Elgar: Cello Concerto & Sea Pictures; Jacqueline Du Pre [Original recording remastered]

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com essential recording
This is rightly regarded as the finest recording of Elgar's attractive and elegiac Cello Concerto. It's held in almost irrationally high esteem in the UK, largely because of the universal affection for Jacqueline Du Pré, the wife of Daniel Barenboim, whose early death from multiple sclerosis cut short what would have been a stellar career. This disc is equally noteworthy for Janet Baker's magnificent singing of the Sea Pictures, the composer's only orchestral song cycle. It's not Elgar's fault if the tune of the last song sounds like an excessively inflated version of "Hello, Dolly!" A classic then, even if neither work is a raging masterpiece. --David Hurwitz

Elgar: Cello Concerto & Sea Pictures; Jacqueline Du Pre, Music, Jacqueline Du Pre, Dame Janet Baker, Edward Elgar, Sir John Barbirolli, London Symphony Orchestra, Cello Concerto, Chamber Music & Recitals, Classical, Classical Composers, Classical Music, Concerto, Song Cycle for Solo Voice and Orchestra, Vocal
Jacqueline du Pre - Favourite Cello Concertos ~ Boccherini, Dvorak, Elgar, Haydn, Monn, Saint-Saens, Schumann
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Beutefully interpretted
  • I THOUGHT I had heard these concertos,,,
  • Excellent Selection
  • A sassy dame
  • Pleasure to listen
Jacqueline du Pre - Favourite Cello Concertos ~ Boccherini, Dvorak, Elgar, Haydn, Monn, Saint-Saens, Schumann
Edward Elgar , Luigi Boccherini , Antonin Dvorak , Camille Saint-Saëns , Joseph Haydn , Arnold Schoenberg , Robert Schuman , Daniel Barenboim , Sir John Barbirolli , Jacqueline du Pré , Valda Aveling , Georg Mathias Monn , London Symphony Orchestra , New Philharmonia Orchestra , Chicago Symphony Orchestra , and English Chamber Orchestra
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by BoccheriniAll Works by Boccherini | Boccherini, Luigi | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dvorák, Antonín | ( 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
All Works by Franz Joseph HaydnAll Works by Franz Joseph Haydn | Haydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Robert SchumannAll Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
Du Pré, JacquelineDu Pré, Jacqueline | ( D ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
ClassicalClassical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
Blowout Box SetsBlowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 20% OffMore Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Boccherini, LuigiBoccherini, Luigi | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Dvorák, AntonínDvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Elgar, Sir EdwardElgar, Sir Edward | ( E ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Haydn, Franz JosephHaydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Saint-Saëns, CamilleSaint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Schumann, RobertSchumann, Robert | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
InstrumentalInstrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Jacqueline du Pré - a lasting inspiration
  2. Jacqueline du Pre In Portrait
  3. Daniel Barenboim, Pinchas Zukerman & Jacqueline du Pré - Beethoven: Piano Trios
  4. Hilary & Jackie
  5. Jacqueline du Pré - Chopin: Cello Sonata in G minor, Franck: Sonata in A / Barenboim

ASIN: B000002S1F
Release Date: 1990-05-07

Tracks:

  1. Cello Concerto No. 1 In C Major, Hob. VIIb:1: 1 - Moderato - Kadenz - Tempo I
  2. Cello Concerto No. 1 In C Major, Hob. VIIb:1: 2 - Adagio - Kadenz - Tempo I
  3. Cello Concerto No. 1 In C Major, Hob. VIIb:1: 3 - Allegro molto
  4. Cello Concerto No. 2 In D Major, Hob. VIIb:2: 1 - Allegro moderato
  5. Cello Concerto No. 2 In D Major, Hob. VIIb:2: 2 - Adagio
  6. Cello Concerto No. 2 In D Major, Hob. VIIb:2: 3 - Rondo (Allegro)
  7. Cello Concerto in B flat major: 1 - Allegro moderato - Kadenz - Tempo I
  8. Cello Concerto in B flat major: 2 - Adagio no troppo
  9. Cello Concerto in B flat major: 3 - Rondo (Allegro) - Kadenz - Tempo I

Tracks:

  1. Cello Concerto In A Minor, Op. 129: I. Nicht zu schnell
  2. Cello Concerto In A Minor, Op. 129: II. Langsam - Etwas lebhafter - Schneller
  3. Cello Concerto In A Minor, Op. 129: III. Sehr lebhaft - Kadenz - Tempo I
  4. Concerto No. 1 in A minor, Op. 33
  5. Cello Concerto In G Minor: I. Allegro
  6. Cello Concerto In G Minor: II. Adagio
  7. Cello Concerto In G Minor: III. Allegro non tanto

Tracks:

  1. Concerto In B Minor, Op. 104: I. Allegro
  2. Concerto In B Minor, Op. 104: II. Adagio ma non troppo
  3. Concerto In B Minor, Op. 104: III. Finale (Allegro moderato)
  4. Concerto In E Minor, Op. 85: Adagio-Moderato
  5. Concerto In E Minor, Op. 85: II. Lento-Allegro molto
  6. Concerto In E Minor, Op. 85: III. Adagio
  7. Concerto In E Minor, Op. 85: IV. Allegro ma non troppo

Amazon.com essential recording

During her far-too-brief career, cellist Jacqueline du Pré exhibited an almost oracular power of communication. Her performances bristled with the kind of brilliant electricity that could change lives and convert listeners to a lifelong love of music. Happily, it's possible to experience a sense of that power from the recordings du Pré completed before multiple sclerosis halted her career as a performer in the early 1970s. This set provides a splendid portrait--at bargain price--of du Pré's unmistakable personality: the astonishingly original yet convincing phrasing, raw energy, and ability to make her instrument sound uncannily like a human voice (du Pré was after all a favored student of Mstislav Rostropovich). Her rendition of Haydn's Concerto in C is clearly cast in a romantic--and nowadays perhaps unfashionable--mold, yet du Pré's big, bold tone carries the musical line forward with exhilarating presence. It's a demeanor that proves especially reassuring for the quirkily mercurial inventions of Boccherini. Yet du Pré most indelibly leaves her signature on the work that became her hallmark, Edward Elgar's E Minor Concerto, grafting a deeply personal level of expression onto the score's rich post-World War I melancholy. In the Schumann, du Pré makes an eloquently passionate protagonist. A similar sense of excitement is to be heard in Dvorák's Concerto--performed near the end of her career--above all in the flame of inspiration she evidently sparks from the orchestra in the serene close of its slow movement. This is a supremely rewarding collection for the beginner and aficionado alike. --Thomas May

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Beutefully interpretted.......2007-04-04

Jacquline du Pres interprettation of some of the moast famous cello consertos is simply amasing. her music just flows with energy and abbowe all passion. she realy brings out the qaleties of the cello with intensety and softnes intertwined. music bursting with passion.

5 out of 5 stars I THOUGHT I had heard these concertos,,,.......2007-04-04

UNTIL I was fortunate enough to have heard them performed by Jacqueline du Pre!!!
ABSOLUTELY STUNNING!!! Her superb playing, along with truly masterful
interpretative skills, just "comes pouring out of the speakers!"
Also, the orchestras were obviously truly inspired by these opportunities to perform and record with one of the greatest musicians of all time.
The sound quality is excellent, as is the separation and clarity of both the soloist's and orchestral performances. The overall dynanism is also top notch - I found I had to lower the volume substantially from my normal
system loudness levels.
I've enjoyed this set so much I'll probably wind up buying everything from Amazon that EMI has produced with Jacqueline du Pre's name on it!

5 out of 5 stars Excellent Selection.......2007-02-27

The choice of concertos is excellent and the artistry of Jacqueline du Pre is exceptional. The Schumann and Saint-Saens works are truly beautiful.

The album is a fitting tribute to the tragic loss of an incredible young talent.

4 out of 5 stars A sassy dame.......2007-02-20

I love this CD. It came extremely fast to NZ and a bonus too as I was expecting only one cd not three!
While Dvorak is currently my favourite, other composers featured here have been growing on me.
Never been a Cello devotee in the past, but I am enjoying this new phase of my musical listening.
The late Ms du Pre plays with vigor and assertiveness, yet manages to convey those moving and sublime moments when needed.
Most enjoyable. Thanky you

5 out of 5 stars Pleasure to listen.......2006-02-23

This 3 cd pack plays daylong on the player. Great music, great artist.
Jacqueline du Pré - a lasting inspiration
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • cello lover
  • 99% perspiration
  • Immortal Legend
  • Epitome of Cello
  • Ooo! Samples!
Jacqueline du Pré - a lasting inspiration
Antonin Dvorak , Franz Joseph Haydn , Edward Elgar , Maria Theresia von Paradis , Robert Schumann , Felix Mendelssohn , Gabriel Faure , Johann Sebastian Bach , Camille Saint-Saens , Manuel de Falla , Max Bruch , Ludwig van Beethoven , Johannes Brahms , Cesar Franck , Chicago Symphony Orchestra , London Symphony Orchestra , Daniel Barenboim , Sir John Barbirolli , Jacqueline du Pré , Pinchas Zukerman , Roy Jesson , Gerald Moore , John [guitar] Williams , and Osian Ellis
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

TriosTrios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | 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 BeethovenAll Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by BrahmsAll Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by BruchAll Works by Bruch | Bruch, Max | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dvorák, Antonín | ( 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
All Works by FallaAll Works by Falla | Falla, Manuel de | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Franck, César | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Franz Joseph HaydnAll Works by Franz Joseph Haydn | Haydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Robert SchumannAll Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by MendelssohnAll Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
OrganOrgan | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
English HornEnglish Horn | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
ViolinViolin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
Du Pré, JacquelineDu Pré, Jacqueline | ( D ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
BritainBritain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Jacqueline du Pre - Favourite Cello Concertos ~ Boccherini, Dvorak, Elgar, Haydn, Monn, Saint-Saens, Schumann
  2. Jacqueline du Pre In Portrait
  3. Jacqueline du Pré - Chopin: Cello Sonata in G minor, Franck: Sonata in A / Barenboim
  4. Cello for Relaxation
  5. Daniel Barenboim, Pinchas Zukerman & Jacqueline du Pré - Beethoven: Piano Trios

ASIN: B00000K4F9
Release Date: 1999-09-14

Tracks:

  1. Cello Concerto In B Minor Op. 104: I. Allegro - Dvorak
  2. Cello Concerto No.2 In D: I. Allegro moderato
  3. Cello Concerto No.2 In D: II. Adagio
  4. Cello Concerto No.2 In D: III. Allegro
  5. Cello Concerto In E Minor: I. Adagio - Moderato
  6. Cello Concerto In E Minor: II. Lento - Allegro molto
  7. Cello Concerto In E Minor: III. Adagio
  8. Cello Concerto In E Minor: IV. Allegro, Moderato, Allegro ma non troppo

Tracks:

  1. Sicilienne
  2. Three Fantasy Pieces: I. Zart mit Audruck
  3. Three Fantasy Pieces: II. Lebhaft
  4. Three Fantasy Pieces: III. Rasch und mit Feuer
  5. Sing Without Words in D, Op.109
  6. Elegie In C Minor, Op. 24
  7. The Toccata: Adagio
  8. The Carnival Of The Animals: The Swan
  9. Suite populaire espagnole: Jota
  10. Kol nidrei, Op. 47
  11. Piano Trio In B-flat 'Archduke', Op.97
  12. Cello Sonata No.2 In F, Op.99
  13. Sonata in A

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars cello lover.......2007-05-31

Absoluty the best. It is no wonder she was the world premier cello artist!! Can't say enough. If you love cello, and classical music, this is a must have. Her whole collection is worth every penny!!!

5 out of 5 stars 99% perspiration.......2006-11-08

(4.5/5 stars) This is a two-disc collection of musical works, in which the great cellist Jacqueline du Pre plays. The first disc consists of three cello concerti by three different composers: Dvorak (Romantic), Haydn (Classical) and Elgar (Romantic). Very good music, though it might leave you wondering what all the fuss is about. Not to worry: just pop in Disc Two to find out. The second disc contains shorter works by a wider variety of composers. It also might just leave you breathless by its beauty. Saint-Säens' "The Swan" (from "Carnival of the Animals") is nearly indescribable in its elegance, with du Pre's cello dancing with a harp. This haunting recording should not be missed. Bruch's "Kol Nidrei" is magnificently gorgeous as well. Three fantasy pieces from Schumann, one of Mendelssohn's "Lieder Ohne Wörter" and a stunning Brahms sonata infuse this collection with genuine grace. Since these were recorded prior to the advent of digital recordings, you might hear a very slight hiss on some of the recordings. This is barely audible and really does not detract from the pleasure of listening to it. Each disc runs 75 minutes, making this inspiration last long indeed.

