Rachmaninov: The Isle of the Dead Op.29/Symphonic Dances Op.45

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Sergei Rachmaninoff (1873-1943) produced in 1909 one of this century's most enduring tone poems in The Isle of the Dead. Based on a gloomy painting by Arnold Bocklin (reproduced on the cover of this London CD), it manages to incorporate many of the musical fads of the day without sounding at all faddish. You can hear bits of Wagner and Mahler; but you can also get a whiff of Debussy's Impressionism and a dollop of Scriabin. At the opposite end of the spectrum is Symphonic Dances (1940), a thoroughly joyous orchestral work. Get this for the clarity of the music and the Bocklin cover. --Paul Cook

Amazon.com
Vovka Ashkenazy's series of Rachmaninoff recordings with the Concergebouw Orchestra in some way represented his coming of age as a conductor. Although he had made many fine recordings from the podium--notably of Tchaikovsky symphonies--his performances of Rachmaninoff's symphonies and other orchestra works were his first recordings that really challenged the great versions of the past. He conducts these two splendid works with real urgency and personality, and he's aided in no small measure... read more

Rachmaninov: The Isle of the Dead Op.29/Symphonic Dances Op.45

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: I. Grave - Allegro ma non troppo
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: II. Allegro animato
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: III. Larghetto
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: IV. Allegro con fuoco
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: I. Non allegro
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: II. Andante con moto (Tempo di valse)
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: III. Lento assai - Allegro vivace

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: I. Largo - Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: II. Allegro molto
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: III. Adagio
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: IV. Allegro vivace
The Isle of the Dead, Op.29

Tracks:

Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: I. Lento - Allegro Moderato
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: II. Adagio ma non troppo - Allegro vivace
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: III. Allegro
The Bells, Op.35: I. Allegro ma non tanto
The Bells, Op.35: II. Lento
The Bells, Op.35: III. Presto
The Bells, Op.35: IV. Lento Lugubre

Customer Reviews:

Excellent recordings, all worth getting at any price!!!.......2005-04-01

Different people have different tastes. Without wishing to malign those who don't care as much (or at all) for this set, I'll dare say that this set is an absolute classic. [Why go only for the 2-disc set of just the symphonies instead of getting also Ostróva Mjórtvïkh (The Isle of the Dead), the Symphonic Dances and Kolokóla (The Bells) that come automatically as part of this 3-disc set?]

It was the Ashkenazy recording of Ostróva Mjórtvïkh that introduced me to what has since become my favourite symphonic poem ever (roll over Richard Strauss - this one together with Schönberg's "Pelléas et Mélisande" take the cake!) as well as the Symphonic Dances - and also Kolokóla as well as the 1st & 3rd Symphonies. [Prévin did as much for the 2nd Symphony in my case and his recording is a more than worthy competitor - his and this one are as good as tied for top spot in my honest opinion - get them BOTH if possible!!!!] At all times, these interpretations proved Sjergjéy Vassíljevich Rakhmáñinov as one of the greatest composers of the 1850-1950 period, even if he wasn't the most prolific (my biggest regret is that death stopped him from benefitting us organists with an Organ Concerto meant for Charles Courboin). [He was the type that could only concentrate on one thing at a time - be it composition, piano concertising, or conducting, at all of which he was outstanding; however, when he went into exile after the Russian Revolutions, he found himself mainly working as one of the greatest pianists of all time in order to secure his future and feed his family.] Obviously his mentor Pjótr Iljích Chaykóvskiy was a powerful influence on him; however, Rakhmáñinov never loses his individuality at any point!

Certainly his symphonic output is uniformly high: his 1st Symphony, while not always the most cohesive at times, still deserved a heck of a lot better fate than it received at the hands of Glazunóv - it's extremely inspired and there's no question that it deserves a high place in the repertoire. The 3rd Symphony - and the Symphonic Dances - not only proved that Rakhmáñinov had lost none of his mastery or inspiration in exile; they're both absolute masterpieces in their own right! [As to the 2nd, it would be my 2nd-favourite symphony, period, right behind Chaykóvskiy's 6th (Pathétique). The 3rd movement, if a question of falling in love for some, is for me a point of grieving for a lost love (which is very much still in my life after many years - I still cry bitterly on hearing this and the 1st movement!) and letting gradually go, though with greatest pain...] Finally, Kolokóla: another great masterpiece (the 2nd movement is especially moving and wonderful!).

