Mendelssohn: Symphonies

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Mendelssohn was not like Beethoven or Verdi--his second thoughts were not always better than his first. In fact, not one of the changes he made in his 1834 revision to the Italian Symphony--recorded here for the first time, alongside the original version of 1833--strikes me as an improvement; indeed, the later effort sounds more like a first draft, thinner, more repetitive, melodically less engaging. Nonetheless, it's good to have the composer's refashioning of the score on disc, especially when it's performed as confidently as here, if only to give us a renewed appreciation of what he achieved the first time around. For the familiar version of the Italian Symphony is certainly a masterpiece. And the performance it receives here from the Vienna Philharmonic and John Eliot Gardiner is one of the best currently available: polished and energetic, with plenty of the elegance one expects in Mendelssohn, even when he's at his most animated. The account of the Reformation Symphony, recorded live, is marginally less successful as an interpretation, though the orchestra's playing leaves little to be desired. --Ted Libbey

Tracks:

Stuck In The Saddle Again (Light Cavalry March, Suppe)
Sing Verdi Very Loud (La donna e mobile, from Rigoletto, Verdi)
Its The Same Every Verse (In The Hall of The Mountain King, from Peer Gynt Suite, Grieg)
Musical Bs (Hungarian Dance #5, Brahms)
Dont Play That Violin (Violin Concerto #2, Paganini)
Schuberts Trout (Trout Quintet, Schubert)
Dvorak The Czechoslovak (Humoresque #7, Dvorak)
A Fan of Chopin (Prelude 7, Op. 28, Chopin)
Please Do Not Tease The Viennese (Blue Danube Waltz, Strauss)
Its Spring! (Spring, from The Four Seasons, Vivaldi)
Wow What a Wedding Cake (Wedding March, from A Midsummer Nights Dream,. Mendelssohn)
Instrumental Performances:
Light Cavalry March, Suppe
La donna e mobile, from Rigoletto, Verdi (with vocals)
In The Hall of The Mountain King, from Peer Gynt Suite, Grieg
Hungarian Dance #5, Brahms
Violin Concerto #2, Paganini
Trout Quintet, Schubert
Humoresque #7, Dvorak
Prelude 7, Op. 28, Chopin
Blue Danube Waltz, Strauss
Spring, from The Four Seasons, Vivaldi

Amazon.com

From a pure-pleasure standpoint, the first Beethoven's Wig was nothing to flip over, and the second disc in the series follows suit. However, that is not to say that this is not a valuable and possibly ingenious record. Those unfamiliar with the premise will quickly get the picture: Producer/writer/lead singer/chief clever guy Richard Perlmutter gathers a bundle of important classical works (Paganini's "Violin Concerto #2," Strauss' "Blue Danube Waltz") and makes up silly, catchy lyrics to lay over them, informing the listener about the piece or its composer. Standing out for their offbeat brilliance this time are "Dvorak the Czechoslovak" ("Humoresque #7," Dvorak) and "Wow What a Wedding Cake" (Wedding March from A Midsummer Night's Dream, Mendelssohn). Few stabs at mixing education with entertainment succeed so well. As a bonus, the second half of the CD repeats the symphonies straight up, presenting a neat opportunity to quiz kids 5-12 on what and who they've just heard. --Tammy La Gorce

Customer Reviews:

Greatest baby gift ever.......2007-03-15

Both of my grandchildren (and their parents and grandparents) are hooked on this CD and all of the silliness and beauty it brings into our lives. We sing to it, dance to it, and find ourselves thinking about it at odd times. Who can't love singing Verdi VERY LOUD? I've now started giving this as a simple baby gift, especially to those with older siblings. They are already equipped with clothing and nursery gear, and Beethoven's Wig invites the whole family to gather round...even if it is just on short car rides.

Great for the whole family.......2007-01-04

My husband, 18 month old daughter and I all love this CD. It's a staple in the car. One caveat- these lyrics will get stuck in your head and I now find myself singing the "words" to these songs when I hear them in a store or commercial! I'm hoping this means my daughter will recognize these songs as she gets older.

More Great Fun.......2006-03-13

Like the first volume, this CD encourages young children to enjoy classical music. The silly lyrics sometimes impart factual information on the composer or the piece. There are 11 sing-along symphonies and then the 11 symphonies are replayed without the lyrics--total of 22 tracks. Booklet with lyrics and trivia is included. All our children (aged 2-12) enjoy this CD, as do we.

One is better but this is still awesome!! Gotta have it!.......2006-01-10

My children loved Beethovens Wig 1. I checked this one out at the library. Then, we decided we had to have this one too.
Yes, one is the best but 2 is still wonderful.
Save yourself the shipping and order both at the same time.
We all thoroughly enjoy it. My 4 yr old can name these classicals when he hears them elsewhere and he can hum these beautiful songs. Much better than kiddie rhymes and Disney jingles. Culture your children the funniest way!!

