Bach: 4 Orchestral Suites

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
The 1995 recording from Pickett and the New London Consort offers thoughtful and illuminating performances of the suites, suavely played by an assembly of the world's finest period instrumentalists. Pickett challenges some of the assumptions that have held sway among specialists for the past two decades, particularly with regard to the tempos at which dances such as the bourre and gavotte should be taken-- slower in the case of the former, faster in the latter. He also assigns just a single string instrument to each part, thereby shifting the tonal balance toward the woodwinds and, in Suites 3 and 4, the trumpets. A first-rate recording allows these refinements to be properly savored. --Ted Libbey

Tracks:

suite nr.1 (BWV 1007) In G Major: I: prelude
suite nr.1 (BWV 1007) In G Major: II: allemande
suite nr.1 (BWV 1007) In G Major: III: courante
suite nr.1 (BWV 1007) In G Major: IV: sarabande
suite nr.1 (BWV 1007) In G Major: V: menuet I -
suite nr.1 (BWV 1007) In G Major: menuet II - menuet I
suite nr.1 (BWV 1007) In G Major: VI: gigue
suite nr.4 (BWV 1010) In F Flat Major: I: prelude
suite nr.4 (BWV 1010) In F Flat Major: II: allemande
suite nr.4 (BWV 1010) In F Flat Major: III: courante
suite nr.4 (BWV 1010) In F Flat Major: IV: sarabande
suite nr.4 (BWV 1010) In F Flat Major: V: bourree I -
suite nr.4 (BWV 1010) In F Flat Major: bourree II - bourree I
suite nr.4 (BWV 1010) In F Flat Major: VI: gigue
suite nr.5 (BWV 1011) In C Minor: I: prelude
suite nr.5 (BWV 1011) In C Minor: II: allemande
suite nr.5 (BWV 1011) In C Minor: III: courante
suite nr.5 (BWV 1011) In C Minor: IV: sarabande
suite nr.5 (BWV 1011) In C Minor: V: gavotte I -
suite nr.5 (BWV 1011) In C Minor: gavotte II - gavotte I
suite nr.5 (BWV 1011) In C Minor: VI: gigue

Tracks:

suite nr. 2 (BWV 1008) In D Minor: I: prelude
suite nr. 2 (BWV 1008) In D Minor: II: allemande
suite nr. 2 (BWV 1008) In D Minor: III: courante
suite nr. 2 (BWV 1008) In D Minor: IV: sarabande
suite nr. 2 (BWV 1008) In D Minor: V: menuet I -
suite nr. 2 (BWV 1008) In D Minor: menuet II - menuet I
suite nr. 2 (BWV 1008) In D Minor: VI: gigue
suite nr. 3 (BWV 1009) In C Major: I: prelude
suite nr. 3 (BWV 1009) In C Major: II: allemande
suite nr. 3 (BWV 1009) In C Major: III: courante
suite nr. 3 (BWV 1009) In C Major: IV: sarabande
suite nr. 3 (BWV 1009) In C Major: V: bourree I -
suite nr. 3 (BWV 1009) In C Major: bourree II - bourree I
suite nr. 3 (BWV 1009) In C Major: VI: gigue
suite nr. 6 (BWV 1012) In D Major: I: prelude
suite nr. 6 (BWV 1012) In D Major: II: allemande
suite nr. 6 (BWV 1012) In D Major: III: courante
suite nr. 6 (BWV 1012) In D Major: IV: sarabande
suite nr. 6 (BWV 1012) In D Major: V: gavotte I -
suite nr. 6 (BWV 1012) In D Major: gavotte II - gavotte I
suite nr. 6 (BWV 1012) In D Major: VI: gigue

Amazon.com

Mstislav Rostropovich is one of the few musicians who can create a larger-than-life experience through the combined forces of exceptional music, a beautiful instrument, and uncommonly facile communicative skills. In his performances of Bach's transcendent masterpieces for solo cello, Rostropovich finds a perfect balance between a romantic, rhapsodic interpretation and one that emphasizes the purely formal "aridity" of Bach's structures. Although it's nearly impossible to isolate one or two highlights, the Sarabande and Prelude from Suite No. 5 are among the most profoundly moving cello performances you will ever hear--the closest we probably will ever come to experiencing through music the soul of both Rostropovich and Bach. Not everyone will immediately appreciate the very resonant sound that emphasizes the cello's lower register. But after a few minutes your ears adjust, the music takes over, and nothing else seems important. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

