Solo

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Born in Paris of Chinese parents, educated and anchored in America, performing on every continent, Yo-Yo Ma is a true citizen of the world by heritage, disposition, and choice. Dauntlessly adventurous, he has explored musical styles from baroque and classical to bluegrass, jazz, and electronic; now he has embarked on a study of the cultural traditions of the peoples along the historic Silk Road that brought Asia and Europe together. This disc is the first step on that journey of discovery; it is fascinating, and Ma is the perfect guide. Sheng's Seven Chinese Tunes are beautiful and each has its own character; the cello is tuned down for sonority. Wilde's lamentatious The Cellist of Sarajevo honors the cellist who played in that city's streets every day to commemorate the dead. Tcherepnin's rhapsodic Suite in three contrasting movements has a distinctly Chinese flavor. O'Connor's Appalachia Waltz was originally written for three instruments; with double stops and drones, it sounds perfectly self-sufficient. Indeed, Ma's playing throughout is stunning: it often seems impossible that one man and one instrument can create such a wealth of sounds. His tone is invariably pure and beautiful, sonorous as an organ on the low strings, radiant on top; he negotiates the most hair-raising pyrotechnics with apparent ease, his palette of colors is unlimited, and he is at home in every style and idiom. He even gives the fiendishly difficult Kodály sonata--with its incredible sound effects and fireworks--musical and emotional expression, making it sing, speak, shout, whisper, dance, and cry. --Edith Eisler

Solo, Music, Yo-Yo Ma, Bright Sheng, David Wilde, Mark O'Connor, Cello Solo, Chamber, Chamber Music, Chamber Music & Recitals, Classical, Classical Artists, Classical Crossover, Classical Music
Memory Almost Full [Deluxe Limited Edition]
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Memory almonst full
  • 65 and still going strong
  • Good music, poorly engineered recording
  • Time to retire and rest on your laurels
  • Paul is still on top !
 Memory Almost Full [Deluxe Limited Edition]
Paul McCartney
Manufacturer: Hear Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Traveling Wilburys (2CD/1DVD, Deluxe Edition)
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  4. Instant Karma: The Amnesty International Campaign to Save Darfur
  5. The U.S. vs. John Lennon

ASIN: B000PMLFRU
Release Date: 2007-06-05

Tracks:

  1. Dance Tonight
  2. Ever Present Past
  3. See Your Sunshine
  4. Only Mama Knows
  5. You Tell Me
  6. Mr. Bellamy
  7. Gratitude
  8. Vintage Clothes
  9. That Was Me
  10. Feet In The Clouds
  11. House of Wax
  12. The End Of The End
  13. Nod Your Head

Tracks:

  1. In Private
  2. Why So Blue
  3. 222
  4. Paul talks about the music of Memory Almost Full

Amazon.com

"Many years from now" must have seemed like an understatement to 16-year-old Paul McCartney, wondering if he'd still be needed or fed at the age of 64. As it turned out, all doubt as to the latter had ceased by his 22nd birthday (though few could have predicted he'd end up washing down those meals with the liquid pride of Seattle). As to the former? Now that McCartney, as of the date of this album's release, has reached that mythic age, his greatest work is 40 years behind him, his solo peak over 30 years gone. Does the world need a new Paul McCartney album? The answer is yes, at least as much as it needs anything else that passes for music these days. With Memory Almost Full, Macca is back. No, it's not Ram or Band on the Run. It might not even be Flowers in the Dirt--in 1989, he had a full band, the support of Linda, and Elvis Costello as a collaborator. Here, he's on his own. Literally: on the majority of the tracks, everything but the strings is multi-instrumentalist Paul. But the surprise is that it's one of his freest, loosest affairs in years, sonically reminiscent of the Tug of War/Pipes of Peace era with nods to Abbey Road in the album-closing medley, McCartney's gravelly tones on "Gratitude," and 2007's version of "Her Majesty," the palate-cleansing "Nod Your Head." It's a surprise because of the album's inescapable sense of retrospection ("Ever Present Past," "Vintage Clothes," "That Was Me") and even a bit of weariness. The next-to-last song is "The End of the End," after all, in which McCartney tells us about what he'd like to happen "on the day that I die." (He wants "songs that were sung/to be hung out like blankets/that lovers have played on/and laid on while listening to songs that were sung," and will likely get his wish.) But it never gets overwhelming, for McCartney mostly resists his tendency to get plodding and maudlin. In fact, Memory Almost Full must be the most sanguine album made during the dissolution of a marriage since...well, ever. "What went out is coming back," he sings in "Vintage Clothes," and from the sound of things, that may not be just wishful thinking. What's past is prologue; if we're lucky, what to come may be McCartney's late renaissance. --Benjamin Lukoff

Album Description

The 13 new songs on Memory Almost Full are performed entirely by Paul McCartney (excluding strings) and produced by Grammy Award-winner David Kahne (The Strokes, Sublime, Bruce Springsteen and more).

This beautifully-packaged, deluxe limited edition also comes with a 2nd disc that contains 3 unreleased bonus tracks and audio commentary by Paul McCartney describing the music, 6 foldout color postcard-sized photos, and full lyrics.

More Paul McCartney

Band on the Run
Ram
Wingspan: Hits and History

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Memory almonst full.......2007-07-22

Typical McCartney material. Great to listen to in the car - gets your feet tapping and makes you sing along to it.

5 out of 5 stars 65 and still going strong.......2007-07-22

This is a great album. Buy the deluxe edition; the interview with Paul on the bonus disc alone is well worth the price.

4 out of 5 stars Good music, poorly engineered recording.......2007-07-18

I must admit that I'm somewhat surprised by the number of negative reviews I've seen for this album. I thought Paul came up with some good melodies here. The musicianship is first-rate. Paul's voice is in pretty good shape. Sure, there are times when the lyrics could've been better, but that's typical McCartney. Folks, if you didn't like this album at first, try listening to it a bit more. I think it's a heck of a lot better than most of the pop/rock being produced today. And let's not even talk about rap and hip-hop (yuck). This CD set contains songs that are fun to sing, complete with melodic twists and variations in tempo. You wouldn't think those would be such rare qualities in today's music, but they are.

