Russian Easter

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
The St. Petersburg Chamber Choir and their director, Nikolai Korniev, show off subbasement basses, soaring sopranos and a rich, well-blended sound in "Russian Easter," a group of eleven settings for Easter worship by Alexander Grechaninov, Dmitri Bortnyansky and other masters of Russian church music. The compositions were written variously from the 18th century through the present, but all stay true to the spirit and aesthetic of the Orthodox tradition. Those who find plainchant a little on the monotonous side but are still looking for a spiritual element in music will find much to admire and enjoy in these beautifully sung presentations. --Sarah Bryan Miller

Tracks:

Scheherazade - Symphonic Suite, Op. 35: The Sea And Sinbad's Ship
Scherherazade - Symphonic Suite, Op. 35: The Story Of The Kalandar Prince
Scheherazade - Symphonic Suite, Op. 35: The Young Prince And The Young Princess
Scheherazade - Symphonic Suite, Op. 35: Festival At Bagdad - The Sea - The Ship Goes To Pieces On A Rock Surmounted By A Bronze Warrior - Conclusion
Russian Easter Overture, Op. 36
Capriccio espagnol: Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34

Customer Reviews:

Stellar Performance.......2007-06-27

Having been a professional violinist and pianist for thirty years, I have developed a special appreciation for classical music. Scheherezade is one of the great orchestral pieces. This version clearly highlights the great skill of the composer and the orchestra. All the pieces on this cd are performed at a high skill level and the recording quality is excellent. It is on a par with the great performances by other orchestras, and I highly recommend it.

Nostalgia.......2007-06-27

My father was a classical musician in the days when every major theater had a pit orchestra of concert-level musicians. Boris Morros, a Russian born impresario paid tribute to them, saying: "the impact of these luxurious film theaters on the culture of America has never been properly emphasized. In one of our marble movie temples every tired scrub-lady could feel like a queen--for fifty cents--and every bootblack like a king as they lounged back in more comfortable chairs than monarchs ever enjoyed. I was impressed by the ever-growing popularity of the so-called good music the large symphony orchestras in these theaters played at each performance. From the day they opened they had thrilled audiences of ordinary people (who were supposed to have appreciation only for ragtime and sentimental ballads) with first-rate renditions...." Anyway, when those theaters and orchestras went, the substitute was a cult of mediocrity, so I was just indulging myself listening to all the horn work in Korsakov and remembering all those 'good ol days.'

Best Classical CD bargain on Amazon, IMHO.......2007-03-29

I'm surprised this CD isn't displayed on the Classical Blowout store. Perhaps it's *too* good a bargain? I purchased this CD for one piece: The Story Of The Kalandar Prince. My children and I love this work, as it is orchestrated like a story ("tone poem" is the correct term I think) - insert your imagination as to how it plays out.

This a wonderful CD to play on a cold winter night, with a roaring fire and a glass of wine. If you want a fine introduction to the 'oomph' of Easter European composers, you can do no wrong with this CD. I also recommend the Edwin Elgar Pomp & Circumstance CD from this bargain Seraphim collection.

Cheap? Only in price.......2007-02-22

First - how can one go wrong buying this cd at this price? The answer is - one cannot go wrong buying this cd at this price. Not even at three times this price. It's a lush recording and is every bit as good as anything recorded yesterday in a state of the art studio. At least some people have never heard of Rimsky-Korsakov. This is a cheap way to be introduced nicely. Others have these pieces by three or four different orchestras. Add this one - you'll be glad you did if for no other reason than when it arrives you'll listen once again to music you've put away for some time.

It's truly wonderful.

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade.......2006-11-10

I love Russian composers. They have so much fire. I received the CD timely and in great condition. Thank you.

Average customer rating:

A fine sampler
OUTSTANDING
Fun CD

Rimsky-Korsakov: Greatest Hits

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Saint-Saëns: Greatest Hits
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Debussy's Greatest Hits
Grieg: Greatest Hits
Prokofiev: Greatest Hits

ASIN: B000002C5Z
Release Date: 1995-11-14

Tracks:

Tsar Saltan: Flight of the Bumblebee
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Alborada. Vivo e strepitoso
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Variazioni. Andante con moto
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Alborada. Vivo e strepitoso
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Scena e canto gitano
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Fandango asturiano
Sadko: Song of India
The Snow Maiden: Dance of the Tumblers
Le Coq d'or Suite: IV. Introduction and Bridal Procession
Mlada Suite: Procession of the Nobles
Tsar Saltan Suite, Op. 57: Farewell of the Tsar
Russian Easter Overture
Sheherazade Symphonic Suite: The Young Prince And The Young Princess
Sheherazade Symphonic Suite: IV. Festival at Bagdad - The Sea - Shipwreck

Customer Reviews:

A fine sampler.......2003-04-24

I purchased this CD to sample some of the pieces of Rimsky-Korsakov that I did not already own. The CD is a compilation of recognized conductors. The performances are competent, if not really inspired. Rimsky-Korsakov offers very listenable, approachable music and very rich orchestration. But this is a sampler, where most pieces are incomplete. If you are ready to jump in with both feet, purchase Scheherazade & Russian Easter Overture by Jose Serebrier, Scherazade & Cappricio Espanol by Mackerras/LSO, and Neeme Jarvi on Chandos ($$) for the rest.