Dullsville!.......2007-06-01

I love the cover of this record, though. Reminds me of Don Quixote trying to play the cello standing up, like Woody Allen in a marching band! Slow and flat, with no dance or swing to it. Obviously there's a reason he never recorded them till he was past it (just as there's a reason they weren't played for 150 years). The suites are obscure and intimate, and there was little use for them before recording. Casals played them daily, to "consecrate the house" and found the special music in them. Some good Rostropovich is the Beethoven cello sonatas with Richter, but for Bach you should get Casals (1), Fournier (2), (or Starker or the earlier Ma if you find them on sale.)

Bach Cello Suites No.1~6 by Rostropovich.......2007-05-13

I meant to listen to Bach suites and I finally purchased. Unfortunatelly Rostropovich passing on. I am taking cello lesson and I can say that this CD is true classic and true cellist of dreams.

Deeply satisfying.......2005-12-01

When I heard these recordings for the first time, I almost wept. I don't know if this makes any sense, but the only way of saying how I felt was that it was like coming home. Rostropovich plays so simply and directly that one feels all pretense peel away. If art is an imitation of the glory that is nature, and performance an imitation of the art, then this is probably as close as you can come to removing the imitation and having a direct physical, emotional, and spiritual communion. Superlatives fail me and seem trite, so I think I should make this short. Bach's cello music is some of the most beautiful art ever created, and it has such remarkable power to heal the soul. Every human being who appreciates music deserves the priviledge of hearing this music. As I mentioned, the performance is superb, like an improvisation but so carefuly though out and so deeply felt. The recording quality is excellent too, capturing the meltingly beautiful sounds of Rostropovich's cello. Please listen to this; I hope you will be as moved as I was. If I can make a suggestion relevant to the time I'm writing this (Nov. 30th), make a present of this to someone you love for the holidays, the time of peace, as this is one of the great musical expressions of peace and boundless love.

The Best.......2005-10-26

Many people will argue that classical music is to be heard from a large symphony. I disagree. The ability of a single cello to convey an unlimited range of emotion and to personify the music is astounding. This performance of the Bach Cello suites is no exception, Rostropovich lacks the technical perfection of Yo Yo Ma, a good thing in my opinion, because it gives the music a certain personality and warmth. This is, and has been, my favorite collection of music, and to hear it played by Rostropovich justifys anyones love of it. It is simply the best cello collection on CD.

Exemplary Performances!.......2005-10-20

Mstislav Rostropovich has always been a world reknown cellist and one can definitely understand why when hearing these magnificent pieces being played by him. With also a great sound quality, it is truly a great album worth buying!

The Baroque period was one in which the science of musical interpretation was still growing. Many pieces of that period were generally unfriendly to a director or musician in terms of interpreting the meter: most notations were rather bare in that regard. A composer's meaning of 'adagio' could mean something very different to a stranger conducing the piece: how slow? Bach's cello sonatas are a perfect example which is even more respect to Rostropovich's interpretation and performance. A truly outsanding musician is demonstrated here in this recording. Rostropovich has a passionate and delicate interpretation that is neither overly rigid or romantic: they remain austere pieces but also have a spiritual quality to them that is most endearing.

This is a great set of albums for a complete set of Bach's cello suites. Rostropovich remains a highly respected performer and one will understand why when hearing these majestic pieces. A great buy!

French Suites - 70th Anniversary Edition

Average customer rating:

So many insights
realy, really fast
Controversial, yet unsurpassed
Worth Owning
Excellent!

French Suites - 70th Anniversary Edition
Glenn Gould , and Bach
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00006FI81
Release Date: 2002-09-03

Customer Reviews:

So many insights.......2007-07-11

Of all the many French Suite recordings I've heard, in spite of its eccentricities, this is the recording I return to, because every time I hear it, I hear something new and fresh. It has everything - and no other recorded-performer comes anywhere near such understanding, enthusiasm and dancing-qualities.

realy, really fast.......2007-02-09

Glenn Gould bach is really irregular. I love the three goldbergs (1954, 1981, an live recording in Salzburg), but these French suites are really, very fast, in the first minutes the music sound lively, and pretty, but almost an hour of staccato fast music, It's really like a ta ta ta ta ta ta ta sound.

