Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard & Violin, Vol. 1 [Hybrid SACD] [Hybrid SACD] [SACD]

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Rachel Podger's bracing traversal of Vivaldi's La Stravaganza set of violin concertos are among the finest Baroque recordings, leading to high expectations for more. But here, she and fortepianist Gary Cooper, venture into the more rarified world of Mozart, with considerably less success. They offer four sonatas, to which they apply a roller-coaster interpretive method, swinging from overly slow, sentimentalized Adagios to hyperkinetic fast movements undermined by Podger's uningratiating tone, which is highlighted by the excellent, if close-up recording. Missing in action are the Mozartian elegance and grace at the core of these works. The K.6, written when Mozart was about seven, and the late K.547, a teaching piece he wrote for a pupil, are inflated beyond what they can bear. The K. 378 and K.379 pair, which can take emotionally direct interpretations, are overbearing without the necessary elegance. Podger's fans will want this anyway, but she'd do well to listen carefully to Grumiaux's Mozart before continuing this sonata series. --Dan Davis

Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard & Violin, Vol. 1 [Hybrid SACD], Music, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Gary Cooper, Rachel Podger, Chamber, Chamber Music & Recitals, Classical, Classical Composers, Violin with Keyboard
Mozart:The Complete Piano Sonatas and Variations
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • like sparkling mineral water
  • Soulless Rendition
  • Lovely
  • Top notch performances
  • Very good, but a bit misleading?
 Mozart:The Complete Piano Sonatas and Variations

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Beethoven: Complete Piano Sonatas / Daniel Barenboim
  2. Mozart: The Complete Piano Concertos
  3. Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos
  4. Mozart: The Violin Sonatas
  5. Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet

ASIN: B00004YA0U
Release Date: 2000-11-07

Tracks:

  1. I: Allegro
  2. II: Andante
  3. III: Allegro
  4. I: Allegro Assai
  5. II: Adagio
  6. III: Presto
  7. I: Allegro Moderato
  8. II: Andante Amoroso
  9. III: Rondeau: Allegro
  10. I: Adagio
  11. II: Menuetto I - Menuetto II
  12. III: Allegro
  13. I: Allegro
  14. II: Andante
  15. III: Presto

Tracks:

  1. I: Allegro
  2. II: Rondeau En Polonaise: Andante
  3. III: Tema (Andante) Con Variazioni (I-XII)
  4. I: Allegro Con Spirito
  5. II: Andante Un Poco Adagio
  6. III: Rondeau: Allegretto Grazioso
  7. I: Allegro Maestoso
  8. II: Andante Cantabile Con Espressione
  9. III: Presto

Tracks:

  1. I: Allegro Con Spirito
  2. II: Andantino Con Espressione
  3. III: Rondeau: Allegro
  4. I: Allegro Moderato
  5. II: Andante Cantabile
  6. III: Allegretto
  7. I: Tema (Andante Grazioso) Con Variazioni (I-VI)
  8. II: Menuetto - Trio
  9. III: Alla Turca: Allegretto
  10. I: Allegro
  11. II: Adagio
  12. III: Allegro Assai

Tracks:

  1. I: Allegro
  2. II: Andante Cantabile
  3. III: Allegretto Grazioso
  4. Adagio - Allegro - Andantino - Piu Allegro - Tempo I
  5. I: Molto Allegro
  6. II: Adagio
  7. III: Allegro Assai

Tracks:

  1. I: Allegro
  2. II: Andante Cantabile
  3. III: Allegretto
  4. I: Allegro
  5. II: Andante
  6. III: Rondo
  7. I: Allegro
  8. II: Adagio
  9. III: Allegretto
  10. I: Allegro
  11. II: Adagio
  12. III: Allegretto

Tracks:

  1. Tema ('Laat Ons Juichen'): Allegretto
  2. Variation 1
  3. Variation 2
  4. Variation 3
  5. Variation 4
  6. Variation 5
  7. Variation 6
  8. Variation 7: Adagio
  9. Variation 8: Tempo I
  10. Tema (Air): Allegro
  11. Variation 1
  12. Variation 2
  13. Variation 3
  14. Variation 4
  15. Variation 5: Adagio
  16. Variation 6: Tempo I
  17. Variation 7
  18. Tema (Menuetto): Andante
  19. Variation 1
  20. Variation 2
  21. Variation 3
  22. Variation 4
  23. Variation 5: Adagio
  24. Variation 6: Allegretto
  25. Tema (Menuet)
  26. Variation 1
  27. Variation 2
  28. Variation 3
  29. Variation 4
  30. Variation 5
  31. Variation 6
  32. Variation 7
  33. Variation 8
  34. Variation 9
  35. Variation 10
  36. Variation 11: Adagio
  37. Variation 12: Allegro
  38. Tema (Air): Allegretto
  39. Variation 1
  40. Variation 2
  41. Variation 3
  42. Variation 4
  43. Variation 5
  44. Variation 6
  45. Variation 7
  46. Variation 8: Tempo Di Menuetto
  47. Variation 9
  48. Variation 10: Allegretto
  49. Variation 11
  50. Variation 12: Molto Adagio
  51. Allegretto