I was first put off by the sonics of this CD, particularly the dynamic range, but this varies with each of the many recorded pieces.

In its favor, this CD is inexpensive, but don't expect to receive more than what you pay.

OUTSTANDING.......2002-09-16

This is a good selection of outstanding works of one of the best Russian composers. I enjoyed it very much.

Fun CD.......2002-01-29

I really appreciated the variety on this CD, from the light, bouncy bumblebee to the more bombastic pieces. I think this makes a really good intro to Korsakov's works.

Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture/ Marche Slave

Average customer rating:

Tchaikovsky is at his finest
Wonderful but clearly far from the best
1812 Overture/Marche Slave
A Great Collection of Russian Composers
Incomparable

Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture/ Marche Slave

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture/Capriccio Italien/Beethoven: Wellington's Victory
Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture
Moussorgsky: Night on Bald Mountain/Pictures at an Exhibition
Wagner: Overture & Preludes
Tchaikovsky: Symphonies no 4, 5, & 6 / Karajan, Berlin PO

ASIN: B000001GDT
Release Date: 1991-03-08

Tracks:

Ouverture Solenelle '1812' - Tchaikovsky
Marche Slave Op. 31 - Tchaikovsky
In The Steppes Of Central Asia - Borodin
Polovtsian Dances - Borodin
Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra: Russian Easter Festival Overture - TCHAIKOVSKY/BORODIN/ETC
Capriccio Espagnol - TCHAIKOVSKY/BORODIN/ETC

Customer Reviews:

Tchaikovsky is at his finest .......2007-02-10

Canons resound at the climax of the story which is started by a choral. It is easy to imagine being one of Napoleon's troops advancing toward Moscow with canon balls taking out comrades on our right and left. The courage of the Russian defenders can be felt.

Wonderful but clearly far from the best.......2007-02-10

This is certainly a wonderful and worthy of being in ones collection but it simply does not stand the test to those by Ormandy and Philly, Bernstein both with the New York Phil & Israel Phil, or Chicago Symphony with either Reiner or Solti or any other conductor conducting Chicago.

1812 Overture/Marche Slave.......2005-08-04

This was very much worth the price. I have listened to it many times, but never tire of it. I would highly recommend this CD to anyone.

A Great Collection of Russian Composers.......2004-12-29

This CD is truly one of the bettar CD's containing not only Tchaikovsky, but also Borodin and Rimsky-Kosakov. The most powerful peice is hard to choose, but the quick paced, Marche Slave Op.31 is sure to draw your attention. But how could we forget the classic 1812 overture with its famous cannon barrage, and the many other terrific pieces, pointing out specifically the Capriccio espagnol op. 34. I strongly suggest this CD, as with all Deutsche Grammophon(as they are superbly recorded), I am sure any lover of the great Russian Composer's will enjoy this CD.

Incomparable.......2004-10-26

Estas grabaciones son geniales desde un principio, son obras conocidas pero que aparecen con algo adicional.
La obertura 1812 incluye el coro en una forma impresionante, cañones reales y campanas de la gran catedral de Gotemburgo, es excepcional (igual o mejor que Ormandy).
La gran Pascua rusa y el capricho español, suenan increible, una orquesta soberbia para música que debe hacernos sentir el vigor de su composición. Les estepas de Asia central es una obra pequeña en el conjunto pero necesaria para el contexto de estos compositores rusos debia estar aqui, la Marcha eslava esta casi siempre donde su hermana mayor la obertura 1812 aparece, tiene sus propios meritos como el bello motivo que la inspira en su totalidad.
Se incluye ademas las danzas polotvsianas que tienen en esta versión que presupondriamos orquestal a un solista de excepción.
Música rusa en plenitud y majestuosidad incomparable.
Neeme Järvi sencillamente grandioso.

Average customer rating:

Great Sound! Great Performance! Great Music!
A great conductor going through the motions
Beguiling, Atmospheric, Dramatic -- Marvelous Dynamic Range!
MUSIC FOR THE SENSES
The "Scheherazade" to beat!

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition; Khovanschina Prelude; Songs and Dances of Death
Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances, Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Aleko Overture
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William Tell & Other Favorite Overtures
Sheherazade / Russian Easter Overture

ASIN: B000003F95
Release Date: 1993-02-09

Tracks:

Scheherazade, Op. 35 - Symphonic Suite After 'A Thousand And One Nights': The Sea And Sinbad's Ship
Scheherazade, Op. 35 - Symphonic Suite After 'A Thousand And One Nights': The Story Of The Kalender Prince
Scheherazade, Op. 35 - Symphonic Suite After 'A Thousand And One Nights': The Young Prince And The Young Princess
Scheherazade, Op. 35 - Symphonic Suite After 'A Thousand And One Nights': Festival In Bagdad...
Russian Easter Overture, Op. 36: Russian Easter Overture

Customer Reviews:

Great Sound! Great Performance! Great Music!.......2006-06-06

As far as sound quality of classical cds go, you really have to pay attention to the fine print and here it's DDD. That makes all the difference as this recording is one of the best-sounding classical recordings I have ever heard and is currently the best classical cd, sound quality-wise, that I own. I'm sure the fact that this recording was made in the early 90s must have also helped but as far as this being a worthy cover of Rimsky-Korsakov's brilliant masterpiece is concerned, fear not as Yuri Temirkanov and the New York Philharmonic have done an excellent job here. Great sound quality and wonderful performances of a brilliant work of music make this very highly recommended indeed.

