Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances & Suites for 2 Pianos

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Ax and Bronfman went about this project like rock stars, making the recording first (in 1999) for a tour (in 2002). Although both players are major virtuosos, technical prowess is not their first order of business. The ensemble is never loose, but it's also not as razor-sharp as in the identically programmed Argerich-Rabinovitch CD. Instead, there are two personalities at work here, each with his own expressive profile (although, lacking a seating chart, it's hard to tell which is which). These aren't Rachmaninov's greatest hits, so the disc offers gratifying discoveries to listeners who like his music. From the early, thoroughly romantic Suite No. 1, through the mature and completely typical Suite No. 2, to the composer's final work, the Symphonic Dances, all this music represents Rachmaninov at the height of his powers. For some listeners, this original two-piano version of the Dances may even be preferable to the composer's orchestration, which is effective enough, but sounds almost bloated at moments. The rich tonal qualities of the pianos, brilliantly conveyed by Sony's recording, help make these exciting performances the preferred versions of this generous selection (78:49). --Leslie Gerber

Tracks:

Vocalise, Op. 34, No. 14
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: III. Allegro scherzando
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: 18th Variation
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: III. Adagio
Prelude In G Minor, Op. 23, No. 5
Prelude In G-Sharp Minor, Op. 32, No. 12
Prelude in C-sharp minor, Op. 3, No. 2
Cello Sonata In G Minor, Op. 19: II. Allegro scherzando
Etude-tableau In D Major, Op. 39, No. 9
Six Pieces, Op. 11: Scherzo
Six Pieces, Op. 11: Slava
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: III. Lento assai

Customer Reviews:

Yes.......2003-04-03

This is a marvelous collection. There were a few pieces I wish that it would include, such as the rest of his Piano Concerto No.2, or perhaps The Rock, but the fact that the performances are generally great and the recording quality is near-perfect makes up for that.

I would recommend this to anyone who is just starting to become interested in the works of Sergei Rachmaninov.

A decent introduction to the music of Rachmaninoff.......2001-08-12

Sergi Rachmaninoff was the last of the great Romantic composers, especially since the Romantic period had ended for European artists when he was at his height. Although a composer and a conductor, Rachmaninoff was also a virtuoso pianist, which explains why his best compositions feature the piano, either in solo work or with an orchestra. His "Prelude in C-Sharp Minor," which he wrote when he was 20, made him famous throughout the world. This collection also includes several other preludes, "Vocalise," and the famous 18th Variation (Andnate cantible) from Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. My only serious complaint about this collection as an introduction to Rachmaninoff is that it only has one movement from his Second Piano Concerto and I have other CDs that include the entire work, which I thing is a good idea.

Great Collection of "Hits".......2000-06-22

This is actually not a bad collection of Greatest Hits. Usually the problem with collections like these is that they have bad recordings and not very good performances but some of these ones are actually okay, and it features performances by Yo-Yo Ma and Emanuel Ax among others. In general these are the works of art you think of when you think of Rachmaninoff and so these pieces are a perfect representation of his style.

One of the best CD I own.......1999-12-30

This is one of the best I own. The music is so great, hard to explain...so moving, especially the first track. It reminds me of Russia a lot. I listen to it everyday while driving to work. I highly recommend it.

Rachmaninoff for Romance: Passionate Music for Love and Desire

Average customer rating:

Tear Time
The Beauty of Rachmaninoff
Applause
Beautiful
Rachmaninoff for Romance

Rachmaninoff for Romance: Passionate Music for Love and Desire

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

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Chopin and Champagne: Set Your Mood for Romance
Liszt for Lovers: Piano Dreams of Love and Passion
Tchaikovsky At Tea Time: A Refreshing Blend For Body And Spirit
Debussy for Daydreaming: Music to Caress Your Innermost Thoughts
Bach for Breakfast

ASIN: B0000041DX
Release Date: 1995-10-17

Tracks:

Vocalise For Orchestra
Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini - 18th Variation: Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini - 18th Variation (Excerpt)
Symphony No. 2 in E minor: Symphony No. 2 In E Minor - Adagio
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor: Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor - Adagio sostenuto
Prelude In D
Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor: Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor - Intermezzo (Adagio)
Symphonic Dance: Symphonic Dance - I. Non Allegro (excerpt)
Piano Concerto No. 1 In F - Sharp Minor: Piano Concerto No. 1 In F - Sharp Minor - Andante
Prelude In E-Flat
Piano Concerto No.4 In G Minor: Piano Concerto No.4 In G Minor - Largo
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor: Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor - Allegro scherzando (Excerpt)

Customer Reviews:

Tear Time.......2007-05-09

Find your loved one, get some tissue and escape into a world of desire and fantasy. All ages will love this music. Tender, soft, and relaxing with the hint of being alive again.

Donald Lindsey

The Beauty of Rachmaninoff.......2006-11-10

This album contains some of Rachmaninoff's most beautiful and romantic music which should appeal to everyone, even if you're not a classical music fan. The performances are first rate and you may even shed a few tears listening to this very emotional music. These excerpts from some of Rachmaninoff's major works may induce you to want the entire compositions for your collection.