5 out of 5 stars Immortal Legend.......2006-10-07

As a cellist, I grew up listening to Jacqueline Du Pre's recordings. Even now as a 35 year old, I'm still enthralled by her amazing talent. This is a great cd if one is looking for a wonderful introduction to this superb cellist or simply wants to savor her most well known recordings. Du Pre owned the "Elgar" concerto. No other words can summarize this fact. Other beautiful and moving pieces are here on this disc: Bruch "Kol Nidrei", Haydn "Concerto No.2", Faure "Elegie", Brahms "Concerto No.2". The cello is a difficult instrument to play due to the strength required in both hands. Du Pre's playing touches the heartstrings with both emotion and depth. The tone that she coaxes from her cello is amazing. Jacqueline Du Pre is a legend.

5 out of 5 stars Epitome of Cello.......2006-06-23

As a cellist, I absolutely love du Pré's work. I actually found this CD when I was looking for a modern recording of "A Jacqueline du Pré Recital", a record compiled of pieces done between July 15, 1962 and April 1, 1969. The second CD in this set contains the same songs as that record.

The concertos on the first CD are spectacular, especially her rendition of the Elgar concerto which has defined the piece since she first performed it. The second CD, however, is just as wonderful as a collection of some of the most loved cello pieces. No cello recording complete without Saint Saen's "The Swan" and du Pré's version is the only one I've ever heard that I actually like. "Elégie in C minor" (composed by Gabriel Fauré) is one of my personal favorites especially since her rapport with the pianist is obvious and the two instruments blend in a way that makes the piece even more poignant.

Overall, this CD is a must-have for anyone who loves cello as a perfect sample of Jacqueline du Pré's work.

5 out of 5 stars Ooo! Samples!.......2005-11-29

As far as the romantic period goes, Jacqueline Du Pre is my personal favorite 'cellist. Her sensitivity to put expression of the musical idea always outweighed the desire to appear impressive. There is a difference in being just a virtuoso and being a musician. A virtuoso has the capability to dazzle and amaze, but music is more than just being impressive, and Du Pre succeeds in becoming, in every sense, a musician first and foremost. The only complaint I have of this album is the fact that you only get one movement of each piece! Even so, this a wonderful "sample dish" of Du Pre's extraordinary playing, mainly meant to get you hooked so you can get more.
Elgar: Cello Concerto; Sea Pictures; Cockaigne Overture
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Wonderful performances and remastering
  • DuPre at her best
  • Don't even think about buying another performance!
  • Sea Pictures, a life changing event, Lord Elgar, I worship thee!
  • The Definitive Elgar Cello Concerto
Elgar: Cello Concerto; Sea Pictures; Cockaigne Overture

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by ElgarAll Works by Elgar | Elgar, Sir Edward | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
OverturesOvertures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Dvorak & Saint-Saens: Cello Concertos
  2. Great Recordings Of The Century - Elgar: Violin Concerto, 'Enigma' Variations / Elgar, Menuhin
  3. Vaughan Williams: Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis; Fantasia on
  4. Dvorák: Cello Concerto; Tchaikovsky / Karajan, Rostropovich,
  5. Great Recordings Of The Century - Brahms: Violin Sonatas nos 1 - 3 / Perlman, Ashkenazy

ASIN: B0002VEQGG
Release Date: 2004-09-07

Tracks:

  1. Concert Overture: Cockaigne (In London Town) Op.40 - Philharmonia Orchestra
  2. I. Adagio - Moderato - Jacqueline Du Pre
  3. II. Lento - Allegro Molto - Jacqueline Du Pre
  4. III. Adagio - Jacqueline Du Pre
  5. IV. Allegro - Moderato - Allegro, Ma Non Troppo - Jacqueline Du Pre
  6. I. Sea Slumber-Song - Janet Baker
  7. II. In Haven (Capri) - Janet Baker
  8. III. Sabbath Morning At Sea - Janet Baker
  9. IV.Where Corals Lie - Janet Baker
  10. V. The Swimmer - Janet Baker

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful performances and remastering.......2007-02-19

This legendary Du Pre recording of the Elgar Cello Concerto is certainly one of the titles I've been waiting to see in the Great Recordings of the Century. Du Pre gives a passionate reading of the concerto, capturing all the pathos in this immensely tragic work, with able support from Barbirolli and the London Symphony Orchestra, drawing upon his expertise in this music. Barbirolli and the LSO also ably support Dame Janet Baker in her rendition of the Sea Pictures. Dame Janet sings with a light touch and a tonal beauty that befits the music, and one can hear everyone making the most of this underrated Elgar work and unearthing the many nuances in his depiction of the sea.

You'll wonder what the Cello Concerto and the Sea Pictures have in common besides boasting great performances in this disc. Well, from my reading of it, they both harbour sentiments of unpredictability in life. The Cello Concerto is laden with yearning for a lost world, a world torn apart by the First World War, and the Sea Pictures features some depictions of how the sea destroys love.

As expected, this reissue in the Great Recordings of the Century series offers the best remastering that these performances could ever deserve. They emerge as if they were clean, full and vibrant recordings that sound like they were only recorded yesterday. My only quibble is that the CD producers decided to throw in the Cockaigne Overture, which is a rather frivolous piece in relation to the deep, sober mood of the original record. I know that we must get bang for our dollars with the capacity of a CD, but the Cockaigne really spoils the mood of the other two pieces. Thankfully the listener can programme it out and get to the Concerto and the Sea Pictures.

But don't let this deter you from grabbing a copy of this legendary recording that surely deserves its coveted place in this superb EMI series.

5 out of 5 stars DuPre at her best.......2007-02-19

The Elgar belongs to no other. Jackie may have been a bit high-strung, but there's more emotion in this recording that one can find in any other recording of anything in the universe.

5 out of 5 stars Don't even think about buying another performance!.......2006-09-28

... unless you already have this one and want to appreciate it even more!

This is Du Pre's signature piece and she OWNS it.

And Janet Baker, knowing she is dying of cancer, sings Sea Pictures like there is literally no tomorrow.

This is one of those rare recordings where the planets perfectly align to give you music, performers, recording and MOMENT that together exceed the sum of the parts.

5 out of 5 stars Sea Pictures, a life changing event, Lord Elgar, I worship thee!.......2006-01-01

Hello my name is Marcus. You may remember me from such films as the Flintsto... well I'll save my Troy McKlure impersonation for later. Right now its all about Elgar. Or should I say "SIR" Edward Elgar.

The rules for entry into my own "Immortal Composers Club" are insanely strict. I myself a music instructor, composer recording artist have not even been allowed in the club officially as a member yet. I'm like an apprentice to these masters. Or dare I say I am a "padawan learner" still learning.

The Yoda master of the club is of course J.S. Bach, the Obi-Wan of the club, easily Elgar. Myself a practitioner of the archaic non-commercial art of "Art Song" have been moved to tears a few times by both Elgars Sea Pictures and the flawless mezzo performance on this awesome recording. Everything on the CD is of course great but in my opinion the Sea Pictures is one of the greatest art song cycles in human history.

Myself just completing my first modern art song cycle called " Harmonious Haiku " (which you can check out with any basic Google search,) can greatly appreciate the unfortunately to unappreciated form of Art Song.

Sea Pictures is one of my favorites of the Genre. Forget the movies, forget drug store fiction, put on some Sea Pictures, close your eyes and experience what song writing could have been if not for the L. A. Record companies and the well I can't say "Fab" but you know, those four guys with the hair.

Elgar is how a real Englishman makes music! Ride on Brother! Ride on!

Thank you,
Your friend in great music
~ MarcusUnlimited :)

5 out of 5 stars The Definitive Elgar Cello Concerto.......2005-05-04

This performance is hands down the single best recording of the Elgar Cello Concerto. Other accounts are good -- Tortelier, Navarra, Yo-Yo Ma -- but only one stereo reading was good enough to replace the composer's own historical recording with Beatrice Harrison and that is this one by Jacqueline du Pre. Sir John Barbirolli and the Halle Orchestra accompany the cellist in this definitive 1965 performance, which for all intents and purposes, launched her career. Du Pre's playing has the quality and delivery of a great singer, so it is only fitting that the Concerto be coupled with another legendary performance -- Janet Baker's "Sea Pictures" again with JB and the lads from Manchester. This CD has been available for years as a full-price title, but it is great to see it now at midline in the "GROTC" series. In fact, for more in depth reviews of these performances, including one from esteemed music critic David Hurwitz, you should consult this reissue's predecessor.
Elgar: Cello Concerto; "Enigma" Variations
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • I really feel it's inappropriate...
  • Buy it for the Cello Concerto, forget the rest
  • Magnificent.
  • Gorgeous
  • Passionate Jacqueline
Elgar: Cello Concerto; "Enigma" Variations

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by ElgarAll Works by Elgar | Elgar, Sir Edward | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
MarchesMarches | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
Barenboim, DanielBarenboim, Daniel | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
$6.99 and Under$6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Elgar, Sir EdwardElgar, Sir Edward | ( E ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Barenboim, DanielBarenboim, Daniel | ( B ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
InstrumentalInstrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Classical MusicClassical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Classical Instrumental MusicClassical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Jacqueline du Pré - The Concerto Collection
  2. Schubert: "Trout " Quintet
  3. Daniel Barenboim, Pinchas Zukerman & Jacqueline du Pré - Beethoven: Piano Trios
  4. Jacqueline du Pre - Favourite Cello Concertos ~ Boccherini, Dvorak, Elgar, Haydn, Monn, Saint-Saens, Schumann
  5. Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition; Night on Bald Mountain

ASIN: B000BDGWF8
Release Date: 2005-10-18

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars I really feel it's inappropriate..........2007-06-30

...for me to review this recording. These are for me at least two special works. The Elgar Cello Concerto has been described as "the final epitaph to the romantic movement" and I wouldn't disagree with that. Who could know that one of very young performers of this piece, Jacqueline du Pré, was herself to fall victim to a crippling disease not long after this recording? EVERYTHING about this recording is superb. It's hardly surprising that few today will dare to rerecord it. I don't want to say more.
The "Enigma" variations, as the name suggests. have remained a mystery ever since they were composed. The style is Brahms, no question, but the tone is well, mysteriously light. If has often been suggested, this sublime Theme and Variations is a portrait of Elgar's friends and lovers, then it is surely unique in music and will go on being listened to for ever. Wonderful performance, a perfect record.

4 out of 5 stars Buy it for the Cello Concerto, forget the rest.......2007-05-05

The Elgar Cello Concerto is performed wonderfully here--just magic. The legendary team of Barenboim and Du Pre plus her famous way with this piece are known to all classical music lovers.

Barenboim alone as a conductor is another matter. I've never cared for his willful, sometimes even goofy performances, and the other Elgar pieces he conducts on this disc show him to be at his irritating worst. If you want to hear inspired, noble performances of the Pomp & Circumstance Marches and the Enigma Variations buy Adrian Boult's versions with the London Symphony and London Philharmonic Orchestras on EMI/Seraphim.

5 out of 5 stars Magnificent........2007-03-16

This recording of the Elgar is absolutely wonderful... it's breathtaking, poignant, playful, and altogether fabulous. I only wish I had been around to see the DuPre/Barenboim magic live...

4 out of 5 stars Gorgeous.......2007-01-04

Of course this is a gorgeous piece, and she is the best. BUT, putting two versions of pomp and circumstance before the concerto is SO irritating. the moods are totally different and they are no preparation for the concerto. Why can't they just make CD's with what you want on them instead of filling them up with things you don't want?

5 out of 5 stars Passionate Jacqueline.......2006-01-24

This is a wonderfully passionate recording of the concerto that has rightfully become as closely associated with Jacqueline Dupre as with the composer himself. I don't want to go into detail - just listen and drink it all in. I was lucky enough to hear Jacqueline play this piece live (in Manchester with the Halle in 1970), and this recording is every bit as moving.

But, truth be told, my main reason for buying the CD was the Enigma Variations. On reading the score I discovered an ad lib organ part that fortifies the texture of the orchestra for a substantial part of the final variation. The recording I had (Andre Previn with the Royal Philharmonic) ad libbed it out. I tried to research which recordings had the organ ad libbed in, but couldn't find any indication anywhere on the Web. But, I thought, I have a recording of Barenboim with the London Phil playing Elgar's Cockaigne, and he certainly uses an organ in that recording, therefore...... and thus I discovered this wonderful CD.