A great conductor going through the motions.......2005-10-26

Every day an unknown number of new listeners is thrilled by first hearing the glittering Scheherazade, but to conductors it's as hackneyed as the 1812 Overture, unless...

The "unless" covers a lot of ways to invigorate this warhose. Stokowski applies lush gaudiness in his three readings, which can be thrilling. Reiner gave us astonishing orchestral virtuosity from the Chicago Sym. and one of Living Stereo's best recordings, a marvel almost fifty years on. beecham delivers a fresh, buoyant readding that comes close to being joyous (though the EMI recording is dated).

Temirkanov certainly has the potential to do something special with Scheherazade, but what we get instead is an all-around straighforward reading, good but not spectacular sound, and some nice expressive touches here and there. The NY Phil. doesn't sound that jazzed, either. Altogether, I had hoped for more.

Beguiling, Atmospheric, Dramatic -- Marvelous Dynamic Range!.......2004-04-12

This is by my favorite from among many Scheherazades. I do not agree that the dynamic range is a problem. On the contrary, it is what CD's are all about. The technology in this wonderful recording conveys this favorite's musical and emotional scope, especially when enjoyed with good speakers in quiet surroundings or with earphones. This is the first time I have felt that a recording of this suite exploited all the possibilities, from the drama of the tales Scheherazade recounts each of 1001 nights to keep from being beheaded to the beguiling nature of Scheherazade herself.

I have loved the companion Russian Easter Ouverture since discovering classical music as a teenager. Again, this CD is the first recording I have heard that fully realizes its possibilities.

The acoustic is delectably atmospheric, and the microphone placement and mixing combine with it to convey the ambience of the great orchestra in personal concert for the fortunate listener.

I own a truckload of classical CD's. This is one of the favorites I hear again and again.

MUSIC FOR THE SENSES.......2000-06-06

I first heard this recording on the radio, a few years back, then decided to buy the CD. The overall offect is quite pleasing - hypnotic at times - and Bernstein's orchestra, the NY Philharmonic, is captured in great form under Temirkanov. The playing is also first rate, the violin solo by Glenn Dicterow is well executed. I found the orchestral contrasts between soft and loud passages to be exaggerated and in general, the various sections lacking in continuity of purpose. Music for the senses, but also music that has to make sense, I mean musically. Phrasing is the key - as in the New World Symphony or the Symphonie fantastique. This is lovely, but the whole thing seems to lack in perspective. The RUSSIAN EASTER OVERTURE is very well done, great sound, à la Russe.

The "Scheherazade" to beat!.......2000-01-27

My favorite version of "Scheherazade" was by Joel Pernea, but I don't think it's made it to CD. Never fear; this one is as powerful as I remember Pernea's being. Of course I haven't heard every "Scheherazade" out there, but this one's a little special, so go fot it.

Panorama: Nikolay Andreyevich Rimsky-Korsakov

Average customer rating:

A powerful and wonderful CD
POWERFUL , and AWESOME!!!
A must

Panorama: Nikolay Andreyevich Rimsky-Korsakov

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Brahms: Concertos for Piano No. 1 & 2, Fantasia Op. 116

ASIN: B00004W3IY
Release Date: 2000-10-17

Tracks:

Sheherazade, Op. 35: The Sea and Sinbad's Ship - Michel Schwalbe
Sheherazade, Op. 35: The Story Of The Kalander Prince - Michel Schwalbe
Sheherazade, Op. 35: The Young Prince and The Young Princess - Michel Schwalbe
Sheherazade, Op. 35: Festival At Baghdad - The Sea - Shipwreck - Michel Schwalbe
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Alborada. Vivo e strepitoso - Berliner Philharmoniker
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Variazioni. Andante con moto - Berliner Philharmoniker
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Alborada. Vivo e strepitoso - Berliner Philharmoniker
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Scena e canto gitano. Allgretto - Berliner Philharmoniker
Capriccio espagnol, Op. 34: Fandango asturiano - Berliner Philharmoniker
The Flight Of The Bumblebee - Michel Schwalbe
Russian Easter Festival Overture, Op.36 - Concertgebouw Orchestra

Tracks:

The Tale Of Tsar Saltan: Suite, Op. 57: The Tsar's Departure and Farewell - Philharmonia Orchestra
The Tale Of Tsar Saltan: Suite, Op. 57: The Tsarina In A Barrel At Sea - Philharmonia Orchestra
The Tale Of Tsar Saltan: Suite, Op. 57: The Three Wonders - Philharmonia Orchestra
Symphony No. 2 (Symphonic Suite), Op. 9 'Antar': Largo - Allegro - Largo - Allegretto - Adagio - Allegretto - Largo - Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra
Symphony No. 2 (Symphonic Suite), Op. 9 'Antar': Allegro - Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra
Symphony No. 2 (Symphonic Suite), Op. 9 'Antar': Allegro risoluto - Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra
Symphony No. 2 (Symphonic Suite), Op. 9 'Antar': Allegretto - Adagio - Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra
The Golden Cockerel: Suite: Introduction And Dodon's Sleep - Orchestre des Concerts Lamoureax
The Golden Cockerel: Suite: King Dodon On The Battlefield - Orchestre des Concerts Lamoureax
The Golden Cockerel: Suite: Queen of Shamakha's Dance - King Dodon's Dance - Orchestre des Concerts Lamoureax
The Golden Cockerel: Suite: Wedding Procession - Death Of King Dodon - Finale - Orchestre des Concerts Lamoureax

Customer Reviews:

A powerful and wonderful CD.......2005-11-08

The performances are superb. The sound quality is excellent. It is a fine choice of works by Rimsky-Korsakov (over 2 hours and 35 minutes of music). We hear one of my favorite performances of Sheherazade. And the Capriccio Espagnol. The Flight of the Bumblebee. The Tsar Saltan Suite, the Golden Cockerel Suite, the Russian Easter Festival Overture. And the Second symphony. These are all dramatic works by a master of orchestration.

I highly recommend this two-disc set.

POWERFUL , and AWESOME!!!.......2004-07-11

The power that radiates from the instruments in Scheherezade is magnificient. Please, I know this line of CD's are expensive, but they are worth it. The sound is incredible! if you turn it up real loud, while listening through the headphones, you can hear the people taking their breaths before they play, dropping various items such as mallets, and sticks! Thats just how sensitive the sound is. Out of 10 stars, i give it Infinity stars...every time I listen to it, it gets better, and better, and better............

A must.......2002-12-14

Buy this CD. Don't think about it. Just buy it. I, personally, bought this CD because of the fact that it had Sheherazade (an incredibly moving and colorful piece). This interpretation of Sheherazade by Karajan is among the best (if not THE best). However, as I began to listen to the rest of the CD I found the other pieces to be equally brilliant and astounding. The flare of Capriccio Espagnol, the dramatic Second Symphony and the simple ingenuity and cheeriness of the Tsar Sultan suite. The piece that I found most surprising was the Russian Easter Festival Overture. This is one of music's most under appreciated pieces in music, and ranks easily belong side Tchaikovsky's Romeo and Juliet or Brahms Academic Festival and Tragic overtures. Its relatively simplistic themes are some of the most exciting and riveting every written. This CD is a must for ANY lover (or of anybody even slightly interested in classical music in general). I would note that the sound quality is excellent as well...if that's a must for some of you.

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade; Russian Easter Overture

Average customer rating:

Rather strait-laced by Stoki's standards
Stokowski is triumphal
Stoki's greatest stereo "Scheherazade"

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade; Russian Easter Overture

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America

ASIN: B0007INY4E
Release Date: 2005-03-22

Customer Reviews:

Rather strait-laced by Stoki's standards.......2007-07-22

For years collectors sought out and paid a premium for Stokowski's Phase Four Scheherazade, one of the most vivid--one could say lurid--readings of a score that's no stranger to exotic color. This, his previous stereo recording for RCA, is puzzling by comparison. Everything is in place, and the engineers bring every soloist forward for maximum showiness, but Stoki himself seems restrained.

There are many colorful touches, but he doesn't cut loose with abandon except here and there. In grand Stoki style he lusciously perfumes the lovely melody in the Kalendar Prince section. The solo violin is rather chaste, but the brass are allowed free rein. In all, a good reading but not the special thing that Reiner made of Scheherazade on the same label in Living Stereo.

Stokowski is triumphal.......2007-07-13

First, a caveat, I am not an expert of any kind on classical music, nor am I a musician, so what follows is an intuitive response to a beatuiful performance, reincarnated by BMG.

I'm familar with the first movement and its haunting melody. I was not aware, until I read the booklet that came with the record of how highly regarded Stokowski was. His direction and the response of the musicians to it seems to me to be seamlessly knit together, making for a powerfully moving experience. It has been said that music reflects the harmonies of the universe, in this case I'd say the performance opens the beauty of the universal harmonies in a very effective way. I'm glad I like Sheherazade, Op. 35 for it introduced up to me to a great conductor I had not been aeare of in the great Stokowski and his innovative approach to a classic by Rimsky-Korsakov.

Stoki's greatest stereo "Scheherazade".......2007-05-01

For anyone not alive during his lifetime or that hasn't discovered his legend, Leopold Stokowski was one of the most remarkable musicians of the 20th century. Legendary for his score rewriting, his wanton, profligate sexual acumen, his Hollywood reputation (he conducted the score for the Disney film "Fantasia"), and his hundreds of recordings of highly colorful and inflected music like "Scheherazade", Stoki was a one-man show whose reputation was only equalled last century by pianist Artur Rubinstein.

Here's the stereo version of Stokowksi's "Scheherazade" with the Royal Philharmonic that I prefer to his London Symphony Orchestra account that was re-released on Cala about the same time as this came back into circulation. For me, there are two advantages to this issue that make it preferable to the Cala recording:

1. The reocrding has reater depth and more focus on bass line in the concluding movement that renders the overall sound more "Russian" than the London version, whose principal highlight is the outstanding solo work by all the famous soloists. Please note violinist Eric Gruenberg plays the solo part in both recordings.