Applause.......2002-03-12

I'll add my applause to these reviews. It's an elegant collection of Rachmaninov pieces. Simply beautiful.

Beautiful.......2001-05-21

If you are a Rachmaninov fan, this CD is a must. Of all the CD's I have of Rachmaninov, this is my favorite. The orchestra's that perform capture the essence of what he composed. It is a beautiful CD guaranteed to please. As the back of the CD states, "Rachmaninov and romance go together like Romeo and Juliet"

Rachmaninoff for Romance.......2000-04-25

I purchased this CD primarily for Trac#2--Rhapsody on a Theme by Paganini-18th Variation. I wasn't disapointed! The whole cd is very relaxing and definitly puts you in the mood. I thought the cd would contain only piano music but there are many well-orchestrated and dramatic tracs.

Average customer rating:

R plays R
Ill informed much?
Great playing - poor quality
Ripples of Greatness
Bad recording, but still a good buy

Rachmaninoff Plays Rachmaninoff

Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

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The Best Of Rachmaninoff

ASIN: B000001VHX
Release Date: 1993-11-30

Tracks:

Prelude In C Sharp Minor , Op.3, No.2
Melodie, Op.3, No.3
Polichinelle In F Sharp Minor, Op.3, No.4
Polka De V.R.
Barcarolle In G Minor, Op.10, No.3
Prelude In G Minor, Op.23, No.5
Non Allegro
Andante Con Moto (Tempo Di Valse)
Lento Assai (Allegro Vivace)

Customer Reviews:

R plays R.......2006-02-25

ok for the money but didn't have his good stuff on it.

Ill informed much?.......2005-10-12

I wouldn't usually submit a review with the express purpose of criticising someone else's view, because quite frankly, we all are allowed to form our own views and opinions..

But I feel the need to defend this recording from the very merciless and insulting review submitted earlier regarding the 'amateur pianist' on this cd having just learnt the correct notes to press but unfortunately not in the correct time..

Anyone who knows anything about Rachmaninoff should already know this..Rachmaninoff was VERY well known for having a flaire for improvising in his own pieces, and being that he is the very own composer of these pieces he is very well justified in doing so.

Case in point..Melodie in E. Sure..the triplet rhythm seems to have been completely destroyed, by the standards set by the score anyway. But sit back and listen closely and you'll notice that while Rachmaninoff has transcended the score and is turning the piece into what it should be, a fantasie, a piece of impromptu nature that should be allowed to fly with one's fancy and one's imaginations. The Barcarolle and the Prelude? Same thing. This is no "amateur pianist" pounding away without rhythm. Or if indeed this is an amateur pianist than nobody on the face of earth with the exception of Liszt himself should be allowed to qualify themselves as a pianist.

If one would care, one can examine the Memorex recordings made by Rachmaninoff issued by Decca, where the sound quality is lovingly brought back to life. But one observes, that he plays the Fantasie pieces in the very same manner, in a totally care-free and improvisational nature.

Obviously these pieces meant a lot to Rachmaninoff himself as he took the effort to record them on memorex. And obviously this manner of interpreting them is something that flows within his very nature for him to have done this MORE than ONCE.

Do not buy this record if you're looking for a stoic reading of Rachmaninoff. IN fact, do not buy ANY record of rachmaninoff playing ANYTHING if you want a stoic reading of them. Buy this record for the very sole purpose that justifies such a purchase. Buy this to listen to Rachmaninoff, the master himself.

And I highly recommend the memorex record by Decca too, if these pieces (the fantasies) have grabbed your attention. They contain the same interpretation, but with the quality and dynamics lifted to, while not what rachmaninoff would have expected or wanted, certainly surpasses any insight we have to his playing.

Great playing - poor quality.......2003-10-14

When one becomes used to crystal clear recordings in which one can detect individual notes, this recording is something of a disappointment. True, it is (allegedly) the great one himself but the outside noises are a real distraction.

I would have loved to have heard the Rock in person (as my father did) and this is supposed to be the next best thing. The bravura, the awesome technique, the lush romanticism are all present or hinted at but sound transferrance techniques can go only so far.

Ripples of Greatness.......2001-09-25

Wouldn't you love to hear Bach play his Toccatta and Fugue in Dm? Well, we can't. But we can hear the late, great Sergey Rachmaninov struttin' his stuff, playing his famous Prelude in C#m, Op. 3 No. 2. Yeah, it's taken from an old tape, but it's clear enough to be amazing. I, for one, was a little suprised to hear dynamics in his interpretation that one doesn't often hear in the performance of that piece. An historic recording certainly worth having in your audio library.

Bad recording, but still a good buy.......2000-11-23

Some of us don't have money enough for the complete works of Rachmaninoff... Granted, if you've heard the other recordings of these songs, you'll be rather confused. But Rachmaninoff is Rachmaninoff. If you're a casual listener, buy this cd. If you've never heard Rachmaninoff before, buy this cd. It's hard to go wrong for 4 dollars. If you're broke, and need a Rach fix, this is the cd for you.