The Enigma Variations is given a very fine performance, more satisfying in several ways than in the Previn recording, not least because the brass is a little more prominent and bright (full disclosure: I'm a trumpet player). Oh, and the timpani in the Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage quote are played - as tradition demands - with coins, not with the snare-drum sticks Elgar requests in the score. The result is a very very effective evocation of ships' engines.

I'm giving this recording 5 stars because of the Enigma and the Cello Concerto. The CD also features the two most well-known of the Pomp and Circumstance marches. No. 4 is perfectly fine, but Barenboim gives No. 1 a very strange interpretation. He takes the march part at about a million miles per hour, and it sounds - to my ears, anyway - trivial and silly at that speed. It's even faster than a circus-march screamer. The mind boggles.
Passion - Most Famous Orchestral Spectaculars [20 CD Set]
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • A good gift for novice
Passion - Most Famous Orchestral Spectaculars [20 CD Set]

Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

BalletsBallets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
DancesDances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by BeethovenAll Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by BerliozAll Works by Berlioz | Berlioz, Hector | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by BrahmsAll Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by ChabrierAll Works by Chabrier | Chabrier, Alexis Emanuel | ( C ) | 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
Grieg, EdvardGrieg, Edvard | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by HolstAll Works by Holst | Holst, Gustav | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by KhachaturianAll Works by Khachaturian | Khachaturian, Aram | ( K ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by LisztAll Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by MeyerbeerAll Works by Meyerbeer | Meyerbeer, Giacomo | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by MussorgskyAll Works by Mussorgsky | Mussorgsky, Modest | ( 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 OrffAll Works by Orff | Orff, Carl | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Paganini, Niccolò | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by PonchielliAll Works by Ponchielli | Ponchielli, Amilcare | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Ravel, MauriceRavel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by RossiniAll Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by RachmaninovAll Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by SmetanaAll Works by Smetana | Smetana, Bedrich | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by StraussAll Works by Strauss | Strauss, Richard | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by StravinskyAll Works by Stravinsky | Stravinsky, Igor | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by TchaikovskyAll Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by WagnerAll Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Serenades & DivertimentosSerenades & Divertimentos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music | Divertimentos
SuitesSuites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Incidental MusicIncidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
MarchesMarches | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
OverturesOvertures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Tone PoemsTone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
ScherzoScherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Ballets & DancesBallets & Dances | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ContemporaryGeneral Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Ballets & DancesBallets & Dances | 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
PianoPiano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
ViolinViolin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
Berlin Philharmonic OrchestraBerlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Hungarian National Philharmonic OrchestraHungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
National Philharmonic Orchestra LondonNational Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Salzburg Chamber OrchestraSalzburg Chamber Orchestra | ( S ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Vienna Philharmonic OrchestraVienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
CompilationsCompilations | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Romantic (c.1820-1910)Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
CzechCzech | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GermanGerman | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ItalianItalian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
RussianRussian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
OperettasOperettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
CantatasCantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
MarchesMarches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
Box Sets at 30% OffBox Sets at 30% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
ClassicalClassical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 25% OffMore Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Rhapsody in Blue - Ultimate Piano Collection [20 CD Set]
  2. Little Night Music - Ultimate Mozart Collection [20 CD Set]
  3. Rendezvous of Angels - Concert Collection [20 CD Set]
  4. Classical Masterpieces of the Millennium [20 CD Set]
  5. Classical Evolution: Spanish Guitar Music

ASIN: B00012QLTQ
Release Date: 2003-12-09

Album Description

Music can be both calming and relaxing, or invigorating and passionate...this phenomenal 20-CD set is definitely the latter. This amazing collection brings together for the first time the most passionate music of all time, from Ravel's Bolero, Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake, Wagner's Magic Fire Music to Ravel's La Valse, Orff 's Carmina Burana and Stravinsky's Rite of Spring. This is a must have collection for every passionate music lover.

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars A good gift for novice.......2007-05-12

This was a good gift for somebody learning about Classical music in Japan.
A Bride's Guide to Wedding Music
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • GREAT WEDDING MUSIC!
  • Good Music
  • A very complete selection of ceremony music!
  • Comprehensive Classical Selection
  • Just one note...
A Bride's Guide to Wedding Music

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

WaltzesWaltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
QuartetsQuartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
QuintetsQuintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | 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 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 BrahmsAll Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by CharpentierAll Works by Charpentier | Charpentier, Marc-Antoine | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by ChopinAll Works by Chopin | Chopin, Frédéric | ( C ) | 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
GeneralGeneral | Franck, César | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Gabrieli, GiovanniGabrieli, Giovanni | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by GluckAll Works by Gluck | Gluck, Christoph W. | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by GounodAll Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Grieg, EdvardGrieg, Edvard | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by HandelAll Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by LisztAll Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by MacDowellAll Works by MacDowell | MacDowell, Edward | ( 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 MussorgskyAll Works by Mussorgsky | Mussorgsky, Modest | ( 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
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
All Works by SchubertAll Works by Schubert | Schubert, Franz | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Robert SchumannAll Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Telemann, Georg PhilippTelemann, Georg Philipp | ( T ) | 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 WagnerAll Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by WaltonAll Works by Walton | Walton, Sir William | ( W ) | 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 RachmaninovAll Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
ConcertinosConcertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Concerto GrossiConcerto Grossi | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Character PiecesCharacter Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Sonatas | 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
MarchesMarches | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Telemann, Georg Philipp | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | 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
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
Vocal & SongVocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
TrumpetTrumpet | Brass | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
PianoPiano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
FluteFlute | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
OboeOboe | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
ViolinViolin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
CompilationsCompilations | Classical | Styles | Music
RomancesRomances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
FrenchFrench | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GermanGerman | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
OratoriosOratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
CantatasCantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
OratoriosOratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
RequiemsRequiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. The Knot Collection of Ceremony and Wedding Music Selected by the Knot's Carley Roney
  2. Bride's Guide to Wedding Music, Vol. II
  3. The Ultimate Wedding Album
  4. Bride's Guide to Wedding Music
  5. 25 Wedding Favorites

ASIN: B00005YD53
Release Date: 2002-02-19

Tracks:

  1. Bach: Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
  2. Vivaldi: Largo Winter
  3. Bach: Air On A G String
  4. Torelli: Trumpet Concerto
  5. Bach: Sheep May Safely Graze
  6. Handel: Let The Bright Seraphim
  7. Handel: Pastoral Symphony
  8. Boccherini: String Quintet, Minuet
  9. Mendelssohn: On Wings Of Song
  10. Liszt: Dream Of Love
  11. Rachmaninov: Vocalise
  12. Debussy: Claire De Lune
  13. Satie: Gymnopedie No.1
  14. Gluck: Dance Of The Blessed Spirits
  15. Debussy: Arabesque
  16. Bizet: Intermezzo
  17. Elgar: Salut D'amour
  18. Debussy: Prelude A L'apres - Midi D'un Faun

Tracks:

  1. Wagner: Bridal Chorus
  2. Clarke: Trumpet Voluntary
  3. Handel: Royal Fireworks Music, Overture
  4. Gabrieli: Canzon V
  5. Charpentier: Te Deum
  6. Purcell: Trumpet Tune
  7. Mussorgsky: Promenade
  8. Pachebel: Canon In D
  9. Handel: Larghetto
  10. Vivaldi: Guitar Concerto In D Major, Largo
  11. Handel: Water Music, Air
  12. Macdowell: To A Wild Rose
  13. Beethoven: Pathetique Sonata, Adagio
  14. Melchior: Adagio
  15. Gounod: Ave Maria
  16. Schubert: Ave Maria
  17. Franck: Panis Angelicus
  18. Faure: Pie Jesu
  19. Rachmaninov: Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini
  20. Schumann: Romance For Violin And Piano
  21. Massenet: Meditation

Tracks:

  1. Mendelssohn: Wedding March
  2. Vivaldi: Concerto For Two Trumpets In B, Allegro
  3. Telemann: Trumpet Concerto In D, Allegro
  4. Vivaldi: Spring, Allegro
  5. Telemann: Trumpet Concerto In B, Allegro
  6. Handel: Concerto Grosso, Hornpipe
  7. Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No.4, Allegro
  8. Handel: Arrival Of The Queen Of Sheba
  9. Schumann: Piano Quintet In E Flat Major
  10. Widor: Toccata
  11. Dubois: Toccata
  12. Walton: Crown Imperial
  13. Bach: Cantata No.51. 'Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen.' Alleluia
  14. Mozart: Exsultate Jubilate, Alleluia
  15. Handel: Water Music, Hornpipe
  16. Chopin; Variations On A Theme From 'La Cenerentola'
  17. Faure: Sicilienne
  18. Offenbach: Barcarolle
  19. Faure: Berceuse
  20. Saint-Saens: The Swan
  21. Brahms: Waltz In A Flat
  22. Grieg: Wedding Day At Troldhaugen

Album Description

The process of choosing music for a wedding day can certainly be a daunting process for any couple. There are many choices and the questions can be endless. Traditional music or something off the beaten path? Will your Mom cry (and not in a good way) if you do not come down the aisle to the traditional Wedding March from Wagner, or are you eager to try something new? This collection is designed to give the bridal couple some key pointers to navigate the world of classical music for their wedding day. The package includes over 3 1/2 hours of music on 3 CDs for all portions of the wedding service, all from the Naxos classical label (known for high-quality recordings at inexpensive prices). Wedding day favorites are there, along with new discoveries and tunes you may have never considered for a wedding. All pieces are hand selected by professional wedding musicians and consultants. As a bonus, the 20 page booklet will lead you through the process of choosing music, from hiring musicians to sample programs. Everything you need to create your own unique personal wedding soundtrack.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars GREAT WEDDING MUSIC!.......2007-01-24

I used these CD's for my wedding, and I was so happy I did. You need to buy this CD if you like having a traditional wedding! :)

5 out of 5 stars Good Music.......2006-07-05

I bought these CDs for my wedding, in ceremony and reception. Also, when I created my own wedding video, I used it as background music.

4 out of 5 stars A very complete selection of ceremony music!.......2005-02-02

I am getting married in several months and we couldn't decide what music we wanted at our wedding ceremony. This three disk compilation reminded us of all the great ones- including new options we hadn't thought about. I really enjoyed hearing the organ and strings versions of the songs. If you're someone who hears a classical or baroque piece of music, but can't remember the name or the precise tune, this is a must-have to jog your memory and trigger the tear ducts!

5 out of 5 stars Comprehensive Classical Selection.......2004-04-15

I searched all over for a CD set that had a somewhat comprehensive list of classical selections that are traditionally played at weddings. When I found this 3 CD set, I was very pleased. It contains 61 works from almost as many composers. This set might not contain the "best recording ever" of each of the selections, however it is very well done and the quality is very good. I used it primarily to choose the pieces that I wanted to have played by the church organist, and so the actual recordings were more for my consumption rather than for use in the ceremony/reception itself. However, I would not have hestitated to use the CD's in the wedding itself if needed. The book inside includes a list of suggested songs for various wedding styles (formal, outside, morning, etc.). From the classical neophyte to the seasoned classical music expert, this CD set will meet if not exceed expectations.

4 out of 5 stars Just one note..........2003-06-07

I have not heard this album, so I cannot rate it as a whole. (The form made me include a rating, but disregard that.) However, I want to point out that track 36, the Pie Jesu from Gabriel Faure's Requiem is - well, from a requiem, a mass for the dead. The Pie Jesu is a lovely, gentle movement, and it has a beautiful and pure sound that does seem to fit the mood of a wedding. The Latin words, however, mean "Merciful Lord Jesus, grant them everlasting rest," where "them" refers to the dead.