Tracks:

  1. Tema
  2. Variation 1
  3. Variation 2
  4. Variation 3
  5. Variation 4
  6. Variation 5
  7. Variation 6
  8. Variation 7
  9. Variation 8
  10. Variation 9
  11. Variation 10
  12. Variation 11: Adagio
  13. Variation 12: Allegro
  14. Tema
  15. Variation 1
  16. Variation 2
  17. Variation 3
  18. Variation 4
  19. Variation 5
  20. Variation 6
  21. Variation 7
  22. Variation 8
  23. Variation 9
  24. Variation 10
  25. Variation 11: Adagio
  26. Variation 12: Presto
  27. Tema: Andante
  28. Variation 1
  29. Variation 2
  30. Variation 3
  31. Variation 4
  32. Variation 5
  33. Variation 6
  34. Variation 7
  35. Variation 8: Adagio
  36. Variation 9: Allegro
  37. Tempo Di Tema
  38. Tema
  39. Variation 1
  40. Variation 2
  41. Variation 3
  42. Variation 4
  43. Variation 5
  44. Variation 6
  45. Variation 7: Adagio
  46. Variation 8: Allegro
  47. Tema
  48. Variation 1
  49. Variation 2
  50. Variation 3
  51. Variation 4
  52. Variation 5
  53. Variation 6

Tracks:

  1. Tema: Allegretto
  2. Variation 1
  3. Variation 2
  4. Variation 3
  5. Variation 4
  6. Variation 5
  7. Variation 6
  8. Variation 7
  9. Variation 8
  10. Variation 9: Adagio
  11. Variation 10: Allegro
  12. (Tempo I)
  13. Tema: Allegretto
  14. Variation 1
  15. Variation 2
  16. Variation 3
  17. Variation 4
  18. Variation 5
  19. Variation 6
  20. Variation 7
  21. Variation 8
  22. Variation 9
  23. Variation 10
  24. Variation 11: Adagio
  25. Variation 12: Allegro
  26. (Tempo I)
  27. Tema: Allegretto
  28. Variation 1
  29. Variation 2
  30. Variation 3
  31. Variation 4
  32. Variation 5
  33. Variation 6
  34. Tema
  35. Variation 1
  36. Variation 2
  37. Variation 3
  38. Variation 4
  39. Variation 5
  40. Variation 6
  41. Variation 7
  42. Variation 8: Adagio
  43. Variation 9: Allegro
  44. (Tempo I)
  45. Tema
  46. Variation 1
  47. Variation 2
  48. Variation 3
  49. Variation 4
  50. Variation 5
  51. Variation 6
  52. Variation 7: Adagio
  53. Variation 8: Allegro
  54. (Tempo I)

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars like sparkling mineral water.......2006-12-22

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

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

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

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

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

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

1 out of 5 stars Soulless Rendition.......2005-10-16

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

5 out of 5 stars Lovely.......2005-03-17

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

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

5 out of 5 stars Top notch performances.......2004-06-17

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

4 out of 5 stars Very good, but a bit misleading?.......2004-05-15

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

My only complaint with this 8 CD set is that the advertised piano sonatas occupy the first 5 CDs; the last three are piano variations -- interesting, but not of the quality of the sonatas themselves. Surely a less-expensive 5-CD set, providing just the sonatas advertised in the title, would offer better value for money. On the other hand, 5 great CDs for $48 isn't a bad deal.
Beethoven: Complete Sonatas for Piano & Cello
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Good Alternative Beethoven Cello Set...
  • Great Stuff
  • Ma and Ax do it again!
 Beethoven: Complete Sonatas for Piano & Cello

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by BeethovenAll Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Classical MusicClassical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Classical Instrumental MusicClassical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Brahms: Sonatas for Cello and Piano
  2. Chopin: Polonaise brilliante; Cello Sonata; Piano Trio
  3. Beethoven: The Violin Sonatas
  4. Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet
  5. Elgar, Walton: Cello Concertos

ASIN: B0000026GN
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Amazon.com essential recording

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

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Good Alternative Beethoven Cello Set..........2005-11-16

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

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

5 out of 5 stars Great Stuff.......2003-06-23

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

5 out of 5 stars Ma and Ax do it again!.......2000-06-13

At first I was hesitant to buy this set because of the price. But later I found out that it was well worth it. Their ability to basically control the instruments that they are playing is incredible. Most importantly is the feeling that they have put in to the Beethoven cello sonatas. I have noticed that of all the classical duos and trios that i have heard, Ma and Ax are the best. They seem to communicate well together while playing. This selection definitely receives five stars.
Casals Edition - Beethoven: Complete Cello Sonatas
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Spectacular recording of spectacular music
  • Disappointing Sound Quality
  • Very touching performance.
  • Casals and Serkin play Beethoven for the Gods
  • Deeply-probing classic interpretations (but not *quite* complete)
 Casals Edition - Beethoven: Complete Cello Sonatas