I much more prefer gould playing bach's fugues, he use to be more slow

Controversial, yet unsurpassed.......2006-08-03

Gould was a character, in every sense of the word. Reading his numerous articles, one is inspired and challenged by his complex and elegant thought... His music, especially his Bach interpretations, have been criticized and praised alike, by people who know eons more about Music Theory than I do.

I can, however, share with you my intense appreciation of these suites. This is absolutely the work of a genius. His rendering of Bach's music for keyboard is utterly original, superbly balanced, deliciously nuanced, and stand alone as an untouched benchmark.

Listen carefully to his wise melancholy in the First Suite, especially the 2 menuettos. This is an interpretation which would astonish Bach himself, I am sure. No other performer will give you what you will hear in (at least) these specific two movements: such living beauty, such exquisite heartbreak... vibrant and fragile, an absolute joy.

Worth Owning.......2005-11-15

I listen to this CD all the time. There is a simplicity and clarity to it that just puts my mind at ease. At times a bit frenetic, but always precise and of an even temper. Very much recommended.

Excellent!.......2005-05-18

I am becoming a huge Glenn Gould fan. I first heard him about 15 years ago from a recording from my father. Listening to the Bach "French Suites" is an amazing experience. It is interesting to do some googling to learn more about Gould the man as well.

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music

Average customer rating:

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

Classical Music for People Who Hate Classical Music

Manufacturer: Compendia
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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

ASIN: B000003QWH
Release Date: 1994-06-09

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Customer Reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Average customer rating:

A great introduction to Baroque music...
Good "best of" CD, but nothing more.
Phenomenal Collection of Music
Phenomenal Collection of Music
DEFINES "CLASSIC"

Pachelbel Canon and Other Baroque Hits

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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The Only Classical CD You'll Ever Need!
Pachelbel's Greatest Hit: The Ultimate Canon
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ASIN: B000003F5Y
Release Date: 1991-09-06

Tracks:

Canon
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3: Allegro
Messiah: Overture
The Four Seasons: Spring: Allegro (Danza pastorale)
Orchestral Suite No. 2: Menuet & Badinerie
Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Guitar Concerto in D: Adagio
Xerxes: Largo
Brandenburg Concerto No. 2: Allegro Assai (Theme From 'Firing Line')
Orchestral Suite No. 3: Air On The G String
Royal Fireworks Music: Overture (excerpt)
Water Music: Hornpipe
Brandenberg Concerto No. 5: Allegro
Adagio
The Four Seasons: Winter: Allegro non molto
Rondeau (Theme from 'Masterpiece Theatre')

Customer Reviews:

A great introduction to Baroque music..........2005-10-04

This CD contains a great sampling of Baroque music. Some of the best known songs of the period are included. Listeners will likely instantly recognize many of the songs (you've likely heard them before, you just didn't know their names). An excellent rendition of Pachelbel's Canon starts off the CD. Then plenty of music from big names such as Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi fill out the disc's 72 and a half minutes of music.

The demographics of this disc point to an intended mainstream audience. For example, the track listing includes references to which songs served as themes for television shows. For example, Bach's Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 includes the byline "Theme from 'Firing Line'" and Mouret's Rondeau says "Theme from 'Masterpiece Theater'". So this collection does represent a popular collection of Baroque songs. And it plays that role very well.

Other standout tracks include: 2 movements from Vivaldi's justifiably famous "The Four Seasons", Bach's amazing "Air on the G String" and Handel's "Xerxes". The disc includes no vocal tracks. "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" from Bach's Cantata No. 147 gets performed on a solo organ (the original has vocals and a string arrangement). So those uneasy with "classical style singing" will find no problems here.

All in all, this disc serves as a good introduction to a great period of music history. It could also serve as a starting point for selecting a favorite composer or as a guide for building a classical music collection.

