Mozart: Piano Sonatas

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com essential recording
The three sonatas on this disc were all written in 1777-78, and mark Mozart's attainment of a new level of skill and sophistication in his writing for the piano. Uchida's accounts, recorded in 1985, midway through her survey of the composer's complete piano sonatas for Philips, are sympathetic and nicely shaped. Some pianists have found more vehemence and darkness in the A minor sonata, K. 310, and more elegance in the two major-key works, but the balanced, essentially lyrical approach Uchida brings to the music works very well. This is soulful playing, of an intimacy not often encountered these days, and the recording does it full justice. --Ted Libbey

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 46d: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 46d: 2. Menuetto I - II
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 46e: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 46e: 2. Menuetto
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 279: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 279: 2. Andante
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 279: 3. Allegro
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 280: 1. Allegro assai
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 280: 2. Adagio
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 280: 3. Presto
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 281: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 281: 2. Andante amoroso
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 281: 3. Rondeau. Allegro
Piano Sonata In E Flat Major, K. 282: 1. Adagio
Piano Sonata In E Flat Major, K. 282: 2. Menuetto I - II
Piano Sonata In E Flat Major, K. 282: 3. Allegro

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In G Major, K. 283: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In G Major, K. 283: 2. Andante
Piano Sonata In G Major, K. 283: 3. Presto
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 284: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 284: 2. Rondo en Polonaise. Andante
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 284: 3. Andante - Thema - Variations I-XII
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 309: 1. Allegro con spirito
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 309: 2. Andante un poco adagio
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 309: 3. Rondeau. Allegretto grazioso
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 311: 1. Allegro con spirito
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 311: 2. Andante con espressione
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 311: 3. Rondo. Allegro

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: 1. Allegro maestoso
Piano Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: 2. Andante cantabile con espressione
Piano Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: 3. Presto
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 330: 1. Allegro moderato
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 330: 2. Andante cantabile
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 330: 3. Allegretto
Piano Sonata In A Major, K. 331: 1. Andante grazioso - Thema - Variations I - VI
Piano Sonata In A Major, K. 331: 2. Menuetto - Trio
Piano Sonata In A Major, K. 331: 3. Alla turca. Allegretto

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 332: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 332: 2. Adagio
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 332: 3. Allegro assai
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 333: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 333: 2. Andante cantabile
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 333: 3. Allegretto grazioso
Fantasia In C Minor, K. 475: Adagio - Allegro - Andantino - Piu allegro - Primo tempo
Piano Sonata In C Minor, K. 457: 1. Molto allegro
Piano Sonata In C Minor, K. 457: 2. Adagio
Piano Sonata In C Minor, K. 457: 3. Allegro assai

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 533: 1. Allegro (K. 533)
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 533: 2. Andante (K. 533)
Piano Sonata In F Major, K. 533: 3. Rondo. Allegretto (K. 494)
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 545: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 545: 2. Andante
Piano Sonata In C Major, K. 545: 3. Rondo. Allegretto
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 570: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 570: 2. Adagio
Piano Sonata In B Flat Major, K. 570: 3. Allegretto
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 576: 1. Allegro
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 576: 2. Adagio
Piano Sonata In D Major, K. 576: 3. Allegretto

Customer Reviews:

Yes, perfect.......2007-07-11

Fabulous music. Simple, direct, un-affected peformances that are a delight to listen-to over and over again. At times the playing is utterly sublime. These performances are technically perfect in a smooth sense - and totally absorbing.

Mozart-A prisoner of his own time........2006-09-08

If you were to clump all of the composers of the classical era together, mix them up, and listen to them willy-nilly in a blind hearing test, you'll never be able to tell the difference between them... until you hear Mozart. Mozart's era was not rich in harmony. To me, Haydn wrote the same symphony over and over. Stamitz and Gossec... love 'em, but they were also prisoners of this classical harmony. But Mozart was able to put his fingerprint on all of his music. You can pick his music out blindly with ease because it is unmistakingly Mozart. That's why we have a mostly Mozart festival and not a mostly Kraus (who?) festival.

As this cd shows, Mozart's music was sublime. But even he struggled with using this "harmony of the day". If you were to study the catalogues of Mozart's symphonies, sonatas, and chamber music, let's face it; you would hear a lot of turkies before you made it to the peacocks. We would have to wait until Chopin until the harmonies fattened up a little.

Having said that, you have to completely hail Mozart for taking what was available to him in his day and creating some of the most sublime music with it. It would be like for the next ten years all the world had available to eat was peas, and 200 years from now one man became immortal for the many interesting ways he was able to manipulate peas into a meal.

Good music and good value.......2006-08-28

Bought this for my son who is learning to play piano. Lots of good music, not too expensive.

Five and a half hours of joy for not much bucks.......2005-11-11

This is just about the best money I've ever spent on music. I love Eschenbach's interpretations: tenderness and emotional intimacy in spades---and dazzling effects without self-consciousness or "athletic" display of technique. I would say that he "lets Mozart be Mozart," except that these interpretations have so much personality that Eschenbach's own life-energy must be coming through. I just think that his own personality complements Mozart's perfectly.

FINALLY.......2004-08-05

I've searched the world over for a box set of all of Mozart's piano sonatas that I liked. The first one I heard was the Glenn Gould version, which in retrospect was not so smart. I like his playing but he hums into the mic during the recording. Real smart.

Anyways, Eschenbach plays these with all the virtuosity and feeling they demand. My favorite piano sonata is Mozart's 12th and he plays it flawlessly; the only thing remotely lacking is that he doesn't quite dig in as much as Alicia de la Roccha does when she plays it on the Allegro movement, but he more than makes up for it with his playing on the Adagio movement.

If it's not your cup of tea it might be worthwhile getting the de la Roccha box set, but personally I think the Eschenbach recording is the best out of all of them.

Average customer rating:

High praise for Perlman and Barinboim
Mozart at its best
Wonderful to re-listen to these works.
Simply Amazing!
Perlman and Barenboim

Mozart: The Violin Sonatas

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Mozart: Piano Sonatas
Beethoven: The Violin Sonatas
Mozart: Violin Concertos
Mozart: Complete String Trios & Duos
Mozart: The Six String Quintets

ASIN: B00004SA87
Release Date: 2003-10-28

Tracks:

Sonata In G Major K. 301
Sonata In E Flat Major K. 302
Sonata In C Major K. 303
Sonata In A Major K. 305
Sonata In C Major K. 296
Sonata In E Minor K. 304
Sonata In D Major K. 306
Sonata In B Flat Major K. 378
Sonata In G Major K.379
Sonata In F Major K. 376
Sonata In E Flat Major K. 380
Sonata In B Flat Major K. 454
Sonata In E Flat Major K. 481
Sonata In A Major K. 526
Sonata In F Major K. 547

Customer Reviews:

High praise for Perlman and Barinboim.......2007-01-12

Best four CD's in my collection. Great material and wonderful performanc.!

Mozart at its best.......2006-08-28

This CD is an excellent introduction to Mozart's violin sonata's. Both artists are superb and play so very well together. I would highly recommend it.

Wonderful to re-listen to these works. .......2006-01-17

Many years ago, I owned, on vinyl, Mozart's Violin Sonatas. I don't remember the artists; however, I DO remember enjoying them immensely. Therefore, when the opportunity came with this recording to restore the complete Violin Sonatas by Mozart to my CD collection, I "jumped" at the chance. After all, this is Mozart's two-hundredth fifieth birthday; plus the recording is at a ridiculously low price, and MOST OF ALL, the recording features the esteemed musical team of Perlman and Barenboim--WHAT could be better than that? Please be advised, that my expectations have been fully realized and in actuality, they have been surpassed-the music is far more beautiful than I remember with Perlman and Barenboim making an exquisite musical team playing Mozart's gorgeous Violin Sonatas beautifully and sensitively!

If you love Mozart and want to hear some beautiful works played by masters of their respective instruments(at an unbelievable price) buy this CD collection. You will love it! The sound is great too belying the age of the recordings. They sound, to me, as if they were recorded very recently. In other words, great transfers to the CD format!

