Brahms: Symphony No. 3 & 4

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
These faceless and uninteresting Brahms performances are, of course, very well played to the extent that the orchestra gives Herbert von Karajan the sound that he wants. There's a big question, however, if this is the sound that the composer wanted: string-heavy, thick, with much woodwind and brass detail obscured. Karajan wanted to be thought of as the Great German Conductor, but the truth is that he was a sensualist, more at home in music that relies on beauty of surface, as opposed to developmental logic. Brahms just wasn't his bag. --David Hurwitz

Tracks:

Variations (Twinkle, Twinkle), K265/300e
Minuet In G From Anna Magdalena
Piano Sonata In C, K 545, 2nd Movement
Spring Song
Piano Sonata In D, K 576, 3rd Movement
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring, BWV 147
Canon
The Moldau
Preludes Book II, Clair De Lune
Sonata No.14 (Moonlight), 2nd Movement, Op.27
Symphony No.9, New World
Fur Elise, WoO 59
The Four Seasons, Winter, RV267, 2nd Movement
Orchestral Suite No.3 In D, Air, BWV 1068
Sonata No.8 (Pathetique), 2nd Movement, Op.13
Kinderscene, Op.15
Waltz No.15, Lullaby

Product Description

The Lullaby Classics A Concert for Little Ears music CD is a 17-track, 35-minute concert featuring a collection of soothing classical melodies perfect to calm little ones as they wind down for nap time, bedtime or a bit of quiet time. Each piece, re-orchestrated for little ears by the Baby Einstein Music Box Orchestra, was specially selected to lull babies into sweet, blissful dreams. Lullaby Classics opens with ?Ç£Twinkle, Twinkle?Ç¥ variations by Mozart and includes calming and delightful melodies from composers such as Bach, Beethoven, Dvorak and Debussy. It ends with Brahms' ?Ç£Lullaby?Ç¥ tucking baby in for a cozy, restful sleep.Musical Selections:1. Variations (Twinkle, Twinkle), K265/300e, Mozart2. Minuet In G From Anna Magdalena, Bach3. Piano Sonata In C, K 545, 2nd Movement, Mozart4. Spring Song, Mendelssohn5. Piano Sonata In D, K 576, 3rd Movement, Mozart6. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring, BWV 147, Bach7. Canon, Pachelbel8. The Moldau, Smetana9. Preludes Book II, Clair De Lune, Debussy10. Sonata No. 14 (Moonlight), 2nd Movement, Op. 27, Beethoven11. Symphony No. 9, New World , Dvorak12. Fur Elise, WoO 59, Beethoven13. The Four Seasons, Winter, RV297, 2nd Movement, Vivaldi14. Orchestral Suite No. 3 In D, Air, BWV 1068, Bach15. Sonata No. 8 (Pathetique), 2nd Movement, Op. 13, Beethoven16. Kinderscene Op.15, Schumann17. Waltz No 15, Lullaby, Brahms Age: birth +Awards:* Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Award (2005)* National Parenting Center Seal of Approval (2004)* National Parenting Publications Awards (2004)

Customer Reviews:

Lame.......2007-07-22

I was really disappointed in this CD. I was expecting a toned-down version of real classical music, but it sounds really fake and tinkley and weird. Not soothing at all.

Sounds like a cheap plastic toy.......2007-06-20

I have these DVD's and I can tell you that they will not be a huge part of my baby's development. I received them as a gift from someone that thinks that all you need to do is plunk your child in front of a TV all day without giving the baby any attention. You can see why these DVD's are popular at Day Care Centers or what I like to call, "Concentration camps for baby's with lazy parents", because they know that they can sit their kid/baby in front of the TV and let them turn into a thoughtless zombie while they listen to Baby Einstein totally ruin classics by Bach and DeBussy by playing the music with very cheap midi keyboards. I can get better quality music by whistling Dixie with a mouth-full of saltine crackers.