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances/ Vocalise/ Etudes-tableaux

Average customer rating:

Yum! A Rachmaninoff Encore
Good Supplemental CD
Thank You
A sound engineer's dream
Turn up the volume and hang on!

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances/ Vocalise/ Etudes-tableaux

Manufacturer: Reference Recordings
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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Reveries
Copland: Fanfare; Symphony No3
Respighi: Belkis, Queen of Sheba
Exotic Dances from the Opera
Igor Stravinsky: The Firebird Suite/Nightingale/Rite of Spring

ASIN: B00005QD5Z
Release Date: 2001-10-02

Tracks:

Symphonic Dances: Non Allegro
Symphonic Dances: Andante Con Moto (Tempo Di Valse)
Symphonic Dances: Lento Assai
Vocalise
Etudes-Tableaux: The Sea And The Seagulls
Etudes-Tableaux: The Fair
Etudes-Tableaux: Funeral March
Etudes-Tableaux: Little Red Riding Hood And The Wolf
Etudes-Tableaux: March

Amazon.com

Written in 1940, the Symphonic Dances represent Rachmaninov at the peak of his powers as an orchestral composer. Less lush than his earlier works, free of sentimentality, imaginatively orchestrated, and full of lively rhythms, the piece is red meat for a virtuoso orchestra. The Minnesotans rise to the challenge with superb ensemble and countless solo turns done to perfection. Oue's interpretation, flexible and pointed, lets the dance rhythms drive the three movements and consistently strikes the right mood; just listen to the frigid trumpets that open the second movement and the swirling winds that alternate with them. The Vocalise gets a lovely reading, followed by Respighi's arrangement of five Études-Tableaux that turn those virtuoso piano pieces into deliciously orchestrated tone poems. Kick the volume control up and you get state-of-the-art sonics--solid bass, overwhelming climaxes, and dynamics as wide as a Kansas sky. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Yum! A Rachmaninoff Encore.......2006-08-08

The Symphonic Dances aren't programmed as often as they should be in the concert hall, so they amount to an extra treat. Rachmaninoff, while writing with typical brilliance, avoided repeating himself and offering another "Symphony No. 2" by choosing daring orchestration, especially the breathtaking use of the alto sax as the solo instrument in the first dance and the piano as tuned percussion. The effect is dazzling. This is a top-notch recording and makes one wonder why Eiji Oue didn't hit the big time at one of America's major orchestras instead of returning to Japan. A beautiful program expertly recorded.

Good Supplemental CD.......2005-05-09

I'll start by saying I own every cd the Minnesota Orchestra has recorded in the past 10 years. I love them all, but some stand out more than others as a definitive recording of a specific work. While I enjoy this cd, a couple of small items keep the recording of Symphonic Dances by Ashkenazy and the Concertgebouw Orchestra as my top pick. First, I am unimpressed with the principal oboe in the Minnesota Orchestra version - particularly in the first movement. The tone is harsh and sounds uncontrolled, and the intonation isn't great in the oboe/clarinet exchange halfway through the first movement. I also prefer the saxophone solo much more in the Concertgebouw recording - in the MN version the solo sounds slightly under pitch the entire time, and the phrasing lacks direction. I think the first movement of the MN recording is too slow, and the strings don't sound as rich and full as the Concertgebouw, which is strange, as I have heard both orchestras live and have always preferred the MN Orchestra string section over most any orchestra out there. With these comments said, the recording quality of the MN cd is crystal clear and it is a very solid recording - any Rachmaninov/Symphonic Dances lover will find this a good companion cd to the Concertgebouw.

Thank You.......2003-02-13

*
I agree that the quality and clarity of this recording is as good as it gets.

The Rachmaninov music is a bit different from other romantic music I've listened to. Not "bad" different. No weird stuff
here. The music changes moods. From thunderous percussion to the announcements of the trumpets, to the glassy
strings, and softer woodwinds, everything gets wrapped up into a neat package. This music has energy, imagination,
thoughtfulness, quiet action, and beauty. All of the pieces on this CD are well worth it.

I thank the reviewers here. This is one of my favorite CD's.
*

A sound engineer's dream.......2002-07-10

Let's be clear from the beginning: if there is a better-sounding CD than this one, let's hear it. Even if you don't particularly care for Rachmaninoff, or conductor Eiji Oue, or the Minnesota Orchestra, you owe to yourself to experience their work - especially when captured by one of the finest recording companies around.

I'll state right away that the "Symphonic Dances," the composer's last orchestral piece, is my favorite Rachmaninoff work. The version I treasure is (still) with Vladimir Ashkenazy conducting the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra on an outstanding Decca recording from the early 1980's (now back in print, and at a budget price, too). Ashkenazy's crisp tempi and the orchestra's dark colors suit the piece perfectly, generating a huge amount of excitement.

But even this magnificent project is trumped by this CD from Reference Recordings, a small but superb label based in San Francisco. After just one hearing, I was shaking my head in disbelief and wanting to hear more examples of the company's work.