Beautiful, but perhaps not so suitable for a wedding.
Baby Sleep
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • What is all the hype about?
  • great cd
  • My girls listen to this every night
  • I would give it more than 5 stars....
  • Great CD: soothing music by best performers. Worth every penny.
Baby Sleep

Manufacturer: Erato
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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 BrahmsAll Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | 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
All Works by GluckAll Works by Gluck | Gluck, Christoph W. | ( G ) | 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
Purcell, HenryPurcell, Henry | ( 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
All Works by Robert SchumannAll Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by TchaikovskyAll Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
FuguesFugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SuitesSuites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Incidental MusicIncidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Tone PoemsTone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Purcell, Henry | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | 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
Vocal & SongVocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
PianoPiano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GuitarGuitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
CompilationsCompilations | Classical | Styles | Music
RomancesRomances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
FrenchFrench | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Children's Music | Styles | Music
$7.99 and Under$7.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
ClassicalClassical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
All Blowout MusicAll Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
$7.99 and Under$7.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 25% OffMore Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Sweet Dreams
  2. Build Your Baby's Brain
  3. Baby's First Mozart
  4. Parents: The Lullaby Album
  5. UltraSound - Music for the Unborn Child

ASIN: B000005E5H
Release Date: 1997-04-22

Tracks:

  1. Scenes Form Childhood: Foreign Lands And People
  2. Scenes Form Childhood: Dreaming
  3. Scenes Form Childhood: Child Falling Asleep
  4. Dream Of Children: Andante
  5. Dream Of Children: Allegretto Piacevole
  6. Sicilienne
  7. Study No. 5: Moderato
  8. The Nutcracker Suite Op. 71a: Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy - Tchaikovsky
  9. Notebooks Of Anna Magdalena Bach: Minuets 4 and 5
  10. The Indian Queen: Adagio
  11. Album Leaves: Lullaby
  12. Album Leaves: Cradlesong
  13. Prelude In C Major - Bach
  14. The Carnival Of Animals: The Swan
  15. Gymnopedie I
  16. Gymnopedie III
  17. Album for the Young: Morning Prayer - Tchaikovsky
  18. Album for the Young: My Dear Little Mother - Tchaikovsky
  19. Album for the Young: Sweet Reveries - Tchaikovsky
  20. A Midsummer Night's Dream: Nocturne No. 7 - Mendelssohn
  21. Contes D'Hoffmann: Barcarolle
  22. Piano Concerto No. 26 In D Major: Larghetto
  23. Melody
  24. Lullaby

Amazon.com

I think this music is intended for adults, though the photo on the cover is of a sleeping baby. In any event, Schumann's work, Scenes From Childhood, Op. 15, featured here is more likely to bolt you out of bed than put you to sleep, as the mike is far too close to the piano being played by Cyprien Katsaris. Purcell's Adagio from The Indian Queen is magnificent, performed by John Elliott Gardiner and the English Baroque Soloists. The Weird Award goes to triple harpist Tim Hobrough and lutenist Stephen Barber for their bizarre, spiky rendition of Minuets Nos. 4 and 5 from the Notebook of Anna Magdalena Bach. I would like to meet Bill Holland, producer of all these Atlantic Records classical compilations. He's programmed Satie's Gymnopedie No. 1 on three different CDs, billed alternately as sensuous, romantic, and now here: good for a long snooze. --Gwendolyn Freed

Customer Reviews:

2 out of 5 stars What is all the hype about?.......2007-07-09

I purchased this CD on the basis of the reviews written on Amazon. I have to say I am terribly disappointed. My son hates the CD, I listened to it and I am not all that impressed either. It is ok but nothing like described by other users.

5 out of 5 stars great cd.......2007-06-26

We play this cd every night at bedtime. It not only helps my baby stay asleep, but helps me fall asleep. The only issue I have is that one of the tracks near the end of the cd is a little louder than the tracks before it, so I just make sure I keep it on very quiet and it's wonderful.

5 out of 5 stars My girls listen to this every night.......2006-11-10

My girls (ages 3 & 5) have a hard time winding down at night. We have a regular bedtime routine (bath, snack, teeth brushing, books, hugs), but they still take forever to settle down and sleep. Adding this CD to the bedtime routine has really helped.

5 out of 5 stars I would give it more than 5 stars...........2005-11-18

I had this CD when my daughter was born 5 years ago, and it gave us such a soothing environment in which to bond during quiet times. We also put it on shortly before we'd put her down to sleep, and by 6 weeks she was sleeping through the night in her own crib. I think it was her sanctuary, and the music helped her feel comforted. We've since then completely worn out the CD (she listened to it through her 3rd year), and will have to buy a new one for our next little addition (coming soon!). I found it on this site and just listened to the samples from each track. Aahhh... very soothing for Mommy, too!
I also plan to get it as a baby gift for a friend. :)

5 out of 5 stars Great CD: soothing music by best performers. Worth every penny........2005-08-05

I listened to this CD countless times ever since I first bought it from BMG music service back in 1997. Compositions of this CD are popular classical hits. That is, you will likely recognize at least some of them if you listen to the sampler.

What sets this CD apart is supreme music performance. Every composition is performed flawlessly, with real feeling and passion. There is a good reason why this CD that was released in 1997 is still around and costs over ten dollars. This reason is called quality.
Instruments of the Orchestra
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Instruments of the Orchestra - Great Reference Material!
  • Beginner or Expert
  • Very Informative and Enjoyable
  • Frank's view
  • Excellent Intro for Those Not Familiar with the Orchestra
Instruments of the Orchestra
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
Hungarian National Philharmonic OrchestraHungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Moscow Philharmonic OrchestraMoscow Philharmonic Orchestra | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
National Philharmonic Orchestra LondonNational Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Instructional | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
Blowout Box SetsBlowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 20% OffMore Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Hungarian National Philharmonic OrchestraHungarian National Philharmonic Orchestra | ( H ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Moscow Philharmonic OrchestraMoscow Philharmonic Orchestra | ( M ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
National Philharmonic Orchestra LondonNational Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
InstrumentalInstrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Britten: Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra Op34; Simple Symphony Op4
  2. What to Listen for in Music
  3. Study of Orchestration, Third Edition
  4. The Life and Works of Ludwig van Beethoven
  5. The Life and Works of Frédéric Chopin

ASIN: B00006O0NT
Release Date: 2002-12-03

Tracks:

  1. Overture To 'Tannhauser'
  2. Domna, Pos Vos Ay Chausida
  3. We Don't Merely Use Instruments, We Play On Them. And They Play On Us.
  4. Hungarian Dance No.7
  5. The Violin Is One Of The Most Tender And Beautiful Instruments Ever Invented.
  6. Violin Concerto In D Major (Adagio)
  7. But For A Long Time It Was Seen As The Instrument Of The Devil.
  8. The Soldier's Tale: Triumphal March Of The Devil
  9. The Manipulative Seductiveness Of The Gypsy Violin.
  10. Csardas Music
  11. The Violin And The Initiation Of Nature
  12. The Four Seasons (Spring, Mvt 1)
  13. Birds Are Again Evoked In The Second Concerto, Especially Music's Natural Favourite.
  14. The Four Seasons (Summer, Mvt 1)
  15. Like The Devil, The Violin Is A Master Of Disguise.
  16. Old Viennese Dance No.3 'Schon Rosmarin'
  17. The Menacing Sensuality Of Ravel's Tzigane: A Very Different Side Of The Violin:
  18. Tzigane
  19. Do We Now Have The True Measure Of This Instrument? Not Just Yet.
  20. Caprice No.24
  21. The Many Effects Of The String Tremolando: Brandenburg Concerto No.4 (Last Mvt)/From Joy To Fright/Quartettsatz In C Minor/The String Tremolo Practically Spells The World Agitato.
  22. Variations On A Theme Of Frank Bridge (No.7)
  23. Prokofiev's Tremolo In Romeo And Juliet Should Not Be Heard Just Before Bedtime.
  24. Romeo And Juliet: Act IV
  25. Vivaldi Use It To Illustrate The Shivering Of Travellers Crossing The Ice.
  26. The Four Seasons (Winter, Mvt 1)
  27. The Violin Muted
  28. Clair De Lune
  29. The Gentleness Of Muted Strings Persists Even When A Whole Orchestra Plays.
  30. Piano Concerto No.21 In C Major, K.467 (Slow Mvt)
  31. The Pizzicato Violin
  32. Pizzicato Polka
  33. In Prokofiev's Second Violin Concerto, The Accompaniment Is Pizzicato.
  34. Violin Concerto No.2 In G Minor (Slow Mvt)
  35. Varieties Of Pizzicato: Colas Breugnon (The People's Feast)/Now A Drier, Leaner, Hungrier Pizzicato. There's Not A Lot Of Comfort Here./Capriol Suite (Tordion)/The Use Of Pizzicato As 'Percussion'/Romeo And Juliet (Act I)/Mahler Used Pizzicato...
  36. The Planets (Mars - The Bringer Of War)
  37. The Technique Of Double-Stopping Enables The Violin To Play Duets With Itself./Sonata No.3 In C Major For Unaccompanied Violin (Fugue)/Now A Later Example Of The Same Technique
  38. Hungarian Dance No.4
  39. Double-Stopping Is A Standard Feature Of A Lot Of Folk Music.
  40. The Four Seasons (Autumn, Mvt 1)
  41. Now The Same Technique, But The Sound Might Have Come From Another World.
  42. Bolero
  43. Double-Stopping Can Only Approximate The Sound Of A Real Violin Duet.
  44. Cadenza To The Violin Concerto By Brahms
  45. Now Compare That With A Real Violin Duet.
  46. Forty-Four Duos (No. 1: Teasing Song)
  47. Another Duo By Bartok, Demonstrating The Violin's Rich Lower Register
  48. Forty-Four Duos (No.2: Maypole Dance)
  49. And Now What May Be The Most Beautiful Accompanied Violin Duet In History
  50. Concerto In D Minor For Two Violins (Largo)
  51. The Soul Of The Violin Is In Song; But What About This Weird Passage?
  52. Violin Concerto No.1 In D Major (Mvt 2)
  53. The Use Of Harmonies In The Orchestra Can Be Both Magical And Unsettling.
  54. Symphony No.1 'Titan' (Mvt 1, Opening)
  55. Tchaikovsky's Use Of Harmonics In The Sleeping Beauty Is Both Strange And Darling.
  56. The Sleeping Beauty (Act II, No.15: Entr'Acte)
  57. Ravel's Harmonics In Mother Goose Effect A Magical Transformation.
  58. Ma Mere L'Oye - Mother Goose (Beauty And The Beast)
  59. Stravinsky's Harmonics In The Firebird Transport Us Almost Into Another World./The Firebird (Introduction)
  60. The Natural Upper Notes Of The Violins Have A Unique Emotional 'Grab'.
  61. Also Sprach Zarathustra (Of The Afterworldsmen)
  62. Still In Their Upper Register, The Violins Unleash The Energy Of A Young Colt.
  63. Variations On A Theme Of Frank Bridge (No. 4)
  64. Elsewhere, Britten Uses The Same High Register To Create A Very Different Mood.
  65. Four Sea Interludes (Dawn) From 'Peter Grimes'
  66. To End This Outing With The Violins, A Charming Little Elfin Dance
  67. Elfenreigen

Tracks:

  1. Introduction To The Viola
  2. Viola Concerto (Mvt 1)
  3. Khatchaturian Gets A Very Different Sound From It: Fuller, Fruitier, More Exotic.
  4. Gayane Suite No.1 (Armen's Solo)
  5. Very Nearly The Whole Of The Violin's Upper Register Is Also Available To The Viola.
  6. Passacaglia, Op.33b From 'Peter Grimes'
  7. The Viola Can Bring A Special, Rich Twanginess To Pizzicato That The Violins Lack./Don Quixote/Berlioz Drew Sounds From It That Retain Their Metallic Strangeness Even Today.
  8. Harold In Italy (Mvt 4)
  9. The Muted Viola: Intimate, Gentle, Poignant In Dvork
  10. Cypresses (No.9)
  11. The Massed Violas Of The Modern Symphony Orchestra In Mahler
  12. Symphony No.4 (Mvt 3)
  13. The 'Period' Viola In Bach
  14. Brandenburg Concerto No.6 (Last Mvt)
  15. The Cello: A Voice Of Unique Nobility
  16. Suite No.1 For Unaccompanied Cello (Prelude)
  17. Brahms And The 'Soul' Of The Cello
  18. Piano Concerto No.2 In B Flat Major (Mvt 3)
  19. Most Orchestral Composers Tend To Emphasize The Cello's Lower Register.
  20. Cantata 'Herz Und Mund Und Tat Und Leben', BWV 147 (Soprana Aria: Bereite Dir, Jesu)
  21. In The Time Of Beethoven The Cello Remained As Fundamental As Ever.
  22. Symphony No.3 'Eroica' (Finale)
  23. But The Cello Is Not Condemned To Spend Its Life In The Basement.
  24. Elfentanz, Op.39
  25. Not Only In Recital Showpieces Like That Is The Cello Is Used In Its Highest Register.
  26. The Protecting Veil (Opening)
  27. A Cello With An Identity-Crisis: The Pizzicato Flamencan
  28. Flamenco
  29. Double-Stopping In The Lower Reaches Of The Cello's Range
  30. Solo Suiet For Cello And Piano (Sardana)
  31. It's In The Middle Register That The Cello Really Comes Into Its Own.
  32. Oriental Dance, Op.2 No.2
  33. It Was To The Cellos That Beethoven Gave Two Of His Most Famous Themes./Symphony No.5 (Mvt 2)/Still More Famous Than That Theme Is This One From The Ninth Symphony.
  34. Symphony No.9 (Finale)
  35. Introduction To The Double-Bass
  36. The Carnival Of The Animals (The Elephant)
  37. But The Double-Bass Can Be Intensely Expressive And Graceful.
  38. Elegy No.1 In D Major
  39. The Range Of The Double-Bass Is The Greatest Of All The String Instruments/Allegro Di Concerto, 'Alla Mendelssohn'/And It's Also Capable Of Very Considerable Virtuosity.
  40. Capriccio Di Bravura
  41. Double-Bass Solos In Orchestral Scores Are Rare But Often Memorable./Symphony No.1 'Titan' (Mvt 3)/In His Third Symphony Mahler Makes A Very Different Use Of The Instrument./Symphony No.3 (Mvt 1)
  42. The Double-Bass Muted In Prokofiev/Lieutenant Kije Suite (Kije's Wedding)/In Another Work Prokofiev Uses The Double-Bass To Enhance The Winds./Romeo And Juliet (Act III)/And He Combines The Bass Clarinet With A Shivering Tremolo From The Double-Basses....
  43. Symphony No.5 (Mvt 3)/So Much For The Strings/On Now To The Winds

