Appian Way, the more thunderstruck I was. The brass blaze a trail that the rest of the orchestra follows. It is an awesome testimony to power of music and the fiery passions it can stir up.

Honestly, however, when I first listened to Fountains, I was not impressed. The orchestral playing was of course first-rate but I thought the music was boring and restless with no clear direction. After a day or so, I decided to listen to it again, reasoning that it was I who was wrong. I did and I liked it. Not as exciting as Pines(the whole work) and Pines of the Appian Way, but it is still a good piece wonderfully performed, just sit and listen to everything.

Only this Respighi and nothing else........2004-04-05

Fritz Reiner surprises me here, despite his infamous reputation of being a tyranical, manipulative conductor whom his Chicago musicians had a hard time working with. That is because his handling of Respighi's Pines and Fountains of Rome are one of the finest recordings I've ever heard. There are the usual trademarks of precise and exciting playing, as demonstrated by the piece, pines by Villa Borghese. An average listener might felt ambushed by another typical Disney soundtract, except this sounds most exciting. The Pines at Janiculum and the Villa Medici Fountain at Sunset is Fritz Reiner at his most delicate and finest moment. Surprising, again since such warmth is unheard of a conductor of Reiner's reputation. I don't think I would want to own any other recordings of these magnificent works.

Very Justified Label of "Benchmark".......2004-02-23

Well, to begin, I'll say that I find the three musical compositions featured here to be splendid works. Respighi's journal of the sights of Rome as well as Debussy's accounts of his trips on the Mediterranean are irresistable tone poems that all classical music fans appreciate

And of course, the Chicago Symphony, whom you can just argue is the greatest American orchestra ever, puts in another terrific performance, as you would definately expect them to. The legendary Fritz Reiner was conductor of the CSO from 1951 to 1962, a golden period in the orchestra's history. Heiner was certainly a demanding leader, and it showed whenever recording sessions took place. A perfectionalist, he wanted control over all aspects and made sure himself that he received satisfactory results.

In the program booklet that comes with this CD, an excellent account is included of downtown Chicago's Orchestra Hall on October 24, 1959, when Reiner led his ensemble to a tremendous performance of Respighi's Pines and Fountains of Rome. The article is a very interesting read on the details of the recording session.

Now, as for the CD itself, the aged recording would of course raise the attention of the listening. While technology has definately surpassed what had been available back then, the sound is however very acceptable. This album indeed still remains one for the ages.

I want to be buried with this CD!.......2003-07-21

An NPR program once listed the best recordings of Respighi's works. The announcer made it a point to slam Respighi's compositions in every way possible (he even said that he found it fitting that the word "pig" was in Respighi!) but when all was said and done, he still ranked this recording as the undisputed master. I have owned several CDs of "Pines" and have slowly gotten rid of all but this one. NO recording of that piece has ever come close to Reiner's. The offstage brass are actually located on risers around the group and sound very "offstage" when they're supposed to be, but at the end of "Pines of the Appian Way", they are blazing at a volume that can compete with the brass on the stage. The intensity of the brass sound at ridiculous volume without sounding distored or harsh in any way is amazing-especially given the "prehistoric" techniques used in the recording. The string sound is beautiful throughout the range and the basses are thunderous when they need to be. In the fourth mvt, there are 2 spots in particular that are NEVER heard on other recordings. At 2:02, there is a key change to Bb. It is ushered in by the organ on a pedal Bb. It is marked pp I think, but when listening on good speakers or headphones in this recording, that note wraps around you and pins you down. On most recordings it is inaudible.

Another moment is at 3:34. There is an A in the second trumpet that is never heard for whatever reason, but on this version it is so intense that it will part your hair. There is no subtleness to the finale in this one. It is pure, raw power. I have performed this piece several times and while nothing can ever compare to being in the middle of this tidal wave of sounds all around you, this CD (at a proper, near-deafening level) can evoke those same sensations.

Tracks:

Symphony No.5
Pines Of Rome
Rhapsody In Blue
Piano Concerto No.2, Allegro
Carnival Of The Animals
The Sorcerer's Apprentice
Pomp And Circumstance Marches
Firebird Suite-1919 Version

Amazon.com

Without the gorgeous visuals, the soundtrack to Fantasia/2000 is nothing more than a collection of some of classical music's greatest moments. But what moments they are! Conductor James Levine and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra provide new (though hardly groundbreaking) arrangements for these classical music warhorses. Piano virtuoso Yefim Bronfman joins in to record the Allegro section of Shostakovich's Piano Concerto No. 2 (if you like this track, check out Bronfman playing the entire piece on his 1999 disc with the Los Angeles Philharmonic), and soprano Kathleen Battle lends a high note to the climax of Elgar's Pomp and Circumstance. We also get the classic Sorcerer's Apprentice from the original (and now out-of-print) Fantasia soundtrack. Performed by Philharmonia Orchestra, the Paul Dukas composition still steals the show. The original movie may have been a flop, but with any luck Fantasia/2000 will turn some young minds on to classical music, especially with such inspired choices as Respighi's Pines of Rome. Like what you hear? Remember, these are just excerpts and you really owe it to yourself to hear the works in their entirety--slow movements and all. That said, whether you're a Disney fan, an IMAX aficionado, or just a classical-lover-to-be, you can't go wrong with this disc. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

Great for kids with Autism!.......2007-04-10

As a parent of profoundly autistic twin boys, this CD is so calming and I never tire of listening to it in the car. This CD on their Walkman helps get them through loud basketball games or sensory overload events at school. They LOVE "Rhapsody in Blue!"