I agree with the reviewer who was critical of the recording. One of the worst examples is "Only Mama Knows". Most of the song is pushed to the absolute limit of CD volume. There's no actual clipping indicated when the track is viewed on a good audio editing program, but it sounds like there was clipping at some stage of the recording/mixing process. The effect of this is distortion and almost no dynamic range. I suspect a remastered version of this album will be issued years from now, and the volume problem will be fixed. And, yes, I'll probably be foolish enough to buy it.

1 out of 5 stars Time to retire and rest on your laurels.......2007-07-18

To say that I am disappointed in this compilation of McCartney music is an uderstatement. What was Sir Paul smoking when he conceived this idea? He has written these stupid essays and sung them into songs. And the essays are terrible and mindless.

Sir Paul, you are 64 and I will still send you a valentine, if you stop writing trashy music. And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make. This one is sad.

It is time to retire and rest on your laurels.

5 out of 5 stars Paul is still on top !.......2007-07-16

Paul is still on top of his game !
Excellent music !!!
Recommend to all.
Songs from the Labyrinth (Music by John Dowland)
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • Very disappointing
  • *sigh*
  • Elizabethan Music
  • Vibe shift
  • Gorgeous, pure and unexpected
 Songs from the Labyrinth (Music by John Dowland)

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Not Too Late
  2. An Ancient Muse
  3. Wintersong
  4. James Taylor at Christmas
  5. Fields of Gold: The Best of Sting 1984-1994

ASIN: B000HXDESU
Release Date: 2006-10-10

Tracks:

  1. Walsingham
  2. Can she excuse my wrongs?
  3. Ryght honorable: as I have bin most bounde unto your honor Â…
  4. Flow my tears
  5. Have you seen the bright lily grow
  6. Then in time passing on Mr. Johnson diedÂ…
  7. The Most High and Mighty Christianus the Fourth, King of Denmark
  8. The lowest trees have tops
  9. And accordinge as I desired ther cam a letterÂ…
  10. Fine knacks for ladies
  11. From thenc I went to the Landgrave of HessenÂ…
  12. Fantasy
  13. Come, heavy sleep
  14. Forlorn Hope Fancy
  15. And from thence I had great desire to see ItalyÂ…
  16. Come again
  17. Wilt thou unkind thus reave me
  18. After my departure I caled to mynde our conferenceÂ…
  19. Weep you no more, sad fountains
  20. My Lord WilloughbyÂ’s Welcome Home
  21. Clear or cloudy
  22. Men say that the Kinge of Spain is making gret preparationÂ…
  23. In darkness let me dwell

Amazon.com

In choosing to cover the music of John Dowland (1563-1626), who is known as the "melancholy madrigalist" from his output of cheerful ditties like "Flow My Tears," Police bandleader Sting has entered into a whole new realm of austere eeriness. Originally inspired by the gift of a lute, the rock superstar and activist sings the songs, deliciously sweet and tender or spirited by turn, accompanying himself, with Edin Karamazov sitting on lute and archlute. For listeners accustomed to hearing material of this period interpreted by rigorously trained early music stylists, especially countertenors and the like, Sting's sometimes tight-jawed, chest-heavy vocals may seem amateurish. It's undeniable that in four-part harmonies, the singer, tightly overdubbed, comes across like a combination of the Swingle Singers and Queen (meaning Freddy Mercury and crew, NOT the first Elizabeth). But it's important to remember that music of this period was routinely heard as a casual diversion in private homes, even more often than at Court. It was considered a crucial social skill to be able to join in with an adequate degree of skill, but not everyone was able to negotiate the perilous melodic twists and turns typical of the era's music. With this in mind, the overall effect is of a candle-lit, postprandial entertainment in the home of an English gentleman. Muttered readings from Dowland's letters and brief snippets of sampled birdsong aside, it is a courageous effort, displaying heartfelt admiration for the composer and a considerable degree of earnest charm. --Christina Roden

Album Description

StingÂ's Songs From The Labyrinth is an album of 17th century music composed by John Dowland and performed on the lute, an ancient acoustic guitar. After being given a lute nearly two years ago as a gift, Sting became fascinated and immersed himself with the instrument and the history of lute music. Reminded of his almost 25 year long enthrallment with the works of John Dowland, the Elizabethan composer who wrote songs for the lute, Sting has recorded a new album of vocal and lute music. All songs were composed by Dowland in the 17th century, but have been given new life in these fresh new recordings by Sting. Sting not only sings all the songs (accompanied by leading lutenist Edin Karamasov, who appears on two Andreas Scholl albums), but also plays lute on two instrumental duets with Edin and reads short extracts from a fascinating autobiographical letter by Dowland. Sting has also written a brilliant account of the album's genesis, along with notes on the individual tracks, which serves as the CD booklet.

Customer Reviews:

2 out of 5 stars Very disappointing.......2007-07-19

As we all know, the music of John Dowland is lovely. When played by Paul Odette or Julian Bream it is exquisite. However, this production is almost depressing. Sting's gravelly voice finally grated on me and I probably won't play this again. The lute performance is mediocre also. The best song is that which they use to promote the album. Pass on this one.

2 out of 5 stars *sigh*.......2007-07-16

I am a lutenist myself, who had experience as both a rock guitarist and a classically trained clarinetist before also picking up the lute. I have a great love for Dowland that comes from years of playing his songs myself as well as hearing great musicians (like Paul O'Dette) play them. And this CD makes me sad.

In a way, it doesn't surprise me that Sting would do this. For years now he's been trying to gain cred in the classical music world (I have a 1988 recording of him doing Stravinsky's A Soldier Tale that delighted me when I was 16 and musically ignorant, but now makes my eyes roll into the back of my head). What upsets me is he had to do something that's initimately important to me as a musician. The is problem is that when it comes this kind of music, as others have said, he IS an amatuer, and all his heavy-handed, juvenile earnesty and clumsy, misplaced intensity just drains out all the joy I would normally experience from these songs. Moreover, he's voice isn't merely "untrained" - it's *shot* from years of strain caused by bad "rock" vocal technique. It's just pitiful to listen to in such an exposed context. If you think this is how these songs ought to be intrepreted, you're sadly mistaken.