Most definitely, Ashkenazy does full justice to all of these works. Of course, one can disagree with this or that aspect or instant in this or that work (e.g., I could have wished a slower accelerando in the 2nd movement of the Symphonic Dances from the waltz tempo - that way one misses the otherwise obvious allusion to Chaykóvskiy's "Flowers' Waltz" from Shchjeljkúnchik {Nutcracker}); however, the overall merits of these recordings truly deserve the fullest 5 stars possible - I'd myself go for 6! Go get it in all events!!!!

Outstanding Set, But Get Temirkanov for The Symphonic Dances.......2004-08-07

This is an outstanding set, with the exception of the Symphonic Dances, where Ashkenazy conveys some of the passion in this work but doesn't attain nearly the same level of emotional intensity as Kondrashin's or Temirkanov's versions.

A fantastically passionate performance of The Symphonic Dances is the 1963 recording by the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra, with Kiril Kondrashin as conductor (RCA; Catalog # 32046; ASIN: B000003ETI). With Kondrashin, the power and passion of The Symphonic Dances sweeps the listener away and takes him to an inspirational level. The performance is so burning hot that it throws off sparks. However, this CD may be out-of-print.

Another excellent and passionate interpretation of The Symphonic Dances is the 1992 recording by Yuri Temirkanov and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra (RCA; Catalog Number 62710; ASIN: B000003FRT). The Temirkanov CD also has a beautiful performance of the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, with the pianist Dmitri Alexeev.

The rest of this 3-CD set, consisting of the three symphonies and the Isle of the Dead, is outstanding. In the symphonies, the balance and the dynamic interplay between the strings, horns, and winds are brought out beautifully and the sound quality is crystal clear. The Isle of the Dead is very movingly performed, from the opening passage, where Ashkenazy establishes a somber ominous mood, to the sweeping majesty of the most powerful moments.

The CD booklet has a well-written, detailed, and informative essay on all of the compositions. The full text of The Bells, based on a reinterpretation of Edgar Allan Poe's verses by the Russian symbolist poet Konstantin Balmont (1867 - 1943), is also included in Russian, English, French, and German.

Highly recommended, with the additional recommendation of supplementing this set with Kondrashin's or Temirkanov's recording of The Symphonic Dances.

A noteworthy Rachmaninov set.......2004-07-30

These were outstanding recordings when they were released individually in the 1980's, and as a complete set they make quite a bargain. Ashkenazy finds just the right tempi in most cases, particularly in the spectacular Symphonic Dances, one of the best versions of this piece ever recorded. Somehow he manages to combine his no-nonsense approach while still letting Rachmaninov's long melodic lines glow.

The dark Concertgebouw tone suits this program perfectly. If the First and Third Symphonies aren't exactly the composer at his most inspired (don't get me wrong -- not bad, just not his best), you are not likely to hear either one performed as dazzlingly as they are here. Many listeners will already have a recording of the Second Symphony, probably the composer's most popular work, and I'm not convinced that Ashkenazy's is the one and only, but you may want it just for the quality of the playing from the orchestra. And there is no shortage of good recordings of the Isle of the Dead, either, but again, the mood conjured up here is considerable.

In short, this is an excellent set -- gorgeously played, and spectacularly recorded. And now it's at a price that makes it hard to beat.

BRILLIANT!!!.......2003-09-22

I cannot believe what great quality this package is for such a great price!

The music itself is divine. The mixing is spot on (A very rare compliment to hear from my mouth). What more could I want? More works by Rachmaninov like this please!

Oh, Rachy, what beautiful music!.......2003-04-24

This is a lovely set of Rachmaninoff's three symphonies. As with his other works, these pieces are melodic and full of passion. Rachmaninoff may get a little moody at times, but he will never leave you in the doldrums. These are exciting works, and Ashkenazy brings them to life. The orchestra responds well. As a real bonus, this set includes other orchestral works. Of these, the Symphonic Dances have been performed more frequently lately. Ashkenazy handles these Dances admirably.

The sound quality of these digital Decca releases is excellent. The upper range of the brass has a little bite to it, but it does not detract from the deep, rich sound of the Concertgebouw Orchestra. The dynamic range is extensive. Don't be afraid to turn up the volume and give your speakers a workout.