Fantasia 2000.......2006-12-30

I have most of these pieces on other CD's, and I mostly got this one for 'Rhapsody in Blue'. If you don't own 'Firebird' and don't feel like owning the entire thing, then get this--it's got the highlights. Overall the selection is varied. You have probably forgotten that 'Pomp and Circumstance' is a real piece, and not just a graduation death march--this CD will remind you, with its very wise summary of the very extensive five marches by Elgar. This is certainly a lot more interesting than most classical highlights CD's.

Great pieces of classical music!.......2005-11-16

This is a really lovely collection of exhilarating and intriguing music pieces. Fantasia helped spawn my interest in classical music. The animation is beautiful in the movie but it's the music which makes it happen.

Fantastic! .......2005-07-18

My favorite piece of music ever is "Rhapsody in Blue" and I've managed to collect quite a few versions of it over the years. This is the absolute best recording of "Rhapsody in Blue" I have ever heard! I'm listening to it on a constant loop tonight. The entire record is great as is the other soundtrack from "Fantasia." The movie is a wonderful way to get kids exposed to classical music without them even realizing it! Worked on me when I was a kid. Once again, the Mouse works his magic!

One song along would make this worth buying.......2004-11-21

In my opinion, this CD is worth it just for "Rhapsody in Blue," but there are seven other great tracks, as well. Music like this spans generations; it's essentially timeless in its beauty and ability to put a smile on your face. Great stuff. Yes, there may only be eight tracks on this disc, but four of them are nine minutes or longer, so you're not being cheated out of anything. I'm not a steadfast Disney fan, but they really know how to pick classical music for their masterpiece.

Average customer rating:

Good job
Masterful!
Great CD of Classical music's power pieces!

Time Life Presents: Classical Thunder

Manufacturer: Time Life Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Thunderous Classics
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Classical Thunder II: Time Life Library of Classical Favorites
Heavy Classix

ASIN: B00081U6XC
Release Date: 2005-04-26

Tracks:

Introduction
Ride Of The Valkyries
Mars, The Bringer Of War
Montagues And Capulets
Sabre Dance
William Tell Overture (Conclusion)
In The Hall Of The Mountain King
The Hut On Fowl's Legs
The Great Gate At Kiev
Fanfare For The Common Man
Allegro Con Brio
Marche Au Supplice (March To The Scaffold)
Sacrificial Dance (The Chosen One)
Circus Maximus
Les Toreadors
Finlandia, Op.26
1812 Overture, Op.49 (Conclusion)

Tracks:

Procession Of The Nobles
Rakoczy March
Ritual Fire Dance
The Hero's Battlefield
Pines Of The Appian Way
Dies Irae
Allegro Con Brio
Allegretto
Air Et Danse Bacchanale
Farandole
Infernal Dance Of King Kastchei
O Fortuna
The Wedding Of Kije
Hurricane
Marche Slave, Op.31

Customer Reviews:

Good job.......2005-08-26

I remember when I was little, I had this cd, but i lost it. I bought a similiar type of one through TIme Life and decided to try the Classical Thunder one. I have like it so far.

Masterful!.......2005-06-15

This two CD set is magnificent. I got the set in the early 1990's when it was advertised on television, along with other releases in Time Life's set. I was struck by the interpretations of the conductors. Whenever I hear these pieces now, I judge them against this recording. Amazing selection as well. There are staples of orchestra repetoire, like Beethoven symphonies, but also gems that are not heard very often, like the Rimsky-Korsakov "Procession of the Nobles." A very impressive recording.

Great CD of Classical music's power pieces!.......2005-06-07

I got this CD when I was around 16 because I loved a lot of the music on this double CD set. As a student pursuing a Music Education major, it has been a great asset for my musically, and just great for listening to. I will drive on short trips and take this with me and blast it louder than the guy in the next car blasting rap music. I also take it skiing as it sets a great tempo down the mountain. This is a great CD for anyone that loves music.

Respighi: Pini di Roma/Feste Romane/Fontane di Roma

Average customer rating:

The Ultimate Roman Trilogy
Roman excellence
Wow.
Truly a Monumental Respighi Recording
Enjoyable Works!

Respighi: Pini di Roma/Feste Romane/Fontane di Roma

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Respighi: Pines of Rome, etc
Respighi: Church Windows, Brazilian Impressions/Simon
Symphonie Fantastique

ASIN: B0000041OT
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

PINI DI ROMA: Pines of Rome: I. I Pini di Villa Borghese
PINI DI ROMA: II. Pini presso una catacomba
PINI DI ROMA: III. I Pini del Gianicolo
PINI DI ROMA: IV. I Pini della Via Appia
Feste romane: Feste Romane: I. Circenses
Feste romane: II. Il Giubileo
Feste romane: III. L'Ottobrata
Feste romane: IV. La Befana
FONTANE DI ROMA: Foutains of Rome: I. La fontana di Valle Giulia all'alba
FONTANE DI ROMA: II. La fontana del Tritone al mattino
FONTANE DI ROMA: III. La fontana di Trevi al meriggio
FONTANE DI ROMA: IV. La fontana di Villa Medici al tramonto

Customer Reviews:

The Ultimate Roman Trilogy.......2006-04-20

Well, what can I say? Charles Dutoit's rendition of Respighi's Roman Trilogy ranks among the finest. The orchestral emotions give out a spine-tingling sensation. The sound quality is beyond excellent. Tension is high and tedium is low. I'd have to say congratulations to Decca/London for giving us this fabulous creation.

Pini di Roma: I first heard this in the movie Fantasia 2000, and I just had this feeling that the filmmakers cut out half of its entirety. When I heard this complete version, I was hooked. Its power and precision is strikingly beautiful. From the lively introduction to the gracious finale, this one is hard to hate.