2. The addition of Stoki's Chicago Symphony Orchestra stereo issue of the "Russian Easter Orchestra" is, in my opinion, a better add-on than the Tchaikovsky included on the London Cala issue. I believe the overture is more temperamentally mated to an hour's listening with Tchaikovsky's "Marche Slav". Add in any old concerto and you have an evening's concert!

Anyone that wants to discover more about Stokowski can look around for his old Philadelphia Orchestra recording in mono that critics have hailed as the most hair-raising version ever of "Scheherazade". For me, this recording has been the most satisfactory performance I've ever heard. It has been in my library continuously since I first acquired it about 1983 on an old RCA Victrola recording. I am pleased it is available again at a low price for a new generation of listeners that never knew Stokowski and his magical wand during his lifetime. He continues to outdo all comers in this music, which was perfectly suited to Stokowski.

For readers just getting introduced to this remarkable conductor, here is a short list of other specialties where Stokowski excelled with his highly perfumed treatments:
-- Resphigi "Pines of Rome".
-- Debussy "La Mer", especially the old London Phase 4 recording now reincarnated by ArkivMusic.
-- Wagner bleeding orchestral chunks for opera, especially his various "synthesis" of orchestral music. Try to locate a copy of his "Ride of the Valkyries" with the vocal score.
-- Ibert "Escales".
-- Vaughan Williams "Fantasia on a Theme of Thomas Tallis".
-- Bach orchestral transcriptions including the Toccata and Fugue in D Minor.
-- His own orchestration of "Pictures At An Exhibition".

See my Listmaina list, "Favorite Stokowski CDs", for more.

Another rule of thumb about Stokowski -- if you are bored listening to any piece of the standard repertory, try ot locate a Stokowski recording to hear it refreshed. You may be shocked and/or dismayed by what he does with the music, but you won't think the same about it again after hearing his rendition.

Average customer rating:

Moving, intense music.
peaceful moment to soothe you and draw you closer to Him.
Aural Delight
Excellent Russian Music
Slavyanka: Small Chorus - Large Sound

Russian Church Music

Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

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Russian Divine Liturgy
Russian Christmas
Russian Medieval Chant
Ancient Echoes
Basso Profondo From Old Russia

ASIN: B0000007DX
Release Date: 1992-10-01

Tracks:

Our Father (The Lord's Prayer)
Blessed is the Man
Behold, Bless The Lord
O Lord, Save Thy People
Having Fallen Asleep
By The Rivers Of Babylon
Make A Joyful Noise
With My Voice
For The Mercy Of Peace
Salvation Is Created
O Gladsome Light
It Is Fitting (A Hymn To The Virgin Mary)
The Shadow Of The Law Passed Away
Lord, Now Lettest Thou Servant Depart
For the Mercy of Peace
Our Father (The Lord's Prayer)
Glory To God In The Highest

Customer Reviews:

Moving, intense music........2006-04-30

I've had this album for a little over a year now and still listen to it regularly. It's a favorite in my car, especially in the early morning while driving my kids to school. The combination of the sunrise and the moving vocals combine to leave me feeling full of life, ready to move on with my day. The chorus is truly incredible, and with a decent sound system the feeling of being in the midst of all those deep voices is something memorable.

I love the sound and style of Russian music, and this CD has been wonderful when I'm in the mood for something more meaningful.

I'm not a music expert or Russian linguist, nor will you find me in a church on Sunday. I enjoy good music of all forms, and no matter what your religion or linguistic affiliation, this is excellent music that is sure to add something to your collection.

peaceful moment to soothe you and draw you closer to Him........2001-08-03

The themes and songs remind me of an ancient Russia when the Church is at peak and predominantly practiced at the whole of Russia.Just imagine yourself in one of those great cathedral with the choir singing and the priest celebrating the mass.The song that echoed in the great cathedral wall will surely put ones to heavenly realm,a sense of calm and joy one will always remember....

Aural Delight.......2001-02-06

Of all the music I own this cd is my favorite at this time. This group has a very rich and powerful sound. When I buy choral music this represents exactly what I am looking for. If you are like me you bought a Gregorian Chant cd and were disappointed becuse it is in unison and rather flat sounding: this is harmonious and lush. Each track is four part a capella. I cannot adequately express the pleasure I receive from this cd. I am not an audiophile or vocal technique expert but I know good music when I hear it; this certainly qualifies. The group has a very good blend and sings what seem to be difficult pieces very smoothly. I would describe the mood as invigoratingly soothing. If you like all-male choral works you will enjoy this. I will certainly be purchasing more work by this group in the future.

Excellent Russian Music.......2000-10-04

This is an excellent performance and resource. These days, it can seem that nothing less than an authentic performance will do, whether that necessitates playing Bach on 300 year old violins or Liszt being played by a full-blooded Hungarian. And with the amount of recordings becoming available from countries with few previous U. S. releases, it can seem that only a Russian ensemble can truly perform Russian music. Slavyanka's CD proves that philosophy to be false: an American choir can deliver an excellent account of Russian choral music.