Simply Amazing!.......2005-04-10

This is a simply amazing recording. I was actually first introduced to some of these pieces that had been transcribed into clarinet duets. They are excellent for that medium, but they are absolutely brilliant in their original form as violin sonatas!

Perlman's playing is wonderful. At times it seems (to my untrained ear) that he may use a bit too much vibrato (or perhaps it's just too fast), though I'm not familiar with classical violin playing conventions, so this may be the proper way. Nonetheless, his tone is still rich and full and his technique is flawless. The pianist's playing is clear and accurate, and the two musicians make a perfect team (both technically and stylistically).

I'm not quite sure how these pieces fit into Mozarts body of work (stylistically, chronologically), but to me, they seem to have a youthful energy and vibrance that I've not heard in his later clarinet works. You will really enjoy them!

Perlman and Barenboim.......2005-03-17

...are incredible. I'm sure there is no one that would oppose this statement about Itzhak Perlman, but some say that Barenboim Beethovenizes Mozart. As a pianist myself, I strongly disagree. These recordings are very good. Sound quality is very nice. Highly recommended.

Mozart:The Complete Piano Sonatas and Variations

Average customer rating:

like sparkling mineral water
Soulless Rendition
Lovely
Top notch performances
Very good, but a bit misleading?

Mozart:The Complete Piano Sonatas and Variations

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

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

Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Beethoven: Complete Piano Sonatas / Daniel Barenboim
Mozart: The Complete Piano Concertos
Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos
Mozart: The Violin Sonatas
Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet

ASIN: B00004YA0U
Release Date: 2000-11-07

Tracks:

I: Allegro
II: Andante
III: Allegro
I: Allegro Assai
II: Adagio
III: Presto
I: Allegro Moderato
II: Andante Amoroso
III: Rondeau: Allegro
I: Adagio
II: Menuetto I - Menuetto II
III: Allegro
I: Allegro
II: Andante
III: Presto

Tracks:

I: Allegro
II: Rondeau En Polonaise: Andante
III: Tema (Andante) Con Variazioni (I-XII)
I: Allegro Con Spirito
II: Andante Un Poco Adagio
III: Rondeau: Allegretto Grazioso
I: Allegro Maestoso
II: Andante Cantabile Con Espressione
III: Presto

Tracks:

I: Allegro Con Spirito
II: Andantino Con Espressione
III: Rondeau: Allegro
I: Allegro Moderato
II: Andante Cantabile
III: Allegretto
I: Tema (Andante Grazioso) Con Variazioni (I-VI)
II: Menuetto - Trio
III: Alla Turca: Allegretto
I: Allegro
II: Adagio
III: Allegro Assai

Tracks:

I: Allegro
II: Andante Cantabile
III: Allegretto Grazioso
Adagio - Allegro - Andantino - Piu Allegro - Tempo I
I: Molto Allegro
II: Adagio
III: Allegro Assai

Tracks:

I: Allegro
II: Andante Cantabile
III: Allegretto
I: Allegro
II: Andante
III: Rondo
I: Allegro
II: Adagio
III: Allegretto
I: Allegro
II: Adagio
III: Allegretto

Tracks:

Tema ('Laat Ons Juichen'): Allegretto
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7: Adagio
Variation 8: Tempo I
Tema (Air): Allegro
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5: Adagio
Variation 6: Tempo I
Variation 7
Tema (Menuetto): Andante
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5: Adagio
Variation 6: Allegretto
Tema (Menuet)
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11: Adagio
Variation 12: Allegro
Tema (Air): Allegretto
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8: Tempo Di Menuetto
Variation 9
Variation 10: Allegretto
Variation 11
Variation 12: Molto Adagio
Allegretto

Tracks:

Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11: Adagio
Variation 12: Allegro
Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11: Adagio
Variation 12: Presto
Tema: Andante
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8: Adagio
Variation 9: Allegro
Tempo Di Tema
Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7: Adagio
Variation 8: Allegro
Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6

Tracks:

Tema: Allegretto
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9: Adagio
Variation 10: Allegro
(Tempo I)
Tema: Allegretto
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8
Variation 9
Variation 10
Variation 11: Adagio
Variation 12: Allegro
(Tempo I)
Tema: Allegretto
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7
Variation 8: Adagio
Variation 9: Allegro
(Tempo I)
Tema
Variation 1
Variation 2
Variation 3
Variation 4
Variation 5
Variation 6
Variation 7: Adagio
Variation 8: Allegro
(Tempo I)

Customer Reviews:

like sparkling mineral water.......2006-12-22

It is something near to a cleansing experience to listen through the Mozart piano repertoire as performed by Daniel Barenboim.

For starters, Mozart achieves his sparest, cleanest, most limpid lines when writing for solo piano. Then comes Daniel Barenboim, whose reading of Mozart is crisply and unemotionally classical. Not for him the drawn-out keyboard soliloquy. On the contrary, Barenboim gives us Mozart, only Mozart, and nothing but Mozart, clean and shimmering as sparkling mineral water.

This is not to say that Barenboim as pianist is unfeeling. On the contrary, the Fantasia in C Minor - to choose just one example with almost random lack of care - is quite moving. But not with a flourish. Rather, with almost sinewy restraint. The presentation represents a fine grasp of the master composer, nurtured with discipline across the length and breadth of the voluminous sonatas.

Indeed, the sheer volume of the Mozart piano sonatas is intimidating. It is astonishing to imagine one man having mastered it as Barenboim has. EMI Classics has done us the favor of collecting these two gentlemen's asynchronic collaboration in one set, affordable at that.

If Mozart is a musician for the ages and Barenboim a performer who left a formidable imprint on the twentieth century, their collaboration as represented in these recordings is a watershed that will need to be referenced by students of classical piano for at least another hundred years, or until people can only remember as far back as the Dixie Chicks.

Buy Barenboim on Mozart before that happens, and so stick your thumb in the dike against the evil day.

Soulless Rendition.......2005-10-16

I have several artists' renditions of Mozart's piano sonatas in my library. Daniel Barenboim's is the worst. His technique is timid. His rendition is soulless and perfunctory. I regret purchasing this collection. The best rendition I have is the collection of Glenn Gould. If you like Mozart's piano sonatas played the way Mozart intended, give Barenboim a pass and listen to Gould.

Lovely.......2005-03-17

As a pianist myself, I love Barenboim's playing. He does not play Mozart too Beethoven like. His performances are usually VERY good, and this is one example. Also includes the complete variations, which are very nice. The sound quality is excellent. Very highly recommended.

"The sonatas of Mozart are unique: too easy for children, too difficult for adults. Children are given Mozart to play because of the quantity of notes; grown ups avoid him because of the quality of notes." - Artur Schnabel

Top notch performances.......2004-06-17

Daniel Barenboim played this whole set with an interesting approach to WAM . The notations about classical , beethovenian style are always hazardous.
When you are a musician you must avoid in the cliche , and you should feel the music as a whole and the playing must be the consequence of a overlong process that begins in your soul , then your inner mood , your intellect and finally your fingers. I remark the aspect when you are in front of Mozart, Beethoven Wagner, Bruckner, Bach , Schubert and Bartok , because these composers are in a highest level than the others and the music itself is merely a device for expressing deeper issues.
That's why this set is superb. Barenboim plays a Mozart rich in expresiveness , he gives to Mozart presence .
Barenboim plays music as Vegh or Furtwangler did it , always seeking the landscape far beyond the score . That's why they are so original in their performances . The rapture is not a device for exhibite his skills , it''s the final product of a long process.
Acquire this set. It's an unvaluable treasure.

Very good, but a bit misleading?.......2004-05-15

Barenboim playing Mozart has his critics, who say he's "too Beethovian" when performing Mozart's piano sonatas and piano concertos. I disagree; I love his style. Others might not.