There are people who would call Sting a "pop genius, " laud him and hand him all sort of impressive looking awards and honors, but this is the music of a real genius, someone who knew not just how to write lyrics that hit home with his audience, but as how to compose songs with unparallel grace, form and sophistication in an idiosyncratic style that bridged convention and innovation. And Sting simply cannot do Dowland's music justice. He just doesn't have the chops or the insight. It's great he's supposedly "studied" this music and that he wrote lengthy, flowery liner notes, but did he really need to record this CD for any reason that his own self-satisfaction? It's far too obvious he hasn't done the same level of groundwork of countless Early Music musicians who don't do this a hobby or avocation from political causes or high-profile celebrity, but as their sole passion. Why couldn't he simply support those musicians, without trying to grab some spotlight for himself? Having a decent lutenist as a sidekick just isn't enough to pull him up from his amatuerly, self-important bog, either. Frankly, he just doesn't get it, and at this stage, I don't think he will.

Early music lovers don't need someone like Sting to bring this music to us - we've been doing just fine without him because we have so many other, really wonderful musicians around to keep this music alive. Someone else recommended Nigel Rogers and Paul O'Dette, and I would gladly recommend them over this celebrity-fuel nonsense as well. Yes these are both musicians with academic backgrounda, but that doesn't mean they are academic musicians - far from it. They just have to hold down teaching positions and do master classes because they don't have a pop career to play the bills. Musicially and professionally, they're what Early Music musicians ought to be - dedicated, educated, passionate and yet they don't have any need to take themselves this deathly seriously.

3 out of 5 stars Elizabethan Music.......2007-07-12

This is the audio component of an hour long video made by Sting on the work of Elizabethan composer John Dowland. (The video does adds greatly to the value as it places the music against the background and age (16th C) for which it was written.) Sting's voice is light tenor and right for these poems set to music about everlasting human concerns that persist to our day. But you'll not see those wonderful lutes that accompany the words, so complex to play with a beauty of sound not heard today. Between his music Sting gives an excellent spoken commentary to complete an attractive presentation of esoteric classical music with a modern undertone.

5 out of 5 stars Vibe shift.......2007-07-10

Why bother? Still would like to say i love the 'shift' it takes to get into this music and how i (and my home) feel when i've enter this rather rarified realm of listening.

5 out of 5 stars Gorgeous, pure and unexpected.......2007-07-06

This music is so pure, so clean, so well performed by two excellent musicians, Edin Karamasov, and Sting, that it put shivers up my spine. Edin is an excellent classical lutenist and Sting's tenor voice is perfect for the music. It was a surprise hearing a rock musician perform this music, but Sting always surprises, continuing to develop as a musican. I will hear this one in my sleep, echoing.
Romanza
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Bias I Confess
  • An Italianized Englishman...
  • Romancing the listeners
  • Amazing!!!
  • Andrea in the 90's
 Romanza
Andrea Bocelli
Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Andrea Bocelli - Amore
  2. Sogno
  3. Andrea
  4. Cieli di Toscana
  5. Time to Say Goodbye

ASIN: B0000041OG
Release Date: 1997-09-23

Tracks:

  1. Con Te Partiro
  2. Vivere
  3. Per Amore
  4. Il Mare Calmo Della Sera
  5. Caruso
  6. Macchine Da Guerra
  7. Le Tue Parole
  8. Vivo Per Lei
  9. Romanza
  10. La Luna Che Non C'e
  11. Rapsodia
  12. Voglio Restare Cosi
  13. E Chiove
  14. Miserere-Live
  15. Time To Say Goodbye (Con Te Partiro) - A Tribute To Henri Maske

Amazon.com essential recording

From his childhood on the family farm in rural Tuscany to the worldwide stage, Andrea Bocelli has achieved phenomenal success. His singing is only partially the point, and his fame owes much more to the aura of romance and the romantic archetype that's attached to him. Romanza is by far Bocelli's largest success, winning adoration thanks to the swooning vocals and the easy, sometimes lush, always pop-safe instrumental textures and melodies. As far as his opera chops go, Bocelli has won the approval of Pavarotti but likely will not wow enthusiasts. The upside is that Bocelli will likely grow the opera pie, convincing labels to take on more operatic projects. --Andrew Bartlett

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Bias I Confess.......2007-07-06

I confess to loving Italian music and opera in addition to Rock & Roll, Country and music in general.

This music is good when you want to relax or have a lady over 40 you want to entertain.

3 out of 5 stars An Italianized Englishman..........2007-06-01

Is the Devil incarnate." (Inglese italianato e un diavolo incarnate) Or so I've heard. I suppose the author (I read it in a copy of Machiavelli's The Prince) could be forgiven for not having heard Don Bocelli and Donna Brightman sing "Con Te Partiro" - can we now say Inglese italianata e un angelo incarnate?

The rest of the album is a collection of ballads, most of which suffer from weak or clashing instrumentals. An exception is "Macchine Da Guerra" which has a pleasant and comparatively strong piano accompaniment.

I'd like to thank Kenny McCormick of South Park, CO for turning me on to Don Bocelli.

5 out of 5 stars Romancing the listeners.......2007-05-30

What a voice, it soars with the arias and bops with the more contemporary. Especially love the song about Caruso. Andrea is un cantante bello, un uomo bello! Turn this one up with the top down and let it sing you home.

5 out of 5 stars Amazing!!!.......2007-05-18

I bought this cd again after losing my original copy that I bought the year it was released. Out of all my Bocelli cds this is my favorite. It has a good mix of classic opera with popera and really shows his abilities. I have used this cd to turn people on to opera and popera, and the results have been incredible! Once you hear him, you cannot deny his talent and passion. Simply AMAZING!!!