Tracks:

The Isle Of The Dead
Symphonic Dances - Non allegro
Symphonic Dances - Andante Con Moto. Tempo Di Valse
Symphonic Dances - Lento Assai - Allegro Vivace

Amazon.com

Sergei Rachmaninoff (1873-1943) produced in 1909 one of this century's most enduring tone poems in The Isle of the Dead. Based on a gloomy painting by Arnold Bocklin (reproduced on the cover of this London CD), it manages to incorporate many of the musical fads of the day without sounding at all faddish. You can hear bits of Wagner and Mahler; but you can also get a whiff of Debussy's Impressionism and a dollop of Scriabin. At the opposite end of the spectrum is Symphonic Dances (1940), a thoroughly joyous orchestral work. Get this for the clarity of the music and the Bocklin cover. --Paul Cook

Amazon.com

Vovka Ashkenazy's series of Rachmaninoff recordings with the Concergebouw Orchestra in some way represented his coming of age as a conductor. Although he had made many fine recordings from the podium--notably of Tchaikovsky symphonies--his performances of Rachmaninoff's symphonies and other orchestra works were his first recordings that really challenged the great versions of the past. He conducts these two splendid works with real urgency and personality, and he's aided in no small measure by orchestral playing that is extremely brilliant and fiery. At mid-price, this disc will find a welcome place in your Rachmaninoff collection. -- David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Terrific Performances.......2007-06-13

The performance of The Isle of the Dead on this disc is arguably among the very best. Vladamir Ashkenazy's account is a powerful reading bringing to bear a scene of desolation and despair. The build up to the climax of the music is taken at an even, inexorable pace that gives the music an explosive impact. The gradual fading of the music, as if the isle is disappearing into a distant fog, is nicely played. The Symphonic Dances is a vibrant and dynamic reading and was actually criticized by some reviewers for adopting a faster tempo for the first dance in the first movement than should have been taken. The second movement is beautifully phrases and elegantly played by the Concertgebouw while the final movement moves at a good steady tempo with attention to the details of the score, and the music is brought to a fiery conclusion.

The famous recording by Kiril Kondrashin of Symphonic Dances, made in 1963, is equally driven and marvelously played (certainly a must hear performance) but this 1984 performance by Ashkenazy and the Concertgebouw can stand beside that seminal performance, and does have better sound.

The recordings are beautifully engineered with truly excellent sound.

Too much gloom.......2006-02-17

I figured this CD is cheap enough that I could buy it for the Dances alone, which I'd heard before and wanted for my collection. The reviews seemed to indicate this is the best CD of this music.

I'm glad I had no expectations from The Isle of the Dead, which is at best an outstanding expression of morbid dreariness, gloomy and chill throughout, and amply lengthy for its point to sink in. But unfortunately, the commonalities between the Isle and the Dances are emphasized, not just in the CD booklet but in the way Ashkenazy conducts the Dances. Somewhere, you can buy an account of the Dances with more propulsion and less focus on the grave. Buy it instead, unless you are seeking a therapeutic cure for euphoria, in which case this disk gets my highest recommendation. It is well recorded.

die toteninsel und mehr ..........2005-12-24

Yes, here is offered to you the isle of the dead and some symphonic dances. The pace, tension, timbre ...everything about the isle is great. The other pieces, I do not know but they fill up the cd. The sound quality is great, but the four stars are caused by those dances. The cover -picture is very nice and well, i do not know why on the item here this painiting is niot shown. I hold a version from 1984 where DECCA was still called LONDON.

The Supreme Isle of the Dead Recording.......2005-12-02

Rachmaninov was really on to something when he strayed from composing his usual piano pieces and created the symphonic tone poem Isle of the Dead and the Symphonic Dances. Though there are plenty of fine recordings, this one stands out because world class pianist Vladimir Ashkenazy, who understood the music of Rachmaninov, is its conductor. I had no idea that Ashkenazy, aside from being a pianist, was also a conductor. Now I will check out other recordings in which he is the conductor. Here, he puts on another hat that suits him just as well. He brings out the many layers of the music. Isle of the Dead was based on the surreal, abstract and symbolic modern painting by Brocklin. The painting still baffles me. What is the Isle of the Dead ? Let the music tell you. It has a distinct Wagnerian and Mahlerian feel to it, as musicologists have noted. But this is not an homage to these late Romantic Germans, it is only natural that a dream-like and symbolic tone poem should evoke the music of composers whose work had dream-like qualities and symbolic strength. Because this music is a tad minimalist and slightly twelve-tone, music scholars also note a hint of the Impressionistic music of Debussy, with fleeting melodies that are slow and quick and not heavy at all. In contrast, the Symphonic Dances are jovial, thunderous and lively pieces, evoking Russian dances and an orgiastic, frenzied bacchanal. Rachmaninov pulled out all the stops and Ashkenzay does as well in his conducting. The Concertgebuow Orchestra of Amsterdam was a fine orchestra, one of the leading ones in Europe, but sadly it's underrated. It is at the same level of the Gewandhaus of Leipzig and Berlin Phil. This is a terrific, terrific recording.