Also, it has been proven that classical music has nothing to do with the cognitive development of young people. Now, teach them how to play piano or violin and you have yourself an actual YOUNG EINSTEIN, but listening to this kind of music does nothing for the development of the brain. It is just for lazy parents that can't sit down with their kids and play with them or read them a book.

would make you sleepy.........2007-06-15

its a good product with very fine music and my toddler realizes that it is sleep time, if I play it. he goes to bed and sleeps after a couple songs. I have trouble in some songs are some months.. dont know why.

Kid's Music.......2007-06-08

I bought this CD for my grandniece, but after listening to it, I determined that no one would ever play this for her except me. I would have kept it for myself but I have the grown-up versions of each of the classical masterpieces on this CD. So, I ended up returning it for a full refund. If you want your kids to be exposed to classicl music, it's a great buy. But if you don't think they will get to listen to it, don't waste your time.

Baby Einstein: Lullaby Classics

Not soothing.......2007-06-07

These synthesizer versions of classical songs get really old, really fast. Worse yet, the songs are sometimes not soothing at all, especially the very first song. The song seems to get particularly loud and uptempo, which is precisely what you don't expect in a lullaby. Please listen to the sample of the first song at least before you buy.

Average customer rating:

classic music CD
Good for beginners
Great mix
Good for first-timer
25 Classical Favorites cd

25 Classical Favorites

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

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

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25 Romantic Classics
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ASIN: B0000058HT
Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

Eine Klein Nachtmusik: (I. Allegro)
Nutcracker Suite: (Russian Dance)
The Four Seasons, Op. 8: (Spring: I. Allegro)
Hungarian Dance No. 5 In G Minor
Symphony in D, K. 161 - 163: (III. Presto)
Waltz In D-Flat Major, Op. 64, No. 1
Tritsch-Tratsch Polka, Op. 214
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 In G, S. 1048: (III. Allegro)
Swan Lake: (Dance Of The Swans)
Carmen Suite No. 2: (Habanera)
Messiah: (Overture)
Wind Serenade 'The Marriage Of Figaro': Overture
Violin Concerto No. 1 In G Minor, Op. 12: (III. Allegro)
Water Music: (Overture)
Sleeping Beauty Ballet Suite, Op. 66: (Panorama)
Symphony No. 26 In E-flat Major, K. 184: (III. Allegro)
Waltz No. 10 In B Minor, Op. 69 No. 2
Violin Concerto No. 1 In A Minor, S. 1041: (III. Allegro)
Water Music: (Lentement)
Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 In G Major, S. 1049: (II. Andante)
Habanera
Horn Concerto No. 3 In E-Flat Major, K. 447: (II. Romanza)
Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini, Op. 43: (Variation No. 18)
Thunder And Lightning Polka, Op. 324
Stars And Stripes Forever

Customer Reviews:

classic music CD.......2007-06-27

The CD was well represented by the clips on the Amazon website and came in time for our event. We did have a problem with the charge but that was taken care of promptly. Great service.

Good for beginners.......2007-02-15

It is an excellent collection of classical music. I would recommend this CD if you have a friend who don't like classical music, since it has the most beautiful overtures and portions of famous artists. If you are a Classic Music Savvy you probably will not be impressed by it, unless you want to play the CD as background music in a friends gathering.

Great mix.......2007-02-14

All the best composers! Over an hour of music. A samble of the greatest pieces.

Good for first-timer.......2007-01-22

This is the first time I have ever bought a classical music CD and I was very pleased with this one. It has a good variety of selections. I would buy it again.

25 Classical Favorites cd.......2007-01-06

This CD has so many of my favorite, lively classical music -- love it!!

Brahms: The Complete Symphonies / Karajan, Berlin PO

Average customer rating:

Karajan- Brahms symphonies
Symphonic Heaven
A great part of your collection!
The greatest Brahms twofer you could imagine
Very polished Brahms

Brahms: The Complete Symphonies / Karajan, Berlin PO

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures
Dvorak: 3 Great Symphonies
Brahms: Concertos for Piano No. 1 & 2, Fantasia Op. 116