Absolute joy, and endless fun!.......2005-11-15

The tunes and word stay with you and before you know it, you are signing them along. My two kids (ages 9 and 7) ask me to put the CD on as soon as we get into the car. What a wonderful and fun way to get them to love classical music!

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music

Average customer rating:

CD set is misnamed
Do not Buy
Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music
Seek better versions
It Is What It Is

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music

Manufacturer: Compendia
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits
25 Classical Favorites
25 Romantic Classics
The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever!
The Most Relaxing Classical Music in the Universe

ASIN: B000003QWH
Release Date: 1994-06-09

Tracks:

Canon In D
'Brandenburg' Concerto No. 3: Allegro
The Four Seasons - The Winter: Largo And Allegro
Fanfare ('Masterpiece Theatre' Theme)
Camerata Romana: Air For The 'G' String
'Eine kleine Nachtmusik': Allegro
Piano Concerto No. 21 ('Elvira Madigan' Theme): Andante
Introduction To Symphony No. 5
'William Tell' Overture: Finale
'Aida': Triumphal March
On The Beautiful, Blue Danube Waltz
'The Nutcracker': Waltz Of The Flowers
'1812' Overture: Finale

Tracks:

Sabre Dance
'Light Cavalry' Overture: Finale
Carmen: The Toreadors
' Midsummer Night's Dream': Wedding March
Radetzky March
Symphony No. 9, 'Choral': Finale
'Prince Igor': Polovstian Dance No. 17
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Peer Gynt: Solveig's Song
Sleepers, Wake
Water Music: Hornpipe
Symphony No. 9, 'From The New World': Largo
Emperor Waltz
'Emperor' Quartet: St. Anthony's Chorale
'The Tales Of Hoffman': Barcarolle
L'Arlesienne: Farandole
'The Nutcracker': Dance Of The Mirlitons
'The Nutcracker': Dance Of The Sugar-Plum Fairy
'Rhapsody In Blue': Highlight
'Orpheus In The Underworld': Can-Can

Tracks:

Introduction To 'Also sprach Zarathustra'
Symphony No. 4, 'Italian': Saltarello: Presto
Piano Concerto No. 20: Romance
'The Valkyrie': Ride Of The Valkyries
'The Four Seasons' - The Spring: Allegro
Toccata and Fugue
Trumpet Voluntary
'Royal Fireworks Music': la rejouissance: Allegro
'Moonlight' Sonata: Adagio Sostenuto
London Festival Orchestra: Overture To 'The Barber Of Seville'
Piano Concerto No. 2: Adagio Sostenuto

Tracks:

Carmina Burana: Introduction To 'Carmina Burana'
Peer Gynt: Dawn From 'Peer Gynt'
Lohengrin: Prelude To 'Lohengrin'
'Lieutenant Kije': Troika From 'Lieutenant Kije'
Adiago For Strings
'Carmen': Habanera From 'Carmen'
'Double' Concerto: Allegro From 'Double' Concerto
The Marriage Of Figaro: Overture To 'The Marriage Of Figaro'
(Rondo) Alla Turca
Xerxes: Largo From 'Xerxes'
Symphony No. 5: Allegro vivace From Symphony No. 5
'Swan Lake': Scene: Enchanted Lake From 'Swan Lake'
Clair De Lune
Bolero

Customer Reviews:

CD set is misnamed.......2007-06-08

They should have titled this "classical music for people who love classical music" because most of the selections are typical classical music. The title suggests it would be lively selections of "light classical" music that is more upbeat, i.e. Sabre Dance, etc. I really don't hate classical music at all and have many classical CDs in my collection but I really wanted to hear more exciting selections. I won't be purchasing any more of this set but if you like traditional classical music these are good one.

Do not Buy.......2007-02-21

I do know it says classical music for people who hate it, but serioulsly you would have better luck never listening to classical music again. The recordings are awfull and do not do justice to any of the composers. Buy something else.

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music.......2007-01-30

We love this set of CD's. I just got a new copy because my kids keeping taking our first copy with them so that they can listen at work or in their bedrooms but then I can never find them.

Seek better versions.......2006-12-09

If you are fairly new to classical purchases then compilation CD's can be useful for deciding what to buy next. Sometimes you only need a small taste of a piece to inspire you to buy a release with the whole performance on. The problem with this compilation however is that most of the versions are poor in performance or recording quality (or both) when compared to the best versions and the fact that the conductors aren't even credited on the track listing made me suspect that this would be the case. One of my favorite classical pieces is Tchaikovsky's 1812 festival overture but if the first CD version I had heard had been the finale excerpt that is on this compilation I may not have gone on to buy the whole thing. Luckily I heard Adrian Leaper's version first and Adrian's version is rather good.
My classical CD buying experience is limited to only a couple of dozen discs but I have found that the Naxos and Deutshe Grammophon releases are fairly safe. Avoid any release which does not name the conductors on the track listing or sleeve notes.