Very stingy, but very good.......2005-10-08

The star of this CD is an exciting and beautifully recorded Symphonic Dances, the last orchestral work Rachmaninov wrote (1940) before he died. The other work on this CD, the Isle of the Dead, dates from 1909 and only appeals to me when I want to hear Rachmaninov at his most morbid.

Usually one can get the Symphonic Dances coupled with an entire symphony (Temirkanov on RCA, Jansons on EMI), so it's stingy of Decca to limit this CD to 55 min. But if you want a highly charged technicolor reading of this work, Ashkenazy remains the best choice (it is also included in his budget box of the symphonies.)

Average customer rating:

Treasure Trove of Rare Rachmaninov
Mature Symphonic Works
Magnificent Bells, Fine Dances, Terric Isle

Sergei Rachmaninoff: Orchestral Music

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

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

ASIN: B000001K5X
Release Date: 1992-11-04

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Customer Reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rachmaninov: Isle of the Dead Op29; Songs Op34

Average customer rating:

Excellent set
Accept No Substitutes- This is It !
Review of the second symphony only
Competent, slow, steady but uninspired 2nd
buy for 2nd symphony

Rachmaninov: Isle of the Dead Op29; Songs Op34

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ASIN: B000002S4C
Release Date: 1993-04-13

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op 13: I. Grave
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op 13: II. Allegro Animato
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op 13: III. Larghetto
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op 13: IV. Allegro con fuoco
The isle Of The Dead, Op.29: The Isle Of The Dead, Op. 29

Tracks:

Symphony No.2 In E Minor, Op.27: Largo - Allegro moderato
Symphony No.2 In E Minor, Op.27: Scherzo (Allegro molto)
Symphony No.2 In E Minor, Op.27: Adagio
Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: Finale (Allegro vivace)
Vocalise, Op.34 No.14
Aleko: Intermezzo
Aleko: Women's Dance

Tracks:

Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: Lento - Allegro moderato - Allegro
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: Adagio ma non troppo - Allegro vivace
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: Allegro - Allegro vivace
Symphonic Dances, Op.45: Non allegro
Symphonic Dances, Op.45: Andante con moto (Tempo di valse)
Symphonic Dances, Op.45: Lento assai - Allegro vivace

Customer Reviews:

Excellent set.......2005-02-22

An excellent set.

Sym 1, Isle of the Dead and Symphonic Dances are all done extremely well, which is all that matters, since these are Rachmaninov's orchestral works of sheer genius (plus the Bells), in my view.

Pletnev's Rach Sym 1 on DG is pretty good too, but you can't go wrong with this set.

Accept No Substitutes- This is It !.......2005-01-09

Sir Andre and the 1970s LSO had a unique, symbiotic relationship. Together with their Decca Rachmaninov Piano Concertos & Paganini Rhapsody (with Vladimir Ashkenazy), this cycle of the Symphonies (and the other major orchestral pieces) just may be their greatest work ever. The fantastic LSO strings, admittedly lacking the famous post-war Ormandy/Philly gloss, make it easier to take these works more seriously than before. (Granted, R's symphonies are not the Brahms FOURTH, or the Bruckner EIGHTH, but they deserve better than "pops-concert" condescension.) Everything runs deeper.

First off, a respectful nod to all the other reviewers here and a small, salient fact: RACHMANINOV COMPOSED MORE THAN THE SECOND SYMPHONY !!! (And yes, this SECOND is stupendous in its breadth and commitment.)

This FIRST SYMPHONY is pungent, exotic, at times even barbaric...The VOCALISE is bittersweet, not merely sweet. And Sir Andre actually takes the repeat !... The ALEKO fragments are tantalizing. The ISLE OF THE DEAD is no-holds barred and heady...But the real glories of this set are the THIRD and the SYMPHONIC DANCES...They pick up where Ormandy left off, great as Ormandy undoubtedly was with these works (after all, he DID prepare the THIRD's premiere for Stokowski, and conducted the premiere of the DANCES himself- and both under R's supervision).

Throughout the THIRD, you get a whiff of both the Russian countyside AND the American plains, with a Deliusian "sensuous heartbreak." Play the beginning of the THIRD's second movement and be instructed by its ontological sadness; marvel at the sly, compassionate humor of R's sticking a scherzo within an adagio and how this humor plays out at the end of the movement; be uplifted by the gamut of moods which Sir Andre holds together so beautifully in the last movement.