Tracks:

  1. The Antiquity And Magic Of The Flute
  2. Prelude A L'Apres-Midi D'Un Faune
  3. The Versatility And Agility Of The Flute
  4. Orchestral Suite No.2 In B Minor (Badinerie)
  5. The Flute In Fifteenth-Century Spain
  6. Sa'Dawi
  7. Other Flutes: The Bass And Alto
  8. Chamber Music No.II
  9. The Piccolo - Aptly Named
  10. La Naissance D'Osiris (Mvt 6)
  11. From A Piccolo Of The Eighteenth Century To One Of Its Descendants In The Twentieth
  12. Suite No.1 For Small Orchestra (Valse)
  13. A Variety Of Techniques
  14. Chamber Music No.II
  15. Flutter-Tonguing. But Tchaikovsky Got There Eighty Years Before.
  16. The Nutcracker (Act II, No.2: Scene)
  17. From The Transverse To The Vertical: The Baroque Recorder
  18. Recorded Suite In A Minor (Menuet II)
  19. An Unfamiliar, Early Vision Of The Instrument
  20. Naelden, Naelden
  21. The Bachian Oboe
  22. Cantata 'Ein Feste Burg Ist Unser Gott', BWV 80 (No.7: Duetto)
  23. Introduction To The Cor Anglais Or 'English Born'
  24. Symphony No.9 'From The New World' (Mvt 2)
  25. The Loneliness Of The Cor Anglais
  26. The Swan Of Tuonela
  27. The Cor Anglais Joins The French Horn In Haydn.
  28. Symphony No.22 'The Philosopher' (Opening)
  29. Introduction To The Oboe D'Amore, Beloved Of Bach - But Also Of Ravel
  30. Bolero
  31. The Clarinet Family: Boxing The Compass, From The Depths Of The Bass Clarinet.../The Egyptian (Violence)/...To The Raucous And Squealy.../Taras Bulba (The Death Of Ostap)/...To The Shrill And Complaining...
  32. Petrushka (No.8: Peasant With Bear)/...To The High Sprits Of A Playful Puppy./Symphonie Fantastique (Last Mvt)/And To The Downright Jazzy/Romeo And Juliet (Act II)
  33. As The High Clarinets Tend To Be Loud, So The Bass Tends To Be Soft:
  34. Gayane Suite No. 1 (Mvt 5)
  35. The Bass Clarinet Is Used By Most Composers Mainly As A Colouring Agent.../Petrushka (No.4: The Blackamoor)/...But It Does Occasionally Get A Whole Tune To Itself./Iberia (Almeria).
  36. The Range Of The Normal Clarinet Parts Goes Quite High...
  37. The Snow Maiden (Scene 5: Melodrama)
  38. ...And Quite Low.
  39. Peter And The Wolf (The Cat)
  40. The Clarinet As Concerto Soloist
  41. Clarinet Concerto In A Major (Rondo)
  42. But That's Not The Instrument Mozart Wrote It For; This Is:
  43. Clarinet Concerto In A Major (Rondo)
  44. Introduction To The Saxophone
  45. Hary Janos Suite (Mvt 4)
  46. The Soprano Saxophone Has Quite A Different Feel To It.
  47. L'Arlesienne Suite No.1 (Minuet)
  48. The Little Sopranino Sax Goes Even Higher.
  49. Bolero
  50. The Most Famous Use Of The Saxophone Is In An Orchestration By Ravel.
  51. Pictures At An Exhibition (The Old Castle)
  52. The Saxophone Can Be Quite Contagiously Good-Humoured.
  53. Sax-O-Phun
  54. The Puffa-Puffa Image Of The Bassoon
  55. Peter And The Wolf (Grandfather)
  56. The Bachian Bassoon, In Accompanimental Mode
  57. Cantata 'Weichet Nur, Betrubte Schatten' ('Wedding Cantata'), BWV 202 (Aria No.1)
  58. Bizet Leaves The Puffa-Puffa Image Out, Allowing The Bassoon To Sing./Carmen Suite No.1 (Les Dragons D'Alcala)
  59. And Ravel, Also In Spanish Mode, Does Likewise.
  60. Bolero
  61. The Bassoon As A Voice Of High Seriousness, Indeed Desolate Loneliness
  62. Symphony No.3 (Opening)
  63. The Eerie Bassoon In Its Highest Register
  64. The Rite Of Spring (Opening)
  65. Stravinsky Now Draws On Its Lowest Register, Lonely And Melancholy.
  66. The Firebird Suite (1919, Berceuse)
  67. The Bassoon As Concerto Soloist, Avoiding All Exaggeration
  68. Bassoon Concerto In G Minor (Finale)
  69. The Deep-Voiced Contra-Bassoon, As A Fairy-Tale Beast
  70. Ma Mere L'Oye - Mother Goose (Beauty And The Beast)
  71. The French Horn Under Its Woodwind Hat
  72. Wind Quintet, Op.43 (Last Mvt)
  73. Now A More Prominent Role, In A Woodwind Quintet From An Earlier Era
  74. Wind Quintet In A Minor, Op.100 No.5 (Mvt 2)
  75. The Horn In Harmonious Blend With Strings In Another Quintet
  76. Horn Quintet, K.407 (Finale)

Tracks:

  1. The Trumpet As Virtuoso Soloist
  2. Brandenburg Concerto No.2 (Last Mvt)
  3. The Special Brillance Of Paired Trumpets
  4. Concerto In C For Two Trumpets, RV537 (Mvt 1)
  5. The Ceremonial Trumpet
  6. Fanfare For The Common Man
  7. Trumpets And Drums - An Incomparable Alliance
  8. Messiah (The Trumpet Shall Sound)
  9. The Versatility Of The Trumpet, From The Most Public To The Most Lonely
  10. Piano Concerto In F (Slow Mvt)
  11. The Trumpet As The Voice Of The City/An American In Paris/The Trumpet As Recruitment Officer/The Soldier's Tale (The March)/The Trumpet As Swaggerer
  12. Carmen Suite No.2 (Habanera)
  13. The Trumpet As The Voice Of Strength And Courage
  14. Carmet Suite No.2 (Toreador's Song)
  15. The Trumpet Muted/Petrushka (No.4: The Blackamoor)/Lieutenant Kije Suite (Opening)/The Trumpet As The Voice Of Weariness
  16. Billy The Kid
  17. The Trumpet As Character Actor
  18. Pictures At An Exhibition (No.6)
  19. The Trumpet As The Voice Of God
  20. Mass In B Minor ('Et Exspecto')
  21. The Birth Of The Trombone
  22. Aenmerckt Nu Hier
  23. The Birth Of The Brass As A Family
  24. Canzon 12 In Double Echo
  25. The Trombone In The Eighteenth Century
  26. Trombone Concerto In B Flat Major (Finale)
  27. The Tone Of The Tenor Trombone/Romance For Trombone And Organ/The Memorable Voice Of The Bass Trombone/Requiem (Mvt 2)/But The Bass Trombone Is More Than An Instrumental Bullfrog.
  28. Hosannah
  29. The Trombones Become Part Of The Orchestra.
  30. Symphony No.5 (Finale)
  31. The Wagnerian Trombone:/Overture To 'Tannhauser'
  32. The Trombone As Caricaturist
  33. Pulcinella (No.19: Vivo)
  34. The Trombone As Raspberry/Concerto For Orchestra (Intermezzo)
  35. The Horn And The Hunt
  36. Horn Concerto No.4 In E Flat, K.495 (Finale)
  37. The Challenging Horn Of The Baroque
  38. Abaris Ou Les Boreades (Menuet)
  39. The Scarcity Of First-Rate Players In Handel's Time
  40. Walter Music (Minuet 1)
  41. The Horn As Magician/The Firebird Suite (1919, Finale)
  42. Horns And The Sound Of Nobility
  43. Overture To 'Tannhauser' (Opening)
  44. The Special Sound Of The Horn In Its Higher Register
  45. Mass In B Minor ('Quoniam Tu Solus Sanctus')
  46. The Trumpet-Like Sound Of Massed Horns
  47. Symphony No.3 (Mvt 1, Opening)
  48. The Tuba - Unfairly Maligned?
  49. Symphony No.6 (Mvt 3)
  50. The Tuba Perfectly Cast By Ravel
  51. Pictures At An Exhibition (Bydlo)

Tracks:

  1. Introduction. And We Begin With A Bang.
  2. Fanfare For The Common Man/The Bass Drum On The Battlefields/Wellington's Victory, Op.91 (Opening)
  3. At The Opposite Extreme Is The Triangle.
  4. Piano Concerto No.1 In E Flat (Scherzo)
  5. Categories Of Percussion: Tuned And Untuned. The Side Drum
  6. Overture To 'La Gazza Ladra' - The Thieving Magpie (Opening)
  7. The Side Drum In An Effective But Unexpected Role/Clarinet Concerto (Mvt 1)
  8. The Tambourine. One Of The Oldest Instruments In The World
  9. Den Hoboecken Dans
  10. Even Older Is The Originally Oriental Gong.
  11. Ma Mere L'Oye - Mother Goose (Laideronette)
  12. No Single Instrument Can Match The Gong In Evoking The Breaking Of Waves./Passacaglia, Op.33b From 'Peter Grimes'/But Gongs Don't Have To Be Struck To Be Effective.
  13. Gymnopedie No.2
  14. The Cymbals Are Generally Discovered Early In Life./The Sanguine Fan/And They Do More Than Clash Together Loudly. They Can Be Clashed Together Softly./Studio Example: But They Needn't Be Clashed Together At All/Studio Example: They Can Be Lightly...
  15. Other Untuned Percussion Instruments Include The Whip.: Piano Concerto In G Major (Opening)/And Here Are No Fewer Than Twenty, Cracked By Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker (Act I, Scene 5)
  16. More Versatile Than The Whip Are The Wood Blocks.../Studio Example/...Which Crop Up All Over The Place In Twentieth-Century American Music.
  17. Rodeo (Hoe-Down)
  18. Related To The Wood Blocks, By Sound, Are The Castanets./Jota Aragonesa/But The Castanets Were Also Used By Monteverdi Back In The Seventeenth Century.
  19. Scherzi Musicali (Damigella Tutta Belle)
  20. A Still Earlier Example From Fifteenth-Century Spain
  21. Yo M'Enamori D'Un Aire
  22. The Birth Of The Bongo
  23. Symphonic Dances From 'West Side Story'
  24. From The Streets Of New York To The Blacksmith's Shop/Il Trovatore ('Anvil Chorus')
  25. Desert-Island Decibels: Grand Canyon Suite (On The Trail)/Arcana
  26. From One Vegetable To Another: The Humble Squash, Or Marrow/Huapango
  27. Onwards To The Tuned Percussion. First, The Timpani
  28. Also Sprach Zarathustra (Introduction)
  29. But The Drum Roll Can Be More Effectively Frightening Than The Big Bang.: Symphony No.2 'Resurrection' (Mvt 3)
  30. Not One Drum Roll, But Many/Grand Canyon Suite (Sunrise)/Symphonie Fantastique (Last Mvt)
  31. Taking Advantage Of Tunability
  32. Music For Strings, Percussion And Celeste (Mvt 2)
  33. The Russian Composer Rodion Shchedrin Takes A Downward Turn./Carmen Suite (Changing Of The Guard)/Tuned, Yes; But For The Truly Melodic We Must Look Elsewhere.
  34. Introducing The Glockenspiel/Carmen Suite (Carmen's Entrance And Habanera)
  35. Saint-Saens And The Xylophone
  36. The Carnival Of The Animals (Fossils)
  37. Ravel And The Xylophone
  38. Ma Mere L'Oye - Mother Goose (Laideronette)
  39. Introducing The Marimba/Carmen Suite (First Intermezzo)
  40. Introducing The Vibraphone
  41. The Treasure Of The Sierra Madre (Narange Dolce)
  42. The Vibraphone Goes Russian.../Carmen Suite (Carmen's Entrance And Habanera)/...And Is Joined By The Marimba./Carmen Suite (Carmen's Entrance And Habanera)
  43. Introducing The Hungarian Cimbalom
  44. Folk Dances
  45. The Cimbalom And The Symphony Orchestra
  46. Hary Janos Suite (Mvt 3)
  47. Introducing The Tubular Bells
  48. Hary Janos Suite (Viennese Musical Clock)
  49. A More 'Up-Front' Approach From Rodion Shchedrin
  50. Carmen Suite (Introduction)
  51. But The Bells Can Also Make The Sinister Even More Sinister./Symphony No.7 'Sinfonia Antartica' (Mvt 1)
  52. Introducing The Celeste
  53. The Nutcracker (Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy)
  54. Magic, In The Use Of Collective Percussion
  55. Miroirs (La Vallee Des Cloches)
  56. Plucked Instruments: The 'Undercover Percussion'/Carmen Suite (Scene)
  57. A Prime Case In Point Is The Harp, Irresistible To The Romantics./The Nutcracker (Act II, No.1: Scene)/The Non-Solo Harp As An Integral Part Of The Orchestra/Hungarian Rhapsody No.1
  58. The Traditionally Subservient Role Of The Harpsichord In The Baroque Orchestra
  59. Brandenburg Concerto No.2 (Slow Mvt)
  60. The Piano: King Of The Tuned Percussion/Symphony No.3 'Organ' (Mvt 3)/And A Quarter Of A Century After That:
  61. Petrushka (Russian Dance)
  62. The Anti-Romantic Piano As An Integral Part Of The Orchestra
  63. Music For Strings, Percussion And Celeste (Last Mvt)