It Is What It Is.......2006-10-27

It's fitting that this page is fraught with the same kind of silly snobbery that turns people off from classical music (and necessitates collections like this) in the first place.

Any criticism of this compilation, which focuses on the quality of the performances or the fact that many tracks are excerpts, misses the point. This is not a collection for people who consider such things, nor does it purport to be. The idea is to package as many ultra-famous classical melodies as possible in one affordable collection and market it to people who have never purchased a classical recording. As such, top-tier performances are likely too expensive to be sold so cheaply and are unnecessary anyway. Those of us who already know and love a piece or two can forgive the compilers the inclusion of sub-par recordings, when we are exposed to so many other beautiful pieces for the first time.

It probably comes as a shock for some to hear that most people are not familiar with these classics. We may hear snippets on TV or movies, but are left with no idea as to the composer or historical context. With that in mind, it is extremely intimidating to begin buying classical. I suppose those among us, who so thoroughly dismissed the very notion of a boxed set like this, would have us begin by buying full albums by reputable interpreters. Surprisingly enough though, the majority of people would consider that a tad cost-prohibitive.

To conclude, this is a STARTER collection. It will either affirm a listener's feelings about classical music or lead to an interest in purchasing better recordings. Ideally, I suppose the interpretations would be better, but, for reasons mentioned above, that just isn't in the cards for a collection of this nature. If you're familiar with 50 different recordings of "The Ring" series, or have season tickets to the New York Philharmonic, then this probably isn't for you. For us cretins with limited foreknowledge of classical music though, it serves as a succinct introduction with little to complain about.

Average customer rating:

Real class
Great set
MENDELSSOHN: 5 Symphonies/7 Overtures (LSO/Claudio Abbado) DG 471 467-2
Great Concept but Not So Great Execution!
More of Mendelssohn to Love

Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Octets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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

Schubert: 8 Symphonies
Schumann: The 4 Symphonies
Dvorák: The Symphonies
Johannes Brahms: The Symphonies
Mahler: The Complete Symphonies

ASIN: B00005ONMP
Release Date: 2002-05-14

Tracks:

Symphony No.1 In C Minor, Op.11
Octet In E Flat, Op.20
Overture "A Midsummer Night's Dream", Op.21
The Hebrides, Op.26 (Fingal's Cave)
Meeresstille Und Glkliche Fahrt, Op.27
Symphony No.2 In B Flat, Op.52 - "Hymn Of Praise"
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.56 - "Scottish"
Overture "The Fair Melusine", Op.32
"Trumpet Overture", Op.101 - Allegro Vivace
Ruy Blas, Op.95 - Overture To Victor Hugo's Play
Symphony No.4 In A, Op.90 - "Italian"
Symphony No.5 In D Minor, Op.107 - "Reformation"
Overture For Wind Instruments, Op.24 (F Harmoniemusik)

Customer Reviews:

Real class.......2007-06-24

Abbado has created an excellent anthology of Mendelssohn's symphonic output - rich, lush and balanced. A+

Great set.......2007-05-18

By my calculations, this is the single best set of Mendelssohn symphonies out there today. Though better versions of the "Reformation," "Scottish," and "Italian" Symphonies exist in other disks, I still like the interpretations offered by Abbado and the LSO.

For the "Reformation", and "Italian" Symphonies, I'd recommend John Eliot Gardiner and the Vienna Philharmonic's DG set.

For the Scottish Symphony I'd go with Karajan's recording with the BPO (that CD also comes with the best "Hebrides Overture" recording available, and a pretty good "Italian Symphony" interpretation, too).

All of the overtures in this set are performed very well, both in technical execution and musical interpretation. The Hebrides (a work far ahead of its time), in particular, is a fine recording. So is "Overture 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'." I really have grown fond of the "Ruy Blas" overture as well.

Another reviewer complained that the interpretations in this set are "too Classical." I think they are correct in saying the set is Classically performed, but I think that works with Mendelssohn, as he was "the Romantic Mozart."

Overall this is a great set, and a good way to become familiar with the music of Felix Mendelssohn, or build your Mendelssohn library.

MENDELSSOHN: 5 Symphonies/7 Overtures (LSO/Claudio Abbado) DG 471 467-2.......2006-07-13

Unlike many all-digital compilations offered by one orchestra and conductor, this collection of Mendelssohn favorites is outstanding in performance and interpretation throughout. Maestro Abbado shows a genuine affection for the composer and his genius by the sequence of selections on each disc, and I find no weak performances anywhere in this remarkable recording.

Charlie Hastings
Falls Church, VA

Great Concept but Not So Great Execution!.......2006-06-14

First, the good: Great box design for packaging, great booklet in various languages describing the history of all the performed works, great value for money, excellent representation of the great Mendelssohn's best works.