ASIN: B000007ODY
Release Date: 1998-06-09

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In C Minor Op. 68: 1. Un poco sostenuto - Allegro
Symphony No. 1 In C Minor Op. 68: 2. Andante sostenuto
Symphony No. 1 In C Minor Op. 68: 3. Un poco Allegretto e grazioso
Symphony No. 1 In C Minor Op. 68: 4. Adagio - Piu Andante - Allegro non troppo, ma con brio
Symphony No. 3 In F Major op.90: 1. Allegro con brio
Symphony No. 3 In F Major op.90: 2. Andante
Symphony No. 3 In F Major op.90: 3. Poco Allegretto
Symphony No. 3 In F Major op.90: 4. Allegro

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 In D Major Op. 73: 1. Allegro non troppo
Symphony No. 2 In D Major Op. 73: 2. Adagio non troppo - L'istesso tempo, ma grazioso
Symphony No. 2 In D Major Op. 73: 3. Allegretto grazioso (Quasi Andantino) - Presto ma non assai - Tempo l
Symphony No. 2 In D Major Op. 73: 4. Allegro con spirito
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor Op. 98: 1. Allegro non troppo
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor Op. 98: 2. Andante moderato
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor Op. 98: 3. Allegro giocoso - Poco meno presto - Tempo l
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor Op. 98: 4. Allegro enerico e passionato - Piu Allegro

Amazon.com

These 1977-78 recordings are Karajan's best Brahms--better than his somewhat mannered digital set. The Berlin Philharmonic, as ever, is amazingly smooth and accomplished, playing with great class without losing any power--as an example, just listen to the finale of the second symphony. DG's engineers have turned this always-good recording into something truly magnificent to hear, and, at the price, this is a sure bet. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Karajan- Brahms symphonies.......2007-01-03

No matter who plays, Brahms always satisfies. This edition, however, is superlative! Highly recommend.

Symphonic Heaven.......2005-10-13

Karajan is largely considered the greatest exponent for mainstream symphonic works- Mozart, Brahms, Tchaikovsky Mahler, Dvorak and Bruckner. This collection is a terrific buy and it's affordable. You can't go wrong. Recorded in 1977 and 1978, Karajan delivers all the rich melody, grace, grandeur and musical harmony that Brahms suffused his four symphonies with. The Berlin Philharmonic are trained so that even the strings move with miraculous exactitude. The only other worthy set is Solti's. This one has everything one can hope for in Brahms symphonies.

Karajan was always a champion of his own German music's history. He is still regarded as the first-rate exponent of Wagner and Strauss for example. Brahms, born in Austria, was another composer whose Germanic music Karajan was able to aptly depict through the magic of his baton. The impressive parts of this set include the entire 1st symphony- not reduced to the Beethoven parody some make it out to be. Instead, it holds its own as a work of compelling power. The finale is inspirational. The finale to the second is equally as moving. The 4th symphony is my favorite symphony of the post Beethoven Romantic Era. In this symphony we find a mixture of mysticism, romantic beauty and classical balance. In it we also find, in the last movement, the greatest example of theme and variations, Brahm's strongest suit as a composer. Karajan knows his stuff. You can never go wrong with any of his interpretations, though he, too, has his detractors. His Tchaikovsky tends to be too fiery and melodramatic for example and he was never at home with Italian opera as he was in German. Karajan is brilliant and his Berlin forces electrify. At a cheap price, this is a must have if you call yourself a true classical music fan.

A great part of your collection!.......2005-10-07

This is an easy, afforable way to get all four Brahms symphonies on two great quality cds. Each symphony is recorded with the passion and fire you get from Brahm's music, although I have heard better recordings of the symphonies,I would still buy these cd's for the price.

If I have to say the worst thing about these recordings is the first movement of the third symphony is not what I was expecting ( I was expecting much more on the recording)

The greatest Brahms twofer you could imagine.......2005-09-24

DG's catalog is overflowing with Brahms performances from Karajan, and although this late-Seventies cycle of the four symphonies is not esteemed as highly as his earlier analog recordings, the truth is that Karajan had few real competitors in these works during the postwar era--except himself. He was the greatest Brahms conductor after Walter and Furtwangler, bar none, and these are outstanding performances in every way. The best are the First and Thrid symphonies, two works that Karajan was peerless in.