Tracks:

  1. Keyboard Instruments In The Orchestra - The Most Powerful Of Them All:
  2. Symphony No.3 'Organ' (Finale)
  3. But Things In Handel's Day Were Very Different.
  4. Organ Concerto In B Flat, Op.4 No.3 (Last Mvt)
  5. The Organ Is Difficult To Classify.
  6. An Unexpected, Organ-related Guest
  7. Concerto Pour Zampogna (Last Mvt)
  8. Peasant-Fancying... And A Touch Of The Roaming Cowboy
  9. Les Miserables (Drink With Me)
  10. Outside Artefacts And The Power Of Association
  11. Mahler's Sleighbells
  12. Symphony No.4 (Opening)
  13. A Roll-Call Of Some Unusual Guests/The Typewriter/Parade
  14. Chains, And More/Integrales/An American In Paris/Sandpaper Ballet
  15. Purpose-Built Oddities: Wind Machines/Symphony No.7 'Sinfonia Antartica' (Opening)
  16. Don Quixote (Variation VIII)
  17. National Calling Cards: The Guitar For Spain/Concierto De Aranjuez (Finale)
  18. And The Guitar's Poor American Relative, The Banjo/Washington Breakdown
  19. And Poorer Still, The Mouth Organ/The Treasure Of The Sierra Madre (Packing Up)
  20. The Balalaika For Russia/Romeo And Juliet (Act II: No.14)
  21. The Maracas For Mexico/The Treasure Of The Sierra Madre (El Desayuno)
  22. The Bongos And Congas And A Whole Wealth Of Other Drums For Africa And Central America/Studio Example
  23. The Sitar Of India/Evening Raga: Bhapoli
  24. The Accordion For France (Especially Paris)/Paris Canaille
  25. The Zither For Vienna/The Third Man (Theme)
  26. The Cimbalom For Hungary/Folk Dances
  27. The Guitar As An Integral Part Of The Orchestra/Rondena
  28. There Are Whole Orchestras Of Balalaikas./Sveit Mesiats
  29. The Effect Of The Wordless Human Voice, Used Purely As An Instrument/Symphony No.7 'Sinfonia Antartica' (Mvt 1)
  30. Nocturnes
  31. Instruments And the Imitation Of Nature. The Clarinet As Cuckoo
  32. The Carnival Of The Animals (The Cuckoo)
  33. The Flute As An All-purpose Aviary
  34. The Carnival Of The Animals (The Aviary)
  35. The Oboe As Duck
  36. Peter And The Wolf (The Duck)
  37. The Recording Of Reality. Does It Work As Well?
  38. The Pines Of Rome (The Pines Of The Janiculum)
  39. The Recording Of Reality Electronically Reborn In New Guises
  40. Cantus Articus - Concerto For Birds And Orchesra (Mvt 2)
  41. Beethoven Turns Avian: Cuckoo, Nightingale, And Quail
  42. Symphony No.6 'Pastoral' (Andante Molto Mosso)
  43. Some Improbable Casting: The Violin As Braying Donkey
  44. The Carnival Of The Animals (Persons With Long Ears)
  45. A Truly Orchestral Hee-haw To Be Reckoned With
  46. Overture To 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'
  47. A Thunderstorm In A Million
  48. Symphony No.6 'Pastoral (Allegro-Allegretto)
  49. the Instrumental Depiction Of A Silent World
  50. The Carnival Of The Animals (The Aquarium)
  51. Saint-Saens' Menagerie Takes A Curtain Call.
  52. The Carnival Of The Animals (Finale)

Tracks:

  1. The Grouping Of Instrumental Families. An Additive Approach. First, Two Violins
  2. Forty-Four Duos (No.4)
  3. A Great Contrast, Of Both Pitch And Character: Violin And Viola
  4. Duo For Violin And Viola In B Flat Major, K.424 (Finale, Vars 1 & 2)/Studio Example
  5. Arrival Of The Standard String Trio: Violin, Viola, And Cello
  6. String Trio In B Flat (Menuetto)
  7. The String Quartet: Two Violins, Viola, And Cello
  8. String Quartet In F, Op.18 No.1 (Mvt 3)
  9. The String Quintet - When The Extra Instrument Is A Second Viola
  10. String Quartet No.5 In D, K.593 (Adagio)
  11. The String Quintet - When The Extra Instrument Is A Second Cello
  12. String Quintet In C (Mvt 3)
  13. The String Sextet: Two Violins, Two Violas, And Two Cellos
  14. String Sextet In B Flat (Mvt 2)
  15. The String Octet: The Standard String Quaret Times Two
  16. Octet In E Flat, Op.20 (Mvt 1)
  17. Double The String Octet: A Fully Fledged String Orchestra
  18. String Symphony No.2 (Finale)
  19. The Massed Strings Of A Symphony Orchestra
  20. Fantasia On A Theme Of Thomas Tallis
  21. Contrasts Of Pitch And Instrumental 'Colour' In The Woodwind Section
  22. Wind Quintet In A Minor, Op.100 No.5 (Theme)
  23. In The First Variation It's The Horn That Gets The Lion's Share.
  24. Wind Quintet In A Minor, Variation 1
  25. In Variation Two The Torch Is Handed To The Bassoon.
  26. Wind Quintet In A Minor, Variation 2
  27. In Variation Three The Oboe Leads.
  28. Wind Quintet In A Minor, Variation 3
  29. Variation Four: Conversation Before Returning To A Solo-dominated Texture
  30. Wind Quintet In A Minor, Variation 4
  31. And Variation Five is Dominated By The Clarinet.
  32. Wind Quintet In A Minor, Variation 5
  33. The Next To Be Featured Is The Virtuoso Flute.
  34. Wind Quintet In A Minor, Variation 6
  35. Individual Farewells And A Closing Chorus
  36. Wind Quintet In A Minor, Variation 7
  37. A Mixed Group: Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, String Quartet, And Double-Bass
  38. Octet In F (Mvt 3)
  39. The Early Classical Symphony Orchestra Of Haydn And Mozart
  40. Symphony No.29 In A, K.201 (Finale)
  41. Strings, Wind, But No Brass. What Haydn And Mozart Never Knew
  42. Canzon 28
  43. Beethoven's Fifth: Two Horns, Two Trumpets, And Three Trombones Join The Team.
  44. Symphony No.5 (Finale)
  45. From Beethoven To The Massive Orchestras Of Berlioz, Wagner, And Mahler
  46. Beethoven Changed The Face Of The Symphony And The Orchestra Forever
  47. Symphoy No.6 'Tragic' (Mvt 1)
  48. The Cult Of Orchestral Elephantiasis Reaches Its Peak.
  49. Symphony No.1 'Gothic' (VI: Te Ergo Quaesumus)
  50. When Large Doesn't Necessarily Mean Loud: Debussy
  51. Images (Gigues)
  52. A Crisis Of Confidence; The Orchestra's Survival Hangs In The Balance, But It Still Develops. The Ondes Martenot:
  53. Turangalila Symphony (Chant D'amour 1)
  54. The Advent Of The 'Early Music' Movement Brings A New Vitality And Freshness.
  55. Balle De Xerxes (Gavotte En Rondeau)
  56. Computer And Synthesiser: Friends Or Foes?
  57. Concerto In D Minor For Two Violins (Largo)
  58. A Speculative Look Ahead/Mass In B Minor ('Dona Nobis Pacem')

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Instruments of the Orchestra - Great Reference Material!.......2007-04-04

This set lends itself to greatly enhancing one's knowledge of the orchestra, instruments in it, and their usage. I am a huge music buff, and I still picked up a great deal I previously did not know. I highly recommend this for all who wish to understand the origin of music, as well as the processes that are employed to create music!

5 out of 5 stars Beginner or Expert.......2007-03-12

This CD is excellent for the beginner or expert! To be able to haear the instrumets separately and then together really provides a good education. and/or refresher. The book thaty comes with the CD is alomost worth the price by itself!

5 out of 5 stars Very Informative and Enjoyable.......2006-11-20

Whether you're a music novice or pro, "The instruments of the Orchestra" is a very worthwhile purchase. The 7 CDs, with a total of 8 hours, are expertly narrated by Jeremy Siepmann. He's a great speaker, very much like the late Leonard Bernstein was. Mr. Siepmann takes you on an unforgetable musical journey covering the origins and use of the various orchestral instruments throughout musical history. The balance between his narration and a wealth of musical examples, which range from snippets to entire movements, is superb. The comprehensive enclosed booklet is excellent and faithfully follows the 7 CDs in content. Even with my 40+ years of music training I still learned new things from this wonderful collection. Considering the excellence of the content, and a cost that translates to about $5 per disc, this collection is a great value. Grab it, you won't regret that you did. Five solid stars!

3 out of 5 stars Frank's view.......2006-08-19

This boxed set of CD's with booklet achieved all I had hoped that it would. There are good samples of individual instruments and well done commentary on each. The only drawback was that some of the samples were too brief and could have been longer, hoiwever I guess this fits in with time constraints of the medium. It has given me a lot of clues as to future purchases of CD's for listening to individual instruments. Altogeth a satisfactory purchase and a welcome addition to my collection.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent Intro for Those Not Familiar with the Orchestra.......2003-11-08

I've listened to classical music for years and am interested in composition. I bought this CD set to learn how an orchestra and its instruments work. I thought the CDs would be a nice but boring lecture. They aren't! Not only are they FUN but they are informative as well. I learned a huge amount from each CD and couldn't wait to listen to the next one.

The narrator and writer is a great speaker and holds your attention well. He is definitely knowledgeable. He provides musical examples for each point he makes, so you get to "hear" what he just talked about. I'd say the CDs are about 65% music and 35% narration. You'll learn about the range of instruments, some history, different ways to play them, how they sound, and how they are used in the orchestra. This CD set was a great learning experience and is sold at such a low price!

I recommend this CD for those who want to learn about classical music and those who know about it but are interested in learning more about the inner workings of an orchestra. You'll learn much useful information. For instance, the Rite of Spring (with that eerie start) is written for bassoon! I never knew a bassoon could sound like that but now I do.