Now, the bad: the problem with compilations like this is that the material tends to have been recorded at different times and places and frequently by different personnel on various recording equipment of varying quality. What this means is that some tracks within each disc sound much better then others and even whole discs come in varying sound qualities.

Fortunately, the best disc, disc one starts out very well with the great first symphony and ends with the composer's best Overtures and the quality of the sound recording is very good. Then we get to disc 2 and the sound quality can only be described as abysmal. The difference in the sound is like night and day when compared with the first disc. The third disc sounds much better but is still not as good as the first disc while the last disc comes somewhere in between the second and third.

There's no doubting the quality of the performances though by Claudio Abbado and the LSO and of course the choice of material but too bad about the inconsistency of the sound quality from track to track and from disc to disc.

Still, the 3 stars are for the good points listed above and for the great disc 1.

More of Mendelssohn to Love.......2005-11-08

I had heard all the music on here before interpreted by other conductors and other symphonies but Claudio Abbado proved to be the most efficient for me. Thanks to the world's leading classical music label- Deutsche Grammophone -we are able to hear a complete set of Mendelssohn's symphonies and overtures with the acclaimed London Symphony in a beautiful and surprisingly afforadable album. For music that is this good, I was surprised that it wasn't a little more expensive. But good, right ? Just more of Mendelssohn to love. On this album: his symphonies 1-5, Scherzo in G Minor from the Octet for Strings, the Overture to A Midsumer Night's Dream incidental music and Hebrides Overture. These are the most famous Mendelssohn creations. His Fourth Symphony is the "Italian" symphony, with lyrical, bouncy rhythms and classical harmony. The Midsummer Night's Dream overture encompasses romanticism at its peak, with sprightly strings representing the mischievous fairies that figure prominently in the Shakespeare comedy. The Hebrides Overture is evocative of wintery landscapes and sea breezes, a fine example of a tone poem and musical painting at its best. Its haunting melody is instantly recongizable. Abbado is clearly suited for this kind of music and it's refreshing to see him stray from the usual Italian repertoire he is most famous for. Still, inescapably, his Italian soul stands out but this gives this music more color, more volume and lyricism than what can often succumb to stale, cold English interpretations like Andre Previn's conducting. No offense to Mr. Previn, who has produced some brilliant music.

Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits

Average customer rating:

Waste of money
Great Music Compilation
If you like classical music don't buy this CD.
A must for anyone wanting the staples of classical music
A great compilation

Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits

Manufacturer: Utv Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever!
Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music
25 Classical Favorites
The Most Relaxing Classical Music in the Universe
The Most Relaxing Classical Album In the World Ever, Volume II

ASIN: B00004GOZA
Release Date: 2000-02-08

Tracks:

Adagio In G Minor
Jesu, Joy OF Man's Desiring
Moonlight Sonata - Adagio sostenuto
March Of The Toreadors (Carmen)
Celebrated Minuet
Polovtsian Dance No. 1 (Prince Igor)
Cradle Song
'Minute' Waltz
Suite Bergamasque: Clair de Lune
Largo
Pomp And Circumstance March No. 1
Rhapsody In Blue - Andante And Finale
Peer Gynt Suite: Morning
Messiah: Hallelujah Chorus
Liebestraum
Cavalleria Rusticana: Intermezzo
A Midsummer Night's Dream: Wedding March
'Masterpiece Theater' Theme: Rondau (First Symphonic Suite)
The Great Gate Of Kiev

Tracks:

Eine klein Nachtmusik - Allegro: Eine kleine Nachtmusik - Allegro
Orpheus In The Underworld: Cancan
Carmina Burana - O Fortuna
Canon In D
Lietenant Kije Suite - Troika
Turandot: Nessun dorma
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini - 18th Variation: Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini- 18th Variation
Bolero - Conclusion
The Tale Of Czar Sultan: Flight Of The Bumblebee
William Tell Overture - Finale
Carnival Of The Animals: The Swan
Gymnopedie No. 3
Ave Maria
Blue Danube Waltz
Thus Spake Zarathustra - Sunrise
Firebird Suite - Finale
1812 Overture - Finale: 1812 Overtune - Finale
Fantasia On 'Greensleeves'
Anvil Chorus (II Trovatore)
The Four Seasons - Largo From 'Winter'
Die Walkure: Ride Of The Valkyries

Amazon.com

For those who want the most remembered passages of classical music's best-loved works, here's a package for you. On this bargain priced double-CD, you'll find music from 40 different classical composers; for the most part, the recordings excerpted here are some of the very best. Of course, you only get one Bach sampling (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, played by the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra) and one Mozart (A Little Night Music conducted by Herbert von Karajan), but this is still a nice collection--perhaps the starting point for a budding collection of classical music. This set's downfall? Unfortunately, though the liner notes discuss the evolution of classical music chronologically, the tracks are programmed in alphabetical order by composer's last name. This makes for some startling transitions! Emil Gilels's reflective performance of the Adagio from Beethoven's "Moonlight" sonata is followed by the crashing cymbals and bombast of Carmen's "March of the Toreadors," a recipe for a heart attack if there ever was one. Still, there's something here for everyone and the liner notes even explain what movies this music can be found in. A nice touch. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

Waste of money.......2006-01-12

Watch out for the volume leveling mentioned in another review. Surely the compliers could have come up with a better sort order than by composer. The change in tempo/volume between pieces makes it impossible to enjoy. My two CD's ended up in the trash.