Feste Romane: The most energetic of the three, it misses some familiarity from the other two Roman pieces, but it is still worth a listen. The First movement (Circenses) has a high level of good old apprehension, while the Fourth movement (La Befana) goes way deeper than that. For the second half third movement (L'Ottobrata), it has some of the same lovable atmosphere as from Pini del Gianicolo of Pini di Roma. Not the best of the three, but simply not the worst.

Fontane di Roma: The Italian flair and the massive sanguinity are both present here in this first piece of the Roman Trilogy. It's a beautiful phenomenon that has generated to a catchy musicality today. Precise, vigorous, soft, and exquisite at the same time.

This should be an absolute steal for those who are beginning to feel the Italian Impressionism through Ottorino Respighi. A+

Roman excellence.......2005-06-26

After long and arduous searching and listening, I have come to the conclusion that this is quite possibly the best available recording of the Roman triptych by Ottorino Respighi.

This comes not as a revelation but as a final assertion based on what I've heard and what I look for in fine recordings: this includes examining 'reference' (if there be fairness in naming such things) recordings the likes of Muti/Philadelphia, Bernstein/NYPhil, Reiner/Chicago, Ozawa/Boston, and others of the sort. I think all of them have exceptional qualities but something missing from them. For some reason, this particular recording of Dutoit with a very disciplined and rather 'on-fire' Montreal Symphony bests them all.

Whether it be in just intonation or in clarity from better digital recording to attention paid to every little nuance, OSM and Dutoit give us the most riveting account. The power is really there at the end of Pines of the Appian Way and one can feel the majesty and glory in the Fountains of Rome (especially in Fountain at Trevi at Mid-day... the low brass especially bass trombone are alive and kickin'). The sweet song of the nightingale is gorgeously present and dubbed in so well, you'd almost swear that the bird is in the studio with the orchestra.

I recommend and encourage everyone who wants to hear a supreme recording of the Roman cycle to snatch this recording up. It is leaps and bounds ahead of the competition.

Wow........2003-06-06

I never thought I'd hear a brass sound equal to that of the Chicago Symphony, but Charles Dutoit and the OSM do it right here. The OSM plays the Pines of Rome like I've never heard it before. As fantastic as the entire performance is, the final Pines of the Appian Way seems to dwarf the first three movements. One can visualize the slow, steady march of the Roman legions, coming closer, closer, and closer still. The OSM possesses and demonstrates the superb control required to give a convincing performance of this piece. They play the written "F"'s and still retain the purity and clarity of their sound. The last two or so minutes of it still send chills up my spine. I recommend this album highly to anybody and everybody.

Truly a Monumental Respighi Recording.......2003-01-26

As others have expounded, this is exquisite performance and recording. Dutoit and the Orchestra Symphony of Montreal deliver Pines of Rome with sensitive, passionate dynamics which are incredibly captured by this recording.

The instrument groups are crystal clear and pristine, yet the subtle movements deliver concert hall chills while listening.

This is of the top notch.

Enjoyable Works!.......2003-01-15

Not much more to say that others haven't said already.
These are very fine works, excellent sound and music.

Respighi: Pines of Rome; The Birds; Fountains of Rome

Average customer rating:

Resphigi: Pines of Rome, The Birds Lane; Atlanta Sym. Orch.
Great modern classical music!
Sparkling, scintillating brilliance . . . chiaroscuro beauty
Music, Not Noise .... Thank you, Louis Lane & Telarc!
My First Respighi Album, And Still My Favorite.

Respighi: Pines of Rome; The Birds; Fountains of Rome

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Respighi: Fontane di Roma, Pini di Roma, etc / Karajan

ASIN: B000003CT0
Release Date: 2002-07-23

Tracks:

I. Pines Of The Villa Borghese
II. Pines Near A Catacomb
III. Pines Of The Janiculum
IV. Pines Of The Appian Way
I. Prelude
II. The Dove
The Birds: III. The Hen
IV. The Nightingale
V. Cuckoo
I. Fountain Of Valle Giulia At Dawn
II. Triton Fountain At Morn
III. Fountain Of Trevi At Mid-Day
IV. Villa Medici Fountain At Sunset

Customer Reviews:

Resphigi: Pines of Rome, The Birds Lane; Atlanta Sym. Orch. .......2006-04-18

This is one of the finest performances of these pieces. Under Lane's direction, the Orchestra sounds magnificent and they are in absolute top form. The sound from this Telarc disc can only be described as ravishing. At times, the orchestration, together with the performance and the recording all combine to create some of the most beautiful sounds I have ever heard from an orchestral recording. The engineering is magnificent and this is probably the best sound that Telarc has ever achieved. This is an audiophile's dream recording. Buy this disc and it will give you a lifetime of listening pleasure.

Great modern classical music!.......2005-10-30

Ottorino Respighi is one of the best composers of modern classical music, along with Ravel, Debussy, Poulenc, Hanson, and Shostakovich. In this recording, we hear Gli Uccelli, Pini di Roma, and Fontane di Roma. In this review, I'm going to talk about Pini di Roma and Fontane di Roma.

Pini di Roma, also called Pines of Rome, is a wonderful symphonic poem by Respighi. It has been adopted to film in "Fantasia 2000" and is my favorite work by Respighi. It is made up of 4 sections that are part of one big movement. The first section is called Pines of the Villa Borghese and is in B-flat. It is a lively piece of music featuring a lot of triangle, trumpet, and other instruments which make it sound majestical. The second movement, Pines of the Catacombs, is slightly darker and mysterious in the beginning, but it climbs to it's climax and then finishes off strangely. The third movement, Pines of the Janiculum, is the lightest and starts off in a maritime piano piece and then features soft music. In some recordings, a bird can be heard chirping in this section, since that was the original idea that Respighi had. The fourth movement, Pines of the Appian Way, is also in B-flat and is the best one of them all. It starts out with a constant march and that march follows the song the whole time as it gets louder and louder until it reaches the grand finale.