The "Symphonic Dances" is easily worth the entire disc, with powerful rhythms and glittering orchestrations that showcase what a great orchestra can do. The "Vocalise" is lovely, and the Respighi version of the "Etudes-Tableaux" is even more fascinating if you are familiar with Rachmaninoff's original for solo piano. Throughout the program, Eiji Oue and the Minnesota Orchestra do a terrific job; great artists make this music sound easy to play. Some of Oue's tempi are slightly slower than I prefer, but there is no denying the conductor's abilities, not to mention the orchestra's virtuosity.

But it is the amazingly vivid, present, crystal-clear sound here that will make you go "wow." Some of the percussion effects, particularly from the triangle and cymbals, are breathtaking in their realism. For anyone with a state-of-the-art music system, a recording like this would probably be near-essential, if only to show off to your friends. Highly recommended, and of course begs the question, "Why can't all recordings sound like this?"

Turn up the volume and hang on!.......2002-03-09

I don't at all care for "demonstration" recordings. Whether a recording sounds just like a train, thunder or even cannon shots (1821 Overture) means nothing to me. I'm after realism in music. This disc is clearly one of the best recordings of classical music ever. The performances are really great, but I'm talking quality of recorded sound here. Up until now I would have said that either the Shaham or Carmignola versions of The Four Seasons set the standard (with perhaps the latest Sony choral version of Night On A Bare Mountain thrown in for good measure), but this recording is unbelievable. I doubt whether those without a HDCD feature on their CD player will get the full benefit of it, though. I would say out of thousands of classical CDs that I have bought this one is the one I would want to have around when I show someone the speakers I'm trying to sell them just how good those speakers can sound. I agree completely with the in-house Amazon review of how lovely the music sounds, too.

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances & Suites for 2 Pianos

Average customer rating:

Just as I thought! Incredible sound intensity!
Two virtuosos playing like a committee
More Technical Clarity Than Unabashed Romance but....
If you can avoid quibbling over pianists, this CD is a treat
Perfect balance

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances & Suites for 2 Pianos

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005QKBR
Release Date: 2001-10-16

Tracks:

Symphonic Dances For 2 Pianos, Op. 45: Allegro
Symphonic Dances For 2 Pianos, Op. 45: Andante con moto
Symphonic Dances For 2 Pianos, Op. 45: Lento assai
Suite No. 2 for 2 Pianos, Op. 17: Introduction
Suite No. 2 for 2 Pianos, Op. 17: Waltz
Suite No. 2 for 2 Pianos, Op. 17: Romance
Suite No. 2 for 2 Pianos, Op. 17: Tarantella
Suite No. 1 For 2 Pianos, Op. 5: Barcarole
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Amazon.com

Ax and Bronfman went about this project like rock stars, making the recording first (in 1999) for a tour (in 2002). Although both players are major virtuosos, technical prowess is not their first order of business. The ensemble is never loose, but it's also not as razor-sharp as in the identically programmed Argerich-Rabinovitch CD. Instead, there are two personalities at work here, each with his own expressive profile (although, lacking a seating chart, it's hard to tell which is which). These aren't Rachmaninov's greatest hits, so the disc offers gratifying discoveries to listeners who like his music. From the early, thoroughly romantic Suite No. 1, through the mature and completely typical Suite No. 2, to the composer's final work, the Symphonic Dances, all this music represents Rachmaninov at the height of his powers. For some listeners, this original two-piano version of the Dances may even be preferable to the composer's orchestration, which is effective enough, but sounds almost bloated at moments. The rich tonal qualities of the pianos, brilliantly conveyed by Sony's recording, help make these exciting performances the preferred versions of this generous selection (78:49). --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Just as I thought! Incredible sound intensity!.......2006-06-01

One day, I was reading a manga about 2 teenage pianists trying to make their dreams of being a professional pianist come true. They decided to win a competition by playing Rachmaninoff's Piano Suite No.2 Op.17, Romance Andantino.The description about the music was just amazing. I was curious of what the song maybe like, so I surfed the net and found that the song is just GREAT! For some reason I found that there's some similarity to Rachmaninoff's concertos. The sound, they just take my breath away. It's like the music is pulling me to some dreamy place. Buying this cd is really worth it!

Two virtuosos playing like a committee.......2006-01-09

The duo of Andre Previn and Vladimir Ashkenazy made recordings of these pieces in 1974 and 1978 for Decca, and those lasted a long time despite being too cautious, lacking in the fire that Rachmaninov must have. Jump to 1999 and the exciting possibility that Emmanuel Ax and Yefim Bronfman will outdo them with unleashed virtuosity. Instead, we get a carbon copy of the Previn/Ashkenazy readings. Essentially the same tempos, the same nice unanimity, the same cool interpretations--why? I can't explain the lack of excitement here except that perhaps remaining in sync was so critical that neither pianist dared to break loose.

Whatever the reason, only a few lyrical parts are inspiring, while the Symphonic Dances are a pale reflection of the thrilling orchestral version. To boot, Sony's sound, though richer in bass than the old Decca set, is nothing special: the explosiveness and power one expects is not present. All in all, a nicely played duplicaiton rather than a leap forward.