Ken

Great Music Compilation.......2005-08-15

This is a great CD full of many songs that you will recognize and enjoy. If you are someone who likes classical music but doesn't necessarily know which songs or which composers you like, then this CD is for you. You will likely recognize many of the songs as the classical songs you would have picked out to be your favorites.

If you like classical music don't buy this CD........2005-03-11

Most of the tracks were chopped down to 3-4 minutes so some of the best parts of the compositions are missing. I don't know what I was thinking trying to buy 40 classical songs on two CD's. If you really want to enjoy the music you would do better to purchase a CD with fewer, but better quality tracks.

A must for anyone wanting the staples of classical music.......2005-02-23

In my years of experience teaching Fine Arts to high school students, I know that the majority, if not all, of the music included on this album is commonly used in collge music appreciation courses. This is an excellent sample of truly all the "greatest hits" of classical music. My students enjoy listening to the music and have later told me when take their required music apreciation courses in college that they "already know it all" because of this CD! The recordings are clear, the selections are passionate, and the listener will gain a familiarity with all of the most commonly heard classical music used in tv commercials, movies, etc.
I recommend this album, along with the boxed set, "Age of the Classics" for anyone who is interested in becoming familiar with the most famous staples of classical music.

A great compilation.......2005-02-09

This cd somes up some of the greatest pieces of instrumental (and is some cases choral) music ever written. It is a great starter for a beginning classical music lover or a quick and easy all-in-one for those of us who study classical music for a living. I highly recommend this cd to anyone who wants to love or already does love classical music.

Average customer rating:

GORGEOUS!
Wonderful intro To MEHDl ...
great
The Complete Wedding Album
Almost the compete wedding album

The Complete Wedding Album

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Classical Wedding
25 Wedding Favorites
Bride's Guide to Wedding Music
A Day to Remember - Instrumental Music for Your Wedding Day
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ASIN: B000006ONZ
Release Date: 1998-04-28

Tracks:

Rigaudon - Empire Brass
Sinfonia - Michael Murray
Toccata - Michael Murray
Wedding March - Michael Murray
The Prince Of Denmark's March - Michael Murray
Trumpet Tune In D Major - Michael Murray
Te Deum - Michael Murray
Ave Maria - Michael Murray
Canon In D Major - Yolanda Kondonassis
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring - Yolanda Kondonassis
Prelude No. 1 In C Major - Yolanda Kondonassis
Entrance Of The Queen Of Sheba - Keith Clark
Air - Orchestra Of St. Luke's
Hornpipe - Orchestra Of St. Luke's
Rondeau - Empire Brass
Unchained Melody - Erich Kunzel
Through The Eyes Of Love - William Tritt
Love Theme From Romeo And Juliet - William Tritt
The Wedding Song (There Is Love - Danny Donnelly
Dodi Li - Shira Kammen

Tracks:

Rondeau - Michael Murray
Sheep May Safely Graze - Michael Murray
Ave Maria - Michael Murray
Gymnopedie No. 1 - Michael Chertock
Clair De Lune - Michael Chertock
Adagio Sostenuto - Michael Chertock
Largo - Angel Romero
Largo - Larry Cooperman
Largo - Keith Clark
Allegro - Boston Symphony Orchestra
Adagio In G Minor For Strings - Keith Clark
Fantasia On 'Greensleeves' - Leonard Slatkin
Adagio For Strings - Erich Kunzel
'Treulich Gefuart,' Bridal Chorus - Atlanta Symphony Orchestra And Chorus
Wedding March - Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Customer Reviews:

GORGEOUS!.......2007-06-13

I wish this CD had been around when I was planning my wedding as it would have been great for helping the bride to select music! Still, it's wonderful to listen to now.

Wonderful intro To MEHDl ..........2006-06-08

I've always enjoyed Great Wedding music and this album is no exception, but while reading some of the customer recommendations posted on this site I discovered a group by the name of MEHDl (pronounced medie). After an online search I found their site (S00THINGMUSIC,C0M) and listened to the samples...
I was instantly blown away by the quality of this music and so I gave it a try and now that I have listened to these CDs several times I really must say that although I'm still a Tomaso Albinoni fan of, I find MEHDl to be a great addition to this CD. I had them both in my multi-disc CD player during the wedding and love the way they compliment each other. I highly recommend that you give this artist a try or atleast just go listen to the samples, I have a feeling you'll be glad you did.

great.......2006-02-19

Highly recommended. Even has suggestions for pre-ceremony, processional, ceremony, and recessional inside. 2 different versions of Midsummer Night's Dream march included - one with trumpet and organ and one with a full orchestra. Lots of great selections, well recorded.