Good "best of" CD, but nothing more........2001-09-27

This CD does what it says it does: it gives you a brief, excellently recorded overview of the Baroque. But remember, this is just bits and pieces of a great store of music.

This CD will whet your appetite. You'll need to buy more, after you've heard the excerts of the great works here.

Phenomenal Collection of Music.......2001-09-19

Pachelbel's Canon in D is always good but the rest of the tracks shine as well. This is a superb collection of classical music. If you're new to classical music and love strings, purchase this CD. You'll be glad that you did.

Phenomenal Collection of Music.......2001-09-18

Pachelbel's Canon in D is always good, but the rest of the tracks shine as well. This is a superb collection of classical music. If you're new to classical music and love strings, purchase this CD. You'll be glad that you did.

DEFINES "CLASSIC".......2000-05-26

We have all heard the infinitely moving Canon in D by Pachelbel hundreds of times - it is not surprising that it has appeared, in one form or another, in commercials, films (most notably Ordinary People, which used the main theme as the underscoring for the entire film) - it is perfect, simple and incredibly, undeniably moving. But you are in for more treats on this basic Baroque sampler, which features many popular themes you may know, despite the fact that you may not be a hard-core classical music buff. The joy of each and every one of these cuts lies in their simple, enduring melodies and the gorgeous musical settings provided here. They sound fresh, new and as contemporary as anything you might hear on the radio. This album has a holiday after-effect as well; the fanfares, hymns and exciting instrumentation (horns, harps, strings galore) make you feel as if it is Christmas every day.

Average customer rating:

poor sound quality
SUPERB
In this case: I'm baroque
Come to laugh and stay to cry
Great Introduction to Beautiful Music

25 Baroque Favorites

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

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ASIN: B0000058I7
Release Date: 1996-08-20

Tracks:

Canon
Concerto In D Minor For 2 Oboes & Strings, Op. 42, No. 2: I. Largo
Water Music: VI. Minuet
Trumpet Concerto In D: II. Adagio
Sarabande
Oboe Concerto In D Minor: II. Adagio
Concerto In D For Trumpet & Strings: III. Grave
Air On The G String
Adagio For Strings In G Minor
The Four Seasons: Spring, II. Largo
Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 in G, BWV 1049: II. Andante
Concerto In D For 2 Trumpets & Strings: II. Largo
Concerto Grosso In D Minor, Op.3 No. 11: I. Allegro
Concerto In D For 6 Trumpets & Strings: II. Adagio
Ombra mai fu: Handel's Largo
Trumpet Sonata No. 1 In F: II. Grave
Suite In F Major For Horn, 2 Oboes & Strings: III. Der Alster Echo
Concerto In C For Viola Pomposa & Strings: II. Andante
Concerto In D For Trumpet, 2 Violins, Viola, Basso & Continuo: I. Allegro
Hapsichord Concerto In G Minor, BWV 1058: First Mvt.
Sonata For Trumpet & Strings: I. Allegro
Concerto Grosso No. 5 In D, Op. 6: I. Larghetto
Concerto in D for Trumpet, 2 Oboes, Strings & Continuo: I. Allegro
Concerto grosso In G Minor, Op. 6 No. 8: II. Allegro
Trumpet Voluntary

Customer Reviews:

poor sound quality.......2004-09-29

a great selection of baroque favorites, but the sound quality, especially on the pachelbel canon, not great at all. for that reason, i cannot recommend getting it. what do you expect for five dollars, right !>? i would suggest spending a little more money and getting something that you can't bear to part with, for continued listening enjoyment.

SUPERB.......2004-02-19

An introduction to the best baroque music by famous composers.
Great sound on this CD. There are over 10 CD's in this Farorites collection, and this by far is one of the best ones.

If you like the classical sounds of music, then you will like this. Check out the samples on this page that they provide, that's the best way to review.

In this case: I'm baroque.......2004-02-07

I'm not usually a classical listener kind of gal. The only reason I stumbled onto this cd is because my favorite tune from a movie is on it. Sarabande is also played on the movie Persuasion (author: Jane Austen). I wanted to have that tune. Followed the links and landed on the Baroque cd. Ordered it. Sarabande is my favorite, followed by Canon, four seasons: spring, etc. I love this cd! It feels happy and light. For me, as a writer and an animator, it adds extra emotional impact when creating as well as influencing my imagination more. I recommend this cd when people want to feel like spring.