More Technical Clarity Than Unabashed Romance but...........2004-04-04

Emanuel Ax and Yefim Bronfman are major players in the contemporary Piano arena and both are highly respected for their musicality and exacting precision of execution. Hearing these three Rachmaninoff works written for two pianos played with such virtuosity is thrilling, yet for this listener the pulsating lyricism of Rachmaninoff's musical lines eludes this technically brilliant recording. The Suites 1 and 2 fair better under these four hands and it is a joy to hear these rarely heard works performed with such respect.
The SYMPHONIC DANCES, which is the last work Rachmaninoff wrote, is a dazzling orchestral work that can tug at the heart and send whirling dervishes into final ecstasy. Here Ax and Bronfman address the inner voices of the work and find the driving rhythms that propel this exciting work along, but the Romance is left wanting. For sheer luxury of exploring the work this recording belongs in your library. Just concentrate on prowess and you'll be satisfied.

If you can avoid quibbling over pianists, this CD is a treat.......2003-01-15

I am not a fan of Mr. Ax, so this was a stretch to even consider this CD for Rachmaninoff's "Symphonic Dances." However, here are the picturesque Etudes Tableaux and the rhythmically intense Suite #2. Nothing like rumbling rhythm and wide melodies for duo piano.

Back to the Symphonic Dances, which is why anyone would buy this CD in the first place. Rachmaninoff wrote this and dedicated it to the Philadelphia Orchestra, his last composition, ever. He wrote a duo piano version as well. Where the orchestral work is wonderful with colors, including a saxophone mooning mysteriously in a midnight garden, the duo piano version is like riding a ship on rollicking waves, from dawn, to hot noon, to mysterious sunset and deep twilight. I love it for piano, maybe even more than for orchestra. This is a fairly good rendition, though I lament that my vinyl version with Vronsky and Babin is not to be found remastered in CD. In short, not bad, and the other works are a bonus.

Perfect balance.......2002-12-05

I have heard many pieces by Bronfman and I have to say that he is one of my favorite pianists: he knows how to express and convey emotions incredibly well. Ax is, of course, a wonderful pianist as well - these two playing together are probably one of the best balanced duos of all the ones that have been listed in other reviews - certainly for a piece like this one. They work very well together, and know how to express most everything that this piece has to offer, without any extras - just Rachmaninov. Listening to this CD, I did not feel like there was anything missing when I did the inevitable comparison with orchestral version. I absolutely recommend it.

Sergei Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 3, Op. 44/Symphonic Dances, Op. 45

Average customer rating:

Note from OANegrin
A solid interpretation, but not a first choice.

Sergei Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 3, Op. 44/Symphonic Dances, Op. 45

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000003CZ6
Release Date: 1994-09-27

Tracks:

I. Lento - Allegro Moderato
II. Adagio Ma Non Troppo
III. Allegro - Allegro Vivace
I. Non Allegro
II. Andante Con Moto (Tempo Di Valse)
III. Lento Assai - Allegro Vivace

Customer Reviews:

Note from OANegrin.......2003-11-08

Note to fellow saxophonists:

Gary Louie is the alto saxophonist performing the solo in the first movement of this recording of Rachmaninoff's "Symphonic Dances".

OANegrin

A solid interpretation, but not a first choice........2002-02-10

David Zinman delivers a reliable, at times inspired account of the 3rd Symphony. The start of the 3rd is slack but progressively gets better, the orchestral contrasts and drama becoming more profound. The exposition repeat is in the first movement, though the movement is still a bit shorter than other recordings with the exposition repeat. The Telarc engineers manage a vivid recording, though the sound level indicates distant microphone placement, a recurring problem with their Zinman/Baltimore SO recordings.

The Symphonic Dances are full of color and energy. Overall, the Dances are the more consistently inspired of the two works on this disc.

The only real problem with this disc is that at full-price it really is uncompetitive within the field of superior recordings available at lower prices. For example, the Ashkenazy/Concertgebouw or Mackerras/Royal Liverpool PO recordings offer these two pieces at more competitive pricing. And if you only want the 3rd Symphony, then the competitive position of this disc only falls further against such masterful recordings as Ormandy/Philadelphia Orch., Stokowski/National Phil. Orch..

Album Description

Keith Lockhart is one of America's best-known young conductors, especially for his performances and recordings as Music Director of the Boston Pops. The Utah Symphony Orchestra has a long and distinguished recording history, with many titles on Angel, Vox and Reference Recordings, among others. Includes world-premiere recording of a colorful, rhythmically catchy piece by composer Gabriela Lena Frank. Frank (b. 1972) is of Peruvian and Jewish heritage, and incorporates elements of both in her compositions, as in her prize-winning An American in Peru. These audience-friendly and percussion-rich scores are a sure recipe for thrilling audiophile sonics, especially in "Prof." Johnson's transparent HDCD recording.