My only complaint with this 8 CD set is that the advertised piano sonatas occupy the first 5 CDs; the last three are piano variations -- interesting, but not of the quality of the sonatas themselves. Surely a less-expensive 5-CD set, providing just the sonatas advertised in the title, would offer better value for money. On the other hand, 5 great CDs for $48 isn't a bad deal.

Average customer rating:

one of a few violin sonatas that i like

Mozart: Violin Sonatas K. 301, 304, 376 & 526

I LOVE this recording.

Excellent skill but need more style (this CD)

Every note counts

Mozart: Violin Sonatas K. 301, 304, 376 & 526
Hilary Hahn , and Zhu
Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
Hahn, Hilary | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Paganini: Violin Concerto No. 1; Spohr: Violin Concerto No. 8

Hilary Hahn ~ Beethoven - Violin Concerto · Bernstein - Serenade

Bach Concertos

Elgar: Violin Concerto / Lark Ascending

Mozart: The Violin Concertos; Sinfonia Concertante

ASIN: B0009JAENU
Release Date: 2005-10-11

Tracks:

I. Allegro
II. Andante
III. Rondeau. Allegretto Grazioso
I. Allegro Con Spirito
II. Allegro
I. Allegro
II. Tempo Di Menuetto
I. Molto Allegro
II. Andante
III. Presto

Amazon.com

Hilary Hahn is a splendid violinist, with an easy, flawless technique and a tone of pristine purity. She has already gained a reputation as a singularly serious performer; even her photographs show her in strikingly thoughtful poses. Indeed, her approach to the four Mozart sonatas on this recording seems to be almost too thoughtful: everything is so carefully planned that there is no room for imagination or spontaneity. Her tone is invariably beautiful but never varies in color or intensity; shifts of mood and character are heralded with tempo changes, ritards, breaks, and long pauses, even when Mozart clearly indicates a connection, as in the Finale of the Sonata K. 526. The ensemble with her long-time friend and partner Natalie Zhu is excellent, but they seem to have agreed to disagree on certain points, such as the execution of trills and ornaments, and the articulation of short notes: Hahn's playing is rounder and more lyrical, Zhu's brisker and more pointed. Both follow the current trend of superimposing dynamics and contrasts on the written score, as if they did not trust the music to speak for itself, but this only results in fussiness and a loss of continuity and simplicity. However, the balance is so good that the interchange between more and less prominent voices comes out perfectly. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

one of a few violin sonatas that i like.......2006-08-20

i am a causal violin sonatas listener as i listen to violin concertos more.

this recording makes me appreciate mozart's work even more, and hilary hahn is just superb as always - and i have no complain on how natalie zhu turned out in this recording.

Mozart: Violin Sonatas K. 301, 304, 376 & 526.......2006-06-28

Mozart: Violin Sonatas K. 301, 304, 376 & 526~ Hilary Hahn is a splendid recoding of some of Mozarts Violin Sonatas. Ms Hahn is a very beautifull and accomplished violinist that certainly plays with such skill and prowess that is worthy of Mozart and his stupendous compositions. Ms Zhu is no second fiddle here and her piano playing skill is amazing in its own right. Anyone whom has read my prior reviews knows that I love Mozart and rank him alongst with Bach, Wagner and Beethoven as the best composers ever. Mozarts music speaks directly to ones soul and ones inner senses that few composers are able to do. The book-let is a great piece of work and the beautifull photos of a serene and pensive looking Ms Hahn are so beautifull and the foreword is very well written indeed. I highly recommend this album to lovers of Mozart and to lovers of great music in general. This astounding album will not disapoint in any way, 5 out of 5 stars.

I LOVE this recording........2006-06-03

Just got it today and have only listened to it twice, but I think this one is going to get listened to a lot.

I was wondering why it seemed so enchanting to me. I have heard each of them 3 or 4 times when they were at Curtis together and once in a mini concert together back then. It finally struck me that in addition to fine musicianship, an interpretation that suits my prejudices and all the other fine things the other reviewers said... they play so wonderfully together. I had never realized how much that could add, but doing the dance of the music together the way they do on this recording adds a magical quality.

I hope Natalie Zhu records some solo things. If she does, I'm a buyer.

Excellent skill but need more style (this CD).......2006-05-24

After reading so many 5 star comments on this CD, I ran to the 'Add to Shopping List" button and checked it out in seconds. Once it arrived, I immediately put on my Grado headphone and started to enjoy. However, as much as I hate to daub black dots on the sheet, I have to say the performance is a bit stiff and lack of self interpretation. It's like listening to my father's students (conservatory level) playing violin in their sessions, good (of course Hillary is better) but need more style. On this CD, Hillary is displayed as a well trained, highly skilled violinist. She plays each piece perfectly, just a bit too perfect for me. I actually think she is a very cute, interesting person with more to offer, and I love reading her web diaries too. Maybe it's the violin she's using that made the sound appear to be too pristine and...stiff (?). Here is an interesting observation, I found the later the tracks on this CD, the better of performance I am use to. And one more "sorry" to the other positive reviewers, Natalie sounded like one of my mom's students (conservatory level), one of the few good ones though:p

Every note counts.......2006-02-28

There are no hiding places in Mozart, every note counts. Hilary Hahn gives every note
a flavor. This cd is a model of what treasures can be heard in Mozart when realized by a superior artist.

Average customer rating:

One of the best compilations
Mitsuko the light on keybord.
Please ignore the low reviews on this set!
Weird, weird recording
1991 Gramophone Award Winner

Mozart: The Piano Sonatas

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Mozart: The Piano Concertos
Mozart: Sonatas for Piano & Violin
"Beethoven: Piano Sonatas Opp. 109, 110 & 111"
Mitsuko Uchida Plays Schubert
Mozart: The Violin Sonatas

ASIN: B00005QDYG
Release Date: 2003-10-28

Tracks:

Piano Sonata In C,Kv 279[189d]-Allegro
Piano Sonata In C,Kv 279[189d]-Andante
Piano Sonata In C,Kv 279[189d]-Allegro
Piano Sonata In F,Kv 280[189e]-Allegro Assai
Piano Sonata In F,Kv 280[189e]-Adagio
Piano Sonata In F,Kv 280[189e]-Presto
Piano Sonata In Bb,Kv 281[189f]-Allegro
Piano Sonata In Bb,Kv 281[189f]-Andante Amoroso
Piano Sonata In Bb,Kv 281[189f]-Rondeau[Allegro]
Piano Sonata In Eb,Kv 282[189g]-Adagio
Piano Sonata In Eb,Kv 282[189g]-Menuetto 1 & 2
Piano Sonata In Eb,Kv 282[189g]-Allegro
Piano Sonata In G,Kv 283[189h]-Allegro
Piano Sonata In G,Kv 283[189h]-Andante
Piano Sonata In G,Kv 283[189h]-Presto
Allegro
Rondeau En Polonaise (Andante)
Tema Con Variazioni
1. Allegro Con Spirito
2. Andante, Un Poco Adagio
3. Rondeau (Allegretto Grazioso)
1. Allegro Maestoso
2. Andante Cantabile Con Espressione
3. Presto
1. Allegro Con Spirito
2. Andantino Con Espressione
3. Rondeau (Allegro)
1. Allegro Moderato
2. Andante Cantabile
3. Allegretto
1. Tema (Andante Grazioso) Con Variazioni
2. Menuetto
3. Alla Turca (Allegretto)
1- Sonata In F, Kv 332-300k - Allegro
2- Adagio
3- Allegro Assai
1- Sonata In B Flat, Kv 333-315c - Allegro
2- Andante Cantabile
3- Allegretto Grazioso
Fantasia In C Minor Kv 475 (Adagio - Allegro - Andantino - Piu` Alleg Ro - Tempo I)
1- Sonata In C Minor, Kv 457 - Molto Allegro
2- Adagio
3- Allegro Assai
1. Allegro
2. Andante
3. Rondo (Allegro)
1. Allegro
2. Adagio
3. Allegretto
1. Allegro
2. Adagio
3. Allegretto
1. Allegro, Kv 533
2. Andante, Kv 533
3. Rondo (Allegretto ), Kv 494

Customer Reviews:

One of the best compilations.......2007-05-06

Classic Mitsuko Uchida. She loves Mozart, and you can tell from this ultra slim box set.