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by BeethovenAll Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Classical MusicClassical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Classical Instrumental MusicClassical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Bach: Cello Suites
  2. Franz Schubert: Quintet/Symphony No.5
  3. Great Recordings of the Century: Beethoven "Archduke" Piano Trio and Schubert Piano Trio in B flat
  4. J. S. Bach: Suites for Cello, 1, 2 & 3; Pablo Casals
  5. Johannes Brahms: Sextet No. 1/Piano Trio No. 1

ASIN: B0000029L7
Release Date: 1994-02-22

Tracks:

  1. I. Adagio Sostenuto - Allegro-Adagio-Presto
  2. II. Rondo. Allegro Vivace
  3. I. Adagio Sostenuto E Espressivo/Allegro Molto Piu Tosto Presto
  4. II. Rondo. Allegro
  5. I. Andante - Allegro Vivace
  6. II. Adagio - Allegro Vivace

Tracks:

  1. I. Allegro Ma Non Troppo
  2. II. Scherzo. Allegro Molto
  3. III. Adagio Cantabile - Allegro Vivace
  4. I. Allegro Con Brio
  5. II. Adagio Con Molto Sentimento D'affetto
  6. III. Allegro - Allegro Fugato
  7. 7 Variations On/Uber/Sur 'Bei Mannern, Welche Liebe Fuhlen' From/Aus/De Mozart's 'Die Zauberflote'/ < > WoO.46
  8. 12 Variations On/Uber/Sur 'Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen' From/Aus/De Mozart's 'Die Zauberflote'/ < > WoO.66

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Spectacular recording of spectacular music.......2007-06-08

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

3 out of 5 stars Disappointing Sound Quality.......2007-01-09

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

5 out of 5 stars Very touching performance. .......2007-01-03

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

5 out of 5 stars Casals and Serkin play Beethoven for the Gods .......2006-03-29

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

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

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

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

5 out of 5 stars Deeply-probing classic interpretations (but not *quite* complete).......2005-10-25

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Okay, that's my comparative essay. Hope you give me an A.
Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard and Violin, Vol. 4 [Hybrid SACD]
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    		Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard and Violin, Vol. 4 [Hybrid SACD]

    Manufacturer: Channel Classics Nl
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

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    Similar Items:
    1. Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard & Violin, Vol. 3 [Hybrid SACD]
    2. Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard and Violin, Vol. 2 [Hybrid SACD]
    3. Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard & Violin, Vol. 1 [Hybrid SACD]

    ASIN: B000OLG5GS
    Release Date: 2007-06-12

    Tracks:

    1. Allegro (Sonata in E flat, K. 302 (293B)
    2. Rondeau: Andante grazioso
    3. Allegro spiritoso (Sonata in G, K. 9)
    4. Andante
    5. Menuet I & II
    6. Allegro (Sonata in E minor, K. 304 (300c)
    7. Tempo di Menuetto
    8. Allegro molto (Sonata in D, K. 29)
    9. Menuetto & Trio
    10. Molto Allegro (Sonata in A, K. 526)
    11. Andante
    12. Presto
    Beethoven: Complete Sonatas & Variations [Hybrid SACD]
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • Wispelwey's newest disc
    • Great Artistry - Fantastic Sound
    		 Beethoven: Complete Sonatas & Variations [Hybrid SACD]

    Manufacturer: Channel Classics Nl
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

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    Similar Items:
    1. J.S. Bach: The Sonatas and Partitas for Violin Solo
    2. Mendelssohn: Piano Trios Nos. 1 & 2 [Hybrid SACD]
    3. Mozart: Piano & Violin Sonatas [Hybrid SACD]
    4. Mozart: Flute Concertos; Rondo; Andante [Includes the Bis 2005 Catalog] [Hybrid SACD]
    5. Beethoven Symphonies 4 & 5

    ASIN: B0007Z47YI
    Release Date: 2005-09-13

    Tracks:

    1. Adagio Sostenuto-
    2. Allegro
    3. Rondo: Allegro Vivace
    4. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    5. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    6. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    7. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    8. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    9. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    10. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    11. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    12. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    13. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    14. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    15. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    16. Twelve Variations In F Major Op.66/Ein Madchen Oder Weibchen
    17. Adagio Sostenuto Ed Espressivo-
    18. Allegro Molto Piu Tosto Presto
    19. Rondo: Allegro
    20. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    21. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    22. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    23. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    24. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    25. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    26. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    27. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    28. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    29. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    30. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    31. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes
    32. Twelve Variations In G Major Woo 45 (1796)/See The Conqu'ring Hero Comes

    Tracks:

    1. Allegro Man Non Tanto
    2. Scherzo: Allegro Molto
    3. Adagio Cantabile-
    4. Allegro Vivace
    5. Andante-
    6. Vivace
    7. Adagio-
    8. Allegro Vivace
    9. Allegro Con Brio
    10. Adagio Con Molto Sentimento D'Affetto
    11. Allegro Fugato
    12. Seven Variations In E Flat Major Woo 46 (1801)/Bei Mannern Welche Liebe Fuhlen
    13. Seven Variations In E Flat Major Woo 46 (1801)/Bei Mannern Welche Liebe Fuhlen
    14. Seven Variations In E Flat Major Woo 46 (1801)/Bei Mannern Welche Liebe Fuhlen
    15. Seven Variations In E Flat Major Woo 46 (1801)/Bei Mannern Welche Liebe Fuhlen
    16. Seven Variations In E Flat Major Woo 46 (1801)/Bei Mannern Welche Liebe Fuhlen
    17. Seven Variations In E Flat Major Woo 46 (1801)/Bei Mannern Welche Liebe Fuhlen
    18. Seven Variations In E Flat Major Woo 46 (1801)/Bei Mannern Welche Liebe Fuhlen
    19. Seven Variations In E Flat Major Woo 46 (1801)/Bei Mannern Welche Liebe Fuhlen

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Wispelwey's newest disc.......2006-03-22

    I've really enjoyed Wispelwey's recording of the Six Suites, and consider his phrasing and musicality unparalleled. This disc breaks new ground in subtlety and sensitivity, and the quality is superb.

    5 out of 5 stars Great Artistry - Fantastic Sound.......2006-01-04

    In the interest of continuing my SACD collection, I spend some time on Amazon buying well reviewed discs. These Beethoven Sonatas and Variations perf by Wispelwey and Lazie had no reviews, but since this was the only SACD with this repertoire, I did the blind buy. Boy, I'm glad I did.

    First of all the sound!
    The engineering on this one is just as good as it gets. This replaces "The Marriage of Figarro" by Jacobs as the most amazing sounding SACD in my collection, which speaks volumes. Incredible dynamics, richness, spaciousness (even though I only have a 2 channel setup - would love to hear multichannel), all audiophile accolades apply. Even the CD Redbook version sounded fantastic through my iPod. The richness and sparkle made the Pod sound strikingly deeper and richer, and just more real than any other material I have.

    If you're looking for a reference SACD to amaze friends and family - look no further.

    Second the Performance
    The was where I had my biggest concern, given artists I wasn't familiar with and no reviews on Amazon. The performance flirts with greatness. Extremely nuanced and expressive yet driven and energetic. I can't recall ever hearing two artists mesh so perfectly together and speak so much with one voice over so much complex fare - this really amazed me. They went from driven and extroverted to hushed and soulful on a dime - and the playing in general had more of the passion and soulfulness I associate with the eras of the 50's and 60's. The technique and recording brilliance however was definitely state of the art.

    The only possible negative on the performance (and not for me) is the absolutely sublime phrasing. The usual Beethoven angst isn't on display here, it's more leave you on a clould sublime ala Mozart. Of the various pieces I have other recordings of though, like with Mutter, Kahn etc, there wasn't a tremdous amount of pathos either. Probably just the nature of these more parlour like Sonatas - in which case criticism doesn't apply. And in any case I find these performances so much more compelling than those of Sophie-Ann or Kahn that I also own.

    Sorry for gushing on so much, but getting such a shockingly good performance and recording on a blind buy was something I had to sound off about - especially with no other reviews on this yet. Just buy this, from my POV I can't even imagine better.


    Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard & Violin, Vol. 3 [Hybrid SACD]
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      		Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard & Violin, Vol. 3 [Hybrid SACD]

      Manufacturer: Channel Classics Nl
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

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      1. Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard and Violin, Vol. 2 [Hybrid SACD]
      2. Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Keyboard & Violin, Vol. 1 [Hybrid SACD]
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      4. Bach: Complete Sonatas & Partitas for Violin Solo
      5. Vivaldi

      ASIN: B000FOQHEE
      Release Date: 2006-08-08

      Tracks:

      1. Largo
      2. Allegro
      3. Andante
      4. Allegretto
      5. Allegro maestoso
      6. Allegro grazioso
      7. Andante, ma un poco adagio
      8. Allegro moderato
      9. Andante
      10. Allegretto
      11. Allegro
      12. Andante grazioso
      13. Menuet I & II
      14. Allegro
      15. Andante con moto
      16. Rondeau: Allegro
      Mozart: The Complete Sonatas; Fantasias, K397 & K475
      Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
      • Gould and Mozart...
      • Genius plays Genius
      • SCARY !
      • Good for playing in shopping malls or "romantic evenings"...
      • Mozart For Masochists
      		 Mozart: The Complete Sonatas; Fantasias, K397 & K475

      Manufacturer: Sony
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

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      Similar Items:
      1. Beethoven: Piano Sonatas, Vol. 1 - Nos, 1-3, 5-10, 12-14
      2. The Glenn Gould Edition: Ludwig Van Beethoven Piano Sonatas, Volume II
      3. Glenn Gould Edition: Chopin / Mendelssohn / Scriabin / Prokofiev
      4. Haydn: Piano Sonatas, Hob:XVI, Nos. 42, 48-52
      5. Beethoven: The 5 Piano Concertos