The SYMPHONIC DANCES were originally titled FANTASTIC DANCES- which is a better description of this music...It was to have been a three-movement ballet depicting Noon, Twilight and Midnight. The Noon of the first movement is restless and adolescent in mood (culminating with a regretful quote from the FIRST SYMPHONY, whose undeservedly failed premiere scarred R for life). The second movement (described in several places as a "haunted ballroom") is elfin & ghostly. The final movement of the DANCES is frighteningly deep and modern (in parts of this movement you'll think of Bartok !). By its very end, the DIES IRAE motiv (ever present in R's music) morphs into a kind of phrygian-mode, death-tinged "flamenco-gone-nuts"...But not before all kinds of ethereal encounters with lost youth, regret & sensuality (some faint, swaying echoes of the THE BELLS' 2nd movement: the "golden bells of happiness"), and adoration of God (a pentultimate, jazzed-up quote from R's VESPERS: "Blagosloven Yesi, Gospodi" - "Blessed Art Thou, O Lord").

Sir Andre & his band plunge into all this with a shattering, "total immersion" which will show you why R called the DANCES "my last spark."

Review of the second symphony only.......2001-04-02

Haven't played it for several months. I turned it on to do the review and from the other room I hear "I haven't heard that for awhile, I could listen to that all day". It was Rachmaninov who elevated my musical appreciation to not only appreciate classical music but to become passionate about it. The second symphony is a hypnotic, stirring sojourn into the ether of some nether world of inner peace and symphonic harmony. There is a deliberate slowness throughout, which I thoroughly enjoy. At times you're swept into the whirlwind of strings swirling around you. The first two movements are lovely but compared to the third movement, all falls short. The third movement, one of the finest moments in orchestration and aesthetics, is a melodic and lovely romance between you and the music. The delicate textures weaving in and out are some of the most sensuous and irresistible notes ever created. Then, to your discomfort, comes the fourth movement's tempo which snaps you out of your lull and dreamy easy chair and back into the auditorium. It's was probably necessary for Rachmaninov to bring you back to reality as who could dare wake from this state of symphonic bliss on their own, let alone leave the auditorium. I highly recommend this second symphony for its quality in both it's performance and sound (I suggest you skip the fourth movement and let the ocean's gentle waves wash over you as the sun sets tangerine in the evening sky and all seems right and faraway from the daily grind).

Competent, slow, steady but uninspired 2nd.......2001-03-18

I have only heard the 2nd symphony from this set (in EMI's Great Recordings of the Century remastering, which seems not to be available yet...) so my comments are restricted to that work. Looking at the reviews below, it appears that some people really like this performance. I respect their opinions, but I can only report my own honest reaction to this performance, which is that is is too slow, too uninflected, and ultimately too boring for my taste.

As a reviewer states below, this performance was taped after a successful tour by Previn and the London Symphony Orchestra which showcased the Second. However, the notes in the Great Recordings edition report that the taping took place over a year after the tour ended (although the players wanted it taped immediately). This delay may explain what I hear as a routineness about the performance. There is certainly nothing wrong with the quality of the orchestral playing or the sound engineering (although neither approaches what Ormandy and the Philadelphia achieved in the Sony version of 1959, 12 years earlier). But I just don't hear anything special here.

In all four movements, tempos are consistently on the slow side. What is more, Previn takes a very straightforward interpretative approach, when I feel that this music cries out for the little touches of magic, such as Rachmaninov shows in his own recording of the Third Symphony. Compare with the earlier Ormandy recording: although Ormandy takes similarly steady tempos in the first three movements, his orchestra, especially the strings, knows how to put a little rubato here, a little portamento there, to bring this large work to life. With Previn it just sounds like a play through by a very competent orchestra and conductor.

The one really distinctive feature of this recording is the account of the slow movement. I find it repellent, but others may like it. Previn takes a very slow, gentle, soft-focused approach which reminds me of film music for a Hollywood romance. I yearn for a more passionate and intense approach here, but Previn's way is an interesting alternative.

An important issue in considering any recording of this symphony is that of cuts. Many recordings (particularly older ones) excise large amounts of Rachmaninov's music (up to 25%). The older Ormandy I mentioned above is a tragic example of this. This recording is complete and uncut (with the exception of the first movement repeat). Good for Previn, then. Some British critics get very excited by the fact that before this recording was made, most recordings were cut, and that after it, they tended to be complete -- as if Previn had somehow single-handedly changed the climate for Rachmaninov's music. However, there are older uncut recordings --- for example, Leopold Stokowski's 1946 live performance with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and Paul Kletzki's Suisse Romande account. In fact, listening to Previn's performance somethimes made me think that the cuts were a good thing after all.