Mitsuko the light on keybord........2007-01-12

always wanted the complete piano sonatas from Mozart on my player to hear it uninterrupted, and this recording gives me the greates listening pleasure. i fallowed Miss Uchida from Wienna, when she was a sudent there in the late 1950's, and her playing became the finest interpretation of Mozart;-and she must have known Bela Bartok's take on the piano as a percussion instrument, and her oriental background help to bring wonderful coloration to her sound,palyfulness, and lightness,as if sunlight bouces off from fresh snow.
--would Mozart love to hear her playing? he would dance with her.--A B Vizy.

Please ignore the low reviews on this set!.......2006-04-12

There are already several excellent reviews of Uchida's performance of Mozart's piano sonatas, so no need to repeat or elaborate on these well done efforts. But I must warn against putting much credence into the lowly ratings (of 1 to 2 *) - these should be stricken from the reviews listing. I bought this set when released based on having own several single discs in the past, the excellent reviews received in several of the publications already mentioned, and opinions of those I respect in the Good Music Guide forum (good-music-guide.com); if fact, there is an ongoing thread there w/ a poll, and Uchida is receiving about a third of the votes (dozen or so pianists listed) as the top cycle for these compositions. Surprisingly, Klara Wurtz's box set of these pieces on the Brilliant label (i.e. a great value) is in second in the poll - indeed, I purchased this as a 'second' set elsewhere for only $20 - just superb (5* ratings on Amazon), and will need several more hearings to see who I prefer. But, I don't believe you can go wrong w/ either of these box sets.

Weird, weird recording.......2006-03-09

I only gave this 1 star because its a required feild, I can't enter 0.
I am still finding it hard to believe this set of recordings passed quality control before being burnt to CD.
Didn't anyone listen to them first?
The recording technique is trully awful and given that this is modern recording, there is no excuse. There are a lot of strange resonances going on at a level which seriously interferes with the actual music. Not only that, arpeggios are like Uzzi submachine guns wherein the sound of the ivories hitting the wooden keyboard base are so much louder than the notes it's like a woodpecker hacking into a redwood while very quietly humming the tune in the background.
In fact this is a great recording of everything except the music.
Weird!
I didn't understand someones comment until I heard Barenboims set of sonatas, but now I do. Uchidas' playing here really is like someone reading it for the first time, no colour, no life. In fact a painting by numbers picture before being coloured in.
Don't get me wrong, I wish I could play half as well as her but if you want to hear the best, this isn't it.
So far the best I've heard is Barenboim but I'll soon investigate Brautigam, Baruda-Skoda and Moravec... great fun but i guess we have to accept a few disappointments like this on our expedition.

1991 Gramophone Award Winner.......2005-02-12

Mozart's piano sonatas are sometimes devalued by critics as "lesser compositions" in Mozart's vast output. Of course when there are 626 works in total, some will be truly monumental, some merely masterful and others somewhat average and less consequential compared to the creme. To fully appreciate the piano sonatas of Mozart, one needs a little perspective. In Mozart's piano sonatas we see a bit more of the utilitarian need to produce music suitable for the "home market" - sometimes even used merely for musical lessons for a patron's child. What we often have here is typically pleasant parlor music - which was one goal of the more "simple" compositions in this set. This is one of the minor downsides of "let's hear it all" complete collections like this ... not all pieces will be stunning masterpieces. So, to one not familiar with this context, there can be feeling of the music being a bit "let down" after listening to some of these more simple sonatas - especially if there is an expectation for them to possess the magnitude of Beethoven's or Schubert's grand piano sonata conceptions.

Although more humble as a whole, Mozart's Piano Sonatas still possess a brilliance and that magical "Mozart touch." Take sonatas like K570 which have a surface innocence over a foundation of serious emotional and intellectual depth. Clearly, Mozart had a way of taking a simple, child-like lyrical theme and developing it via sonata form into something effortlessly melodic and classically perfected. All the sonatas are here enjoyable and highly musical in their own right. Additionally, I also think much of this music really fits well into the world of young children: innocent, lyrical, gentle and not too much at once. But, like Artur Schnabel once said, "Mozart's sonatas are easy for children but difficult for adults." While some pieces are seemingly simple and make for wonderful, soothing background music (disc 5), there are plenty of dynamic, vituostic sonatas here - such as the popular K.330-333, the pathos-laden K.310 (a rare minor-key sonata) and especially the two passionate works in C minor (K457 and K475).

The typically warm, sensitive and expressive style of Mitsuko Uchida brings out the best in Mozart's sonatas as she finds just the right "classical-era spirit" in the music. In the lilting allegros and rondos, Uchida recreates that legendary "bouncy" Mozart tempo and youthful enthusiasm, while still finding the occasional pathos when called for in certain moments. The sound of her piano is somewhat reminicent of a Mozart-era fortepiano with its sharp attack and quick decay. In fact, Mozart took such instrument dynamics into consideration in his fast-moving legato writing. For some at first (me included), this kind of sound may seem somewhat "dry" (as another Amazon reviewer notes as well). But perhaps Ms. Uchida is trying to stay closer to the spirit of the music by her choice of instrument, following Mozart's markings (minimal changes in dynamics) and minimizing the power of the modern grand by largely avoiding use of the sustaining pedal (an invention which arrived late in Mozart's time that whose potential fascinated to him). So, I think the sound fits the idiom well ... but I still find the sound quality a bit thin and slightly unfulfilling nevertheless. However, it is certainly not disappointing enough to keep one from acquiring the set and fully enjoying the music. Just imagine Mozart playing his little fortepiano to tickle the fancy of the fickle Viennese aristocrats, and the sound of Uchida's piano and playing fall nicely into place.

This set received two legendary critic awards: a coveted Penquin Guide "Rosette" and the 1991 Gramophone Award as well as a listing as a top "Recommended Recording" - which certainly is fine critical acclaim. Additionally, Gramophone says of this landmark set: "This is unfailing clean, crisp and elegant playing that avoids anything like a romanticised view. Indeed her complete series is a remarkable achievement, comparable with her fine account of the piano concertos ... an unqualified recommendation is in order for what must be one of the most valuable volumes in the Philips's Complete Mozart Edition."

Another complete set that is high on many's list and worth hearing comes is by Eshenbach. His was my second choice. Andras Schiff is also known for a very lyrical and warm-sounding Mozart and his Decca complete cycle is also satisfying (but it lacks some of the magic Uchida brings). A cycle that did not seem to recreate the 18th-century spirit of these sonatas was that of Spaniard Alicia de Larrocha - whose full, grand piano sound and greater embellishments did not seem to fit the genre as well as Uchida's more intimate pianism and sound (to me at least). Russian pianist Mikhail Pletnev brings his characteristic dynamism and dazzling velocity to K.330-332/K.457 in a 2006 DG release (that did not garner great music-industry reviews though). But, it really comes down to what stylistic nuances most captures your interest and emotion, so it is best to pick what you like best and enjoy the music. But it may be hard to top Mitsuko Uchida in Mozart's sonatas. Most major reviews I have read seem to think so too. Compositions - 4 stars; Performance - 5 stars; Sound - 4 stars.