The Complete Wedding Album.......2005-08-05

This album has a lot of great wedding music. It had all of the songs I was looking for. There also is great background music for the ceremony. Glad I purchased it

Almost the compete wedding album.......2004-05-07

I used this cd to help me plan which songs I wanted to use for each part of the wedding. This cd helps you suggest the placement for the prelude, processional, ceremony and recessional. The cd mainly has classical songs, but it does have a few of "today's" songs. There could have been a few more songs they could have added. But overall, its a good cd.

Ceremonial Music for Trumpet & Symphonic Organ

Average customer rating:

Soul Stirring, Deeply Moving Music
Good Wedding Music
Ceremonoal marches for trumpet and symphonic organ
A ceremony in sound
inspiring

Ceremonial Music for Trumpet & Symphonic Organ

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Toccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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

Te Deum | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Music for Organ, Brass & Percussion
Baroque Music for Brass and Organ
An Organ Blaster Sampler
Organ Spectacular
Great Toccatas

ASIN: B000003CZG
Release Date: 1993-04-27

Tracks:

Te Deum
March & Gigue
Trumpet Tune In D Major
Rondeau
Sicilienne
La Rejouissance
Fantasia On Greensleeves
Ave Maria
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Sheep May Safely Graze
If Love's A Sweet Passion
Ave Maria
Trumpet Tune In D Major
Rigadon & Passapied
Toccata
The Prayer Of St Gregory
Wedding March

Customer Reviews:

Soul Stirring, Deeply Moving Music.......2007-07-20

I come to this review with great heart-felt enthusiasm to nudge you a little to purchase this Stirring Album to feed your inner soul that is hungering for deeply moving music for trumpet and organ.

I purchased this album years ago, now, but do, in truth, come back to it very often for the soul stirring that only the trumpet can give you. While I (and probably many) normally do not think about the trumpet (or brass at all, for that matter) very much, it is, truly, lovely, filling sound that stirs one like no other type of instrument(s).

Soundwise, there is NO DOUBT that this fabulous disc is DEMONSTRATION-Quality...put it on your system and turn it up, and you will certainly agree with me on this point. And the acoustic is simply stunning...you'll see!

While this entire album is just superb, I want to be sure to point two things out to you.

The first is the Mouret "1st Suite in D" excerpt, more commonly known to most as the "theme" from Masterpiece Theater. Here, with this acoustic, simply stunning!

The second is the Deeply Moving Alan Hohvaness piece "The Prayer of St. Gregory". I defy one to find a more deeply reflective, moving, piece of music--anywhere. Simply touching, clear to the depths of your soul. Trust me.

A short story for those who may appreciate it. When I lived in Washington DC, I regularly went to the Sunday afternoon organ concerts at the National Cathedral. Of course, for those who know, you sit surrounded by the pipes (if you choose). In late summer of 2005 I was at one of these concerts, and to my delight, "Prayer of St. Gregory" was on the program. This has long been a very much-loved piece to me. Well, the trumpet soloist was located way up to the entrance, between the last pews. As the trumpet made its entrance in the piece, the sun hit the right position to strike the rose window, and it splayed its multi-colored bits all over the inside of the cathedral, increasing temporarily with the rising of the trumpet. I was moved to trembling with this, and after the concert, I spoke to a couple who had sat near me, and they said the same thing, in fact the lady said she had started to cry. When these things happen like this, does it not reaffirm our belief that there is, indeed, some higher being, who presents such great stirring beauty to us?

Do get yourself a copy of this stunning album, you will never regret it, I swear to you. ~operabruin

Good Wedding Music.......2007-01-02

I was looking for ideas for music for my wedding last year and found this cd to be really helpful. If your looking for ideas and inspiration for marches and other tunes associated with wedding ceremonies look no further.

Ceremonoal marches for trumpet and symphonic organ.......2006-11-05

It is an excellent recording especially the 12 marches by Telemann.

A ceremony in sound.......2005-10-18

This is a beautifully performed CD of ceremonial music of the Christian tradition. While organist Michael Murray talks about the diversity of kinds of ceremonial music in the liner notes essay, the musical selection here is drawn from the Western Christian tradition with few exceptions.

Sometimes the music did not start out as ceremonial in nature - Murray points out that the 'Incidental Music for A Midsummer Night's Dream' is now considered traditional wedding-march music, whereas at one time it considered completely inappropriate.