I'm not sure if this is professional, semi-professional, or a group that meets weekly, but the results are quite good. Recording quality here is generally good and the choir has the requisite low bass section (the first track will let you know that). There are times when intonation and ensemble seem to slip away slightly, which keeps this recording from cracking the upper echelon. Some of the soloists seem uncertain at times, as well.

The inclusion of texts in Cyrillic letters, transliterated Russian, and English is an excellent addition that I wish CDs used more often. The texts make it easier to understand the message and to learn about the Russian language (definitely not the easiet language in which to sing). In fact, the CD booklet is so big that it scarcely fits into the jewel box.

I enjoy having this CD in my library and I would encourage those interested in choral music, Russian music, or even those learning Russian to buy it. I can't think of a better way to learn about a language and a culture.

Slavyanka: Small Chorus - Large Sound.......2000-03-29

Slavyanka Men's Chorus has the ability, through magnificent dynamic contrasts, to sound small and intimate, but can sound large as a Russian theological academy chorus. Their work on this disc is impeccable. The accompanying booklet of program notes is superior, and is in multiple languages. The inclusion of the text of the liturgical music in several languages, including Slavonic and transliterated English pronunciation of the Slavonic, is a wonderful addition. Can't recommend it highly enough!

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade for orchestra Op35; Russian Easter Festival Overture Op36

Average customer rating:

Great mix of music though OK performance
Wow..
Colorful, Romantic, Dramatic, and Consistently Musical !
absolute magic

Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade for orchestra Op35; Russian Easter Festival Overture Op36

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Rimsky-Korsakov: Great Orchestral Works
Manuel de Falla: Nights in the Gardens of Spain / Isaac Albeniz: Rapsodia Espanola / Joaquin Turina: Rapsodia Sinfonica - Alicia de Larrocha / London Philharmonic Orchestra / Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos
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Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade/Capriccio Espagnol
The 1950s Haydn Symphonies Recordings

ASIN: B000004241
Release Date: 1995-02-14

Tracks:

Scheherazade: The Sea And Sinbad's Ship - N. Rimsky-Korsakov
Scheherazade: The Story Of The Kalandar Prince - N. Rimsky-Korsakov
Scheherazade: The Young Prince And The Young Princess - N. Rimsky-Korsakov
Scheherazade: Festival At Baghdad - The Sea - Shipwreck - N. Rimsky-Korsakov
May Night: Overture - N. Rimsky-Korsakov
The Tale Of Tsar Saltan, Suite, Op.57: I. The Tsar's Departure And Farewell - N. Rimsky-Korsakov
The Tale Of Tsar Saltan, Suite, Op.57: II. The Tsarina And Her Son Afloat In The Cask - N. Rimsky-Korsakov
The Tale Of Tsar Saltan, Suite, Op.57: III. The Three Wonders - N. Rimsky-Korsakov
The Tale Of Tsar Saltan: The Flight Of The Bumblebee - N. Rimsky-Korsakov

Tracks:

Russian Easter Festival: Overture, Op.36 - Rimsky-Korsakov
Christmas Eve Suite - Rimsky-Korsakov
Dubinushka, Op.62 - Rimsky-Korsakov
Sadko, Musical Picture, Op.5 - Rimsky-Korsakov
The Snow Maiden Suite: Introduction- Danse des oiseaux- Cortege- Danse des bouffons - Rimsky-Korsakov

Customer Reviews:

Great mix of music though OK performance.......2007-02-07

Rimsky - Korsakov is one of the greats of Russian music who composed works for multiple genres such as ballets, operas, symphonies, overtures, concertos, etc. This two-disc set provides a good compilation of many of these works without resorting to the common method of taking 3 - 4 minute samples from multiple works that embody the most famous tunes from said works. Instead, the album includes multiple works in whole such as Scheherazade, the Tale of Tsar Saltan, Snow Maiden Suite, and The Russian Easter Festival Overture. The result is two discs with over an hour of music per disc. However, many of the works are quite unknown, and can require some patience to listen through and appreciate.

The orchestration and sound quality is only alright. For example, this album's performance of the Russian Easter Festival Overture was sub-par compared to what I have heard in other albums. Overall, a good buy, but not a great buy.

Wow.........2006-04-28

Quite possibly one of the worst Scheherazade's I have ever heard from a "professional" orchestra. There is some REALLY BAD playing on here. I still can't believe that a recording would be put out where the playing can sound completely incompetent at times. I really don't understand that. This is NOT a good recording!! Just the fact that there are so many noticeable mistakes proves that. If you are a musician, this should bother you and make you wince.

Do yourself a favor and buy a different recording, either Bernstein with New York, Temirkanov with New York, or Maazel with Cleveland, or Concertgebouw or Philly. Any other recording will definitely be of better quality.