      ASIN: B0000028NT
      Release Date: 1995-02-07

      Tracks:

      1. Sonata No. 1 In C Major, K.279: I. Allegro
      2. Sonata No. 1 In C Major, K.279: II. Andante
      3. Sonata No. 1 In C Major, K.279: III. Allegro
      4. Sonata No. 2 In F Major, K.280: I. Allegro Assai
      5. Sonata No. 2 In F Major, K.280: II. Adagio
      6. Sonata No. 2 In F Major, K.280: III. Presto
      7. Sonata No. 3 In B Flat Major, K.281: I. Allegro
      8. Sonata No. 3 In B Flat Major, K.281: II. Andante Amoroso
      9. Sonata No. 3 In B Flat Major, K.281: III. Rondeau. Allegro
      10. Sonata No. 4 In E Flat Major, K.282: I. Adagio
      11. Sonata No. 4 In E Flat Major, K.282: II. Menuetto I - Menuetto II
      12. Sonata No. 4 In E Flat Major, K.282: III. Allegro
      13. Sonata No. 5 In G Major, K.283: I. Allegro
      14. Sonata No. 5 In G Major, K.283: II. Andante
      15. Sonata No. 5 In G Major, K.283: III. Presto
      16. Sonata No. 6 In D Major, K.284: I. Allegro
      17. Sonata No. 6 In D Major, K.284: II. Rondeau en Polonaise. Andante
      18. Sonata No. 6 In D Major, K.284: III. Theme. Andante - Variationen I - XII

      Tracks:

      1. Sonata No. 7 In C Major, K.309: I. Allegro Con Spirito
      2. Sonata No. 7 In C Major, K.309: II. Andante Un Poco Adagio
      3. Sonata No. 7 In C Major, K.309: III. Rondeau. Allegretto Grazioso
      4. Sonata No. 8 In A Minor, K.310: I. Allegro Maestoso
      5. Sonata No. 8 In A Minor, K.310: II. Andante Cantabile Con Espressione
      6. Sonata No. 8 In A Minor, K.310: III. Presto
      7. Sonata No. 9 In D Major, K.311: I. Allegro Con Spirito
      8. Sonata No. 9 In D Major, K.311: II. Andante Con Espressione
      9. Sonata No. 9 In D Major, K.311: III. Rondeau. Allegro
      10. Sonata No. 10 In C Major, K.330: I. Allegro Moderato
      11. Sonata No. 10 In C Major, K.330: II. Andante Cantabile
      12. Sonata No. 10 In C Major, K.330: III. Allegretto

      Tracks:

      1. Sonata No. 11 In A Major, K.331: I. Tema. Andante Grazioso E Variazioni
      2. Sonata No. 11 In A Major, K.331: II. Menuet -Trio
      3. Sonata No. 11 In A Major, K.331: III. (Rondo) Alla Turca. Allegretto
      4. Sonata No. 12 In F Major, K.332: I. Allegro
      5. Sonata No. 12 In F Major, K.332: II. Adagio
      6. Sonata No. 12 In F Major, K.332: III. Allegro Assai
      7. Sonata No. 13 In B Flat Major, K.333: I. (Allegro)
      8. Sonata No. 13 In B Flat Major, K.333: II. (Andante Cantabile)
      9. Sonata No. 13 In B Flat Major, K.333: III. (Allegretto Grazioso)
      10. Sonata No. 14 In C Minor, K.457: I. Allegro
      11. Sonata No. 14 In C Minor, K.457: II. Adagio
      12. Sonata No. 14 In C Minor, K.457: III. Molto Allegro

      Tracks:

      1. Sonata No. 15 In F Major, K.533: I Allegro (K.533)
      2. Sonata No. 15 In F Major, K.533: II. Andante (K.533)
      3. Sonata No. 15 In F Major, K.533: III. Rondo. Allegretto (K.494)
      4. Sonata No. 16 In C Major, K.545 'Sonata Facile': I. Allegro
      5. Sonata No. 16 In C Major, K.545 'Sonata Facile': II. Andante
      6. Sonata No. 16 In C Major, K.545 'Sonata Facile': III. Rondo. Allegretto
      7. Sonata No. 17 In B Flat Major, K.570: I. Allegro
      8. Sonata No. 17 In B Flat Major, K.570: II. Adagio
      9. Sonata No. 17 In B Flat Major, K.570: III. Allegretto
      10. Sonata No. 18 In D Major, K.576: I. Allegro
      11. Sonata No. 18 In D Major, K.576: II. Adagio
      12. Sonata No. 18 In D Major, K.576: III. Allegretto
      13. Fantasia In D Minor, K.397: Andante
      14. Fantasia In C Minor, K.475: Adagio

      Customer Reviews:

      2 out of 5 stars Gould and Mozart..........2006-10-27

      Anyone who is a fan of Gould knows his personal opinion of the Mozart sonatas. Listening to this interpretation of Mozart is about as entertaining as being in a room full of typewriters and screaming infants--both monotonous and completely irritating at the same time. If you're new to Gould go to his interpretation of Bach's Well Tempered Clavier or the English suites...if you want definitive recordings of the Mozart sonatas try Brendel, Eschenbach or Uchida. There is no denying Gould's genius...it just not found in this recording.