4 out of 5 stars Andrea in the 90's.......2007-04-20

Andrea is incredible.His romantic poetry with music is unparalleled.The only downside to this album is the inescapable 90's feel.If you don't mind it,then buy this album.If you do,then buy 'Time To Say Goodbye'off iTunes and get Sogno,Andrea,or Cieli di Toscana.
Alone: Ballads for Solo Piano
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Peaceful Piano
 Alone: Ballads for Solo Piano

Manufacturer: Decca U.S.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000PIU1KQ
Release Date: 2007-06-26

Tracks:

  1. Angel Eyes
  2. Second Time Around
  3. André's Blues
  4. Darkest Before the Dawn
  5. What Is This Thing Called Love
  6. Night And Day
  7. Bewitched, Bothered And Bewildered
  8. I Can't Get Started
  9. My Ship
  10. Skylark
  11. I Didn't Know What Time It Was/ A Ship Without A Sail
  12. It Might As Well Be Spring
  13. You're Gonna Hear From Me

Amazon.com

From the start of his intermittent side career as a jazz pianist, esteemed conductor and composer Andre Previn has shown more feeling for the form than most classical artists who cross over. Going beyond a recreational involvement in improvised music, he has deepened his playing since skimming stylistic surfaces on his bestselling My Fair Lady album of nearly 50 years ago. Now 78, he gives us what may be his most satisfying jazz recording in Alone: Ballads for Solo Piano. The solo format allows him to reflect his debt to piano masters including Art Tatum, Erroll Garner, and Bud Powell in ways his work with trios and combos hasn't, while showing off his super-refined lyrical touch with its sophisticated sense of color. With its scampering stride touches, "What is This Thing Called Love" is the most upbeat of ballads, while "I Can't Get Started" is given a more gentle awakening. With the exception of "Darkest Before the Dawn," an obscure tune Previn wrote with Johnny Mercer for the British musical The Good Companions, the album touches familiar bases: Rodgers & Hammerstein, Rogers & Hart, Cole Porter, Kurt Weill, Hoagy Carmichael. But invested with personal meaning, this is no typical standards survey. It lives up to the challenge of making your hear these songs in a new light. --Lloyd Sachs

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Peaceful Piano.......2007-07-19

This is a very relaxing and enjoyable CD. It feels like he is playing in my living room. I love the song selections and improvisation. Great for jazz lovers and piano lovers.
The Great Recordings
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • RIP, BEVERLY SILLS 1929-2007
  • Brava Sills!
  • Sills fits my bill
  • The Great American Soprano
  • My Favorite Woman
 The Great Recordings

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0001Y4JG6
Release Date: 2004-05-11

Tracks:

  1. Son Vergin Vezzosa - Paul Plishka
  2. Eccomi... Oh! Quante Volte
  3. Mira, O Norma
  4. Santo Di Patria... Allor Che I Forti Corrono... Da Te Questo
  5. Contro Un Cor Che Accende Amore - Nicolai Gedda
  6. Che M'apporti? - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
  7. Quel Sangue Versato Al Cielo S'innalza - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
  8. Vorrei Spiegarvi, Oh Dio, K.418
  9. Amor, Op.68 No.5

Tracks:

  1. Martern Aller Arten
  2. E Strano! E Strano!
  3. Ah, Fors'e Lui
  4. Follie! Follie!
  5. Sempre Libera
  6. Ces Murs Silencieux - Pardonnez-moi, Dieu De Toute Puissance - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
  7. Toi! Vous! - Oui! Je Fus Cruelle Et Coupable! - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
  8. N'est-ce Plus Ma Main? - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
  9. Robert, Toi Que J'aime
  10. Tu Ne Chanteras Plus?
  11. Chere Enfant Que J'appele
  12. Meine, Lippen, Die Kusen So Heiss
  13. Wien, Wien, Nur Du Allein
  14. Always Through The Changing

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars RIP, BEVERLY SILLS 1929-2007.......2007-07-03

The great American diva's passing was announced today.

This wonderful CD set is a perfect compilation of her art as can be found anywhere. Her finest roles and performances are captured here, most of them derived from the Westminster/Audio Treasury recordings from her prime. Listening to them again demonstrates to me why she was so special, and such an inspiration to music lovers everywhere.

5 out of 5 stars Brava Sills!.......2007-02-02

A very nice compilation of Sillsiana. The different cuts on this CD provide a nice illustration of her work. Let me briefly describe my response to a sampling of the works on this CD:

Bellini, I Puritani, "Son vergin vezzosa." Wonderful. Sutherland owns this--but so does Beverly Sills. Contemporary sopranos such as Netrebko and Gruberova have also sung this on their respective CDs, and while their product is nice, it simply does not compare. Sills is remarkably agile with her voice; the trills are well done; she cleanly hits high notes; the overall effect can only be described as wonderful.

Bellini, Norma, "Mira, o Norma". This is smoothly sung and very melodic. The technique that she exhibits does not overwhelm the music.

Rosini, Il Barbiere di Siviglia, "Contro un cor che accende amore." Again, her agile voice is well deployed. The florid singing is well done.

Donizetti, Roberto Devereaux, "Che m'apporti." Her clean, light voice matches well with this aria. Smoothly sung. Her "Quel sangue versato al cielo s'innalza," which follows, is well done. High notes cleanly hit, a smooth line.

Verdi, La Traviata, "E strano. . . .Sempre libera." Again, what agility! In "Sempre libera," she reveals a rich voice and, again, wonderful agility. This is an animated version of one of Verdi's showcase pieces.

Lehar, Giudetta. "Meine Lippen." A lot of fun! This is smoothly sung.

In the final analysis, this is a nice potpourri of Beverly Sills' repertoire. Those not familiar with her work will find this a nice entree to her oeuvre; those familiar with her will find this a good compilation.

5 out of 5 stars Sills fits my bill.......2006-03-13

This recording is another in an all too small CD collection of Sills recordings. I eagerly await more.

5 out of 5 stars The Great American Soprano.......2005-10-01

This is a great collecition featuring arias from the Classical and Romantic periods. Fabulous!!!!!