Foutnains of Rome is another wondeful symphonic poem by Respighi and Pines of Rome was written as a sequel. The first movement is a quiet little movement which creates the scene of a foutain at dawn and has a magical sound to it. The second movement is the shortest and has a great part for the trumpets towards the end. The third movement is the greatest of them all and is in E major. It is about the Trevi Fountain at Midday and bears a striking resemblence to the finale of Pines of Rome. The fourth movement is quieter and more mysterious and features chimes dinging throughout the whole thing and eventually to the quiet and relaxing ending.

Sparkling, scintillating brilliance . . . chiaroscuro beauty.......2004-02-08

This review applies to the works -Pines of Rome-,
-The Birds-, and -Fountains of Rome- performed by
the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and conducted by
Louis Lane on Telarc.
Listening and enjoyment and enthusiasm are all
subjective elements which can't be "quantified" for
everyone's satisfaction. I can only say that I
have "perfectionist" ears and eyes, so I have
real trouble finding personally satisfying sound
reproduction devices as well as particular versions
of classical works which I "get into." There
are some other versions of this work which I like
very much also, conductor Daniel Gatti's with the
Orchestra of the Accademia di Santa Cecilia, conductor
Giuseppe Sinopoli's with the New York Philharmonic
on Deutsche Grammophon, and conductor Jesus Lopez-
Cobos with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra on
Telarc.
What makes me decide to review Lane's recording is
his concern with tempo and dynamics...the transition
from the sunny brilliance of the Pines of the Villa
Borghese to the dark, quiet mystery and softness of
the Pines Near a Catacomb is a wonder, and for me,
breath-taking. The sound clarity and "presence" of
this Telarc recording are outstanding. In the
Pines of the Villa Borghese you can hear the
instruments giving out percussive effects to imitate
the toys of the children. But it is the sunny,
sparkling brilliance and tempo of the orchestra
as well that make this piece scintillating!
Of all of the pieces in the Pines, my own particular
favorite (for its associations) is the Pines of the
Janiculum -- that dreamy, lyrical, almost mystic
portrayal of moonlight among the pines and the
lyrical warbling of the nightingale. I am somewhat
of a connoisseur of the warbling nightingale in these
recordings. I don't like Von Karajan's nightingale; it
does not have the echoing resonance of the symphony
hall, but sounds as if it is recorded in nature; and
the Von Karajan nightingale only tweets, it doesn't
have the glorious, full-throated warble of the
Lane nightingale and some of the other recordings.
The gentle piano introduction to the Janiculum in
the Lane recording, the harmonious pacing -- very
lyrical and peaceful and haunting (in beauty, not
grief or languid weariness), the soulful clarinet,
the caressing strings...all give this recorded
version optimal stars from me.
-- Robert Kilgore.

Music, Not Noise .... Thank you, Louis Lane & Telarc!.......2003-07-21

Ever since Toscanini's RCA recordings (early 1950s), these Respighi tone poems have been played as sonic block-busters, with engineering to match. It seems everybody's idea of this music is driven by the last section of "The Pines of Rome," which famously evokes a march of Roman legionnaries via a steady crescendo of orchestral volume that finally explodes in an orgy of brass playing. But there are subtler pleasures in these pieces, especially in "The Fountains of Rome," and in this recording I've finally found Respighi performances that sound like music, not noise. Not that conductor Louis Lane and the fine Atlanta orchestra underplay the parts that need it; there's plenty of drama here, trust me. But Lane was an assistant to legendary conductor George Szell in Cleveland for many years, and he clearly learned how to achieve proper orchestral balances, even when working with the massively large orchestra favored by late Romantic composers like Respighi. For once, Respighi's orchestral texures register with the necessary nuance and subtlety. And Telarc's sound complements Lane's approach with an appropriate acoustic: very "hi-fi," but not in your face. Instead of garishly spotlighting individual sections, Telarc works its magic to ensure that the entire orchestra registers with a marvelous warmth. Given the subtleties of Lane's approach, I think it's no accident that he chose to couple "Pines" and "Fountains" with Respighi's suite "The Birds" rather than with the more glitzy "Roman Festivals." "The Birds" ("Gli Uccelli") is a Renaissance/Baroque pastiche cut from the same cloth as Respighi's perennially popular "Ancient Airs and Dances." So if you love the Respighi of the "Ancient Airs" and abhor the composer of the flashier tone poems, buy this CD. It may just be the Respighi disc of your dreams! Final word: "Louis Lane and the Atlanta Symphony" might not have the cache of Toscanini/NBC, Bernstein/New York, Karajan/Berlin, and God-knows how many other high-powered teams that have recorded this music. But for my money, this very musical Telarc CD beats the competition hands down. (Also note that this is one of many earlier (late 1980s) Telarc digital CDs that the company has reissued in a new budget series. Same great Telarc sound and sophisticated packaging, but at a very nice price.)

My First Respighi Album, And Still My Favorite........2003-03-15

After seeing Disney's "Fantasia 2000" in the Summer of that year I realized that I had found a new love of Classical music in Respighi's 'Pines of Rome.' I quickly picked up the soundtrack album with James Levine conducting the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in a superb, although abbreviated, performance of 'Pines' for the Fantasia sequel. However this little snippet did not keep me satisfied. For my birthday later that year my father gave me this album of Louis Lane and the Atlanta S.O. performing 'Pines,' 'The Birds,' and 'Fountains.' I was mesmorized by Respighi's music and the images and feeling conjured when listening to it. I had fallen in love.