      5 out of 5 stars Genius plays Genius.......2006-10-22

      Gould has the most crisp keyboard execution and the brighest tone I've ever heard. His clarity during the fastest passages is frightening. My favorite of his playing in the box set is: Sonata no.8, 1st movement-extreme powerhouse virtuoso performance(I get quite worked up when I listen to it!) His rendition of Sonata no.11 Ronda Alla Turca may be annoying to some(slow); also some people may think many of the adagios are too slow; But the first and third movements make up for that; And when it comes to counterpoint, technique, clarity of voicings, and spirit, Gould is the best.

      1 out of 5 stars SCARY !.......2006-08-04

      I guess I'd have to agree with those who feel that Gould was somehow ridiculing Mozart with this interpretation. It's all a matter of taste, and some obviously find this bizarre, eccentric recording to their liking, but if you're an average listener who is not into the weird stuff and just wants a decent set of Mozart's Piano Sonatas, this probably isn't for you, as it isn't for me.

      2 out of 5 stars Good for playing in shopping malls or "romantic evenings"..........2006-05-13


      I gave up an initial idea to be a referee to all these pro et contra comments; simply, because I eternally love Mozart, and this ridiculous playing really harms me. People are looking for a quality entertainment, not for some silly demonstration. Mr. Gould should be awared that his crisp technique means absolutely nothing to millions who are looking for right performance of Mozart's "11.-14." sonatas. Nevertheless, his knowing of style is undeniable which makes impression that his neglect playing is deeply purposeful. The question arises who he tries to intrigue, an audience or Mozart; an audience won't tolerate it. Mozart, on the contrary, "knew" that the world is full of different kinds of "wizards" and "creative genius" so his A-dur sonata is probably his testimony to all these "humans".

      An A-dur sonata is a kind of "board exam" to all eminent keyboardists. Some of them play brilliantly just one of movements but have no energy to make complete sonata polished. Even though the style is well-known ,"or is it?", pianists usually lack the energy in the allegretto which lids them to bring just an ordinary performance. Glenn Gould,a smarty guy, avoids any personal inconvenience by a little "recreating" the whole piece. Changing a tempos, he brakes the sonata in to three pieces with ambiguous concept.

      Sonatas 12. and 14. are tent to be Ok. I'l let it go, just as it is- a little tolerance of mine. Now, a famous "c-mol" K.457 is totally ruined. It starts with a good tempo which is introduction to a great tragedy that might follow. However, Glenn Gould misses to underline beginnings and ends of phrases in the exposition of the themes, so he misses the whole Allegro movement, then his escape is a make up, adding ornamentations in "Allegro assai" which I found complete lack of wisdom and good sense. The rest of sonatas is just demonstration of his superior technique which is completely unbearable.

      In addition, a "closer look" to tempos of "c-mol" pair, fantasia and sonata, reveals a question whether Glenn Gould is able to make the whole idea realized, particularly if a concept is embedded with a new material such as tonalities and tempi. He just elaborates his own stubborn concept, based on virtuoso technique, and unchangeable, perfect but pointless even disturbing articulation- what a horrable iterpretation! This two pieces were turnover in Mozart's style and, thus, ask for really intelligent musician to reveal full blast of new ideas charged with personal emotions and inner tensions. It is -too much, for Glenn.

      (we live in a real world and I find myself as a medioceree among other people devoted to science, my job)- but I love Mozart!

      For the A-dur sonata I'd highly recommend Anthony Newman's recordings, also Newman is the best at Tragic K.310, Sonata Semplice and all early sonatas, particularly K.280 and the following G-dur; and following is my list of favorite recordings: Jos Van Immerseel and Demus Jorg- concertos, Ton Koopman and Pierre Hantai early works for harpsichord, Jeno Jando K.311, Bart Van Oort pair "c-mol" fantasia and sonata, and "d-mol" fantasia, as well, John Van Buskirk K.282, Rampe K.332, Lars-Urlik Mortnsen three concertos K.107, Levin early concertos 1-4 after C.P.E.Bach...Also I highly recomend virtuoso duos: Immerseel- Schroeder 6 Vienna sonatas K.296- 380; and Davos- Kuijken K. 526...
      Mirro

      2 out of 5 stars Mozart For Masochists.......2006-04-06

      I love Glenn Gould -- when he's playing Bach, that is. But Gould hated Mozart, and while some of his early Mozart recordings are quite nice, the Mozart recordings he did in the 60's and 70's (i.e., on these discs) were simply bizarre. And not in a good way. They are exhibitions in spite, and spite is not fun to listen to. Granted, some of the slow movements are played beautifully -- but there's more to Mozart than slow movements. The fast movements (i.e., two thirds of the music in the average sonata) are a horror.