Mozart: Piano & Violin Sonatas [Hybrid SACD]

Average customer rating:

Brilliant

Mozart: Piano & Violin Sonatas [Hybrid SACD]

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

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

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

Vivaldi: Four Seasons [Hybrid SACD]
Mozart: Flute Concertos; Rondo; Andante [Includes the Bis 2005 Catalog] [Hybrid SACD]
Russian Violin Concertos [Hybrid SACD]
Dark Side of the Moon 30th Anniversary Edition
J.S. Bach: Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin, BWV 1001-1006

ASIN: B0007D09GK
Release Date: 2005-07-12

Customer Reviews:

Brilliant.......2005-07-20

Mitsuko Uchida has made a name for herself playing all the Mozart sonatas and concerti for piano, as well as Schubert piano works and an underappreciated CD of Schumann's Kreisleriana and Carnaval, among other things. Now she is breaking new ground as an accompanist. After a highly successful recording of Schubert's "Die Schone Mullerin" with Ian Bostridge, Ms. Uchida has essayed a gorgeous set of some of Mozart's more delicious piano and violin sonatas with Mark Steinberg of the Brentano string quartet - an energetic and rising young ensemble. Mr. Steinberg has a number of other recordings to his credit, including Schumann chamber music. He has also prepared the notes for this edition, which are far from the arid, technical remarks one often sees. He may overwrite, but he gives a lot to think about. The recording is lush and sparkling on this Philips hybrid SACD. (You can listen to it on any CD player, however.) There are of course many other competing recordings of Mozart's violin sonatas, but this one is special. The playing is elegant, nuanced and expressive. I cannot recommend it highly enough. Just pick out a sonata and sit back and listen. These are gems of the repertoire and lovingly rendered.

Mozart: The Piano Sonatas; Fantasias & Rondos

Average customer rating:

Wonderful articulation is her hallmark
Amazing performances of amazing music!
Good Performance, bad recording
Devoted collection by a mature virtuoso.

Mozart: The Piano Sonatas; Fantasias & Rondos

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Rondos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

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

Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

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

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

Beethoven: The 5 Piano Concertos; Choral Fantasy
Favourite Spanish Encores
Mozart: Piano Sonatas
Mozart: Six Quartets Dedicated to Haydn
Mozart: The Piano Sonatas

ASIN: B0000CNTLW
Release Date: 2003-12-09

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful articulation is her hallmark.......2007-07-09

The collection is spectacular. Larrocha's nimble fingers and clear articulation make it a joy to listen to her interpretations of Mozart. The very familiar "A la turca" is given a lighthearted yet sensitive interpretation that makes it a great listening experience. This is definitely a set to own.

Amazing performances of amazing music!.......2006-09-27

I can't compare this to other Mozart Sonata cycles, but after looking hard at which set to purchase, I bought these and have been extremely pleased. I have not noticed any recording problems with the 2nd and 3rd disks, but I am no expert. I think the whole set sounds wonderful! And you cannot beat the price. I just wish she had a complete cycle of Mozart's Piano Concerti available!

Good Performance, bad recording.......2004-09-14

The performance of Laroccha is exceptional, the trills are fantastic and some of the sonatas are almost perfect. The whole compilation sounds very mozartian and may disturb some people that are used into more sweet and passion performances. However the recording of the 2nd and 3rd CD is terrible, it sounds like there is echo in the recording and it becomes very annoying and fuzzy. The key of a good mozart recording is brightness and music purity, which definately this compilation lacks.
Brendel's mozart sonatas sound better for me, however he has not recorded all of them in a single complilation such as this.

Devoted collection by a mature virtuoso........2004-02-07

Listen to Alicia de Larrocha performing the exposition of the first movement of Mozart's Piano Sonata in Bb major, K. 333--my favorite of the great composer's sonata; the absolute pinnacle of Classical beauty. You will hear a consummate artist devoted to the detail and refinement of this glorious music. Collected here in 5 CDs are the complete Mozart Sonatas and a few minor works to fill out the discs. I don't believe in the concept of a 'definitive' performance or recording-especially for a body of work as extensive and diverse as this, and so would never claim such a title for this or any performance-but de Larrocha's set is definitely worth having. She takes a refined, subtle approach, never exaggerating or turning Mozart into a Romantic, but always emphasizing the Classical sense of balance. Even in as "romantic" a work as the Presto of the Sonata in A minor K. 310, she plays expressively and emotionally, but within a Classical aesthetic, always exercising great control and touch. Dynamics and tempi are varied, certainly, but within a more discrete range than some of our more flamboyant pianists. This, for me, is the charm of de Larrocha's approach-perhaps, for some listeners, its downfall. Here's where the concept of definitive recordings fails completely. Do we try to listen to Mozart in an historical context, as he himself might have heard it, or do we take a Postmodern approach? Having lived after the Romantic period and even the Twentieth Century now, do we perform and prefer Mozart played on an instrument he never knew, allowing innovations of interpretation developed after his death to shape a new vision of his works? Both are possible, and in today's world, where Bond and Maksim pass unremarked as Classical musicians to my great disgust, mass audiences give no favor to historical context. De Larrocha clearly prefers the informed, appropriate approach, although she plays on a modern grand piano, and the music glows under her loving hands. Listen, for example, to the lovely Adagio from K. 280, one of Mozart's earlier sonatas.

Tracks:

I: Molto Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Presto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Presto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro Assai - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Presto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Molto Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro Maestoso - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Molto Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro Maestoso - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto & Trio - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro Assai - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
Appendix: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andantino Grazioso - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Presto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro Con Brio - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto & Trio - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Molto Presto - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro Moderato - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Allegro Con Spirito - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Molto Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andantino Con Moto - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Presto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro Spiritoso - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto: Allegretto - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Presto - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro Spiritoso - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro Spiritoso - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro Con Spirito - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto & Trio - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Finale: Presto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Adagio - Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto: Allegretto & Trio - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Finale: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro Vivace - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante Di Molto - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Finale: Allegro Vivace - English Chamber Orchestra
Appendix: Menuetto & Trio K409 (383f) - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro Assai - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante Moderato - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto & Trio - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Allegro Assai - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Adagio - Allegro Spiritoso - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Poco Adagio - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto & Trio - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Presto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Adagio - Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Presto - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Molto Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto: Allegretto & Trio - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Allegro Assai - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro Vivace - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante Cantabile - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Menuetto: Allegretto & Trio - English Chamber Orchestra
IV: Molto Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro Cadenza - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andantino - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Rondeau: Presto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro Maestoso - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegretto - English Chamber Orchestra
Concerto Rondo For Piano & Orchestra No.1 In D K382 - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Larghetto - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Tempo Di Menuetto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegretto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro - Adagio - Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro Vivace - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andantino - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro Ma Non Troppo - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro Di Molto - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegretto - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Larghetto - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegretto - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro Vivace - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante Un Poco Sostenuto - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro Vivace - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Allegretto - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro Assai - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Romanze - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Rondeau: Allegro Assai - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Larghetto - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegretto Assai - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro Maestoso - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro Vivace Assai - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Larghetto - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Andante - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Rondo: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
I: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra
II: Adagio - English Chamber Orchestra
III: Allegro Assai - English Chamber Orchestra

Tracks:

I: (Allegro Moderato) - David Oistrakh
II: Adagio - David Oistrakh
III: Presto - David Oistrakh
I: (Allegro Moderato) - David Oistrakh
II: (Andante) - David Oistrakh
III: Rondeau: Allegro - David Oistrakh
I: Allegro - David Oistrakh
II: Adagio - David Oistrakh
III: Rondeau: Allegro - Andante - Allegretto - David Oistrakh
Rondo For Violin And Orchestra In C K373 - David Oistrakh

Tracks:

I: Allegro - David Oistrakh
II: Andante Cantabile - David Oistrakh
III: Rondeau: Andante Grazioso - Allegro Ma Non Troppo - David Oistrakh
I: Allegro Aperto - David Oistrakh
II: Adagio - David Oistrakh
III: Rondeau: Tempo Di Menuetto - Allegro - David Oistrakh

Tracks:

I: Allegro - Jeffrey Tate
II: Rondo: Allegro - Jeffrey Tate
I: Allegro Maestoso - Jeffrey Tate
II: Andante - Jeffrey Tate
III: Rondo: Allegro - Jeffrey Tate
I: Allegro - Jeffrey Tate
II: Romance: Larghetto - Jeffrey Tate
III: Allegro - Jeffrey Tate
I: Allegro Moderato - Jeffrey Tate
II: Romance: Andante Cantabile - Jeffrey Tate
III: Rondo: Allegro Vivace - Jeffrey Tate
Rondo In E Flat K371 - Jeffrey Tate