I would recommend against this account of the 2nd symphony. My favorite account -- by Dmitri Kitaenko (Kitayenko) with the Moscow Philharmonic -- is hard to find. The aforementioned Ormandy is magnificent but heavily cut. Given this, I also suggest Ashkenazy with the Concertgebouw Orchestra or Pletnev with the Russian National Orchestra.

buy for 2nd symphony.......2001-03-10

never mind nos. 1 & 3 -- this is worth buying for no. 2 alone. this is the second digital remastering emi have done of no.2: the first (mid-80's) was horrible -- avoid. this one is much closer to the original 1973 lp. as far as i know, this second remastering of no.2 is only available as part of this set, i.e. not available separately.

previn/lso made this recording shortly after returning from a tour of the soviet union where they performed the work several times. 27 years later, it is still one of the finest recordings of any orchestral work available on record.

Symphonies 1-3 / Piano Concerto 1-4 / Isle of Dead
Average customer rating:

An excellent set now as a compilation.

Symphonies 1-3 / Piano Concerto 1-4 / Isle of Dead

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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

Liszt: Works for Piano and Orchestra

Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies & Tone Poems

Strauss: Orchestral Works

Debussy, Ravel: Orchestral Works

Bruckner: The Complete Symphonies

ASIN: B00006HM8V
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

I: Grave - Allegro Ma Non Troppo
II: Scherzo: Allegro Animato
III: Larghetto
IV: Allegro Con Fuoco
The Isle Of The Dead, Op.29

Tracks:

I: Largo
I: Allegro Moderato
II: Allegro Molto
III: Adagio
IV: Allegro Vivace
Scherzo In D Minor
Vocalise, Op.34 No.14

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

I: Allegro Vivace (Alla Breve)
II: Largo
III: Allegro Vivace (1941 Version)
III: Allegro Vivace (1926 Version)
I: Vivace - Moderato - Vivace
II: Andante
III: Allegro Vivace

Tracks:

I: Allegro Non Troppo E Molto Maestoso
II: Andante Semplice - Prestissimo - Tempo Primo
III: Allegro Con Fuoco
I: Moderato
II: Adagio Sostenuto
III: Allegro Scherzando

Tracks:

I: Allegro Ma Non Tanto
II: Intermezzo: Adagio
III: Finale: Alla Breve
Introduction: Allegro Vivace
Variation 1: (Precedente)
Thema: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 2: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 3: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 4: Piu Vivo
Variation 5: Tempo Precedente
Variation 6: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 7: Meno Mosso, A Tempo Moderato
Variation 8: Tempo 1
Variation 9: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 10
Variation 11: Moderato
Variation 12: Tempo Di Minuetto
Variation 13: Allegro
Variation 14: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 15: Piu Vivo. Scherzando
Variation 16: Allegretto
Variation 17
Variation 18: Andante Cantabile
Variation 19: A Tempo Vivace
Variation 20: Un Poco Piu Vivo
Variation 21: Un Poco Piu Vivo
Variation 22: Un Poco Piu Vivo (Alla Breve)
Variation 23: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 24: A Tempo Un Poco Mosso

Customer Reviews:

An excellent set now as a compilation........2003-07-11

This is a great set of Rachmaninov recordings, which until recently could only be bought in pieces. EMI deserves praise for making these worthy performances, under direction of Mariss Jansons, available in a box set.

Not only as a recording accomplishment but on artistic grounds as well does this set deserve to be offered as a compilation. The piano concertos are all distinguished and really have not received the exposure that they deserve. Mikhail Rudy offers a fine performance throughout. This set, if it is a straight reissue of the previous Piano Concertos, should also include the original, and very interesting, conclusion to the 4th Piano Concerto. The recording of the Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1 is also a fine work that has been put into this Rachmaninov box set.

In the symphonies Mariss Jansons makes his own unique stamp on these works and the result is very satisfactory throughout. While one may disagree with some elements of his interpretations, such as his election to do the 2nd and 3rd Symphonies without the exposition repeats, one cannot fault his overall approach and vitality.

In addition to the well-known Vocalise, the listener gets the mysterious and rarely-recorded Scherzo as an additional filler piece.

Jansons has created a compilation here that is nearly as comprehensive as those done by Ashkenazy (Decca) and Slatkin (Vox). Overall I would rate this set sonically and artistically slightly below Ashkenazy, but slightly better than Slatkin. I stronly recommend this set as a complement to either compilation.