Average customer rating:

Treasure Trove of Rare Rachmaninov
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Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Rachmaninov: The 3 Symphonies
Rachmaninoff: Complete Works for Piano & Orchestra
Rachmaninov: His Complete Recordings
Kurt Atterberg: The Symphonies (Box Set)
Rachmaninov: The Symphonies

ASIN: B000001K5X
Release Date: 1992-11-04

Tracks:

Allegro Non Troppo 'The Silver Sleigh-Bells'
Lento 'The Mellow Wedding Bells'
Presto 'The Loud Alarum Bells'
Lento Lugubre 'The Mournful Iron Bells'
Caprice Bohemien, Op. 12
Grave; Allegro Moderato

Tracks:

Moderato: Allegro Assai 'Over The River'
Largo 'Oh! You, Vanka'
Allegro Moderato (Alla Marcia) 'Powder And Paint'
Non Allegro
Andante Con Moto; Tempo Di Valse
Lento Assai; Allegro Vivace
'Spring' Cantata For Baritone, Chorus & Orchestra, Op. 20

Tracks:

'The Isle Of The Dead' Symphonic Poem, Op. 29
'The Rock' Fantasy For Orchestra, Op. 7
Scherzo In F Major
'Prince Rostislav' Symphonic Poem After Alex Tolstoy
Vocalise For Orchestra, Op. 34 No. 14

Customer Reviews:

Treasure Trove of Rare Rachmaninov .......2006-07-02

This is one of my most prized Rachmaninov Cds, and it is one I have owned for well over a decade. Whenever I rediscover it in my collection, I am amazed at how well it stands up, to say nothing of the incredible breadth of repertoire! Slatkin is an inspired Rachmaninov interpreter, and the St. Louis Symphony plays extremely well for him (as it does on his great collection of the Symphonies). The more popular works may not be the absolute best available, but they offer some fresh insights and can stand up with the best. It's very well recorded, too.

The big surprises here are the relatively unknown Rachmaninov: Caprice Boheme, Prince Rostislav, "Youth" Symphony, Scherzo, Spring, and the incredible Three Russian Songs. Except for the lsat two works, these are all early pieces, some extremely so: the Scherzo was written by a 13 year-old Rachmaninov who was tinkering in Mendelssohn's style. Nevertheless, it's a remarkable piece that plays well despite its derivative nature. Though the "Youth" Symphony (like the Scherzo and the First Symphony, in D Minor) and the symphonic poem, Prince Rostislav, where never published with an opus number, they are extremely indicative of Rachmaninov's style and very impressive pieces. The "Youth" Symphony reflects the darkness of the First Symphony, but is more claustrophobic and less expansive (perhaps why he abandoned it). It contains a brooding, Isle of the Dead-like atmosphere, and features a very memorable, yearning melody which is Rachmaninov through and through. And even more distinguished melody is found in Prince Rostislav--extremely Russian (in terms of The Five), and as passionate as anything he would write in his symphonies or concertos. This is a fascinating discovery, a bit reminiscent of Balakriev's Tamara or Rimsky's Sadko, but extremely impressive nonetheless.

His more mature music is found in the Caprice Boheme on "Gypsy Themes," which is in the tradition of Tchaikovsky's Capriccio Italien. It's an extremely confident work, bold in orchestration, and surprisingly upbeat for the melancholy early Rachmaninov (compare it to The Rock, for example). It has great melodies and an extremely wild climax at the end. It's sad to think how this confident, creative artist's spirits would be dashed by the colossal failure of his First Symphony's premier.

Spring and the Three Russian Songs are getting more exposure these days, but they remain little explored. Spring was written after Rachmainov's creative "spring" following the successful Second Concerto. It is contemporary with it, the Cello Sonata, and the Second Suite for Two Pianos. It's back to Rachmaninov's more bleak outlook, but it's masterfully written and has an operatic sense of drama and conflict. The ending of the piece dissolves into a touching portrait of spring and forgiveness, even if Rimsky criticized it (somewhat ridiculously) for lacking the true character of the season (it's based on a Nekraskov poem, most of which takes place in the winter, which is admirably captured). The Three Russian Songs is one of his last orchestral works, and one of his most poignant. Each brief song is brilliantly captured in nostalgic orchestral colors, simple, spare, and heartbraking. This was music of Rachmaninov the exile, as exhibited in his two masterpieces, the Third Symphony and the Symphonic Dances. It's hard not to hear this piece as a reflection of a world he could never return to, since it no longer existed. The last song, Powder and Paint, is possibly the catchiest piece he ever wrote--profoundly Russian in spirit and extremely memorable.

As for the more popular works, the Symphonic Dances comes off best, with a lot of drive and momentum (without forsaking its lyricism). The Bells is also excellent, though for some reason it is sung in English, unlike the other choral selections. This isn't terrible (Poe wrote in English, after all!), but it's not ideal, either. Isle of the Dead is atmospheric and exciting, though the big climax could be more despairing. The Rock, however, is beautifully done, and is possibly the best recording I own--it makes a forceful argument for this often ignored work.

In short, this is an essential investment, and well worth the money. I also strongly suggest Slatkin's survey of the symphonies, which is inspired and well-recorded. Best of all, in our age of cd-burning, you can rearrange all the pieces on this disc, and couple them with the symphonies, which are unfortunately broken up over 2 discs in Slatkin's collection.