Colorful, Romantic, Dramatic, and Consistently Musical !.......2004-03-09

In the past, I have enjoyed other Scheherazades, most notably those by Ormandy, Reiner, Monteux, Stokowski, Kondrashin and Beecham, especially the latter two. I must now include this marvelous Ansermet after re-acquainting myself with his performance after many years of neglect. While the Suisse Romande Orchestra has never been seen as having quite matched the reputations of the Philadelphia, Chicago Symphony and Concertgebouw Orchestras, it performs so magically and musically here that it seems to transport one on the proverbial flying carpet to exotic lands. Tones are rounded, sweet and golden, yet there is no slighting of drama. As conductor, Ansermet is in no hurry to impress with an eye and ear to sheer virtuosity. He proceeds with an easy flowing, characterful, sensuous style. I haven't heard many more satisfyingly rendered first movements than his. But the same holds true for the other three as well, especially the gorgeously fragrant third movement ( "The Young Prince and the Young Princess" ). Throughout the Ansermet/Suisse Romande performance there is a wonderful songfulness and a pleasing exotic ambiance. In many places, instrumental sounds simply glow....Virtually everything else on these discs is also a delicious treat, especially since such brightly varied pieces as Tale of the Tsar Saltan, The Christmas Eve Suite and The Snow Maiden have never been well represented in recordings, though I have enjoyed for some time Svetlanov's Tsar Saltan. All these works of Rimsky-Korsakov reveal one of the finest examples of a composer who possessed the wonderful ability to create splendid color and captivating tunefulness. And, I think, there were few other conductors who had Ernest Ansermet's talent to project these appealing delights with such endearing and satisfying musical expression.

absolute magic.......2000-09-21

This should be an essential part of any Russian music lover's library. Ansermet had a particular affinity with this repertoire, and the very distinctive sound of the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande make this a very endearing and memorable release. It's a paradox, but though Rimsky's orchestral pallette is opulent and technicolour in the extreme, it is not particularly lush in the R.Straussian sense - the timbres separate, and the clarity of the texturing in these OSR performances make every subtlety of the orchestration apparent: listen to the different ways Rimsky scores the same E major chord in the first movement of 'Scheherazade' - on this recording every register change tells.

Tracks:

Dies Irac: Requiem - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
Chorus Of THe Hebrew Slaves: Nabucco - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
Entrance Of The Toreadors: Carmen - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
An die Freude: Symphony No. 9 - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
Zadok the Priest - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
Bridal Chorus: Lohengrin - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
Easter Hymn: Cavellera Rusticana - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
Requiem Aeternam: Requiem - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
Pavane - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
Gloria In Excelsis Deo: Gloria - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
For Unto Us A Child Is Born: Messiah - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
O Isis und Osiris: The Magic Flute - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
Credo: Messe Solennelle Di Sainte Cecile - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
I Vow To Thee, My Country - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL
Final Chorus: Turandot - DIES IRAE-ESSENTIAL CHORAL COL

Tracks:

O Fortuna: Carmina Burana - Various Artists
Trimphal March: Aida - Various Artists
Deus in adiutorium - Domine ad adiuvaum: Vespro Della Beata Vergine - Various Artists
See, The Conqu'ring Hero Comes: Judas Maccabeus - Various Artists
In The Hall Of The Mountain King: Peer Gynt Suite No. 1 - Various Artists
Magnificat anima mea: Magnificat - Various Artists
Agnus Dei: Requiem - Various Artists
Humming Chorus: Madama Butterfly - Various Artists
Ich will hier bei dir stehen: St. Mathew's Passion - Various Artists
Entry Of The Guest: Tannhauser - Various Artists
Auto0da-fe' Chorus: Don Carlo - Various Artists
Polovtsian Dances: Prince Igor - Various Artists
Anvil Chorus: Il Trovatore - Various Artists
Land Of Hope And Glory: Pomp And Circumstance - Various Artists
'Hallelujah' Chorus: Messiah - Various Artists

Amazon.com

This certainly is a desirable compendium of some of the most famous large-scale choral pieces, primarily drawn from Deutsche Grammophon's catalog of operas and oratorios. Among the 30 selections on this two-disc set are choruses from Carmen, Lohengrin, Aida, Madame Butterfly, and Il Trovatore, as well as Messiah, Beethoven's Ninth Symphony, Bach's St. Matthew's Passion, and Verdi's Requiem. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Dies Irae-The Essential Choral Collection Review.......2007-07-07

This 2 disc collection of Choral music is a great introduction to classical music. Many of these selections have been made famous in movies and will be recognizable to even the most casual listener. I bought this album for O Fortuna by Carl Orff, a song that is featured in Excalibur and Jackass: The Movie. The music on these CDs is great. I especially like Symphony No. 9 by Beethoven, Peer Gynt Suite by Grieg, and Requiem by Mozart.