Music is drawn from the past four hundred years - works of well-known composers such as Purcell, Handel, Schubert, Mendelssohn and Bach are collected here, together with lesser-known composers such as Paradis, Mouret, Charpentier, Clarke and Martini, famous and respected in their day, but less known as personalities now (although their music will undoubtedly sound very familiar to the listener with any exposure to Western music). The CD also includes a few pieces from modern composers such as the French Charles Gounod, the British Ralph Vaughan Williams, and the American Alan Hovhaness.

Organist Michael Murray and trumpeter Rolf Smedvig make a dynamic duo in this celebratory music. Murray plays the symphonic organ from the First United Methodist Church of Cleveland (I've been in that church for a concert, and it is grand indeed). Smedvig is a Grammy nominee for his work with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra, serving on the faculty of Boston University and Tanglewood. Murray has had a worldwide career of recitals, being a frequent guest of orchestras, and often sought to inaugurate grand organs upon their installation.

This is a grand disc, a ceremony in sound, and a wonderful piece to have in one's collection.

inspiring.......2000-06-21

This disc contains a nice selection of music appropriate for weddings and other liturgical occasions. Smedvig and Murray achieve a fine balance with a rich, full sound that is clear and warm, never harsh. Smedvig's trumpet playing demonstrates a wide range of timbres and styles: bright and energetic in the Mouret "Rondeau," glorious and majestic in Clarke's "Trumpet Voluntary," expressive and lyrical in the Bach-Gounod "Ave Maria," subdued and reverent in Hovhaness's "Prayer to St. Gregory." (He also has astounding breath control and trills that are to die for.) The only less-than-successful cut, I think, is the Mendelssohn "Wedding March," played at a plodding tempo, with the trumpet in such a low range that its brightness is muffled. Overall the disc is awe-inspiring and uplifting; I learn something every time I listen to it!

Mendelssohn: Symphonies 3 & 4 / Karajan, Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra

Average customer rating:

Awesome!
My favorite recording of these symphonies..
Powerful Scottish + Other Things of Merit
Good Mendelssohn and Karajan
two Scots and an Italian

Mendelssohn: Symphonies 3 & 4 / Karajan, Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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

Mendelssohn: A Midsummer Night's Dream (complete) / Ozawa, Boston Symphony Orchestra
Schubert: Symphonies Nos. 8 "Unfinished" & 9 "The Great"
Schumann: The 4 Symphonies
Tchaikovsky: Symphonies no 4, 5, & 6 / Karajan, Berlin PO
Mendelssohn: Violin Concerto in E minor; Bruch: Violin Concerto #1; Itzhak Perlman

ASIN: B000001GXC
Release Date: 1997-08-12

Tracks:

The Hebrides (Fingal's Cave): Overture
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor 'Scottish': 1. Andante con moto - Allegro un poco agitato
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor 'Scottish': 2. Vivace non troppo
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor 'Scottish': 3. Adagio
Symphony No. 3 In A Minor 'Scottish': 4. Allegro vivacissimo - Allegro maestoso assai
Symphony No. 4 In A Major 'Italian': 1. Allegro vivace
Symphony No. 4 In A Major 'Italian': 2. Andante con moto
Symphony No. 4 In A Major 'Italian': 3. Con moto moderato
Symphony No. 4 In A Major 'Italian': 4. Saltarello. Presto

Customer Reviews:

Awesome!.......2006-05-10

Buying this album was a pure accident, and I thank my lucky stars that I did! this recording is absolutely brilliant. I had played Mendelssohn before in Symphony, but I had never heard these particular compositions and they have made him one of my favorite composer! I love it!

My favorite recording of these symphonies.........2005-09-24

In response to the last reviewer - I would agree that the Berlin is a bit raucous at times, but, c'mon! It's Romantic music! What's wrong with some unrestrained emotion?!?
I find these performances very moving, especially the 3rd symphony (I rate it neck and neck with Maag's version with London Symphony Orchestra). I have no need to defend the music, you've all heard it (especially the Italian). This is Karajan at the height of his powers. In short, at this low price, with this much music on it and with a newly remastered and cleaner sound, it's worth the purchase.

Powerful Scottish + Other Things of Merit.......2004-08-09

BBC Radio 3 broadcasted the Scottish symphony earlier this year. At the time I was utterly unfamiliar with the work but even during that first exposure--for I was listening--I decided to update my collection as soon as possible. Which I did by buying this CD. (Later I also bought Peter Maag's interpretation of this symphony, but not because I was dissatisfied with the CD I now review. Far from it; both are excellent.)

As illustrated from the Radio 3 example above, I was immediately struck by this music. I can't say if that will also be the case with you (because the value of art is often of a personal nature), but do find an opportunity to find out for yourself. As usual, music of this caliber becomes better over time, certainly if you really focus on it (my opinion).

Considering the other reviews, I think indeed that the orchestra is massive here. Some nuance may be lost in some instances but the overall effect of "wild winds roaring down mountains" (not exactly a quote) adds to the (*my*) experience.