Come to laugh and stay to cry.......2003-11-26

Circumspect at first about buying any CD with a "best of" title, this one really exceeds expectations. Also bought the Vivaldi disc in this series which is likewise exceptional. With the caveat that "Ombra mai fu" is repeated in various of the "25 favorites" collections, I recommend these recordings wholeheartedly, especially in terms of cost per track.

"Canon" is the flagship piece on this CD, a lush arrangement that will move a strong man to tears. Almost as powerful are Bach's "Air on the G String" and of course, Handel's "Ombra mai fu". The disc ends on an up note with "Trumpet Voluntaire".

At this price, you can send "Baroque favorites" to every Classical music lover you know. I would recommend sending this CD even to people who don't like Classical...you might just change their minds.

Great Introduction to Beautiful Music.......2000-07-08

The Baroque period (1600-1750) was one of the most important in the history of music because many of our modern musical forms come from this time. The baroque style is diverse, including such elements as contrast and a deep emotionalism. Although orchestras perform the songs, many individual instruments are highlighted. The baroque composers especially loved strings, the trumpet, and the oboe. The songs range from the vibrant and the lively to the slow and the sad. I have found this CD is excellent as background music for studying, reading, or driving in rush hour traffic, mainly because the music is calming and relaxing. Baroque masters such as Bach and Handel are still popular today and their songs are loved by many. Fans of popular music will recognize a few of the songs on this CD. "Air on the G String" (Bach) was used by Procol Harum in their song "A Whiter Shade of Pale." "Canon," one of the most popular baroque songs today, is often performed at weddings and has been incorporated into pop songs by artists such as the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Vitamin C, and Rod McKuen.

Tracks:

Bach: Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
Vivaldi: Largo Winter
Bach: Air On A G String
Torelli: Trumpet Concerto
Bach: Sheep May Safely Graze
Handel: Let The Bright Seraphim
Handel: Pastoral Symphony
Boccherini: String Quintet, Minuet
Mendelssohn: On Wings Of Song
Liszt: Dream Of Love
Rachmaninov: Vocalise
Debussy: Claire De Lune
Satie: Gymnopedie No.1
Gluck: Dance Of The Blessed Spirits
Debussy: Arabesque
Bizet: Intermezzo
Elgar: Salut D'amour
Debussy: Prelude A L'apres - Midi D'un Faun

Tracks:

Wagner: Bridal Chorus
Clarke: Trumpet Voluntary
Handel: Royal Fireworks Music, Overture
Gabrieli: Canzon V
Charpentier: Te Deum
Purcell: Trumpet Tune
Mussorgsky: Promenade
Pachebel: Canon In D
Handel: Larghetto
Vivaldi: Guitar Concerto In D Major, Largo
Handel: Water Music, Air
Macdowell: To A Wild Rose
Beethoven: Pathetique Sonata, Adagio
Melchior: Adagio
Gounod: Ave Maria
Schubert: Ave Maria
Franck: Panis Angelicus
Faure: Pie Jesu
Rachmaninov: Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini
Schumann: Romance For Violin And Piano
Massenet: Meditation

Tracks:

Mendelssohn: Wedding March
Vivaldi: Concerto For Two Trumpets In B, Allegro
Telemann: Trumpet Concerto In D, Allegro
Vivaldi: Spring, Allegro
Telemann: Trumpet Concerto In B, Allegro
Handel: Concerto Grosso, Hornpipe
Bach: Brandenburg Concerto No.4, Allegro
Handel: Arrival Of The Queen Of Sheba
Schumann: Piano Quintet In E Flat Major
Widor: Toccata
Dubois: Toccata
Walton: Crown Imperial
Bach: Cantata No.51. 'Jauchzet Gott In Allen Landen.' Alleluia
Mozart: Exsultate Jubilate, Alleluia
Handel: Water Music, Hornpipe
Chopin; Variations On A Theme From 'La Cenerentola'
Faure: Sicilienne
Offenbach: Barcarolle
Faure: Berceuse
Saint-Saens: The Swan
Brahms: Waltz In A Flat
Grieg: Wedding Day At Troldhaugen