Naturally this album holds a special place in my heart even today after collecting nearly every Respighi album I could put my hands on. So that makes it doubly difficult for me to critique it. At the very least, this is a fine performance. The tempi are consistent, if a little on the slow side (the 'Fountain at Trevi' being the most clear example). The brass section is strong and stingy (just the way Telarc likes it) sometimes at the expense of loosing the strings in the mix. Louis Lane clearly understood the moods and images Respighi yearned for in his days of composition and succeeds in conveying those through the players.

Technically speaking, this is a beautifully captured performance, no doubt benefiting from Telarc's pure digital recording and mixing methods. I have never heard bass such as that in the climax of 'Pines Near a Catacomb.' When you buy a Telarc Digital album you can be assured there is a high level of clarity; that you will be able to distinguish between all types of instruments during both the soft, gentle moments, and during the greatest crescendos. This CD is no exception.

Tracks:

Fontane di Roma-Poema sinfonico: I. La Fontana Di Valle Giulia All'alba
Fontane di Roma-Poema sinfonico: II. La fontana del Tritone al mattino
Fontane di Roma-Poema sinfonico: III. La fontana di Trevi al meriggio
Fontane di Roma-Poema sinfonico: IV. La fontana di Villa Medici al tramonto
Pini di Roma-Poema sinfonico: I. Pini di Villa Borghese
Pini di Roma-Poema sinfonico: II. Pini presso una catacomba
Pini di Roma-Poema sinfonico: III. I pini del gianicolo
Pini di Roma-Poema sinfonico: IV. I pini della via Appia
Antiche danze ed arie per liuto - Libera transcrizione per orchestra, Suite III: 1. Anon.: Italiana. Andantino
Antiche danze ed arie per liuto - Libera transcrizione per orchestra, Suite III: 2. Jean-Baptiste Besard: Arie di corte. Andante cantabile - Allegretto - Vivace - Lento con grande espressione - Allegro vivace - Vivacissimo - Andante cantabile
Antiche danze ed arie per liuto - Libera transcrizione per orchestra, Suite III: 3. Anon.: Siciliana. Andantino
Antiche danze ed arie per liuto - Libera transcrizione per orchestra, Suite III: 4. Ludovico Roncalli: Passacaglia. Maestoso - Vivace
Quintettino La musica notturna delle strade di Madrid op.30 No.6: Introduzione
Quintettino La musica notturna delle strade di Madrid op.30 No.6: Minuetto
Quintettino La musica notturna delle strade di Madrid op.30 No.6: Largo assai, senza rigor di Battuta
Quintettino La musica notturna delle strade di Madrid op.30 No.6: Passacalle
Quintettino La musica notturna delle strade di Madrid op.30 No.6: Ritirata
Adagio G-Moll

Customer Reviews:

Fantastic!.......2007-02-06

I love the Pines of Rome and find this version to be as good as my other benchmark, Reiner's interpretation with the Chicago Symphony in the 60's. Too many conductors feel the need for excessive speed in the opening of this piece, causing it to feel hurried and rushed rather than triumphant. Karjan and Reiner are able to reign in this tendency. The playing is immaculate as well. This is an essential recording of this piece. Buy it.

Soothing Visions of Rome.......2007-02-01

I decided to purchase this particular CD because I did not have these compositions in my collection. I have always loved the works by Respighi, & based on the reputations of Deutsche Grammaphon, Herbert von Karajan & the Berlin Philharmonic I expected the highest quality in performance and interpretation, & they did not disappoint. They are enchanting, soothing, Italian visions of Rome. Listening to the music on this CD makes it possible to take a break & mentally transport yourself to the parks & fountains of Rome.

A Great Compilation.......2006-04-17

If I could choose the 10 best classical albums, this would be one of them. The Boccherini is probably the best part, and sections of it were used in several movies, including Sherlock Holmes: The Case of The Silk Stocking and Master and Commander: The Far Side of The World. The quality of the recording is crystal clear, creating the most enjoyable listening experience. It finishes off with Albinoni and the fabulous Adagio in G Minor, featuring Wolfgang Meyer on the organ. All in all, it's a very nice album, and a joy to listen to.

Karajan's Fine Interpretations Of Respighi's Music.......2001-12-18

I don't wish to deny that this may be one of the finest recordings Karajan made with the Berlin Philharmonic. Not only is the sound quality fine, but more importantly, the Berlin Philharmonic plays with ample technical precision and warmth. Still, Karajan's interpretations lack the vibrancy I have heard in recent recordings by Dutoit and Maazel; they tend to be sluggish in their tempi, most notably the "Pines Of Rome". Karajan is a bit more successful with the works by Boccherini and Albinoni; the string playing is a bit more refined than with Respighi's scores.

von Karajan's Pines of Rome.......2001-08-28

This is one of the most lively performances conducted by von Karajan.

Average customer rating:

Orchestral Trumpet Player's Bible:
Essential Recording for Any Trumpet Player
Most Excellent
Awesome!
Excellent for aspiring trumpet players, otherwise...