Mature Symphonic Works.......2006-04-15

These symphonic poems are beautifully played with sound that is perfectly clear and natural. Even though this is a budget set, I actually prefer the dances on this set over my Bernstein/New York version! Extrodinary!

Magnificent Bells, Fine Dances, Terric Isle.......1999-11-22

Symphony of the Bells, a choral symphony not numbered in Rachy's canon is a magnificient work, and here is given a worthy performance by all involved, even Slatkin letting his hair down a bit. The Symphonic Dances are also impressive, although not my first choice. What is remarkable on this disc (in addition to the opportunity to hear less-popular Rachmaninoff) is the Isle of the Dead. Overwhelming climaxes, and wonderful atmosphere. The only complaint is when the first violins enter for the first time in the stratosphere; it's hardly out of tune, but it could've been more ethereal, an affect rarely achieved on record anyway. The playing is superb, the engineering is above average, but doesn't match the performances.

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Aleko Overture

Average customer rating:

A Fabulous Modern Performance
Brilliant Sound and Great Passion
Compassion for Passion: Rachmaninov and Temirkanov
Temirkanov's Rachmaninov
The Symphonic Dances are a revelation!

Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Aleko Overture
Sergey Rachmaninoff , Yuri Temirkanov , St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra , and Dmitri Alexeyev
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 2; Vocalise, op. 34
Rachmaninov: Symphonies 1 - 3
Sergei Rachmaninoff: Symphony No. 3, Op. 44/Symphonic Dances, Op. 45
Prokofiev: Violin Concertos 1 & 2; Sonata for Solo Violin
Russian Sketches

ASIN: B000003FRT
Release Date: 1995-01-10

Tracks:

Aleko Overture
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Introduction And Variation 1
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Theme
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 2
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 3
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 4
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 5
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 6
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 7
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 8
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 9
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 10
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation11
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 12
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 13
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 14
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 15
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 16
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 17
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 18
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 19
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 20
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 21
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 22
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 23
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini: Variation 24
Symphonic Dances: I. Non allegro
Symphonic Dances: II. Andante con moto (Tempo di valse)
Symphonic Dances: III. Lento assai

Customer Reviews:

A Fabulous Modern Performance.......2006-03-03

Record buyers are indeed fortunate to have such a tremendous performance of the Symphonic Dances available. I find this more to my liking than the overwrought version by Ashkenazy. This performance is more colorful and less dark in sensibility.
Buyers who really enjoy this music and who are not adverse to owning more than one copy of a piece would be wise to also grab a copy of the Dances performed by the Philadelphia under Ormandy. (Before it is deleted.) On an inexpensive budget label it still remains the champ for sheer majesty of orchestra sounds. The piece was composed with the Philadelphians' huge orchestral weight in mind, and their performance shows off just how fabulous an orchestra they were. The opening fortes alone give the effect of unlimited reserves. Sort of the Caruso of orchestras if you will. One of the great orchestra recordings of its era.

Brilliant Sound and Great Passion .......2006-01-17

This is an excellent digital successor to Kiril Kondrashin's outstanding 1963 analog recording. The first time I heard The Symphonic Dances was the recording by Kondrashin and the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra. I listened to it over and over again, carried to the heights of musical ecstasy by his fiery interpretation brimming over with passion. I then heard Ashkenazy's versions and Janson's. They were not as good.

But now, I've heard this magnificent recording. I still hold a preference for Kondrashin, who brings out with tremendous intensity all of the passion in this work. But there is also lyricism, poetry, and tenderness in the slow passages of this composition. In bringing out these qualities, Temirkanov and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra excel and are as wonderful as Kondrashin. As for the faster and louder passages, the ones that make me think of horsemen charging through the snow, if they don't quite equal the burning intensity of Kondrashin's version, they come fairly close. When one adds the fact that this recording was made in 1992 in crisp, clear, 20-bit digital, where you can hear the finely etched detail of the sound of the saxophone, the English horn, the clarinets, bassoons, trumpets, violins, and booming drums with outstanding clarity, it's a great musical joy to experience. In comparison, the sound of the 1963 remastered analog recording by Kondrashin, while it is quite good, just doesn't have quite the same level of clarity as this recording.

Two extra bonuses are the brief but beautiful Aleko overture that begins this CD and the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. Until now, I have sworn by the 1956 recording by Rubinstein, with Fritz Reiner and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. I still like, even love that recording. But I absolutely adore this one. Dimitri Alexeev is clearly a gifted pianist and he gives a performance that would probably move Rachmaninov himself, much as Horowitz's performance of his Second Piano Concerto did in fact move him when he was alive.