Very polished Brahms.......2004-08-28

Wonderful performances from the finest of the Brahms conductors...Herbie Karajan. Wonderfully straightfoward performances without the wayward stylings of the 63 set....

That being said the Fourth and First of the 63 set are incredible and deserve to be in any serious Brahms collection ...

sonincally these are very fine readings!!!

Average customer rating:

Not A Music Critic ... But A Lover Of All Music ...
Misleading title scheme
Don't Bother...Really!
Could have been better
Some great tracks, but flawed nonetheless

25 Romantic Classics

Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
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Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000058HR
Release Date: 1996-01-30

Tracks:

Suite No. 3 In D Major: Air On The G String - Frank Shipway
Fur Elise - Beethoven
Piano Concerto No. 23 In A Major, K. 488: II. Adagio - Arie Vardi
The Four Seasons, Op. 8: Summer: I. Allegro - Alberto Lizzio
Nutcracker Suite: Dance Of The Flutes - Jonel Perlea
Ombra mai fu: Handel's Largo - Philip Gibson
Waltz In A-Flat Major, Op. 39 - Brahms
Prelude In A Major, Op. 28 No. 7 - Chopin
Reverie - DeBussy
Canon In D - Gunter Kehr
Spring Song - Mendelssohn
Symphony No. 9 In C Major, K. 73: III. Menuetto - Gunter Kehr
Sarabande - I Musici di Zagreb
Eine kleine Nachtmusik: III. Menuetto; Allegretto - Libor Pesek
Suite No. 2 In B Minor: Menuet - Gunter Kehr
Concerto Grosso In D Major, Op. 6 No. 4: Vivace - I Musici di Zagreb
Ave Maria - Hans Hagan And His Orchestra
Sleeping Beauty Ballet Suite: Waltz - Lawrence Siegel
Concerto In D Minor For 2 Oboes & Strings, Op. 42 No. 2: I. Largo - Piero Santi
Trumpet Concerto In D Major - Gunter Kehr
Lullaby - Hans Hagan And His Orchestra
Nutcracker Suite: Chinese Dance - Don Jackson
Symphony No. 5 In D Minor, Op. 107: Andante - David Zinman
Oboe Concerto In D Minor: II. Andante e spicatto - Paul Angerer
Gianni Schicci: O mio babbino caro - Nikea Baroza

Customer Reviews:

Not A Music Critic ... But A Lover Of All Music ..........2006-08-29

Let's not be too harsh regarding this CD. I purchased this as my first baby step into the classical genre and it absolutely made me fall in love with classical music and appreciate it in a way I never could when people tried to make me like it. It is such a wide variety of classical music and I find romance to be joyful, tragic, gentle, harsh & a complete roller coaster that I found all in this ONE CD! It also made my boyfriend who hates, or shall I say HATED classical music NOW like it! That was an amazing feat! We now have many classical cd's and we always go back to this one for dinner parties, romantic baths and other things... I played this CD so much, that it got damaged and I just purchased another one to replace the one I bought years ago. If you are a critic, stay away from this cd, you will rob it of its beauty & innocence. If you are a beginner and want to open your mind to all that classical music has to offer, then this is the best money you can spend. BUY & ENJOY!!!

Misleading title scheme.......2006-01-01

This is what bothered me about the CD. Three of the biggest eras in classical music were: the baroque era, the classical era, and the romantic era. Now, with CD's titled baroque favorites, classical favorites and romantic classics, one would expect these CD's to be era specific. Such is not the case. If you read the back of the CD it even says "from the romantic era of music", but the there are composers like Vivaldi (baroque) and Debussy (impressionism) on this CD. About more than half are from the wrong eras. So this music is romantic in the non-musical sense of the word, which is fine, but a little bit misleading.

Don't Bother...Really!.......2005-02-21

Not what I call classical composers! THis cd is annoying in a way I really can't stand. It lacks the pure elegance of the classical days. Don't buy this cd unless you want a phony all around bad album played by cheap ameteurs.

Could have been better.......2004-02-19

I think the quality is good, and better on a few tracks, but all these romantic tracks?? Not what I listened to. Actually I was kind of disappointed; I had purchased an abundance of the "Favorites" collection some were better than others.
I was kind of perturbed when some same tracks on this CD were on another CD, and visa versa.