Orchestral Excerpts For Trumpet

Manufacturer: Summit(Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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David Hickman, Trumpet
Orchestral Excerpts For Horn
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ASIN: B0000038JG
Release Date: 1995-02-07

Tracks:

Trumpet concerto: Brandenburg Concerto No.2 - Trumpet Concerto
Petrouchka
Pictures at an Exhibition
Leonore Nos. 3&2
Ein Heldenleben
Symphony No.5
Scheherazade
Don Juan
Fetes
Piano Concerto In G
Piano Cto. No. 1
Pines Of Rome
Concerto For Orchestra
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Firebird Suite
Parsifal Prelude
La Mer
Symphony No. 2
Symphony No. 3 (Post Horn)
Capriccio Espagnol
American In Paris
Magnificat

Customer Reviews:

Orchestral Trumpet Player's Bible:.......2003-05-08

I carry this recording around with me in my case, and listen to it before auditions, concerts, rehearsals, etc. It's simply how the excerpts (along with trumpet playing in general) should sound. Smith's virtuostic playing, coupled with his vast orchestral experience, really teach the parts. All trumpet players, top to bottom, have something to learn from this CD--and while the entire work (with orchestra) and part should be studied (Smith actually recommends this), it is still very useful to hear one of the finest players on earth performing just the trumpet part.

Essential Recording for Any Trumpet Player.......2001-05-24

If any principal orchestral trumpet player has succeeded Adolph Herseth as the "state of the art," the probable consensus among his peers would be Philip Smith of the New York Philharmonic. His virtually flawless technique, gourgeous sound, rarified musicianship and exceptional leadership make him virtually unique in his field, and his more than 20 years with the Philharmonic (plus his early years with the Chicago Symphony) have firmly established him as one of the greats in the history of orchestral brass performance.

Measured simply as a documentation of his skills, this recording would be an extraordinary document - the playing throughout is stupendous. But this is much more than that; Mr. Smith proves to be as articulate (mild "New Yoahk" accent and all) as he is talented, and his performance suggestions are truly helpful, even for those of us without his superhuman abilities. The recorded sound is superb, and overall this is a joy to listen to at every level. I recommend it without reservation for any trumpet player aspiring to a higher level of musicianship and performance - and if you play it at full volume shortly after your warmup, your neighbors will be very impressed.

Most Excellent.......1999-12-13

As a trumpet player, I must say that Phil Smith's comments during each track are immensely beneficial. His thoughts have produced profound understanding in my trumpet playing, and despite the fact that this CD is intended as a grouping of Phil Smith's insights into common Orchestral Excerpts and his following demonstration, I have countless times listened out of pure enjoyment than to gain expert insight. His tone is the most beautiful I have ever heard, and it shows on this CD. I recommend this particularly for any aspiring trumpet student.

Awesome!.......1999-10-25

The previous reviewer of this CD missed the point of the CD. Lets say your working on the Carmern Prelude or Stravinsky Pétrouchka you buy this CD, and learn how Philip Smith (one of the greatest symphonic trumpet players in the world) would interpret and play it. Thats why its entitled Orchestra Trumpet Excerpts.

Excellent for aspiring trumpet players, otherwise..........1999-05-31

This CD would be excellent for aspiring orchestral trumpeters and soloists; although Philip Smith conveys his expertise exceptionally well, this short snips of music on this CD are no substitute for the actual full-orchestra recordings.

Respighi: Feste romane, Pini di Roma / Maazel, Cleveland Orchestra

Average customer rating:

Why people rave about the Cleveland Orchestra
Outstanding Sonics and Inspired Performance
Legendary Recording
Fasten your seatbelt
A Bit Disappointing "Festivals", but Wonderful "Pines"

Respighi: Feste romane, Pini di Roma / Maazel, Cleveland Orchestra

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Ottorino Respighi: Ancient Dances & Airs
Ravel/Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos
Respighi: Pines of Rome; Fountains of Rome; Debussy: La mer [Hybrid SACD]
Rodrigo: Concierto de Aranjuez; Fantasía para un Gentilhombre
Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition, A Night on Bald Mountain, and Other Russian Showpieces [Hybrid SACD]

ASIN: B00004TEV0
Release Date: 2000-07-18

Tracks:

Feste romane: Circenses - Circuses
Feste romane: Il giubileo - Jubilee
Feste romane: L'ottobrata - October festival
Feste romane: La Befana - Epiphany
PINI DI ROMA: I pini di Villa Borghese - At the Villa Borghese
PINI DI ROMA: Pini presso una catacomba - By a catacomb
PINI DI ROMA: I pini del Gianicolo - On the Janiculum
PINI DI ROMA: I pini della Via Appia - On the Appian Way
Suite from 'Le Coq d'or': King Dodon in his palace - Le tsar Dodon chez lui
Suite from 'Le Coq d'or': King Dodon on the battlefield - Le tsar Dodon en campagn
Suite from 'Le Coq d'or': King Dodon with the Queen of Shemakha - Le tsar Dodon chez la reine
Suite from 'Le Coq d'or': The marriage feast and lamentable end of King Dodon - La Noce et la fin pitoyable de Dodon

Amazon.com Classical Music Reviews

The Clevelanders play this program of dazzling showpieces to the hilt. In the Respighi works, their tender, quiet playing is as radiantly impressive as the color-soaked raise-the-roof sections of raw power and high decibels. The scene-painting in Respighi's Roman portraits is done to perfection, from the moonlit nocturnal picture of the Janiculum in Pines to the splashes of primary colors in the Circuses movement of Feste romaine. These performances transform tired warhorses into musically worthy experiences. The Suite from Rimsky-Korsakov's opera, Le Coq d'or, is equally brilliant. The Clevelanders demonstrate breathtaking virtuosity, and Maazel milks the sensuous score for all its worth. Maazel remade the Respighi works for Sony, repeating his achievement in first-class digital sound. But these 1976 and 1979 recordings were hi-fi demonstration material and the reissue, in Decca's 24/96 transfer process, yields nothing to recent recordings. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Why people rave about the Cleveland Orchestra.......2003-09-13

Heavens, what a sonic spectacular this is -- arguably the finest version of the gaudy "Feste Romane" ever recorded, and the mid-1970's sound needs no defense. Maazel just whips up a huge explosion of color, energy and detail, and the great Cleveland Orchestra shows why many discriminating listeners think this is one of the best ensembles in the world.