Rachmaninov: Symphonic Dances Op45; Isle of the Dead Op29
Average customer rating:

Still the most exciting Symphonic Dances on Record

Best Opus and best performance

Rachmaninov: Symphonic Dances Op45; Isle of the Dead Op29

Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Ashkenazy, Vladimir | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Classical | Styles | Music
General Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00000E2MH
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Customer Reviews:

Still the most exciting Symphonic Dances on Record.......2007-02-10

This gratefully 1990 re-mastered CD of the original 1984 recording of Rachmaninov's thrilling 'Symphonic Dances' as conducted by Vladimir Ashkenazy with the Concertgebouw Orchestra Amsterdam remains the Gold Standard for excellence in every way - in brilliance of execution of this very difficult to conduct work, in sonics, and in emotional impact. There are many recordings from which to choose - including the Minnesota Orchestra with Oue, the Temirkanov, Jansons, and Pletnev versions - but for sheer excitement of this complexly orchestrated work, this recording has no peer.

Ashkenazy understands the inner voices and the rhythmic changes that make the three movements so unique and he gives full support to the incidental solo portions that are played with considerable finesse by the various chairs within this great orchestra. It is a phenomenal experience. And to complete the recording, Ashkenazy offers the seldom performed 'The Isle of the Dead symphonic poem' which is as deeply moving as the Dances are exciting. This recording is a must for those who love these too seldom performed Rachmaninov works, here given sterling performances. Highly recommended. Grady Harp, February 07

Best Opus and best performance.......2006-07-13

The Symphonic Dances Op. 45 and this 1984 Digital Decca recording may very well be the very best. See for yourself or researh this on the internet.

Rachmaninov: Symphonic Dances & the Isle of the Dead

Average customer rating:

It's a wallop!
overwhelmingly forceful

Rachmaninov: Symphonic Dances & the Isle of the Dead

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
ASIN: B0000013UE
Release Date: 1994-02-15

Tracks:

Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: I Non allegro
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: II Andante con moto (Tempo di valse)
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: III Lento assai - Allegro vivace
The Isle of the Dead, Op. 29

Customer Reviews:

It's a wallop!.......2000-10-01

That's the best way to describe this music. The music delivers a hard punch of a theme to begin with that you will have stuck in your head all day. Then it moves to more sentimental patterns but in the end comes back with that hard punch to end the first movement. I'm so floored by the first movement I really haven't payed too much attention to the other tracks. The Isle of the Dead seems to be an appropriate name. It starts off very graveyard sounding then ends as if everyone had risen from the dead. This is good music. What makes it average among my CDs though? The second and third movements weren't all that great of the symphonic dances. The recording quality was average. The orchestration was also average. The conductor really didn't experiment with the piece or take risks but rather just played it like the music reads. I've heard better recordings on the radio where the brass lead is really brought out and the effect is astonishing!...END

overwhelmingly forceful.......2000-06-27

I discovered this music by listening to this disc, and I was floored! The sound is probably the most lucid, heightened, expansive, gut-punching sound I have ever heard on disc. Razor-sharp focus throughout, yet with all the warmth you could ask for.

Batiz is phenomenal: he accumulates power and passion as he goes along, and the climax in the "Isle of the Dead" is devastating. Ashkenazy is good in this piece, but even he does not convey the extremely menacing quality Batiz summons up in the opening bars. And next to Batiz, everyone else fades in terms of sonic wallop.

Customer Reviews:

Isle of the Dead - The greatest piano transcription of the 20th century?.......2007-02-25

At a glance, this CD may not be so distinctive amidst the Rachmaninov discography. Many a piano duo has tackled the Suites and Symphonic Dances: Demidenko, Argerich, Shelley, and Ashkenazy along with their respective partners. Ashkenazy/Previn and Shelley/MacNamara have stood out (at least in my mind) for recording the Suites and Symphonic Dances with the highest degree of musicality and virtuosity. But not any longer. The Prague Duo's transcendent and mind-blowing executions of these works have established a new benchmark.

The Prague Duo's rendition of the Suite No. 2 is simply the best I've heard. Ashkenazy and Shelley are no longer giants next to the colossus that is Zedenka and Martin Hrsel. From the opening bars of the momentous Introduction: Alla marcia to the tempestuous Tarentella, the Prague Duo plays with a smooth and utterly emotional articulation. Whereas Ashkenazy/Previn rush through important parts or ignore the delicate moments, the Prague Duo infuses every aspect of these compositions with a sublime spark. The first piece from the Suite, for instance, is played with dazzling furor: the blistering fanfare of chords in the beginning is played with a perfect nearly-legato touch, unlike most interpretations. And in the Romance: Andantino, I don't think I've heard a more tender and heartfelt rendering. Compare their dynamic and rich phrasing with Ashkenazy's/Previn's stoic delivery and it seems as if Ashkenazy/Previn is sight-reading this work. In the Tarentella: Presto, the duo gives such a satisfying full-blooded performance. The crashing chords in the beginning and the Romantically-charged tumult that ensues: this duo knows how to accentuate the best moments and unleash their emotions at the right times.