      If you want to hear Gould at his eccentric best, buy anything he did with Bach -- or his Haydn albums, his early Beethoven sonatas (avoid Sonata No. 23, though), his Sibelius, Scriabin, Schoenberg or his Byrd & Gibbons albums. But stay clear of Mozart.
      Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Fortepiano and Violin, Vol. 2
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Wonderful
      • Wow!
      • Even better than Vol 1
      		 Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Fortepiano and Violin, Vol. 2

      Manufacturer: Analekta
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

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      1. Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Fortepiano and Violin, Vol. 1; Mannheim Sonatas

      ASIN: B0006ZWULQ
      Release Date: 2007-04-09

      Tracks:

      1. Sonata In F Major, K.377
      2. Sonata In F Major, K.376
      3. Sonata In B Flat Major, K.378
      4. Sonata In G Major, K.379
      5. Sonata In A Major, K.526
      6. Sonata In E Flat Major, K.380
      7. Sonata In E Flat Major, K.481

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Wonderful.......2006-02-12

      If you want performances on period instruments - and you do - this volume of two with the complete violin sonatas makes an easy choice. Natural, intimate performances - like an animated conversation between two old friends. I didn't know the performers but after hearing this, I do not hesitate to say that their achievements compare favourably with the best: Podger & Cooper, Manze & Egarr, Seiler & Immerseel. Recommended!

      5 out of 5 stars Wow!.......2006-02-08

      I bought both volumes of these sonatas after hearing only the first track and have not for a moment regretted the decision to do so. In college, I had the opportunity to play and become intimately acquainted with these sonatas. Being partial to 'period' performance, I have always been on the lookout for a good 'historically informed' recording and Breitman and Rivest don't fail to deliver. These are sonatas for fortepiano and violin, not violin sonatas and Breitman and Rivest's approach always keeps that cardinal rule of these pieces in mind. The transparent timbre of the gut-strung violin and fortepiano lend a clarity to these sonatas not often found in a lot of other recordings. The impeccable technique of both artists with the judicious use of vibrato by Rivest adds to that clarity. A wonderful opportunity for those who think they don't like period performances to become aquainted with the practice.

      5 out of 5 stars Even better than Vol 1.......2005-10-16

      Please see my review of Volume 1. This is perhaps even better!
      Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Fortepiano and Violin, Vol. 1; Mannheim Sonatas
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Wonderful
      • I can't say too much good about these sonatas...
      • Superb
      		 Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Fortepiano and Violin, Vol. 1; Mannheim Sonatas

      Manufacturer: Analekta
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartAll Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      ViolinViolin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
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      Similar Items:
      1. Mozart: Complete Sonatas for Fortepiano and Violin, Vol. 2

      ASIN: B0002TVVCU
      Release Date: 2007-04-06

      Tracks:

      1. Sonate En Sol Majeur/ Sonata In G Major K. 301
      2. Sonate En Mi Bemol Majeur/ Sonata In E-Flat Major K. 302
      3. Sonate En Ut Majeur/ Sonata In C Major K. 303
      4. Sonate En La Majeur/ Sonata In A Major K. 305
      5. Sonate En Ut Majeur/ Sonata In C Major K. 296
      6. Sonate En Re Majeur/ Sonata In D Major K. 306
      7. Sonate En Mi Mineur/ Sonata In E Minor K. 304
      8. Sonate En Si Bemol Majeur/ Sonata In B-Flat Major K. 454
      9. Sonate En Fa Majeur/ Sonata In F Major K. 547

      Album Description

      This integral version of Mozart's Sonatas is a rarity on the market. David Breitman is an active performer, teacher and scholar whose specialty is Classical Period performance practice. Equally at home with the modern piano and the fortepiano, his growing discography reflects his versatility. Audiences and critics are unanimous about Jean-François Rivest: he is a spectacular conductor endowed with tremendous energy, precision, emotion and exaltation who knows how to lead his orchestras efficiently towards artistic development. Great depths of feeling as well as a strong sense of structure characterize his interpretations.

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Wonderful.......2006-02-12

      If you want performances on period instruments - and you do - this volume of two with the complete violin sonatas makes an easy choice. Natural, intimate performances - like an animated conversation between two old friends. I didn't know the performers but after hearing this, I do not hesitate to say that their achievements compare favourably with the best: Podger & Cooper, Manze & Egarr, Seiler & Immerseel. Recommended!

      5 out of 5 stars I can't say too much good about these sonatas..........2006-02-08

      I bought both volumes of these sonatas after hearing only the first track and have not for a moment regretted the decision to do so. In college, I had the opportunity to play and become intimately acquainted with these sonatas. Being partial to 'period' performance, I have always been on the lookout for a good 'historically informed' recording and Breitman and Rivest don't fail to deliver. These are sonatas for fortepiano and violin, not violin sonatas and Breitman and Rivest's approach always keeps that cardinal rule of these pieces in mind. The transparent timbre of the gut-strung violin and fortepiano lend a clarity to these sonatas not often found in a lot of other recordings. The impeccable technique of both artists with the judicious use of vibrato by Rivest adds to that clarity. A wonderful opportunity for those who think they don't like period performances to become aquainted with the practice.