Still, I suppose for the price, one can't go wrong.

Some great tracks, but flawed nonetheless.......2004-01-12

Whether or not this CD lives up to its promise of "Romantic" music is not truly a concern, being that the entire nature of classical music is that it is open to one's own interpretation. However, I can speak to the quality of the recordings themselves.

A few of the tracks (Reverie, Canon, Sarabande, a few others) are absolutely superb. Well recorded, and played with genius bravado, coupled with great arrangements (it was interesting to hear Reverie outside of its native instrument, the Piano). Most of the tracks, however, are absolutely horrid. Fur Elise for the sheer amateurish quality, Vivaldi's Concerto for oboe and strings sounds like it was copied from an old phonograph record, as does Tchaikovsky's Sleeping Beauty Suite, Mendelssohn's Spring Song, and Puccini's Gianni Schicci, and a few others. A few other tracks still are played horribly, most of them already mentioned.

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In C Minor, Op. 68: I. Un poco sostenuto - Allegro
Symphony No. 1 In C Minor, Op. 68: II. Adante sostenuto
Symphony No. 1 In C Minor, Op. 68: III. Un poco allegretto e grazioso
Symphony No. 1 In C Minor, Op. 68: IV. Adagio - Piu adante - Allegro non troppo ma con brio

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 73: I. Allegro non troppo
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 73: II. Adagio non troppo
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 73: III. Allegretto grazioso (Quasi andantino) - Presto ma non assai
Symphony No. 2 In D Major, Op. 73: IV. Allegro con Spirito
Tragic Overture, Op. 81

Tracks:

Symphony No. 3 In F Major, Op. 90: I. Allegro con brio - Johannes Brahms
Symphony No. 3 In F Major, Op. 90: II. Andante - Johannes Brahms
Symphony No. 3 In F Major, Op. 90: III. Poco allegretto - Johannes Brahms
Symphony No. 3 In F Major, Op. 90: IV. Allegro - Johannes Brahms
Academic Festival Overture, Op. 80 - Johannes Brahms

Tracks:

Symphony No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 98: I. Allegro non troppo
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 98: II. Andante moderato
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 98: III. Allegro giocoso
Symphony No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 98: IV. Allegro energico e passionato

Customer Reviews:

Good but not memorable for me.......2007-05-17

I purchased this cycle with eager anticipation but was frankly disappointed when I opened up the set and popped it in my stereo. I love the CSO/Solti sound (esp the brass section) as much as anybody but I am disappointed with the energy, balance, and precision of entrances and note lengths. If you want a great set, buy the HSO/Eschenbach!

Brahms symphonies.......2006-11-07

I'll make this simple. If your interested in a great set of the four Brahms symphonies pick this up immediately. Great sound(late analogue warmth), terrific performances(Solti and Chicago are sturdy as always), and an extremely low price.

This set has several distinct advantages over some of the others out there. For starters each symphony occupies its own cd. Sounds simple enough but I'm quickly tiring of sets that split up symphonies under 80 minutes long just to pack each cd to the brink. Nothing's worse than having a complete symphony and half of another on one cd and the other half of the second symphony on disc number 2. No sense switching discs to listen to one work unless that work is over 80 mintues long(ie- Mahler). I'm also getting sick of sets that couple insequential symphonies together to fill up discs(ie- symphonies number 1 and 4 on one disc). I like to listen in sequential order.

This set allows that. One symphony per disc. Discs two and three each have an overture to fill up some time and that's fine since both are after the symphony. How about Abbado and others putting these overtures and other 'bonus' works _before_ the main attraction? What's that about?

I mentioned it early but the price issue is also huge. Sure, you could buy Abbado's Berlin set which is great but be ready to shell out over $120(!) on Amazon. You'll get a couple of additional short works with that set but come on. Is it worth another $100 or so? Your call but I'd say no way.
Pick this up for around $20 and be assured that your getting quality Brahms at a great price.

sloppy.......2006-02-28

It's sloppy. Interpretation not well thought through. Solti is a well known name, but I wasn't impressed. It sounds uninspired. Check out a different set of the Brahms' symphonies.