The "Pines" is also superb, even if it perhaps faces stiffer competition with so many other excellent versions available. But Maazel's pacing, coupled with the Cleveland musicians out in full force, makes this a contender for many "top" lists. I confess that the Rimsky-Korsakov suite, imaginative as it is, somehow hasn't hooked me as immediately as the Respighi works. But in any case, it is delivered with the same high-level playing, and Maazel deserves credit for reproducing the score's full spectrum.

While I like versions of "Pines" and "Feste" by Muti and the Philadelphia Orchestra (EMI) and a budget version on Naxos with Batiz and the Royal Philharmonic, the overwhelming impact of this recording is hard to resist.

Outstanding Sonics and Inspired Performance.......2003-02-10

Looking for an outstanding performance of the The Pines of Rome, look no further. The Cleveland Orchestra and its outstanding brass section breathe life into this Orchestral showpiece. In addition, the transfer to CD preserves the incredible sonics of the original Decca analog recording.

Legendary Recording.......2002-09-25

Wanting a great recording of Pines of Rome, I surveyed the offerings and many suggested this is the best.

Have not heard the rest, but this is superb! It offers four movements orchestrating Roman settings where pines flourish. One in the midday sun, the next in twilight, the third of a nocturne nature introduces a nightingale as a nice touch. The finale, a Roman army triumphantly marching with a ominous conclusion.

The conductor and orchestra exemplify the balances providing great texture and clarity. The recording as others have noted from Decca is outstanding.

Enjoy the Rimsky-Korsakov offering with its exotic Oriental coloring in The Golden Cockerel. It has some wonderful offerings.

Fasten your seatbelt.......2001-01-23

Why can't Lorin Maazel always perform like this? These are showpieces that will knock your socks off. They're also sonically amazing. The reviewer below who says Bernstein is better has missed the point, I think: Yeah Lennie is more intense (though not really...he's just shriller and faster) in the outer sections of Festivals, but the inner sections, which are more contemplative and lyrical, are brittle and unfelt with Lenny, gorgeous with Maazel. (Hear the sumptuous Cleveland strings in the that close out part two, just before the mandolin movement enters!) If you want just loud thrills, the classical equivalnet of a hard rock band banging while you crank up the amplifier, go with Lenny. If you want shades and colors *and* a finale that will threaten your plaster, this is the one. (Maazel also uses a real glockenspiel for the churchbell, whereas Lenny flubs by with a combination triangle and piano note struck in unison.)

The Pines recording is also dazzling, with a very rich, almost spiritual middle two sections. The last movement here is a little trite maybe, but few conductors pull this off really well to my ears. (It actually works better *slower,* which gives it a greater majesty and a "finale" quality, but most conductors try to up the temperature by going in fast, and Maazel is no exception. Neither is Lenny, by the way.) This is a superb disc, and I'm thrilled Decca had the good sense to bring it to life on CD.

A Bit Disappointing "Festivals", but Wonderful "Pines".......2001-01-05

For "Roman Festivals", Maazel with the Cleveland Orchestra is pretty energetic, but I don't think not as much as Bernstein's performance with the New York Phil. You should buy his CD instead if you only want "Roman Festivals".

For "Pines of Rome", on the other hand, TWO THUMBS UP! The climax is superb! (But I also love the performance by Karajan with the Berlin Phil, and the one by Ormandy with the Philadelphia Orchestra.) If you never heard of "Pines of Rome" before, then you should buy this CD, and feel the orchestral triumpth! (It is my very favorite music so far. If you love dynamic classical music, you will definitely love this music.)

Respighi: Pini di Roma; Fontane de Roma; Feste Romane
Average customer rating:

This is the one to get

Impeccable performance by both Maestro and Orchestra

Good clean energy

Italian Impressionist

Second to none!

Respighi: Pini di Roma; Fontane de Roma; Feste Romane

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Respighi: Pines Of Rome/Roman Festivals

Camille Saint-Saens: Organ Symphony/Tone Poems

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Tschaikovsky: Ballet Suites / Rostropovich, Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra

ASIN: B000002AY6
Release Date: 1996-11-05

Tracks:

Pines Of Rome: I. Pini di Villa Borghese
Pines of Rome: II. Pini presso una catacomba
Pines of Rome: III. I Pini del Gianicolo
Pines of Rome: IV. I Pini della via Appia
The Fountains Of Rome: I. La fontana di Valle Giulia all'alba
The Fountains Of Rome: II. La fontana di Tritone al mattino
The Fountains Of Rome: III. La fontana di Trevi al meriggio
The Fountains Of Rome: IV. La fontana di Villa Medici al tramonto
Roman Festivals: I. Circenses
Roman Festivals: Il. Giubileo
Roman Festivals: III. L'Ottobrata
Roman Festivals: IV. La Befana

Amazon.com

Lorin Maazel and the Pittsburghers give us Respighi's Roman triptych in all its gaudy splendor on this 1996 release, which was made using a purist two-mike approach unusual for Sony. Thanks to the conductor's control of balances, the high standard of the orchestra's execution, and the clarity of texture that characterizes the recording, one can enjoy every detail of Respighi's opulent scoring and at the same time hear these works, for once, as actual music. The performances, like the sonics, are demonstration class. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

This is the one to get.......2007-02-22

If you only can buy one recording of the Roman Trilogy make it this one. It has best sound quality and the performance is awe-inspiring.

Highly recommended!