5 out of 5 stars My Favorite Woman.......2005-08-05

I would have to say that when I first heard Beverly Sills sing, I was entranced. I couldn't take my eyes off of her and I became angry at any rustling around me, because I was afraid I would miss one note. It was so addictive....that is what she is....addictive! A c.d. will never properly capture her style. She is an amazing leader in opera, taking it into a new frontier and I believe this c.d. showcases that.
Appassionato
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Pure Listening Pleasure
  • Appassionato
  • Deep, Serious and diverse
  • Yo-Yo Ma's Appassionato
  • A soulful compilation
 Appassionato

Manufacturer: Sony Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. The Essential Yo-Yo Ma
  2. Not Too Late
  3. Voice of the Violin
  4. Lang Lang: Dragon Songs (Plus DVD)
  5. Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone

ASIN: B000KWZ7DS
Release Date: 2007-01-09

Tracks:

  1. Going To School featuring John Williams
  2. IV. Allegretto poco mosso from Sonata in A Major for Violin and Piano
  3. II. Andante con moto e poco rubato from Three Preludes
  4. II. Largo from "Winter", Op. 8, No. 4, RV 297 from the Four Seasons
  5. Doce de coco
  6. II. Largo from Concerto No. 1 in G minor for Cello and Orchestra, Op. 49
  7. Cinema Paradiso: Nostalgia from Giuseppe Tornatore Suite
  8. The Swan from Carnival of the Animals (Chamber Version)
  9. Yanzi (Swallow Song)
  10. II. Andante from Concerto for Violin, Cello and Orchestra in A minor,
  11. Soledad
  12. No. 4 Mikin Pekko from Five Finnish Folk Songs
  13. First Impressions featuring Edgar Meyer; Mark O'Connor
  14. Song Without Words, Op. 109
  15. Gabriel's Oboe from The Mission featuring Ennio Morricone

Amazon.com

Any new compilation CD starring Yo-Yo Ma is certain to please. This master of the cello takes the listener through so many types of music that the ear and mind never tire. The present selection is billed as a sort of "musical autobiography," and, indeed, it gives us a tour of Ma's musical life. The Silk Road Project is represented by Zhao's "Swallow Song," with its eerie, fascinating soundscape (specially re-recorded for this CD). We also accompany Ma on his excursions into the world of the baroque cello with Vivaldi or of the Finnish folk song (by Mamiya, a first recording). There are Gershwin's languid Second Prelude, with its intimations of the song "Summertime," and an all-new recording of a nine-minute heart-breaker by Astor Piazzolla ("Soledad"). Ma also gives us more familiar Brahms, Franck, and Saint-Saens. The compilation's mellow 65 minutes offer relaxing, beautiful music, all exquisitely played. Ma is joined by the best: Emanuel Ax, Kathryn Stott, John Williams (who plays piano on his own "Going to School" from Memoirs of a Geisha), Isaac Stern, and Claudio Abbado. This is a veritable Who's Who of superb musicians. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Pure Listening Pleasure.......2007-05-18

There is no pretension in this collection - just the pure, simple pleasure in Ma's performance and in our enjoyment.

5 out of 5 stars Appassionato.......2007-05-18

With a little help of some of his friends Yo Yo Ma offered us another of his masterpieces. No other title could define better the tracks selection, pleasant and inspired.

5 out of 5 stars Deep, Serious and diverse.......2007-04-26

Yo Yo Ma is simply fantastic, and has arrived as such a height of recognition that any production he is invovled in will be top of the line, as this is.

This is a darker collection than I expected. And like a serious, reserved friend, it can take a little longer to appreciate than the bubbly outgoing ones. I now find I like it very much, but it is serious "conversation."

There is great variety here as well, and I gave it to a friend's teenager who is considering whether she wants to learn the cello. Her response was much the same as mine. Initially not so sure, but over time, has really come to like it, too. This collection has great depth.

5 out of 5 stars Yo-Yo Ma's Appassionato.......2007-04-13

For those who share Yo-Yo Ma's passion for music, and especially his passion for diversity in music, and for connecting with the spirit of global humanity, this recording has a prominant place in your library.

5 out of 5 stars A soulful compilation.......2007-04-13

I love this album for the diversity of music and the great programming. I especially love the collaboration with Isaac Stern, no longer with us in body, but always in music. Thanks YoYo.
Voice of the Violin
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Beautiful!
  • Voice of the Violin
  • Disappointed
  • Voices of the Violin
  • Angelic music
 Voice of the Violin

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000H7JD1I
Release Date: 2006-09-05

Tracks:

  1. Vocalise, Op. 34, No. 14
  2. Ave Maria
  3. Pourquoi me riller from Werther
  4. Aprun r, Op. 7, No. 1
  5. Song to the Moon from Rusalka
  6. Laudate Dominum from Vesperae solennes de confessore for soloists, chorus & orchestra, K. 339
  7. None but the Lonely Heart, Op. 6/6
  8. Una furtiva lagrima from L'Elisir d'Amore
  9. In trutina from Carmina Burana
  10. May Breezes from Songs without Words, Op. 62, No. 1
  11. Beau soir
  12. Estrellita
  13. Nana (Bercuese) from Siete conciones populares Espanolas
  14. Je crois entendre encore from The Pearl Fishers
  15. Morgen! Op. 27, No. 4

Amazon.com

Constantly exhorted to "sing," string players naturally try to emulate that most beautiful musical instrument, the human voice; no wonder they literally want to get their fingers on the treasures of the vocal repertoire. Joshua Bell has appropriated some of its best-loved songs and operatic arias, from Mozart through the romantics to Orff. Slow, sustained, lovely and yes, singing, these beguiling melodies and wide emotional range are eminently well suited to the violin. Credit for most of the arrangements is given to J.A.C. Redford, a well-known film and television composer, and indeed the throbbing strings and jarring modulations typical of sound-tracks invade his orchestrations, in startling contrast to the composers' own. In Debussy's "Beau soir," pianist Frederic Chiu partners Bell so beautifully that one wishes he had supplanted the orchestra in all the songs with piano accompaniment. The violin transcriptions of the vocal line closely follow the originals, except for Redford's compulsive habit of adding octaves in the repeats and jumping from the lowest to the highest register. Of course, Bell is very good at all this, and it's the playing that's really the thing. His tone is ravishingly beautiful, warm on the G-string, radiant up high, and always deeply expressive. His love and innate feeling for the music---its inward simplicity, romantic yearning and passionate ardor---speak straight to the heart. In the only authentic violin part, the obbligato of Richard Strauss' "Morgen!" he is joined by the golden-voiced soprano Anna Netrebko; at first overly intense, she relaxes into a blissful, magical ending. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Beautiful!.......2007-06-14

I think the reason I love this cd is because the music was not primarily written for the violin. Joshua Bell makes the violin "sing" the pieces. I especially liked Tchaikovsky's "None but the Lonely Heart." I've loved it since we sang it many years ago in our High School chorus and it is not on any of my classical cds.