Tracks:

I: Allegro - Gordon Hunt
II: Adagio - Gordon Hunt
III: Rondeau: Allegro - Gordon Hunt
I: Allegro - Gordon Hunt
II: Larghetto - Gordon Hunt
III: Menuetto - Gordon Hunt
IV: Allegretto Con Variazioni - Gordon Hunt
I: Allegro - Jane Glover
II: Adagio - Jane Glover
III: Rondo: Allegro - Jane Glover

Tracks:

I: Allegro Maestoso - London Philharmonic Orchestra
II: Adagio Non Troppo - London Philharmonic Orchestra
III: Rondo: Tempo Di Menuetto - London Philharmonic Orchestra
I: Allegro Aperto - Andrew Litton
II: Adagio Non Troppo - Andrew Litton
III: Rondo: Allegretto - Andrew Litton
I: Allegro - Andrew Litton
II: Andantino - Andrew Litton
III: Rondeau: Allegro - Andrew Litton

Tracks:

I: Allegro - Jane Glover
II: Romanze: Andante - Jane Glover
III: Menuetto: Allegretto & Trio - Jane Glover
IV: Rondo: Allegro - Jane Glover
I: Allegro - Jane Glover
II: Andante Ma Adagio - Jane Glover
III: Rondo: Tempo Di Menuetto - Jane Glover
I: Allegro - Jane Glover
II: Andante - Jane Glover
III: Presto - Jane Glover
I: Andante - Jane Glover
II: Allegro Di Molto - Jane Glover
III: Allegro Assai - Jane Glover
I: Allegro - Jane Glover
II: Andante - Jane Glover
III: Presto - Jane Glover

Tracks:

I: Allegro Maestoso - Allegro Molto - Yehudi Menuhin
II: Andante - Yehudi Menuhin
III: Menuetto & Trio - Yehudi Menuhin
IV: Rondo: Allegro - Yehudi Menuhin
V: Menuetto Galante & Trio - Yehudi Menuhin
VI: Andante - Yehudi Menuhin
VII: Menuetto & Trios I & II - Yehudi Menuhin
VIII: Adagio - Allegro Assai - Yehudi Menuhin
I: Marcia: Maestoso - Yehudi Menuhin
II: Menuetto & Trio - Yehudi Menuhin
III: Rondeau: Allegretto - Yehudi Menuhin

Tracks:

I: Largo - Allegro Molto - Consortium Classicum
II: Menuetto & Trios I & II - Consortium Classicum
III: Adagio - Consortium Classicum
IV: Menuetto & Trios I & II - Consortium Classicum
V: Romance: Adagio - Allegretto - Consortium Classicum
VI: Thema: Andante With Variations - Consortium Classicum
VII: Rondo: Allegro Molto - Consortium Classicum
I: Allegro - Consortium Classicum
II: Menuetto I - Consortium Classicum
III: Adagio - Consortium Classicum
IV: Menuetto II & Trios I & II - Consortium Classicum
V: Allegro - Consortium Classicum

Tracks:

I: Allegro - Consortium Classicum
II: Andante - Consortium Classicum
III: Menuetto In Canone - Consortium Classicum
IV: Allegro - Consortium Classicum
I: Allegro Spiritoso - Consortium Classicum
II: Andante - Consortium Classicum
III: Menuetto - Consortium Classicum
IV: Contredanse En Rondeau: Molto Allegro - Consortium Classicum
I: Allegro - Consortium Classicum
II: Andante Grazioso - Consortium Classicum
III: Menuetto - Consortium Classicum
IV: Allegro - Consortium Classicum
I: Andante - Consortium Classicum
II: Menuetto - Consortium Classicum
III: Polonaise: Andante - Consortium Classicum
IV: Presto Assai - Consortium Classicum
I: Allegro Molto - Consortium Classicum
II: Andantino - Consortium Classicum
III: Menuetto: Moderato - Consortium Classicum
IV: Presto - Consortium Classicum

Tracks:

I: Allegro Moderato - Heutling Quartet
II: Andante - Heutling Quartet
III: Menuetto: Allegretto - Heutling Quartet
IV: Allegretto Ma Non Troppo - Heutling Quartet
I: Allegro Non Troppo - Heutling Quartet
II: Andante Con Moto - Heutling Quartet
III: Menuetto: Allegretto - Allegro - Heutling Quartet
IV: Allegro Vivace - Heutling Quartet
I: Allegro Vivace Assai - Heutling Quartet
II: Menuetto Moderato - Heutling Quartet
III: Adagio - Heutling Quartet
IV: Allegro Assai - Heutling Quartet

Tracks:

I: Allegro - Heutling Quartet
II: Menuetto - Heutling Quartet
III: Andante - Heutling Quartet
IV: Allegro Non Troppo - Heutling Quartet
I: Adagio - Allegro - Heutling Quartet
II: Andante Cantabile - Heutling Quartet
III: Menuetto: Allegro - Heutling Quartet
IV: Allegro Molto - Heutling Quartet
I: Allegro - Heutling Quartet
II: Larghetto - Heutling Quartet
III: Menuetto: Moderato - Heutling Quartet
IV: Allegro Assai - Heutling Quartet

Tracks:

I: Allegro - Heutling Quartet
II: Andante - Heutling Quartet
III: Menuetto: Allegretto - Heutling Quartet
IV: Allegro - Heutling Quartet
I: Allegro - Heutling Quartet
II: Menuetto: Allegretto - Heutling Quartet
III: Adagio Ma Non Troppo - Heutling Quartet
IV: Adagio - Allegro - Heutling Quartet

Tracks:

I: Allegro Moderato - Heutling Quartet
II: Adagio - Heutling Quartet
III: Menuetto Ma Allegretto - Heutling Quartet
IV: Allegro - Heutling Quartet
I: Larghetto - Allegro - Heutling Quartet
II: Adagio - Heutling Quartet
III: Menuetto Ma Allegretto - Heutling Quartet
IV: Allegro - Heutling Quartet
I: Allegro Di Molto - Heutling Quartet
II: Andante - Heutling Quartet
III: Menuetto: Allegretto - Heutling Quartet
IV: Allegro - Heutling Quartet

Tracks:

Allegro Con Spirito - Sviatoslav Richter
II: Andantino Catabile - Sviatoslav Richter
III: Allegretto - Sviatoslav Richter
I: Allegro Moderato - Sviatoslav Richter
II: Andantino Sostenuto E Cantabile - Sviatoslav Richter
III: Rondo: Allegro - Sviatoslav Richter
I: Andante - Sviatoslav Richter
II: Allegro - Sviatoslav Richter
I: Allegro - Sviatoslav Richter

Tracks:

I: Allegro Con Spirito - Daniel Barenboim
II: Andantino Con Espressione - Daniel Barenboim
III: Rondeau: Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
I: Allegro Moderato - Daniel Barenboim
II: Andante Cantabile - Daniel Barenboim
III: Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim
I: Tema (Andante Grazioso) Con Variazioni (I-VI) - Daniel Barenboim
II: Menuetto - Trio - Daniel Barenboim
III: Alla Turca: Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim
I: Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
II: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
III: Allegro Assai - Daniel Barenboim

Tracks:

I: Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
II: Andante Cantabile - Daniel Barenboim
III: Allegretto Grazioso - Daniel Barenboim
Adagio - Allegro - Andantino - Piu Allegro - Tempo I - Daniel Barenboim
I: Molto Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
II: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
III: Allegro Assai - Daniel Barenboim

Tracks:

I: Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
II: Andante Cantabile - Daniel Barenboim
III: Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim
I: Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
II: Andante - Daniel Barenboim
III: Rondo - Daniel Barenboim
I: Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
II: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
III: Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim
I: Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
II: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
III: Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim

Tracks:

Tema ('Laat Ons Juichen') (Allegretto) - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8 (Tempo I) - Daniel Barenboim
Tema (Air): Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 (Tempo I) - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7 - Daniel Barenboim
Tema (Menuetto): Andante - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6: Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim
Tema (Menuet) - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 9 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 10 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 11: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 12: Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
Tema (Air): Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8 (Tempo Di Menuetto) - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 9 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 10: Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 11 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 12 (Molto Adagio -) - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 12 (Allegretto) - Daniel Barenboim

Tracks:

Tema - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 9 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 10 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 11: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 12: Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
Tema - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 9 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 10 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 11: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 12: Presto - Daniel Barenboim
Tema: Andante - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 9 (Allegro -) - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 9 (Tempo Di Tema) - Daniel Barenboim
Tema - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8: Allegro - Daniel Barenboim
Tema - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim

Tracks:

Tema: Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 9: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 10 (Allegro -) - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 10 (Tempo I) - Daniel Barenboim
Tema: Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 9 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 10 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 11: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 12 (Allegro -) - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 12 (Tempo I) - Daniel Barenboim
Tema: Allegretto - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Tema - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 9 (Allegro -) - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 9 (Tempo I) - Daniel Barenboim
Tema - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 1 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 2 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 3 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 4 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 5 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 6 - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 7: Adagio - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8 (Allegro -) - Daniel Barenboim
Variation 8 (Tempo I) - Daniel Barenboim

Tracks:

Lieder: Sehnsucht Nach Dem Fruhlinge K596 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: An Die Hoffnung K390 (340c) - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Der Zauberer K472 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Die Kleine Spinnerin K531 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Die Verschweigung K518 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Das Lied Der Trennung K519 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Die Zufriedenheit K473 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Als Luise Die Briefe K520 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: An Die Einsamkeit K391 (340b) - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Das Veilchen K476 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Abendempfindung K523 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: An Chloe K524 - Barbara Hendricks
Cantata: Die Ihr Des Unermesslichen Weltalls K619 - Barbara Hendricks
Canzonetta: Ridente La Calma K152 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Dans Un Bois Solitaire K308 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Oiseaux, Si Tous Les Ans K307 (284d) - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Un Moto Di Gioia K579 - Barbara Hendricks
Lieder: Komm, Liebe Zither K351 (367b) - Barbara Hendricks

Beethoven: Complete Sonatas for Piano & Cello

Average customer rating:

Good Alternative Beethoven Cello Set...
Great Stuff
Ma and Ax do it again!

Beethoven: Complete Sonatas for Piano & Cello

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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

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

Brahms: Sonatas for Cello and Piano
Chopin: Polonaise brilliante; Cello Sonata; Piano Trio
Beethoven: The Violin Sonatas
Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet
Elgar, Walton: Cello Concertos

ASIN: B0000026GN
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Sonata No. 1 For Piano & Cello, Op. 5, No. 1 (F Major): I - Adagio sostenuto; Allegro
Sonata No. 1 For Piano & Cello, Op. 5, No. 1 (F Major): II - Rondo: Allegro vivace
Sonata No. 2 For Piano & Cello, Op. 5, No. 2 (G Minor): I - Adagio sostenuto ed espressivo; Allegro molto piu tosto presto
Sonata No. 2 For Piano & Cello, Op. 5, No. 2 (G Minor): II - Rondo: Allegro
Sonata No. 4 For Piano & Cello, Op. 102, No. 1 (C Major): I - Andante; Allegro vivace
Sonata No. 4 For Piano & Cello, Op. 102, No. 1 (C Major): II - Adagio; Allegro vivace

Tracks:

Sonata No. 3 For Piano & Cello, Op. 69 (A Major): I - Allegro ma non tanto
Sonata No. 3 For Piano & Cello, Op. 69 (A Major): II - Scherzo: Allegro molto
Sonata No. 3 For Piano & Cello, Op. 69 (A Major): III - Adagio cantabile; Allegro vivace
Sonata No. 5 For Piano & Cello, Op. 102, No. 2 (D Major): I - Allegro con brio
Sonata No. 5 For Piano & Cello, Op. 102, No. 2 (D Major): II - Adagio con molto sentimento d'affetto
Sonata No. 5 For Piano & Cello, Op. 102, No. 2 (D Major): III - Allegro fugato
Seven Variations On The Theme 'In Men, Who Know The Feeling Of Love' From Mozart's (From Mozart's 'The Magic Flute, For Cello And Piano, WoO 46)
Twelve Variations On The Theme 'A Maiden Or A Wife' (From Mozart's 'The Magic Flute, For Cello And Piano, Op. 66)

Amazon.com essential recording

These are among the finest modern recordings of Beethoven's Cello Sonatas. The two players are well matched, as they should be in this music, which is just as demanding for the pianist as for the cellist, if not more so. They don't try to differentiate stylistically among early, middle, and late sonatas. They play them all in a large scale, concert-hall manner, which actually suits all of them very well. Unfortunately, in reducing this recording to two CDs, the producers have dropped one set of Variations, which was recorded. What is present, though, is choice. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Good Alternative Beethoven Cello Set..........2005-11-16

Seems to be a lot of disagreement on this set. I have both this one and the Fournier & Kempff set. I like them both. I can say that Ma & Ax take all repeats, thusly extending the playing time of each movement anywhere from 3-5mins over the Fournier & Kempff set. I've always thought Ma a fine cellist. I rate his Bach solo cello second only to Casals, and tied with Fournier. Ax is a solid pianist, if not brilliant. Kempff is preferred with Beethoven, however.

Anyway, this is a solid set: can't go wrong. The Fournier & Kempff set, likewise.

Great Stuff.......2003-06-23

I have listened to many recordings of these sonatas and I have to admit that these are amazing!
Although I agree that Yo-Yo Ma is not the best cellist to have ever walked the earth (anyone who knows anythign about cello playing would admit this) he is certainly without doubt the best around at the moment!!! Who knows who he rates better than Ma. Du Pre?? I hope not!
People often forget that a sonata is a piece of chamber music! Ma and Ax, certainly not forgeting this play so beautifully together in this that this is a piece of chamber music that cannot be missed!
BUY IT!!!!!!!! (Whilst throwing away any recordings of du pre!)

Ma and Ax do it again!.......2000-06-13

At first I was hesitant to buy this set because of the price. But later I found out that it was well worth it. Their ability to basically control the instruments that they are playing is incredible. Most importantly is the feeling that they have put in to the Beethoven cello sonatas. I have noticed that of all the classical duos and trios that i have heard, Ma and Ax are the best. They seem to communicate well together while playing. This selection definitely receives five stars.

Casals Edition - Beethoven: Complete Cello Sonatas

Average customer rating:

Spectacular recording of spectacular music
Disappointing Sound Quality
Very touching performance.
Casals and Serkin play Beethoven for the Gods
Deeply-probing classic interpretations (but not *quite* complete)

Casals Edition - Beethoven: Complete Cello Sonatas

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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

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

Bach: Cello Suites
Franz Schubert: Quintet/Symphony No.5
Great Recordings of the Century: Beethoven "Archduke" Piano Trio and Schubert Piano Trio in B flat
J. S. Bach: Suites for Cello, 1, 2 & 3; Pablo Casals
Johannes Brahms: Sextet No. 1/Piano Trio No. 1

ASIN: B0000029L7
Release Date: 1994-02-22

Tracks:

I. Adagio Sostenuto - Allegro-Adagio-Presto
II. Rondo. Allegro Vivace
I. Adagio Sostenuto E Espressivo/Allegro Molto Piu Tosto Presto
II. Rondo. Allegro
I. Andante - Allegro Vivace
II. Adagio - Allegro Vivace

Tracks:

I. Allegro Ma Non Troppo
II. Scherzo. Allegro Molto
III. Adagio Cantabile - Allegro Vivace
I. Allegro Con Brio
II. Adagio Con Molto Sentimento D'affetto
III. Allegro - Allegro Fugato
7 Variations On/Uber/Sur 'Bei Mannern, Welche Liebe Fuhlen' From/Aus/De Mozart's 'Die Zauberflote'/ < > WoO.46
12 Variations On/Uber/Sur 'Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen' From/Aus/De Mozart's 'Die Zauberflote'/ < > WoO.66

Customer Reviews:

Spectacular recording of spectacular music.......2007-06-08

I didn't even know that Beethoven wrote sonatas for cello and piano until I came across this recording; both the music and the musicians are spectacularly good. Get it today!