Other albums recommended:
Amadeus: Original Soundtrack Recording
25 Beethoven Favorites
Excalibur: Original Movie Soundtrack

The Greatest Choral Masterpieces.......2005-10-02

This collection is outstanding, featuring the best choral works from operas and oratorios in classical repertoire. It begins with the fiery and intense Dies Irae from Verdi's Requiem. This piece is sublimely performed by the Berlin forces. It's followed by the anthem-like Va Pensiero from Verdi's early opera Nabucco, as conducted by Sinopoli and sounds maravelous. A brief excerpt from Beethoven's Ninth "The Ode to Joy" is a treat. The Coronation Anthem from Zadok The Priest by Handel is well-executed and powerful. The famous Bridal March (better known as "Here Comes The Bride") from Wagner's opera Lohengrin is sumptuous. A lot of this music is grandiose, and all the famous grand choruse from the grand operas like Aida (The Triumphal March scene) and the Inquistion Scene from Don Carlo. What is missing however, and I would have enjoyed, is the wondrous Finale to Wagner's Die Meistersanger which features a great chorus in praise of art. My favorite piece on here is the little known Mass of Saint Cecilia by Charles Gounod. It is absolutely gorgeous and epic sounding. The underrated but great conductor Igor Markevitch conducts. The famous O Fortuna from Orff's Carmina Burana is also on here, not to mention Handel's "Hallelujah" chorus from Messiah and other pieces from Judas Maccabeus. This is a great collection of chorus masterpieces that any fan would appreciate or if you are studying to sing in chorues yourself.

Not that bad... at first.......2005-03-26

There's plenty of free samples to this CD, and I agree that this is a great collection of music. Chances are you won't find a collection of songs, all of them with angelic choirs, as great as this. When I got it I was quite happy with it, but when I heard the same songs done with different conductors I thought to myself: 'Hey, why doesn't it sound like my CD?' It's the quality that I don't like. For example, Dias Irae is a great song, and it sounds pretty good on the CD, but compare it to another version and this one is slower, the chorus is off key, and it doesn't have that intense emotion. Same thing with O Fortuna, it's a great song, but the chorus is just terrible on this CD, the instruments are lacking in emotion: percussion doesn't add that extra 'oomph' to the bass drum, the cymbals don't have enough emphasis, the chorus sounds like they're about to go asleep, and the dynamics between fortissimo and pianissimo have little effort.

I'd recomend this if you have little cash to blow on a lot of good songs, otherwise you might want to search for a bunch of seperate CDs with the same songs.

Gread Idea, Great Performance.......2003-03-03

This CD should move people in a way that few other recordings can. The one word to describe many of the works is "exalted". This is not music for dinner parties but instead should be heard in solitary contemplation of all the great artists and their efforts in creating such an inspiring recording.

Dies Irae.......2000-03-07

I have an extensive CD collection, but since purchasing this CD, it has become my very favorite. This music sent chills down my spine. I felt transported to a different world....What amazing voices! I intend to give this cd as xmas presents to family and friends.

Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition No 1-10; Night on the Bare Mountain; Khovanshchina - Prelude / Rimsky-Korsakov: Russian Easter Festival Overture

Average customer rating:

My favorite system demo CD
This recording is definately worth having.

Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition No 1-10; Night on the Bare Mountain; Khovanshchina - Prelude / Rimsky-Korsakov: Russian Easter Festival Overture

Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B0000041RI
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Khovanshchina - Prelude
Night on the Bare Mountain
Russian Easter Festival Overture
Pictures at an Exhibition: Promenade - Gnomus
Pictures at an Exhibition: Promenade - Il vecchio castello
Pictures at an Exhibition: Promenade - Tuileries
Pictures at an Exhibition: Bydlo - Promenade
Pictures at an Exhibition: Ballet des poussins dans leurs coques
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Pictures at an Exhibition: Limoges: le marche
Pictures at an Exhibition: Catacombae - Cum mortuis in lingua mortua
Pictures at an Exhibition: La Cabane sur des pattes de poule
Pictures at an Exhibition: La grande porte de Kiev

Customer Reviews:

My favorite system demo CD.......2007-06-05

Regarding the music, engineering, performance and musicality as written by the other reviewer, I can only agree.

My two cents: Have been an audiophile since the '60s, had several hundred LPs (vinyl), have several hundred CDs now, and THIS ONE is my favorite demo.

I have an absolutely unforgiving system, crystalline clarity (they are electrostats)... the soundstage is THERE, absolute breadth and depth, but, even more importantly, the "air" around the instruments, you are hearing the performance in time AND space, this really leaps the ditch between experiencing great sound REPRODUCTION and a sense of actually being in the hall (with great seats about 12 rows back in the orchestra section).

The transients are breathtaking, the bite on the english horn, the crystal clarity of the triangle...

A SUPERB feat of composition (Mussorgsky), orchestration (Ravel), performance (Dutoit and the MSO) and engineering (London/Decca). Every one has outdone themselves, and it's all on this superb CD,

This recording is definately worth having........2001-07-12

This particular performance of the orchestral version of Mussorgsky's "Pictures at an Exhibition..." is the finest performance of this work I have heard. It seems Dutoit and the MSO have collaborated again with the best Engineers on the planet for this recording. In typical Dutoit fashion, he cleverly combines precision, attitude and emotion, resulting in what I think is a genuine representation of this work.

Dutoit seems to understand and communicate Mussorgsky's perspective on the human experience, which so many other performances seem to miss all too often. This will become obvious to you when you hear "The Great Gate of Kiev" at a rediculous level on your stereo, and are involuntarily moved to tears. It's both accessible and meaningful music, and should be spinning up in your CD player right now!

FYI - "Pictures at an Exhibition..." is a series of musical interpretations, inspired by a memorial exhibition of drawings by Mussorgsky's close friend, Victor Hartmann.

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