The Symphonic Dances offer just as much high-quality music from Rachmaninov's pen. Possessed of both a demonic and divine spirit, the piano duo wades through the Dances with a technical perfection and passionate ardor. Throughout the brilliant passagework the duo plays with a supreme control of dynamics; every measure is played with thought and feeling. In the Lento assai (third dance), the duo employs a strange fusion of patience and swelling emotion. The temptation for a faster tempo is resisted; they focus instead on the rising climaxes of passionate chords. Indeed, the Prague Duo demonstrates a vastly superior knowledge of how to use both the monstrous and the delicate sonorities of the piano.

What may surprise the reader of this review is that the Suite No. 2 and Symphonic Dances are not even the highlight of this recording! The towering achievement here is the unfathomably powerful Isle of the Dead symphonic poem, transcribed by Otto Taubmann (1859-1929). Woe to those who ever snubbed or doubted a piano transcription. Taubmann's arrangement, and more significantly perhaps, the Prague Duo's translation of this music to piano, is simply in a higher sphere than the famous orchestral version. I've heard the orchestral version through a number of different conductors and orchestras: this piano duet version blows them to pieces. It's as if this is Rachmaninov's greatest piano work and was never composed for the orchestra. After hearing this piano arrangement, I honestly think the orchestral timbres are actually handicapped when it comes to expressing the mood of the work; the piano is far more effective in evoking the bleak rowing of Charon's oars, the gloomy volition of the journey to the Isle of the Dead, the brutal chaos in the middle, and the alien-sounding fragmented Dies Irae theme. It would take too much space in this review to list all of the compliments I wish to give. Suffice it to say, this is one of the greatest piano transcriptions of the 20th century because it defeats the powers of the orchestra and seems best expressed only through the idioms of the piano.

Bottom line: It's sad that this recording is out of print when it contains the world premiere recording of such a profound piano arrangement of the Isle of the Dead. It also happens to feature a superlative delivery of the Suite No. 2 and Symphonic Dances. Thus I'm perplexed at the lack of reviews or popularity of this disc. Beyond that, this recording is invaluable simply for offering the monumental two piano version of the Isle of the Dead, played with such spirituality and cerebral melancholy in the hands of the Prague Duo. You won't find another recording like this, get it while you can!

Rachmaninov: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini in Am; Isle of the Dead Op29

Average customer rating:

Rachmaninov: Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini in Am; Isle of the Dead Op29

Manufacturer: Hungaroton
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
ASIN: B00000309W
Release Date: 1994-02-01

Average customer rating:

Rachmaninov: Symphonic Dances, etc.

Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Tracks:

Symphonic Dances, Op.45: I. Non Allegro - Sir Andrew Davis
Symphonic Dances, Op.45: II. Andante Con Moto (Tempo Di Valse) - Sir Andrew Davis
Symphonic Dances, Op.45: III. Lento Assai - Sir Andrew Davis
The Isle Of The Dead, Symphonic Poem, Op.29 - Sir Andrew Davis
The Rock, Fantasy, Op.7 - Sir Andrew Davis

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No.4, Op.40: I. Allegro Vivace - Alexei Lubimov
Piano Concerto No.4, Op.40: II. Largo - Alexei Lubimov
Piano Concerto No.4, Op.40: III. Allegro Vivace - Alexei Lubimov
Sonata For Piano And Cello In G Minor, Op.19: Lento - Allegro Moderato - Arto Noras
Sonata For Piano And Cello In G Minor, Op.19: Allegro Scherzando - Arto Noras
Sonata For Piano And Cello In G Minor, Op.19: Andante - Arto Noras
Sonata For Piano And Cello In G Minor, Op.19: Allegro Mosso - Arto Noras
Vocalise - Arto Noras

Music Review:

Music Review

music review

Music Review

Filthy Doorways

Miaskovsky: Symphony No.2/Symphony No.22

Les Apotheoses

Female Country Hits, Vol. 116 [Karaoke]

Music Review: 99 Explosions

Michael's Music

Les Grands Succes [Import]

Mott

La Disparition [Import]

Igor Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring / Alexander Scriabin: The Poem of Ecstasy - Valery Gergiev / Kirov Orchestra

Juke Music

Guajira Y Guaguanco [Import]

Exitos de la Epoca de Oro de los Panchos: Contigo

Mendelssohn & Brahms: Sacred Motets

Goodbye Yellow Brick Road