Not only are Temirkanov, Alexeev, and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic all wonderful as they perform this composition with sublime subtlety and consummate virtuoso technique, but the very clear digital sound brings out details and nuances in this performance that are not as apparent or striking on the 1956 Rubinstein/Reiner recording. Just one example: Variation 17, just before the famous Variation 18. The horns come in with a long, slow, mournful note; then, the violins appear and disappear, rise and fall, retreat and return, playing a tremelo that is at once delicate yet tense, brooding, expectant, exciting, like the rising and falling tides of the sea, yet so delicate that the sound is also like the fluttering wings of a hummingbird. In the Rubinstein/Reiner recording, the horns and violins in the 17th Variation are there also, but further in the background, having a subdued fuzzy sound in comparison to the Alexeev/Termirkanov recording. Hence, the impact is not nearly as powerful on the older recording.

In fact, it was only on hearing this CD that the beauty of this passage first struck me. Only then did I go back to the Rubinstein/Reiner CD, wondering how I could have missed it when I listened to it so many times. Of course, when I listened to the Rubinstein/Reiner recording, I realized why this passage had never moved or impressed me before - there is only so much that can be done in the CD remastering process, even with the best sound engineering in the world, with a 1956 recording. The Alexeev/Temirkanov recording was made 36 years later, in 1992.

First rate modern recording technology, the excellent acoustics of London's Blackheath Concert Hall, an outstanding Russian conductor and Russian orchestra, with a brilliant Russian pianist, all rendering homage with their musical heart and soul to a great Russian composer, showing their devotion to and love for his music - what more could one ask for?

Just when you think it couldn't get any better, there is an extra bit of icing put on the cake: a very nice CD insert that is well-written, detailed, interesting and informative. As the reviewer Keith Peters very rightly points out below, the liner notes by Steven Ledbetter are beautifully written and the story they tell of the composition of the Symphonic Dances is indeed poignant. This is a wonderful CD. Very Highly Recommended.

Compassion for Passion: Rachmaninov and Temirkanov.......2005-04-02

Hold on to your seats! This recording of the Rachmaninov SYMPHONIC DANCES is passionate and breathtakingly performed by Yuri Temirkanov and his St Petersberg Philharmonic Orchestra. Though many critics have dismissed the works of Rachmaninov as mundane and adding little to the musical growth of the 20th century, and especially relegating the Symphonic Dances as the prime example of his 'empty music', the impact of Rachmaninov's works on audiences remains sustainably strong. His symphonies and piano concerti are standard repertoire with every orchestra, (the inimitable melodies within these works are part of our brain functioning!) and time is proving that his 'Symphonic Dances' is one of his strongest works. If ever there were a case for this thesis it is in this remarkable recording.

Not to dismiss the other works on this CD (the rarely performed overture to 'Aleko' and the "Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini" here performed with great feeling and agility by Dmitri Alexeyev), but the album title is there for a reason. Temirkanov swoops into the Dances with such lust and vigor and then draws out the long lines of string sensuality to such an extent that the mood is nearly unbearable. This is without a doubt the finest recording of the Symphonic Dances available!
Grady Harp, April 05

Temirkanov's Rachmaninov.......2005-01-10

As with other recordings of well known works (particularly Russian), and as an orchestral performer, I'm constantly amazed at the musicality of Maestro Temirkanov's recordings. The Rhapsody manages to acheive insights I've never heard before, as a player or listener. The Symphonic Dances are stunning; I find myself listening to them over and over. I, for one, think Temirkanov is one of the greatest living conductors, and definitely the most musical. St. Petersberg is also terrific. Only thing missing is a 5.1 recording of this.

The Symphonic Dances are a revelation!.......2000-10-20

Like most people, I'm familiar with Rachmaninoff's two big concerti,(the 2nd and 3rd), the second Symphony, the Paganini Rhapsody and some of the piano works. But I had no idea that his penultimate composition, the Symphonic Dances was so good. This performance by Yuri Temirkanov and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra proves it. The beautifully written liner notes by Steven Ledbetter also tell the poignant story behind the composition of Symphonic Dances (dedicated, by the way to Eugene Ormandy and the Philadelphia Orchestra) The recording, by veteran Red Seal producer Jay David Saks is incredible, making the recent decision by BMG to drastically cut their classical product especially regretable. With great recordings like this coming from this source, I hope BMG reverses their decision. Even if you don't care for Rachmaninoff, I would urge you to get this recording. You won't regret it.

Average customer rating:

Rachmaninoff Greatest Hits

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B00008RV2I
Release Date: 2003-04-08

Tracks:

Variation No.18 - Tamas Vasary
Prelude In C Sharp Minor, Op.3 No.2 - Lazar Berman
Prelude No.5 In G Minor, Op.23 - Vladimir Ashkenazy
Allegro Scherzando - Jean-Yves Thibaudet
Adagio - Valery Gergiev
Tarantella - Andre Previn
Vocalise, Op.34 No.14 - Lorin Maazel
In The Silence Of The Night, Op.4 No.3 - Dmitri Hvorostovsky
Allegro Scherzando - Heinrich Schiff
Spring Waters, Op.14 No.11 - Dmitri Hvorostovsky
Lord, Now Lettest Thou Thy Servant Depart In Peace - St. Petersburg Chamber Choir
Allegro Ma Non Tanto - Tom Krause
Non Allegro - Vladimir Ashkenazy

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