Impeccable performance by both Maestro and Orchestra.......2006-08-17

To compare an orchestra with such caliber as Philadelphia (one of the "Mighty Five" of this country) with a lesser known orchestra (yet not any less talented I must say) is to compare apples to oranges. I personally don't see any sense in doing so and I strongly dispute comparing recordings based on the orchestra alone. I have heard sloppy records played by world famous orchestras. It happens. I have also heard phenomonal recordings done by orchestras previously unheard of. While Pittsburgh is most certainly not unheard of, they would still fall into the latter category.
The performance given here by Pittsburgh is top notch, no questions asked, hands down. A fabulous technical ability paired with the wise musical styling of Maazel make this record a steal. The sound quality is stunning, each episode of Respighi's triptych sparkles with its own light, not a cut and paste example. Another fine example of this is Danielle Gatti with the Orchestra of Saint Cecilia.
Maazel doesn't fail to delight with his great readings of the Respighi Roman triptych. And, at least in this recording, Pittsburgh is right up there with the heavy hitters in today's orchestral scene.

Good clean energy.......2006-06-09

Lorin Maazel brings an incredibly energetic approach to the music of Respighi. The previous reviewer, Mr. Kniess does a wonderful job telling you about the pieces of music on this disk, so I only intend to add to what he has said. (However, I would not regard Respighi as an 'impressionist'. That seems to put his music in the same category as Debussy and Ravel, which it is most certainly not.)

The performance of these works are impeccable. All sections of the orchestra are always pristine, both in terms of rhythm and pitch. So much power and energy comes from the orchestra, I continue to be amazed every time I listen to the recording. The brass soloists in the last movement of Roman Festival are incredible. They really go for the biggest tone, and sound great in the process.

This is a great CD to own. A must have for Respighi lovers and brass musicians.

Italian Impressionist.......2006-01-28

Ottorino Respighi is somewhat of an oddity; considered an Italian impressionist, his music is far off from the fuzzy haze of the French, and while he highly regarded Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov, his music is not particularly nationalistic, save the ideas and programs of his works. Three very popular symphonic poems represent the pinnacle of his compositional style, all included on this disk: The Pines of Rome, The Fountains of Rome, and Roman Festivals.

Each of the poems have four movements which describe the musical portraits or scenes Respighi wants to convey, usually in a vivid manner. The Pines of Rome is centered around the ancient trees of his native land, the first, the pine trees of Villa Borghese, is a playful opener with tinkling bells and skipping rhythms imitating the playing children. Pine trees near a catacomb is very subdued, but a rhythmical chanting rises to a climax with blazing brass, combining ancient ritual with, then, modern classicism. The nearest Respighi approaches French Impressionism is in the pine trees of Janiculum, with its shimmering strings, arpeggiated piano, and use of harp and celeste. The nature-based clarinet solo cuts through any haze, however, and the use of recorded bird song is unique to Respighi in this case. The final, pine trees of the Appian Way, builds into a theme of fifths, horn and trumpet calls aided by the trombones and tuba, give a militaristic quality and a brash ending gives a glorious close. The orchestrations are very colorful, even including organ on top of a host of other unique instruments. The melodic material is tuneful and interesting, one of Respighi's most approachable poems for orchestra.

The poem which flows the best from start to finish is the Fountains of Rome (no pun intended). Respighi describes four specific fountains in an around Rome and musically depicts them. The opening fountain of Valle Giulia is the most bubbly (pun intended). The lines are long and florid with burbling scales in all parts, with calmly rising melodies. In contrast, the Triton Fountain is firmly announced by horns, screaming strings, and bells. What follows is a bouncy scherzo, often reminiscent of the French Romantic composer Paul Dukas; the movement is fun and bubbly. The Fountain at Trevi, however, seems to recall Richard Strauss, with heavy and powerful trombones in the spotlight. The forcefulness is fortified by the addition of organ, but subsides into the last fountain at Villa Medici. The most impressionistic sounding, the modal melody on English horn recalls Debussy, while the harp glissandi, celeste, string tremolos, and woodwind dottings only reinforce the idea. Again, colorful orchestrations, beautiful melodies, including the haunting modes of the last fountain.

Roman Festivals is by and far the most Italian sounding of the three poems, and chronicles life around a celebration. The very angry and agitated opening Cirenses, sounds nearly schizophrenic, with unrelated fanfares, and a menacing bass drum for the impending storm, as well as a fearful organ. A slow procession of religious folk outside of town changes the mood to the movement entitled Jubilee, but builds in intensity. The third movement, October Festival, has varied melodies and sections, including an Italian love song, and a serenade complete with solo mandolin. The blazing finale, Epiphany, is also schizophrenic in pacing, with constantly changing moods, scenes, and themes. The end result is exultancy as full orchestra resoundingly concludes.

Of digital recordings, this Sony recording is by and far the finest. The Pittsburg Symphony Orchestra under Lorin Maazel is captured in a sonically enriched atmosphere, very much like a concert hall setting. The large proportions are captured well and balanced properly, and the colorful orchestration dazzles the listener. The playing is great, the brass section is particularly exceptional; I have not heard such ensemble, precision, and high quality in a long time. Maazel is faithful to the score, but also makes each portrait diverse from the preceding one, relying on Respighi's imagination. He gets a full and dramatic reading from the score. Highly recommended modern account of three classics. Compare with Maazel's 70's recording with the Cleveland Orchestra on Decca; both great, I prefer this one.

Second to none!.......2004-11-08

Lorin Maazel transports the listener along a musical soujourn that s/he'll not soon forget! The composer, the conductor and the orchestra nail this one in a perfect tenon. This is a rendition that one can listen to over and over. Don't wait to add it to your Classical Music library.

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