The one complaint I have is the last CD. This deals with the orchestra. I wanted more of a tour of how the orchestra has been used through history up to the present. Instead, it was a tour of how different groups of instruments sound. I thought it could have been better. The other 6 CDs are excellent.
Jacqueline du Pré - The Concerto Collection
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Wonderful Concerto Performances
  • Lacks the "real" Elgar!
  • The real du Pre, but not the *real* Elgar performance!!!
  • Great performances, by one of the greatest cellists!
  • a fitting memorial to a unique artiste
Jacqueline du Pré - The Concerto Collection
Edward Elgar , Joseph Haydn , Antonin Dvorak , Luigi Boccherini , Robert Schumann , Frederick Delius , Georg Mathias Monn , Richard Strauss , English Chamber Orchestra , Sir John Barbirolli , Daniel Barenboim , Chicago Symphony Orchestra , Jacqueline du Pré , London Symphony Orchestra , Sir Adrian Boult , New Philharmonia Orchestra , Herbert Downes , and Desmond Bradley
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by BoccheriniAll Works by Boccherini | Boccherini, Luigi | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Delius, FrederickDelius, Frederick | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Dvorák, Antonín | ( 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
All Works by Franz Joseph HaydnAll Works by Franz Joseph Haydn | Haydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Robert SchumannAll Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by StraussAll Works by Strauss | Strauss, Richard | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
ClassicalClassical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
Blowout Box SetsBlowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
More Titles at Least 20% OffMore Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
All Classical Music BlowoutAll Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Boccherini, LuigiBoccherini, Luigi | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Delius, FrederickDelius, Frederick | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Dvorák, AntonínDvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Elgar, Sir EdwardElgar, Sir Edward | ( E ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Haydn, Franz JosephHaydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Saint-Saëns, CamilleSaint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Schumann, RobertSchumann, Robert | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Strauss, RichardStrauss, Richard | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
InstrumentalInstrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Daniel Barenboim, Pinchas Zukerman & Jacqueline du Pré - Beethoven: Piano Trios
  2. Elgar: Cello Concerto; "Enigma" Variations
  3. Jacqueline du Pre - Favourite Cello Concertos ~ Boccherini, Dvorak, Elgar, Haydn, Monn, Saint-Saens, Schumann
  4. Jacqueline du Pré - Chopin: Cello Sonata in G minor, Franck: Sonata in A / Barenboim
  5. Jacqueline du Pré - a lasting inspiration

ASIN: B00004RIU5
Release Date: 2000-06-06

Tracks:

  1. Cello Concerto No. 1 In C Hob.VIIb:1: I. Moderato - Cadenza
  2. Cello Concerto No. 1 In C Hob.VIIb:1: II. Adagio - Cadenza
  3. Cello Concerto No. 1 In C Hob.VIIb:1: III. Allegro molto
  4. Cello Concerto No. 2 In D Hob.VIIb:2: I. Allegro moderato - Cadenza
  5. Cello Concerto No. 2 In D Hob.VIIb:2: II. Adagio
  6. Cello Concerto No. 2 In D Hob.VIIb:2: III. Rondo (Allegro) - Cadenza
  7. Cello Concerto In B Flat: I. Allegro moderato - Cadenza
  8. Cello Concerto In B Flat: II. Adagio non troppo
  9. Cello Concerto In B Flat: III. Rondo (Allegro) - Cadenza

Tracks:

  1. Cello Concerto In A Minor Op. 129: Nicht zu schnell
  2. Cello Concerto In A Minor Op. 129: Langsam - Etwas lebhafter - Schneller
  3. Cello Concerto In A Minor Op. 129: Sehr lebhaft - (Cadenza) - Im Tempo - Schneller
  4. Cello Concerto No. 1In A Minor Op. 33: Allegro non troppo
  5. Cello Concerto No. 1In A Minor Op. 33: Allegretto non troppo
  6. Cello Concerto No. 1In A Minor Op. 33: Un peu moins vite
  7. Cello Concerto In G Minor: I. Allegro
  8. Cello Concerto In G Minor: II. Adagio
  9. Cello Concerto In G Minor: III. Allegro non tanto

Tracks:

  1. Cello Concerto In B Minor Op. 104: I. Allegro
  2. Cello Concerto In B Minor Op. 104: II. Adagio ma non troppo
  3. Cello Concerto In B Minor Op. 104: III. Finale (Allegro moderato)
  4. Silent Woods Op. 68
  5. Cello Concerto: Lento
  6. Cello Concerto: Con moto tranquillo
  7. Cello Concerto: Lento
  8. Cello Concerto: Con moto tranquillo
  9. Cello Concerto: Allegramente

Tracks:

  1. Cello Concerto In E Minor Op. 85: I. Adagio - Moderato
  2. Cello Concerto In E Minor Op. 85: II. Lento - Allegro molto
  3. Cello Concerto In E Minor Op. 85: III. Adagio
  4. Cello Concerto In E Minor Op. 85: IV. Allegro - Moderato - Allegro, ma non troppo
  5. Don Quixote: Introduction (Massiges Zeitmass)
  6. Don Quixote: Theme: The Knight Of The Mournful Countenance (Massig)
  7. Don Quixote: Variation I: The Adventure With The Windmills (Gemachlich)
  8. Don Quixote: Variation II: The Battle With The Sheep (Kriegerisch)
  9. Don Quixote: Variation III: Discourse Between Knight And Squire (Massiges Zeitmass)
  10. Don Quixote: Variation IV: The Adventure With The Pilgrims (Etwas breiter)
  11. Don Quixote: Variation V: The Knight's Vigil (Sehr langsam)
  12. Don Quixote: Variation VI: The Meeting With Dulcinea (Schnell)
  13. Don Quixote: Variation VII: The Ride Through The Air (Ein wenig ruhiger als vorher)
  14. Don Quixote: Variation VIII: The Voyage In The Enchanted Boat (Gamachlich)
  15. Don Quixote: Variation IX: The Combat With The Two Magicians (Schnell und sturmisch)
  16. Don Quixote: Variation X: The Defeat Of Don Quixote (Viel breiter)
  17. Don Quixote: Finale: Don Quixote's Death (Sehr ruhig)

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Wonderful Concerto Performances.......2006-11-17

Of the six or seven cd albums that I have by Jacqueline du Pre, this album contains the meat and potatoes of du Pre's repertoire. Happily, she doesn't disappoint at a time when she was still physically healthy and developing musically. The Boccherini Concerto arranged by Grutzmacher, I believe she owns. The Monn Concerto is excellent and the Delius is a romantic dream. Don't miss this one, if you want hear the breadth of her short-lived talent.

4 out of 5 stars Lacks the "real" Elgar!.......2005-04-28

Like other reviewers, I just want to say that this set lacks the famous Elgar recording by Jackie Du Pre. The Elgar performance on this CD is dull in comparison to her more famous performance. So, you will have to buy a separate CD for the Elgar. Other than that, this is a great set to have. I love the two Haydns especially.

4 out of 5 stars The real du Pre, but not the *real* Elgar performance!!!.......2003-03-04

This is a comprehensive collection of Cello performances by a thrilling artist. Unfortunately, despite reviewer MacFarlane's assurances to the contrary, the producer of this CD has failed to include Jacqueline du Pre's *famous* and greatest performance of the Elgar Cello, and this is the reason for witholding a star. Ms.du Pre's famous performance of Elgar's Cello Concerto, Opus 85, was performed live in Philadelphia on November 27-28, 1970, with conductor-husband Daniel Barenboim, not Conductor Barbiroli. This Amazon review, comparing the two performances will indicate why this CD loses points for not featuring the Barenboim performance: < > The performance with Barenboim was formerly available on Sony. Today the Amazon search engine only turned it up one time in six search attempts using the SAME words! Elusive, but an essential recording nonetheless! Because confusion persists between the Elgar performances and conductors, it is necessary to persist in citing that it is Jacqueline Du Pre's performance with BARENBOIM which is so revered. Besides, the Sony disc which has the favored performance with conductor Barenboim, is also known for Barenboim's brilliant interpretation of the Elgar Enigma Variations. Daniel Barenboim's talent is becoming more and more visible and worthy of following closely. He's doing great things outside of music as well, so put his name in the Google search engine and find out!

5 out of 5 stars Great performances, by one of the greatest cellists!.......2001-04-29

If there is one word for describing Jacqueline du Pre, it is MUSIC. She was the embodiment of music itself, because she gave all to the music she played. Some do not like her playing because it is too emotional. I echo the other reviewer's sentiments in that music is there to be played. Played with emotion. Music is about transmitting emotion to the listener, and du Pre was one of the best examples of how that could (and should) be done. Here, EMI has remastered and reissued most (I say most, because one concerto - the Lalo- has been omitted in this otherwise full compilation of du Pre's concerto recordings) of du Pre's concerto recordings. The Haydn concerto in C, is undoubtedly one of the most touching accounts, with its romantic sentiments. The same can be said of the Haydn in D and the Monn concerti, with the broad tempi, quite relaxed, and very opposite of Period performances Completely incorrect stylistically, but the performances are so moving and involved that all the fuss about stylistic correctness is throuwn out the window. I dare say that one is not going to get a more impassioned account of the Haydn C major concerto. It is among my absolute favourites. The Boccherini concerto is another matter. The version du Pre plays is not the original, but a mixture of the original, with bits borrowed from other Boccherini cello concertos, combined with Romantic styling by Grutzmacher (the 'editor' of the concerto). I don't like it as much as the Haydn concertos, but still it receives a bravura performance by du Pre with the English Chamber Orchestra under Barenboim. The Schumann and Saint-Saens concerti are unsurpassed for their passion and imaginativeness. The Schumann is tragic, but ends triumphantly, in a way that only du Pre could make it sound like that. The Saint-Saens is a less musically significant piece, but in du Pre's hands, it sounds like an important work. Dvorak's cello concerto is one of the greatest pieces in the cello repertoire, with its grand writing and poignancy. While du Pre's Dvorak concerto is not the best version one can buy, for the recording quality is notoriously horrible, with the orchestra sounding so distant from the cellist (who is placed far too forward) it is certainly one of the most outspoken and yes, impassioned accounts, interpretation-wise. Emotionally, it outdoes the justly famous Rotropovich/Karajan version. But the other Dvorak piece in this collection, the Silent Woods, is so touching that one is bound to cry at some stage of the 6-minute piece. The Delius concerto is a very rhapsodic, but a very engmatic one. Technically it is very demanding, because for once the technical difficulties are really due to the musical difficulties. It is hard to make sense of the work unless you are absolutely sure of its musical structure. But du Pre makes this sound easy, fully capturing the rhapsodic nature of the work, and sings beautifully. It was du Pre's first concerto recording, under one of the most arrogantly aristocratic conductors (arrogant to soloists, I mean, as he didn't regard them highly. But for du Pre, he was more than generous), Malcolm Sargent. The Elgar had to be included, didn't it? I mean, it is one of the great classics of the century. So there is nothing more to say about the Elgar. The Strauss tone-poem Don Quixote is a strange work, because it has a solo cello part (with a solo vioin and viola, who are usually members of the orchestra), a solo part that can be a soloist or the principal cellist from the orchestra cello section. It is strange, because the cello part is the most significant solo part, yet 80 per cent of the time it is outplayed by the orchestra, because the 'solo' cello plays the part of the orchestral cello section. But as to this performance, it was a run-through for a concert. Klemperer was supposed to be the conductor but he pulled out at the last minute and Boult was engaged. This historical recording does not sound like a run-through, although it si a bit messy at times ensemble-wise. But du Pre plays with absolute commitment. Her playing of the Finale must be one of the most poignant ever. The conductor's 'bravo' and the unanimous applause of the orchestra adds to the magic. I apologise for the long review, but if you have read this far, then I will say if you like du Pre and the cello, then this set is essential, and at mid price for CDs that would otherwise be full price and in single CDs, it is a bargain.