One of Solti's better recordings in Chicago.......2005-10-14

This Brahms Symphonies set with Sir Georg Solti/Chicago Symphony is one of Solti's better recordings in Chicago. Recorded in 1979, just before the Digital age and technology took over, these are beautiful, smooth and creamy recordings with rich bass and nice mid range. Solti is intense but never driven, and he knows just how much intensity to put into Brahms without over-driving him and making the music become melodramatic or vulgar. The sound London's engineers got in these recordings is better than for the Solti/Chicago Beethoven Symphonies recorded earlier that decade, 1972-74.

The Chicago Symphony under Solti was "HOT" in recording sales during the 1970s. I was in college from 1977-81, and all the brass and woodwind players raved about Chicago's recordings of Strauss, Mahler, and other composers which were currently being released. I especially recall a flute player who was estatic because she received three Solti/Chicago LPs for Christmas gifts one year. The brass and woodwinds are often emphasized in many Solti/Chicago recordings, with the strings less prominent than some orchestras; but here the balance is very equal where needed, and the brass do yeoman service in the passages most needed, such as the running figures at the end of Symphony 2:IV.

Solti does take alot of repeats, especially in Symphony 2:I, which makes this movement several minutes longer than most recordings. And he isn't afraid to take his time - tempos aren't too fast, and never feel driven: not always the case in a Solti recording. I of Symphony 1 and Symphony 3 also have repeats, thus making these movements longer than in recordings of Bruno Walter or George Szell.

The companion works, Academic Festival Overture and Tragic Overture are also excellent in every way, recalling Bruno Walter/Columbia Symphony (Sony), who recorded these works in stereo 20 years before Solti/Chicago.

Very good.......2005-03-18

This is the Brahms Symphonies set to get. Every performance is great, and the sound is pretty high quality. I do not notice any problems with the acoustics. Highly recommended.

Jacqueline du Pré - a lasting inspiration

Average customer rating:

cello lover
99% perspiration
Immortal Legend
Epitome of Cello
Ooo! Samples!

Jacqueline du Pré - a lasting inspiration
Antonin Dvorak , Franz Joseph Haydn , Edward Elgar , Maria Theresia von Paradis , Robert Schumann , Felix Mendelssohn , Gabriel Faure , Johann Sebastian Bach , Camille Saint-Saens , Manuel de Falla , Max Bruch , Ludwig van Beethoven , Johannes Brahms , Cesar Franck , Chicago Symphony Orchestra , London Symphony Orchestra , Daniel Barenboim , Sir John Barbirolli , Jacqueline du Pré , Pinchas Zukerman , Roy Jesson , Gerald Moore , John [guitar] Williams , and Osian Ellis
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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Jacqueline du Pre - Favourite Cello Concertos ~ Boccherini, Dvorak, Elgar, Haydn, Monn, Saint-Saens, Schumann
Jacqueline du Pre In Portrait
Jacqueline du Pré - Chopin: Cello Sonata in G minor, Franck: Sonata in A / Barenboim
Cello for Relaxation
Daniel Barenboim, Pinchas Zukerman & Jacqueline du Pré - Beethoven: Piano Trios

ASIN: B00000K4F9
Release Date: 1999-09-14

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Customer Reviews:

cello lover.......2007-05-31

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

99% perspiration.......2006-11-08

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

Immortal Legend.......2006-10-07

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

Epitome of Cello.......2006-06-23

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

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

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

Ooo! Samples!.......2005-11-29

As far as the romantic period goes, Jacqueline Du Pre is my personal favorite 'cellist. Her sensitivity to put expression of the musical idea always outweighed the desire to appear impressive. There is a difference in being just a virtuoso and being a musician. A virtuoso has the capability to dazzle and amaze, but music is more than just being impressive, and Du Pre succeeds in becoming, in every sense, a musician first and foremost. The only complaint I have of this album is the fact that you only get one movement of each piece! Even so, this a wonderful "sample dish" of Du Pre's extraordinary playing, mainly meant to get you hooked so you can get more.