I do very much recommend this CD, because even if you aren't stunned by The Scottish, there's also The Hebrides (great) and The Italian symphony.

--You may also want to check out Peter Maag's Scottish (on Decca Legendary Performances).

Good Mendelssohn and Karajan.......2002-05-23

These symphonies find Karajan in a positive mood. Even thirty years later, they still sound new and give pleasure. Both works have been lucky on record, so there is little reason to recommend this CD over those by Abbado, Solti, Blomstedt, or Maag. But it is good Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic play exceptionally well - a safe buy.

two Scots and an Italian.......2002-02-17

When I first fell in love with classical music it was generally the more accessible "show pieces" like Mendelssohn's overture "The Hebrides" that stirred my soul. In fact, one of the first discs I purchased was Dutoit's recording of the incidental music from "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Besides the great Scherzo and the Wedding March, the disc also features three of Mendelssohn's overtures-"The Hebrides" included. It has remained one of my favorite discs. I never thought I would a more moving version of "The Hebrides" than Dutoit's icy masterpiece.

I stand corrected. In this repackaged collection from Deutsche Grammophon's "The Originals" series, conductor Herbert von Karajan proves himself to be an adept interpreter of Mendelssohn's musical vision. Included are Karajan and the Berlin Philharmonic's versions of "The Hebrides" overture and of Mendelssohn's Symphonies Nos. 3 and 4.

Karajan's and Dutoit's recordings of "The Hebrides" are really as different as apples and oranges. Dutoit (with his own forces from Montreal) makes the piece into a chilling, highflying affair. Karajan's version is warmer, a little more delicate (though it does thunder at times). I find both approaches valid and pleasing. I would not want to be without either; but if forced to choose would take Karajan's.

Karajan gives the Scottish Symphony (No.3) a somewhat psychologically dark, romantic yet precise reading. It starts prettily enough, but there are some dark shadows in Herbert's Highlands.

Karajan lacks a little of the Italiante style needed for a definitive rendition of Mendelssohn's Italian Symphony (No. 4), yet this does not stop this recording from being merely great. He does let his orchestra get carried away by the Presto of the finale (as all too many recordings do). Instead, Karajan's grasp of the work as a whole is evident throughout.

Tracks:

String Symphony No. 4: Andante
Symphony In F Major: Andante
Concerto In E Major For Trumpet, Oboe d'amore, Violin, Strings And Continuo: Affettuoso
Overture No. 5 In E Major: Andante
Violin Concerto In C Major: Adagio
Symphony No. 6 In F Major: Larghetto
Cello Concerto In C Major: Adagio
Symphony No. 1 In B Flat Major: I Allegro
Symphony No. 1 In B Flat Major: II Moderato e dolce
Symphony No. 3 In C Major: Andante
Symphony No. 94 in G Major: Menuet & Trio
Symphony No. 5 In B Flat Major: Andante con moto
Symphony No. 2 In A Major: Vivace
Trumpet Concerto In E Flat Major: Andante
Symphony No.1 in D Major: Andante

Amazon.com

If the people at Nimbus are smart, they'll do a whole collection of discs on this theme. The literary-musical connection is, when done tastefully, as it is here, irresistible. As the intelligent and interesting notes maintain, "London at the time of Jane Austen was one of the most exciting centers in all of Europe for music," and this was an era of great fertility of composers in general. Lucky Jane! Imagine publishing your second novel the same year that Beethoven's Seventh Symphony receives its premiere. Or offering your fourth novel to the public near the time of the first performance of Schubert's Fifth Symphony. The program highlights popular music from Austen's time by Mendelssohn, Haydn, Fasch, J.C. Bach, Boyce, Schubert and others. I find the exclusion of chamber music a little odd here, though, since chamber music was the rage among the sort of gentlemen and women of the country about whom Austen wrote so well. --Gwendolyn Freed

Customer Reviews:

A perfect blend of music ! .......2006-11-23

I decided to try this cd based on the good reviews it got and I'm certainly glad I did ! The music is just perfect for relaxing and filling the house with all the old classical masterpieces. A good buy that that's well worth the money!

Beautiful.......2006-11-20

The more I listen to this cd, the more I love it!! It is very beautiful.

Beautiful Music.......2006-10-02

A great price for such a beautiful CD.
This CD is a must have if you love Jane Austen.
Buy this CD, you will not be disappointed!

Very Pleased!.......2005-09-28

If you like slow beautiful music, this is for you.
Austen has a great taste for harmonic melodies.
I've listen to this CD over and over again.
I still enjoy the beautiful music!

VERY VERY GOOD.......2004-03-07

If you love classical music while reading, relaxing or having a bit of tea, you won't regret getting this album. I personally love it to bits, worth every penny!

Average customer rating:

No. 1 Wedding Album

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music