5 out of 5 stars a fitting memorial to a unique artiste.......2001-02-09

The keyword with Jacqueline du Pre was always involvement, and so it is here. The performances in this collection are riveting. The Elgar, of course, is one of the most famous performances of all time - young cellist Du Pre with former cellist Barbirolli reaching to the absolute heart of this wonderful music. Though she plays with utmost and unvarying conviction throughout - and therefore these are not middle-of-the-road performances, and it is possible to sense a hothouse element in them as I do in the Haydn and the Monn, where stylistically she is far from faultless - the conviction, sincerity, guts and beauty of the playing carry you (and her) through. Curiously affecting is the end of 'Don Quixote', in a recording, with a bizarre history, which we are really very lucky to have (you can read about it in the set). At the end of a fine and fully characterised run-through, which is all it was, never meant to be issued, she plays with amazing poignancy the touching postlude. The performance ends, the counductor (Boult) shouts 'bravo' and the orchestra claps - it's all there, and we think of poor, wonderful Jacqueline, who never played a dishonest or uncommitted note, we are touched, and we are glad we bought this set!
Famous Classical Trumpet Concertos
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Virtuosic Trumpet: Baroque And Classical Showcase
  • superb playing
  • The Best Trumpeter in the Business
  • Virtuosic... Incredible
  • A non-trumpet player's view...
Famous Classical Trumpet Concertos

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

QuartetsQuartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
TriosTrios | 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 CorelliAll Works by Corelli | Corelli, Arcangelo | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by GounodAll Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Franz Joseph HaydnAll Works by Franz Joseph Haydn | Haydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Michael HaydnAll Works by Michael Haydn | Haydn, Michael | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by HummelAll Works by Hummel | Hummel, Johann Nepomuk | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Leopold MozartAll Works by Leopold Mozart | Mozart, Leopold | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Johann Wenzel StamitzAll Works by Johann Wenzel Stamitz | Stamitz, Johann Wenzel | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
PreludesPreludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Trio SonatasTrio Sonatas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
Vocal & SongVocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
TrumpetTrumpet | Brass | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
OrganOrgan | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
OboeOboe | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
ViolinViolin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Trumpet Concertos
  2. Greatest Hits: Trumpet
  3. Baroque Trumpet Concertos
  4. Wynton Marsalis - Baroque Music for Trumpet
  5. Bach: Works for Trumpet

ASIN: B00002DDWM
Release Date: 2000-01-11

Tracks:

  1. Trumpet Concerto In E: 1. Allegro Con Spirito
  2. Trumpet Concerto In E: 2. Andante
  3. Trumpet Concerto In E: 3. Rondo
  4. Trumpet Concerto In D: 1. Allegro Non Troppo
  5. Trumpet Concerto In D: 2. Largo
  6. Trumpet Concerto In D: 3. Vivace
  7. Trumpet Concerto In D: 1. Allegro Non Troppo Presto
  8. Trumpet Concerto In D: 2. Adagio
  9. Trumpet Concerto In D: 3. Allegro Molto
  10. Trumpet Concerto In E Flat, Hob. VIIIe:1: 1. Allegro
  11. Trumpet Concerto In E Flat, Hob. VIIIe:1: 2. Andante
  12. Trumpet Concerto In E Flat, Hob. VIIIe:1: 3. Allegro
  13. Trumpet Concerto In D: 1. Allegro Moderato
  14. Trumpet Concerto In D: 2. Andante
  15. Trumpet Concerto In D: 3. Allegro

Tracks:

  1. Trumpet Concerto In D: 1. Andante
  2. Trumpet Concerto In D: 2. Allegro Moderato
  3. Trumpet Concerto No. 1 In E Flat: 1. Allegro
  4. Trumpet Concerto No. 1 In E Flat: 2. Adagio
  5. Trumpet Concerto No. 1 In E Flat: 3. Vivace
  6. Trumpet Concerto No. 1 In D: 1. Allegro
  7. Trumpet Concerto No. 1 In D: 2. Adagio
  8. Trumpet Concerto No. 1 In D: 3. Allegro
  9. Trumpet Concerto No. 2 In C: 1. Adagio
  10. Trumpet Concerto No. 2 In C: 2. Allegro Molto
  11. Sonata In D For Trumpet, Two Violins And Continuo: 1. Grave
  12. Sonata In D For Trumpet, Two Violins And Continuo: 2. Allegro
  13. Sonata In D For Trumpet, Two Violins And Continuo: 3. Grave
  14. Sonata In D For Trumpet, Two Violins And Continuo: 4. Allegro
  15. Sonata In D For Trumpet, Two Violins And Continuo: 5. Allegro
  16. Concerto In B Flat, Op. 7 No. 3: 1. Allegro
  17. Concerto In B Flat, Op. 7 No. 3: 2. Adagio
  18. Concerto In B Flat, Op. 7 No. 3: 3. Allegro
  19. Adagio In G Minor
  20. Trumpet Tune
  21. Chorale Preludes: 'Erbarm Dich Mein, O Herre Gott' BWN 721
  22. Chorale Preludes: 'Ich Ruf' Zu Dir, Herr Jesu Christ' BWV 639
  23. Chorale Preludes: 'Herzlich Tut Mich Verlangen' BWV 727
  24. Ave Maria

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Virtuosic Trumpet: Baroque And Classical Showcase.......2004-02-22

This album is an incredible showcase for the trumpet and the orchestra, in other words, the trumpet concerto. Hakan Hardenberger, the featured trumpet player, is highly talented and at the top of his game. Even the great jazz and classical trumpeter Winston Marsalis does'nt seem to reach the flights of fancy on the trumpet as does Hakan Hardenberger. Hardenberger masters the trumpet to perfection, capturing every nuance and every tone, from fortissimo fanfares to the softest pianissimo. On this compilation are the trumpet concerti of Baroque and Classical Era composers, among them Corelli and Albinoni and the Classical masters Franz Joseph Haydn and Leopold Mozart, Mozart's father. The sheer scale and magnetism of this music cannot be neglected. It is the greatest gathering of trumpet concerti ever made. The trumpet was perhaps the most fascinating instrument for Baroque composers. The trumpet produces grand, triumphant tones when played forte. It was an instrument that was displayed in ceremonial pomp- weddings, coronations and marches. The Baroque composers were sponsored by kings so they were expected to compose music for trumpet, which could be expressive not only as a fanfare for the king himself, but as an instrument of many dynamics. It can be played softly and slowly, which seems to create a nocturnal, reflective mood and staccato and fast-paced which made the music sound exciting and lively. In my opinion, it was the premier instrument of the Baroque Age.

The cd opens with the Trumpet Concerto In E Flat Major by Johann Hummel. This colorful piece is particularily impressive as it really explores the dynamic potential for the trumpet. It's third movement, the Rondo, is very exciting music, as it is played very fast and in a bouncy, dance-like manner. The Trumpet Concerto by Stamitz, Hertel and Richter are very stylish and must have been highly admired in the Baroque Era. The Trumpet concerto in E by Franz Joseph Haydn, who influenced Mozart, is beautiful, especially in its serenade-style andante second movement. In the last cd, Leopold Mozart's trumpet concerto is featured, and it's a good work. Perhaps his son Mozart greatly admired it, though Mozart did'nt really expand on trumpet concerti himself nor really ever showcased the instrument greatly. There are trumpet arrangements for the famous Albinoni Adagio in G, which on this version, sounds chilling, dark and dramatic. The cd concludes with trumpet versions of Bach's Organ Preludes and the Bach/Gounod Ave Maria.

4 out of 5 stars superb playing.......2003-10-30

Hardenberger is indeed an extraordinary. The playing is right up there with the best of them. One thing unique to hardnberger is his ability to lock in ever note of every passage reguardless of register, speed, etc. In addition he playes with great character. The only reason i give hims less than 5 stars is because his lyricism, the most important thing, is surpassed by Maurice Andre and Phil Smith without questiong. especially after seing all of them live and buying their CDs. He is definitely among the greatests ever.

5 out of 5 stars The Best Trumpeter in the Business.......2003-05-25

It's a rare treat for a reviewer when he can throw caution to the winds and go out on a limb for a musician. This is such an occasion for me. Hakan Hardenberger is a phenomenon. I think he is the Babe Ruth, the Wayne Gretzky, the Michael Jordan, the Vladimir Horowitz, the Jascha Heifetz of trumpet players.

Hardenberger is a Swedish trumpeter who made his first recording (Haydn, Hummel, Hertel, and Stamitz trumpet concertos, with the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields under Neville Marriner, on Philips) in 1986 when he was only 25 years old (in the cover photo of the original CD he looks like a boy). The first time I played this debut CD of his, my jaw dropped and I could hardly believe my ears. His playing was a revelation--absolutely stunning. I'd never heard trumpet playing to compare with it. In my opinion, with his first two CDs young Hardenberger not only moved into the top rank of trumpeters; he swept right past his competitors to the head of the class. I've compared a number of his baroque concerto performances, here and elsewhere, with those of other famous trumpeters, and he always comes out on top. I believe him to be in a league of his own. He has everything: virtuosity and technique to burn, dead-on intonation, clean trills, smooth legato, expressive shading, beauty of tone, brilliant high notes, enormous dynamic range. He is also a sound musician, with taste and a sense of style. His arsenal is complete and unassailable; there is no chink in his armor.

Everything that was on that debut CD is now in this Philips Duo set, which is a much better value, because it offers two generously filled CDs--72:55 and 78:27--for the price of one, adding most of the contents of two later Hardenberger CDs of baroque music for trumpet (the recordings here were made from 1986 through 1993). It's a good buy, and if you're going to own only one collection of baroque trumpet music, this is the one I'd recommend.

The trumpet has always been a difficult instrument to record and reproduce accurately. Here, although the consistently excellent digital recording presents Hardenberger very much front and center, it captures the timbre, "bite," and wide dynamic range of his trumpet with exemplary vividness and fidelity. On a top-quality playback system, he sounds like he's standing right between the speakers playing for you. And what playing it is! Not to be missed.

Hardenberger's second CD, of Telemann Trumpet Concertos, also accompanied by the ASMF, this time under Iona Brown, was recorded in 1987 (again on Philips). It too is marvelous, fully as impressive as his first CD, but unfortunately none of it is included in the Philips Duo reviewed here, so you have to acquire it separately. It's well worth it.

Long live the king!

5 out of 5 stars Virtuosic... Incredible.......2001-08-06

You don't have to be a fan of the instrument in order to appreciate and become overwhelmed by the beauty, the splendor and acrobatics of the trumpet. In the Baroque era, it was a instrument for the royal treatment and heralded arrival of kings and war. The performances here are excellent- Hardenberger, I Musici and Neville Marriner and his orchestra deliver virtuosic renditions of Haydn's Trumpet Concerto in E flat, Hummel's, Hertel's, Molter's and Albinoni's concerti, as well as incredible arrangements of Ave Maria by Bach and Albinoni's Adagio.

5 out of 5 stars A non-trumpet player's view..........2001-02-12

Although I love classical music and have done so for a long time, I must confess that I am not a trumpet player. With that said, I must say that these two CDs are wonderful. My first recording of the Hummel and the Haydn concertos was the second Marsalis/Leppard/ECO recording on Sony Classical (titled Wynton Marsalis - The London Concert). Inexperienced with trumpet recordings at the time, I really treasured the CD. After all, a big name artist known for his virtuosity was performing the technically demanding concertos. What more could you ask for? After a while, though, I began to feel that Marsalis didn't really do it for me in these works. Sure, he played with a flair (and what a flair it was), but he lacked the focused, rich tone that I've come to associate with great trumpet players (Herseth comes to mind here).

The current reviewed recording, on the other hand, is quite a piece of gem. Even though I have never heard of Hardenberger before (you trumpet players out there please excuse my ignorance), he delivers precisely what I am looking for. Hardenberger has the centered tone that most trumpeters would envy, yet he lacked none of the technical virtuosity needed for the music. His vibrato is light and very classical (as opposed to the wider jazz vibrato). On top of all that, he shows much understanding and affinity for the various works on these two CDs.

All of this for the price of 1 CD. An excellent introduction to the core trumpet repertoire.

Music Review:

  1. Fernando Sor: Les Plus belles pages
  2. Franz Liszt: Complete Piano Music, Vol. 1
  3. Gavin Bryars: Oi Me Lasso
  4. Gilbert & Sullivan: The Yeomen of the Guard; Trial by Jury
  5. Glass Cage / Brubaker
  6. Glenn Gould
  7. Golden Classics
  8. Great Conductors of the 20th Century: Fritz Reiner
  9. Great Hymns of Faith
  10. Grieg: Cello Sonata, String Quartet

Music Review

music review

Music Review

A Nightmare on Nervous

Concertos for Harp V.35 [Import]

Haydn: Symphony Nos.48-59

Acoustically Sound

Future : A Journey Through The Electronic Underground - Compiled By Gillian Anderson

Gypsy Flame

Ecstasy [Import]

Farmhouse

Daimonion [Import]

Chopin: Scherzi/Impromtus

En Public Au Travers [Import]

Cholos, Cholas y Pistolas [Explicit Lyrics]

Conjunto Casino, Vol. 2

Franz Liszt: Hungarian Rhapsodies For Orchestra

A Little Pleasure