Album Description

The process of choosing music for a wedding day can certainly be a daunting process for any couple. There are many choices and the questions can be endless. Traditional music or something off the beaten path? Will your Mom cry (and not in a good way) if you do not come down the aisle to the traditional Wedding March from Wagner, or are you eager to try something new? This collection is designed to give the bridal couple some key pointers to navigate the world of classical music for their wedding day. The package includes over 3 1/2 hours of music on 3 CDs for all portions of the wedding service, all from the Naxos classical label (known for high-quality recordings at inexpensive prices). Wedding day favorites are there, along with new discoveries and tunes you may have never considered for a wedding. All pieces are hand selected by professional wedding musicians and consultants. As a bonus, the 20 page booklet will lead you through the process of choosing music, from hiring musicians to sample programs. Everything you need to create your own unique personal wedding soundtrack.

Customer Reviews:

GREAT WEDDING MUSIC!.......2007-01-24

I used these CD's for my wedding, and I was so happy I did. You need to buy this CD if you like having a traditional wedding! :)

Good Music.......2006-07-05

I bought these CDs for my wedding, in ceremony and reception. Also, when I created my own wedding video, I used it as background music.

A very complete selection of ceremony music!.......2005-02-02

I am getting married in several months and we couldn't decide what music we wanted at our wedding ceremony. This three disk compilation reminded us of all the great ones- including new options we hadn't thought about. I really enjoyed hearing the organ and strings versions of the songs. If you're someone who hears a classical or baroque piece of music, but can't remember the name or the precise tune, this is a must-have to jog your memory and trigger the tear ducts!

Comprehensive Classical Selection.......2004-04-15

I searched all over for a CD set that had a somewhat comprehensive list of classical selections that are traditionally played at weddings. When I found this 3 CD set, I was very pleased. It contains 61 works from almost as many composers. This set might not contain the "best recording ever" of each of the selections, however it is very well done and the quality is very good. I used it primarily to choose the pieces that I wanted to have played by the church organist, and so the actual recordings were more for my consumption rather than for use in the ceremony/reception itself. However, I would not have hestitated to use the CD's in the wedding itself if needed. The book inside includes a list of suggested songs for various wedding styles (formal, outside, morning, etc.). From the classical neophyte to the seasoned classical music expert, this CD set will meet if not exceed expectations.

Just one note..........2003-06-07

I have not heard this album, so I cannot rate it as a whole. (The form made me include a rating, but disregard that.) However, I want to point out that track 36, the Pie Jesu from Gabriel Faure's Requiem is - well, from a requiem, a mass for the dead. The Pie Jesu is a lovely, gentle movement, and it has a beautiful and pure sound that does seem to fit the mood of a wedding. The Latin words, however, mean "Merciful Lord Jesus, grant them everlasting rest," where "them" refers to the dead.

Tracks:

Concerto No.1 BWV 1046: ohne Satzbezeichnung
Concerto No.1 BWV 1046: Adagio
Concerto No.1 BWV 1046: Allegro
Concerto No.1 BWV 1046: Menuetto - Trio 1 - Polacca - Trio 2
Concert No.2 BWV 1047: ohne Satzbezeichnung
Concert No.2 BWV 1047: Andante
Concert No.2 BWV 1047: Allegro assai
Concerto No.3 BWV 1048: ohne Satzbezeichnung
Concerto No.3 BWV 1048: Adagio
Concerto No.3 BWV 1048: Allegro
Concerto No.4 BWV 1049: Allegro
Concerto No.4 BWV 1049: Andante
Concerto No.4 BWV 1049: Presto

Tracks:

Concerto No.5 BWV 1050: Allegro
Concerto No.5 BWV 1050: Affettuoso
Concerto No.5 BWV 1050: Allegro
Concerto No.6 BWV 1051: ohne Satzbezeichnung
Concerto No.6 BWV 1051: Adagio ma non tanto
Concerto No.6 BWV 1051: Allegro
Ouvertures No.1 BWV 1066: Ouverture
Ouvertures No.1 BWV 1066: Courante
Ouvertures No.1 BWV 1066: Gavotte 1-2
Ouvertures No.1 BWV 1066: Forlane
Ouvertures No.1 BWV 1066: Menuet 1-2
Ouvertures No.1 BWV 1066: Bourree 1-2
Ouvertures No.1 BWV 1066: Passepied 1-2