      5 out of 5 stars Superb.......2005-10-16

      This and the second volume by these performers are both simply superb. Unlike some "period" recordings, with these artists you are never aware of any self-conscious attempt to be "authentic". The music is alllowed to speak for itself, with great sensitivity and facility, and with obvious delight. And the music itself is, of course, glorious. The sound of the recordings is quite excellent -- immediate and intimate. I can't imagine these thrilling works being played or recorded any better, and I cannot recommend these two CDs highly enough. Sublime Mozart, beautifully played. Who could ask for anything more? Bravo!!!
      Mozart: The Complete Piano Sonatas / Ronald Brautigam
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Possibly the best complete Mozart sonata set
      • An absolute stunner!
      • Magic
      • brilliant period performances
      • Period Instrument performance with power
      		 Mozart: The Complete Piano Sonatas / Ronald Brautigam

      Manufacturer: Bis
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus MozartAll Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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      GeneralGeneral | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
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      Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
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      Similar Items:
      1. Mozart: Complete Piano Variations
      2. Beethoven: Early Vienna Sonatas - Sonatas Op. 2, Nos. 1-3; Op. 29, Nos. 1-2 (Complete Works for Solo Piano Vol 2) /Brautigam
      3. Beethoven: Die Verliebte - Sonatas Op 7; Op 10 Nos 1-3 (Complete Works for Solo Piano Vol 3) /Brautigam
      4. Beethoven: Mondschein & Pastorale - Sonatas Op 26, 27 & 28 (Complete Works for Solo Piano Vol 4) /Brautigam
      5. Mozart: Piano Sonatas (Box Set)

      ASIN: B0000016P2
      Release Date: 2000-09-19

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Possibly the best complete Mozart sonata set.......2007-02-25

      A great combination of a musican, instrument and recording quality. You will never hear a fortepiano sound so full-bodied, and Brautigam has the just right talent: an astonishing tonal palette. Sometimes in a repeat, he'll alter the dynamics at an almost imperceptible level of difference and maintain it with perfect consistency. Clearly his remarkable instrument is a godsend or his touch would be wasted. Unlike what usually happens when someone sets out to record a complete set, Brautigam always establishes a unique character for each movement and sticks with it. Given his intensity and breadth of expression, his Mozart is - as a previous reviewer insightfully characterized it - "pre-Beethovenian."

      5 out of 5 stars An absolute stunner!.......2007-02-14

      I own at least two complete recordings of these sonatas on modern pianos and numerous recording of individual sonatas on both modern and period instruments; moreover I was fortunate enough to hear a complete traversal of them in live performance during the 2006 Mozart birthday year. In short, I thought I knew these works pretty well, but Brautigam's performances have been a revelation: they are crisp & clear and reveal details I'd never heard before; there is grace and beauty here that could move one to tears. Musically and sonically (hats off to BIS!) this is a stunning set - to be returned to often. This, surely, is Mozart as Mozart would have wished to hear it.

      5 out of 5 stars Magic.......2006-03-21

      I was sick of hearing the feeble, watered down Mozart of the likes of Perahia and Uchida, and wow! along comes Brautigam and blows all that Dresden china into smithereens. Not to say his playing is lacking in poetry or finesee. Far from it. But the music lives and breaths under Brautigam's fingers in a way that makes Uchida et al sound turgid. At last! we can hear those wonderfully dynamic bass parts Mozart wrote for the left hand and instead of a muddy boom we get a sparkling interplay of musical line. I love the entire set!! Humour, wit, fire, impetuosity, grace, beauty, feeling - it's all here. I'm sure Mozart himself would've approved. THIS was the instrument Mozart composed for, a Walter fortepiano, and its response to the music is sheer delight.

      Now we want to have Brautigam playing the concertos with Pinnock and the English Concert!!

      5 out of 5 stars brilliant period performances.......2003-05-13

      These recordings have changed my opinion of Mozart's sonatas. Brautigam uses a copy of a 1795 fortepiano with spectacular results. The attack of this instrument is much more defined, which makes these pieces come alive. His tempos are fast, which adds to the energy and excitement of these performances. Recording quality is superb, and the price is a true value. I used to think Mozart's sonatas were sluggish and not of the same caliber of much of his other compositions (Haydn's sonatas seemed to sparkle in comparison). With this set, I have changed my mind... truly first class.

      5 out of 5 stars Period Instrument performance with power.......2003-03-17

      These performances are probably not to all tastes. Speeds are often very aggressive and the piano sound percussive and exciting, not qualities often associated with Mozart. Still, there are moments of great beauty here and the playing never sacrifices expressiveness for the sake of virtuosity. Brautigam is even better in his excellent Haydn series, and many may find his generally brisk approach easier to accept with Haydn. This is my first choice for these pieces, and if you appreciate the pre-Beethovenian aspects of Mozart's style you will not be disappointed.

      Music Review:

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