Good choice.

1 out of 5 stars Voice of the Violin.......2007-06-13

I was disappointed in Bell's popular music style. I love him playing Mozart with his verve and energy - as Mozart would have wanted his music played. This seemed slow and draggy.

2 out of 5 stars Disappointed.......2007-05-17

I had heard one of the tracks on the radio, so I bought the CD. It was too high-ended, a little screechy.

5 out of 5 stars Voices of the Violin.......2007-05-17

Voices is no only a great listen because of Joshua Bell, but it is relaxing and calming - for me that is a great way to let stress melt away.

Every song is well done. Of course Joshua Bell is a favorite.

4 out of 5 stars Angelic music.......2007-05-14

I heard about this artist on NPR, and am enchanted by the magnificent voice he gives to the violin. Well worth the purchase.
Josh Groban in Concert (with Bonus DVD)
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • In case you couldn't go to the concert. . .
  • Young Josh
  • The Best I've Ever Heard Live!!
  • Josh Grobin DVD/CD
  • Fantastic concert....Josh Grobin is outstanding!
 Josh Groban in Concert (with Bonus DVD)
David / Sager, Carole Bayer Foster , John Williams , Don MacLean , Johann Sebastian Bach , Walter / Crokaert, Lara Afanasieff , Adolphe Adam , Daniel Ezralow , Angie Stone , Lili Haydn , and David Foster
Manufacturer: Reprise / Wea
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Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000077ZIG
Release Date: 2002-12-03

Tracks:

  1. Un Amore Per Sempre
  2. Alejate
  3. The Prayer (feat. Angie Stone)
  4. For Always
  5. Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)
  6. Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (feat. Lili Haydn)
  7. Broken Vow
  8. O Holy Night

Tracks:

  1. Alla Luce Del Sole (Video)
  2. You're Still You (Video)
  3. Vincent (Starry Starry Night) (Video)
  4. Gira Con Me Questa Notte (Video)
  5. Un Amore Per Sempre (Video)
  6. Alejate (Video)
  7. Broken Vow (Video)
  8. To Where You Are (Video)
  9. Cinema Paradiso (Video)
  10. For Always (Video)
  11. Home To Stay (Video)
  12. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring (Video)
  13. Canto Alla Vita (Video)
  14. The Prayer (feat. Angie Stone) (Video)
  15. Let Me Fall (Video)

Amazon.com

Josh Groban in Concert has all the ingredients to be a long-running PBS staple: a young (21), good-looking performer with a golden voice; songs in Italian and Spanish for the crossover crowd (i.e., Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman) and pop and movie songs for the mainstream; guest stars galore (David Foster, John Williams, Angie Stone, Andrea Corr, Lili Haydn); a large orchestra; and striking but not obtrusive visual effects. The centerpiece of this DVD-CD combo (also available in a DVD keepcase) is the 80-minute concert DVD, filmed in Pasadena in October 2002 and featuring numerous songs from Groban's debut CD, including "You're Still You," which catapulted him into stardom when he sang it on TV's Ally McBeal. There are also two new songs--the ballad "Broken Vow," with Groban accompanied by Foster, and "For Always," with the orchestra conducted by John Williams, who wrote the song for the Steven Spielberg film A.I..

The 37-minute CD offers seven songs performed in the concert (including the two not on the previous CD, "Broken Vow" and "For Always"), plus "O Holy Night." The DVD has excellent picture and sound (PCM stereo, Dolby Digital 5.1, and DTS), interviews, and backstage footage, and the combination with the CD is an excellent value. Groban's fans, of course, will consider it a treasure at any price. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars In case you couldn't go to the concert. . ........2007-05-12

In case you couldn't go to the concert . . . buy this CD/DVD set. This is a good overall product. The DVD is seamlessly pieced together from three concerts. The concerts were awesome due to the lights, musicians, song introductions, and of course - Josh's voice, presence, and energy.

5 out of 5 stars Young Josh .......2007-04-12

This cd and dvd collection is valuable to anyone collecting Josh Groban music. The dvd is nicely done and gives a little insight into his family (parents and younger brother) with the special features. Nice, clean, family entertainment which is such a rarity nowadays. This young man's voice is exceptional - God has truly blessed him with such a voice, and to see him perform is a gift as well. My family truly enjoyed this bonus.

5 out of 5 stars The Best I've Ever Heard Live!!.......2007-04-10

He has the most beautiful voice!! I love seeing him live! Worth the money to hear him over and over again!!!

5 out of 5 stars Josh Grobin DVD/CD.......2007-04-02

I ordered this concert DVD/CD for my Mom who is a new fan of Josh Grobin's and she loved both the concert footage and the songs on the DVD.

5 out of 5 stars Fantastic concert....Josh Grobin is outstanding!.......2007-02-22

I have been a Josh Grobin fan since I heard "You Lift Me Up", and I have not been dissapointed with his CD's ever since. I was excited when I got this DVD and it definitely did not dissapoint. He chooses his songs wisely and each song in this concert is full of emotion and depth. The CD compliments the DVD well and is always a favorite. From "Broken Vow" to "Oh Holy Night" each song is sung by this master singer.