Disappointing Sound Quality.......2007-01-09

I have heard of these sonatas for years, but had never heard them. I chose the Casals/Serkin set because of my familiarity with other performances by him. Although Casals and Serkin are unassailable as interpreters and performers, I found this set disappointing because of what I can only describe as ugly sounds - there is a harshness to the sound quality, at least in places, which I think is probably to be ascribed to the age of the recording rather than the performance. Still, I found it jarring, and it marred my enjoyment.

Very touching performance. .......2007-01-03

This album is one of the most beautiful music experiences I had in many years; I'm amateur listener but I can say that both interpreters are playing these compositions with such a passion and love that is probably not too common these days anymore. Originally I felt that the technical quality of this mono recording is bit distracting, but after a few weeks of listening this album over and over I don't mind the sound at all - the quality of music makes up for it, and I actually like the recording as it is presented to us, wouldn't want any change. I very much recommend this album. I'm planning to buy another copy as a gift for someone close.

Casals and Serkin play Beethoven for the Gods .......2006-03-29

This set is desert island gorgeous. Playing with passion, elegance, at times abandon, the performers are completely in tune with each other. This is elevated chamber music playing of an aristocratic order.

You can hear Casals grunting and moaning with pleasure through the performances - it sounds as though he's making love to his cello. Serkin's playing is simply beautiful - lucid and warm with some of the best trills I've heard - his playing in opus 60 is thrilling. Good clear sound allows you to listen unencumbered by distraction to this spectacular music-making.

The Schnabel - Fournier set of these pieces is quite wonderful, too - spunky and sparkling with Schnabel's great paced and joyous playing. The Schnabel virile luminosity is all there, partnered by Fournier's richly expressive and dignified cello. While it sounds like the historic performance it is, I rarely mind or notice. Art is what counts and the beauty of these performances shines through with radiant surrender. Who cares about a little interference - it adds to the wonder of the experience, knowing that this was recorded almost 60 years ago and we are priviliged to hear it today....

The dvd with Rostropovich and Richter playing Beethoven's cello sonatas is also splendid - Rostropovich is a marvelous musician to watch - he's in an altered state and quite uninhibited about his relationship with his instrument. Yes there are some incorrect notes played, but who cares? Rostropovich is demonically possessed at times and it's fascinating to watch his transformations and responses as he literally attacks his cello, especially in the rondo of opus 5 no. 2. Richter is a large man nearly bursting out of his tails. With his enormous hands he looks more like he could be unloading freight down at the docks, yet he plays these sonatas with such refined manners and sensitivity that it's heart rending to see this big, uncomfortable man playing such magnificent music.

Deeply-probing classic interpretations (but not *quite* complete).......2005-10-25

I was recently listening to this set and the new Schiff-Perenyi recordings on ECM for the purpose of comparing them and writing a review about my impressions. "Compare and contrast the sets, class, and write a review for Monday. Minimum of five pages, single-spaced, typed. --And don't ask your parents for help, because I can always tell."

Well, I was weird as a school kid, because I always loved assignments like that and never was inclined to ask my parents or anyone else. Not that we ever got to write about Beethoven cello sonatas--usually it was on something boring like Beowulf. So I've been comparing Serkin and Casals to Schiff-Perenyi, and, in the interest of efficiency, was going to write a review dealing with both sets and paste two copies on Amazon, one under this recording and one under the Schiff-Perenyi disc, thereby scoring two reviews with one effort. Then I discovered that apparently the ECM isn't available in America--or at least not through Amazon's American website. (It is on their UK page.) So much for my attempt at efficiency. At any rate, you can consider this a review of both recordings, and maybe I'll even mosey on over to the UK side and post this review with them.

Anyway, after listening to the two sets, it's clear the Serkin-Casals stands head and shoulders above Schiff-Perenyi. What's frustrating is trying to explain why the latter, despite immacualte playing (or maybe because of it?) is devoid of meaning, while the former, despite finger-slips and lapses of intonation (as well as more cautious tempi and less free abandon) displays a deep understanding of the works' structures and nuances. Take, for just one small example, the second movement of Op.5, No. 2: in the hands of less skilled interpreters, the waltz seems to be repetitious and too long, distended from the rest of the work. I always thought it was that way, and figured Beethoven just hadn't really mastered proportion yet.

Well, perhaps he hadn't, but Casals and Serkin make us believe he has. They find infinite variety in the theme, so that it doesn't sound redundant as it keeps returning. And I don't just mean they vary the dynamics or insert a pause here or there; they find just the proper weight for the pieces as it morphs from section to section. No one else has convinced me so much in this music, not even Heidsieck-Tortelier (a set I am very enthusiastic about nonetheless).

Some other moments are just unforgettable. Listen to the opening of Op. 102, No. 1: does anyone play music this way anymore? Pay attention to the way Serkin answers Casals in the introduction's main phrase. Then listen to the low tremolos in Serkin's left hand, with Casals the background, just before the main theme begins. It's positively heartbreaking! After a plaintive introduction like that, it seems logical to me that the main theme should have to *fight* for its very existence when it appears, and this is just how Casals and Serkin take it. (Listen to the dynamic interplay!) By contrast, Schiff-Perenyi play it relatively straight-laced, without much dynamics, and don't convince me they have anything to say; their mission seems to be just to play prettily. ("For extra credit class, contrast their handling of the last murmuring bars of the introduction with Serkin-Casals. Which one makes your hair stand up on your back?") When the latter two get to the first movement's second theme, that struggle from the terse introduction is absent, and the whole dramatic "point" of the piece is lost, to my ears. These musicians are more convincing in the facile works, such as the Op. 66 Magic Flute Variations--they're pretty, sweet-sounding, and not as deep as the triple-digit opus works.

I think the best way to put it is to say that I feel that Schiff-Perenyi have thought about the notes, and play them perfectly. They can play rings around Casals and Serkin, and generally do. But Casals and Serkin spent their study time thinking about the music, what it meant, why Beethoven started this one with a brooding introduction but not that one; how the absense of such an introduction changes the qualities of the movement's secondary theme, when the works get "dark" and when they get "light," and so on. So many of today's musicians, unfortunately, see the little squiggles on paper as technical obstacles to be hurdled; Casals and Serkin saw them as clues to divine what was inside the composer's head. And if they didn't always clear the hurdle--and sometimes they don't--so what? You understood what they meant.

I guess in the interest of full disclosure, I should mention that while the Schiff-Perenyi are in immaculate sound, the Serkin-Casals recordings were made in the early 50s and are mono. This shouldn't stop anyone from buying them, but if you must have everything in your collection writ in large DDD letters, you should look elsewhere. And it will be your loss.

My only slight complaint is the titling of the Casals and Serkin set "The Complete Edition." Not quite. Missing is the little-known sonata in F Major, Op. 17, a transcription, as well as a theme and variations on Handel's Judas Maccabaus, WoO 45. These aren't major omissions that should dissuade you from buying the set, but it's not "complete," either. But even my beloved Heidsieck-Tortelier lacks the Op 17 sonata. Only the ECM has every last scraping of Beethoven's cello music.

Okay, that's my comparative essay. Hope you give me an A.

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

Music Review

Weir: Consolations of Scholarship; King Harald's Saga

Mayer: A death in the family

Modeste Mussorgsky: Piano Works

Greatest Country Hits of the '80s, Vol. 2

Made in Sweden

Miracles - A Journey of Hope & Healing

Liberte Illegale [Import]

Live with a Little Help from Our Friends [Box set] [Collector's Edition] [Enhanced] [Live]

Marc Karo Demo 2.0

Orion

Let It All Out [Import]

La Cumparsita: 1943 [Import]

Latin Fever: Songs of Ricky Martin [Import]

Gottschalk: A Night in the Tropics

Animal Totems 2