Brahms: Symphony No. 2 - Hungarian Dances

Average customer rating:

Go elsewhere
Alsop & LPO: Mellifluous Brahms is Hearty Musical Fare
A Fine Leisurely Account of Brahms's 2nd Symphony....
A delightful new account
Poor Brahms

Brahms: Symphony No. 2 - Hungarian Dances
Brahms , Alsop , and London Philharmonic Orchestra
Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Double Violin Concerto

ASIN: B000B6N67W
Release Date: 2005-10-11

Tracks:

Allegro Non Troppo
Adagio Non Troppo
Allegretto Grazioso, Quasi Andantino
Allegro Con Spirito
No.1 In G Minor
No.3 In F Major
No.10 In F Major
No.17 In F-Sharp Minor
No.18 In D Major
No.19 In B Minor
No.20 In E Minor
No.21 In E Minor

Amazon.com

Here, Marin Alsop follows up her successful recording of Brahms's First Symphony with an equally fine Second. The first movement has great warmth but moves ahead with conviction; the second is devoid of any unwanted density of tone; the third has real class, and the final movement is exciting, with dazzling brass. The selection of Hungarian Dances is varied and handsomely performed. At this price, this is a front-runner. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Go elsewhere.......2007-05-06

The serious, self-important facial expression of the conductor on the front of the CD jewelcase is a dead giveaway of the musical treatment you are about to experience. The Brahms 2nd Symphony shouldn't be played like the 1st or 4th. After all, it's Brahms' "pastoral" symphony. Yet Maestra Alsop attempts to turn it into some sort of "profound statement", when she should just chill and let the music play. Brahms doesn't need this sort of treatment.

The Hungarian Dances are forgettable -- go instead with Neeme Jarvi, Antal Dorati or Paul Strauss for some real kick-up-your-heels excitement.

Alsop & LPO: Mellifluous Brahms is Hearty Musical Fare.......2006-12-24

I approached this second disc in the Marin Alsop series on Naxos with some caution, given my mixed reactions to the first symphony on SACD, as well as some of the down sides of the comments the Amazon posted reviewers have made. My objections to the Alsop First Symphony involved mostly the dislocated sonics that came from using that markedly unwise venue, the Watford Colosseum. I like Alsop's approach to the composer well enough to actually wish to be able to hear it, well. Her tendencies to bring out Brahm's polyphony without unraveling the larger melodic/harmonic forward motion only makes sound and aural staging more pertinent concerns. So as a happy starting note, one can see this Second Symphony has been recorded in another, much better venue, London's Blackheath Concert Hall. Catching this break, one immediately wishes we had another go at SACD. (So I waited and waited before trying this second out. What is Naxos thinking these days? Do any of the company people actually listen to their own catalog?) On the disc filler of eight of the orchestrated version of the Hungarian Dances, we return to the Watford. Oh well, give that venue another chance I suppose, so long as it doesn't get to sabotage one's potential enjoyment of the Second Symphony.

My steadfast standard in the second has involved an old, wonderful stereo recording, led by Pierre Monteux with the Vienna Philharmonic. Some day it may get remastered again, and if Universal Classics lets Sony BMG lead the way, we might even get an SACD hybrid disc like the BMG Living Stereo series.

Other touchstones have of course included some big and some not so big players: Haitink & the Concertgebouw, Bohm with Vienna, the last Gunter Wand set with the North German Radio Orchestra, Sir Adrian Boult with the LPO/LSO, Dohnanyi with Cleveland, Levine with Vienna, Mackerras in Scotland, Marek Janowski with Liverpool, and the younger Thomas Sanderling with London's Philharmonia. Old masters have lasted, like Kurt Sanderling, Bruno Walter, Otto Klemperer, George Szell.