Highly Recommended!
25 Mozart Favorites
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • How can you go wrong with Mozart?...Buy this and find out.
  • 25 Mozart Favorites
  • Wonderful collection and price!
  • Nice Mozart selection - Nice price
  • Mozart Listener
 25 Mozart Favorites

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

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ASIN: B0000058HV
Release Date: 1996-08-20

Tracks:

  1. 'The Marriage Of Figaro': Overture
  2. Symphony No. 29 In A, K. 201: ll. Andante
  3. Symphony No. 25 In G Minor, K. 183: l. Allegro con brio
  4. Piano Concerto No. 9 In E Flat, K. 271: ll. Andantino
  5. Piano Concerto No. 17 In G, K. 453: l. Allegro
  6. 'The Magic Flute': Overture
  7. Symphony No. 40 in G minor: l. Molto Allegro
  8. Symphony No. 38 In D, K. 504 'Prague': lll. Finale: Presto
  9. Serenade In B-Flat For 13 Winds, K. 361/370A 'Gran Partita': lll. Andante
  10. Clarinet Concerto In A, K. 622: l. Allegro
  11. Flute Concerto No. 2 In D, K. 314: ll. Andante ma non troppo
  12. Clarinet Quintet In A, K. 581: ll. Larghetto
  13. Piano Sonata In C Minor, K. 457: ll. Adagio
  14. Piano Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: l. Allegro maestoso
  15. Piano Concerto No. 23 In A, K. 488: ll. Adagio
  16. Symphony No. 39 in E-flat, K. 543: lV. Finale: Allegro
  17. Horn Concerto No. 3 In E-Flat, K. 447: lll. Allegro
  18. Piano Concerto No. 21 In C, K. 467: ll. Andante
  19. Sinfonia Concertante For Violin And Viola In E-Flat, K. 364: l. Allegro maestoso
  20. String Quartet No. 17 In B-Flat, K. 458 'The Hunt': l. Allegro vivace assai
  21. Violin Concerto No. 4 In D, K. 218: ll. Andante cantabile
  22. Violin Concerto No. 5 In A, K. 219: ll. Adagio
  23. Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, K. 525: lV. Presto
  24. Requiem, K. 626: Confutatis Maledictis
  25. Exsultate Jubilate: Alleluia

Amazon.com

This is an astonishing collection of works - or parts of works - by Mozart that covers almost every aspect of his creative output: symphonic, religious music, concerti (for piano, horn, violin, clarinet, flute), chamber music, serenades (for strings; winds), a couple of opera overtures and more. Those who know and love Mozart's music will not need this, but it's a great introduction, a great overview. The selections are well-chosen and interestingly organized, with familiar pieces splrinkled among some not-so well known. A good primer. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

1 out of 5 stars How can you go wrong with Mozart?...Buy this and find out........2007-05-13

I was extraordinarely ignorant when I purchased this recording. I thought,"WOW!! Look at all the music you get in this CD set. The price cannot be beat!" When I received the CD, I discovered that you don't really get any music at all. This is a great sample CD, and should be bought by a person brand new to classical music. However, if you have any experience with classical music, you will want to pass on this CD.

Each of the pieces are hacked apart to the point of it being comical. It's interesting to listen to the greatest music in the world, only to have the development cut. All of a sudden I was thrust into a new key, I thought my ears were going crazy. Perhaps an effort by a decent high school orchestra, but this music is not up to snuff with any other recording.

Do yourself a favor and go out and purchase real recordings of Mozart, and not watered down stereotypes.

5 out of 5 stars 25 Mozart Favorites.......2007-05-12

Very pleased with product, delivery, cost and service. Will use this vendor again.

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful collection and price!.......2007-05-11

I found this to be a nice collection of favorites, especially to keep in the car and listen to. It is a variety of well known compilations. Although not encompassing, it is perfect as a review for driving, relaxing, and enjoyment. Plus, the price is right!

4 out of 5 stars Nice Mozart selection - Nice price.......2006-09-24

Nice selection of Mozart work that give us inner peace...

4 out of 5 stars Mozart Listener.......2006-08-31

This is a good CD if you like Mozart's music. It is not the best CD I ever purchased. It is nice to listen to it in the morning before I go to work. And I sometimes listen to it in the evening before I go to bed. It is relaxing and soothing. I am not a music major or therapist. This is the best review I can write. Mary Agnes Cross
The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever!
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Lives Up To The Title, Fine Variety Of Genre's.
  • Good for relaxing pregnant women
  • Too much opera
  • Does what it set out to do, very well
  • TRULY The most relaxing and beautiful music ever written.
 The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever!
Johann Sebastian Bach , Léo Delibes , Gabriel Fauré , Erik Satie , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Edvard Grieg , Johann Pachelbel , Claude Debussy , Felix Mendelssohn , Camille Saint-Saens , Henryk Gorecki , Antonio Vivaldi , Edward Elgar , Jocelyn Pook , Sergey Rachmaninov , Tomaso Giovanni Albinoni , Luigi Boccherini , Jules Massenet , Ludwig van Beethoven , Jacques Offenbach , Pietro Mascagni , Antonin Dvorak , Giacomo Puccini , Ralph Vaughan Williams , Alexander Borodin , Joaquin Rodrigo , and Samuel Barber
Manufacturer: Angel Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

QuartetsQuartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
QuintetsQuintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by AlbinoniAll Works by Albinoni | Albinoni, Tomaso | ( A ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by J.S. BachAll Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by BarberAll Works by Barber | Barber, Samuel | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by BeethovenAll Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by BoccheriniAll Works by Boccherini | Boccherini, Luigi | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by BorodinAll Works by Borodin | Borodin, Alexander | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Delibes, Léo | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by DebussyAll Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by ElgarAll Works by Elgar | Elgar, Sir Edward | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Grieg, EdvardGrieg, Edvard | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Górecki, Henryk MikolajGórecki, Henryk Mikolaj | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by MascagniAll Works by Mascagni | Mascagni, Pietro | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by MassenetAll Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartAll Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by MendelssohnAll Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by OffenbachAll Works by Offenbach | Offenbach, Jacques | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by PachelbelAll Works by Pachelbel | Pachelbel, Johann | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by PucciniAll Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by SatieAll Works by Satie | Satie, Erik | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Vaughan Williams, RalphVaughan Williams, Ralph | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by VivaldiAll Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by RachmaninovAll Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
ConcertinosConcertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Serenades & DivertimentosSerenades & Divertimentos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music | Divertimentos
Character PiecesCharacter Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SonatinasSonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SuitesSuites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Incidental MusicIncidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
RequiemsRequiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Vaughan Williams, Ralph | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ContemporaryGeneral Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Theatrical, Incidental & Program MusicTheatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
PianoPiano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
ClarinetClarinet | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GuitarGuitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
ViolinViolin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
CompilationsCompilations | Classical | Styles | Music
RomancesRomances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Romantic (c.1820-1910)Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
FrenchFrench | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ItalianItalian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
CantatasCantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ChorusesChoruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
RequiemsRequiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Caballe, MontserratCaballe, Montserrat | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B00000I93Z
Release Date: 1999-03-30