Right from the start, Marin Alsop adopts a flowing, moving tempo, nevertheless consistent with the gemutlichkeit essence of the opening melody and orchestral texture. I find myself mystified by the reviewers that complained of her tempo being too slow to serve this music. Of course I like my Brahms slow, provided the conductor and players plan to do something with all the music going on, like the Sanderlings, say, or Pierre Monteux. So far as I can hear, her approach to the second reminds me of her way with the first. She is adept at balancing the three sides of this complex composer, the Late Romantic Brahms who is so full of deep humanistic emotion, the music scholarly Brahms who learned his polyphony from studying all the old Medieval and Baroque masters, and the futurist Brahms whom Schoenberg much admired. By the time the work ends, I realize she has finished things as well as she began them. It probably doesn't hurt that the LPO has a strong history of its own in this composer's oeuvre.

Then we jump suddenly into the Watford Colosseum which still has all the recorded sonic deficiencies I nagged about in my review of the first symphony. It is not awful sound, just terribly displaced and floating disembodied in that great space, a bit like elevator music written larger than life by some close-up magic that quickly earns my ear's worry. If you like the Hungarian Dances as background music, and you are not listening for too much in that music, you will probably sail right on through your day.

The Third Symphony is due out, soon. I hope it avoided the Watford. I hope it continues to show the gifts of conductor and band, as the first two discs have done. Will we ever get these in super audio? Naxos?

A Fine Leisurely Account of Brahms's 2nd Symphony...........2006-01-08

Marin Alsop's glowing interpretation of the Brahms 2nd Symphony has been earning accolades ever since it was issued last year. Hers is a vibrant, leisurely account that is aided immensely by the London Philharmonic's fine performance, most noteworthy for the silken smoothness of the strings and the crisp, broodiness of the horns. I am especially impressed with her riveting interpretation of the first movement, which I find a bit darker in tone than Bernard Haitink's latest interpretation with the London Symphony Orchestra. And speaking of Haitink's splendid interpretation, Alsop's fine interpretation should be ranked close to it as among the finest recent recordings of this symphony. If I have any slight misgivings, it is my perception that Naxos's sound quality isn't quite as fine as that obtained by the London Symphony Orchestra's sound engineers. But this does not at all detract from the superb quality of Alsop's interpretation or the London Philharmonic's glowing performance (I am also delighted with her interpretations of the Brahms Hungarian Dances included on this recording.). Those in search of a fine recording of the Brahms 2nd Symphony will not be disappointed.

A delightful new account.......2005-11-03

Though not a revelatory version of the 2nd, Alsop's presentation sweeps along beautifully and shimmers in all the right places. Perhaps she meanders a bit in the Adagio, but I find much to relish in Alsop's pacing and lyricism. This is a nice new version of one of my favorite (perhaps my favorite) symphonies, and I have revisited it several times. If you love Brahms, I think you will find much to enjoy in this new recording!

Poor Brahms.......2005-10-29

Sorry. Her 1st was OK, not great. This one is even less likable. There is no tension or style. She takes it so slow it just about falls apart. This is a second to avoid. Go to
Karajan. There is a complete set for the price of one that is masterful. The older Furtwangler is also superb.

The Most Soothing Lullabies In The Universe

Average customer rating:

The Most Soothing Lullabies In The Universe

Manufacturer: Denon Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B0001NBNE8
Release Date: 2004-04-06

Tracks:

CHOPIN: Piano Concerto No. 1, Larghetto
DEBUSSY: Clair de Lune
MANFREDINI: Concerto grosso in C, I. Largo (Pastorale)
MOZART: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, Andante
BEETHOVEN: Moonlight Sonata, Adagio
BACH: Goldberg
SIBELIUS: Swan of Tuonela
LISZT: Liebestraume
SCHUMANN: Dreaming
MASSENET: Meditation from "Thais"
VAUGHAN WILLIAMS: Greensleeves

Tracks:

HANDEL-WEINER: Sicilienne
A. CORELLI: Concerto grosso in G, Pastorale
VERDI: "When the evening becomes peaceful"
CHOPIN: Three Preludes
MOZART: Clarinet Concerto in A, II. Adagio
BRAHMS: Piano Sonata No. 3, II. Andante espressivo
TCHAIKOVSKY: Swan Lake (excerpt)
MENDELSSOHN: Three Songs Without Words
MAHLER: Symphony No. 3, IV. Sehr Langsam

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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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.