Tracks:

  1. Air 'On the G String' - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
  2. Morning - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
  3. Canon In D - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
  4. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
  5. Gymnopedie No.1 - City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
  6. II. Andante - Stephen Hough
  7. Viens, Mallika - Mady Mesple
  8. In Paradisum - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
  9. Clair De Lune - Dame Moura Lympany
  10. II. Andate - Yehudi Menuhin
  11. The Swan - Osian Ellis
  12. II. Lento E Largo - Tranquillissimo - Zofia Kilanowicz
  13. II. Andantino - James Galway
  14. II. Largo - Yehudi Menuhin
  15. Nimrod - London Symphony Orchestra
  16. Blow the Wind - Pie Jesu - Jocelyn Pook
  17. Variation 18 - Cecile Ousset
  18. Pavane Op.50 - Gareth Morris

Tracks:

  1. Zion Hort Die Wachter Singen - South German Madrigal Choir
  2. Adagio In G Minor - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
  3. Minuet - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
  4. II. Largo - Andrei Gavrilov
  5. Meditation - Hans Kalafusz
  6. I. Adagio Sostenuto - Dame Moura Lympany
  7. Belle Nuit, O Nuit D'amour (Barcarolle) - Elisabeth Schwarzkopf
  8. II. Andante - Nigel North
  9. II. Adagio - Jack Brymer
  10. Intermezzo - Philharmonia Orchestra
  11. I. Moderato - London Chamber Orchestra
  12. O Mio Babbino Caro - Montserrat Caballe
  13. Fantasia On 'Greensleeves' - Sinfonia Of London
  14. II. Adagio Sostenuto (Opening) - Cecile Ousset
  15. Nocturne - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
  16. II. Adagio (Opening) - Julian Bream
  17. Adagio For Strings Op.11a - The Philadelphia Orchestra
  18. Entr'acte To Act III - Orchestre National De France

Amazon.com

You want relaxing classical music that'll soothe your soul but won't lull you into sleep? Here's a double CD for you. The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World ... Ever! does its best to cover both well-worn classical favorites (Bach's "Air on the G String," Pachelbel's "Cannon," Debussy's "Clair de Lune") and some eclectic left-field choices (an excerpt from Górecki's Symphony No. 3, Jocelyn Pook's "Blow the Wind," and Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings. The performances of most of these excerpts are top-notch--artists include Sir Neville Marriner, James Galway, Jacqueline du Pré and the Philadelphia Orchestra--and there's enough variety here for everyone. --Edward Garabedian

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Lives Up To The Title, Fine Variety Of Genre's........2007-02-04

This CD is a great way to enjoy a large variety of Classical Composers & many of their best known pieces. Vivaldi's "Four Seasons," is an all time favorite. There are vocals, Piano pieces, & some fine Violins. I found the latter the most enjoyable. Here you can find Rodrigo & Pachelbell. Samuel Barber's haunting Adagio will make your skin tingle. This may not be to everyones taste, but if you wish to relax? Give this a couple of listens.

5 out of 5 stars Good for relaxing pregnant women.......2007-01-17

I stumbled onto this album whilst searching bit torrent websites for classical music. I don't normally listen to classical music but thought it might be relaxing for my pregnant wife. After hearing the quality of the performances, the arrangement, and the recording I decided to buy the album from amazon. All the songs you would expect from a "best album in the world" are there and they are not boring to listen to like a lot of other classical albums. I now play this album in the car constantly and the wife requested it be played at the hospital during the birth.

3 out of 5 stars Too much opera.......2007-01-10

If it wasn't for the opera this would be a great CD.

5 out of 5 stars Does what it set out to do, very well.......2006-11-15

So i'm a classical music veteran, someone who prefers to collect a complete work, rather than classical compilations. I probably would not have listened to this album at all if my dad didnt buy it for me as a gift. By now, i own the complete works that over half of the excepts on this disc come from. I am a purist if ever there was one.

That said, i totally adore this set because i have learned to take it on its own terms. These discs weren't meant for expert classical listeners, so a review from that sort of mindset is useless. This set was meant for pure, easy listening, and for a basic starters kit for classical newbies. Most of all, it was just meant to do what the title says, to relax the average human being. classical expert or not.

Yes, some of these pieces have been altered or shortened, like Mozart's Flute and Harp Concerto Andantino, but they have been edited for a good enough reason: the full versions would have been too long to flow with the rest of the album. And also, the full versions contain so much development that they don't become easy listening anymore. The shortened versions work in the context of the album. Most essentially, the shortened versions on the discs still convey the main flavor the composers were going for. The melodies and themes remain unchanged.

To sum up, it is true that when i want to actually listen deeply to classical music, this album would never be a choice. I would want to hear the complete works like the composers intended. But at certain times when i simply don't mind about that stuff, when i just need to loosen up and free my mind of stress with some nice melodies, this set does the job well enough.

Last but not least: being a purist and a classical buff, i am very particular about performance quality. I was very glad to find that EMI did not get lazy about this. All the artists are world-class, and all the performances are at least exceptional. Some performances are even quite excellent, like the Clair De Lune, which is one of the best i've heard. (Credit to Dame Lympany, the pianist.)

So once again, recommended for its stated purpose, to relax. I am a purist, a classical buff, and i still enjoy this disc. That says something.

5 out of 5 stars TRULY The most relaxing and beautiful music ever written........2006-11-10

This album along with Volume 2 are now the two most valued albums in my music collection. I have all of the songs contained on these two albums but they are scattered through at least a dozen different albums and several are not performed by artists such as those that recorded this album and Volume 2.
SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL !!!!!!!!!!

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