Tracks:

Ouverture No.2 BWV 1067: Ouverture
Ouverture No.2 BWV 1067: Rondeau
Ouverture No.2 BWV 1067: Sarabande
Ouverture No.2 BWV 1067: Bourree 1-2
Ouverture No.2 BWV 1067: Polonaise
Ouverture No.2 BWV 1067: Menuet
Ouverture No.2 BWV 1067: Badinerie
Ouverture No.3 BWV 1068: Ouverture
Ouverture No.3 BWV 1068: Air
Ouverture No.3 BWV 1068: Gavotte 1-2
Ouverture No.3 BWV 1068: Bourree
Ouverture No.3 BWV 1068: Gigue
Ouverture No.4 BWV 1069: Ouverture
Ouverture No.4 BWV 1069: Bourree 1-2
Ouverture No.4 BWV 1069: Gavotte
Ouverture No.4 BWV 1069: Menuet 1-2
Ouverture No.4 BWV 1069: Rejouissance

Customer Reviews:

Another five-star review.......2007-03-27

I first heard this recording when I got it out of the library and found it so incredible that I had to buy it for myself. The sound is warm, not tinny like the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields (the other recording I have, which I've never been terribly fond of), and very expressive. I cannot add any technical comments to the other reviews already written, but I can say that I agree that Trevor Pinnock and Simon Standage are a Baroque musical force to be reckoned with.

A wonderful and lifting experience.......2007-03-02

For me the only lacks in here are just for personal tastes: I find the fifth and sixth concertos a bit boring. On the other hand I've got already six different versions of these Brandenburg and this is which I like the most. The sound is (IMPRESSIVE) crystal clear and is played not only flawless, but with such devotion and passion that I almost fell on my knees the first time I listened to it.
I also recomend the version of Reinhard Goebel guiding the Música Antiqua Köln: it's awsome with its fabolous recreation of the baroque sounds.
If you like Bach and if you had the I Musici version of these Concertos, throw them away and get this Pinnock's: you won't regret a bit and you will be skyrocketed to Heaven.

Outstanding period performances.......2007-02-21

These recordings are excellent. Pinnock's Brandenburg concertos remain the standard for period instruments, offering exceptional musicianship and an authentic rendition. The Overtures are also great, although I greatly prefer the readings of Reinhard Goebel and Musica Antiqua Koln to these. Still, as a low-priced compilation of Bach's most popular orchestral works, this is an excellent set, and you could do much worse. Those who are new to classical music will find this set to be a great starting point.
In spite of the fact that the Brandeburg concertos were recorded using early digital technology, the intimate setting of these small ensembles neutralizes many of the problems of tinny, hollow sound that plagued the digital format in its early years. As for the Orchestral Suites, these were recorded using analog technology and sound fantastic.
These recordings are integral for those who prefer period instrument performances, and this is one of the great pioneering period instrument ensembles out there. Recommended.

Good Recordings!.......2007-01-15

In my opinion this set of recordings is very good. I study music and I have no complaints about how they were done. If you are looking for a very sufficient set of recordings for these works, this is definatly the set.

Top Notch Brandenburg.......2007-01-07

There are tons of Brandenburg recordings out there. How they stack up, of course, is a matter of personal taste. But having listened to many, this one stands out. It's crisp, fresh, and brings out the power of the music. In far too many renditions of Bach, much gets lots. Not so here. Certainly better technology has made things easier over the years. We can hear what might have been muffled in the past. But more than that, this interpretation makes the work come alive. Well done Trevor Pinnock.

Classical Masterpieces of the Millennium [20 CD Set]

Average customer rating:

Mill. Classical review
classical music for the unitiated
Some little gems there that I had forgotten!
A very helpful collection
Excellent!

Classical Masterpieces of the Millennium [20 CD Set]

Manufacturer: Delta
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Minuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Rondos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

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

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

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

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
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Masters of Classical Music (Box Set)
Little Night Music - Ultimate Mozart Collection [20 CD Set]
Passion - Most Famous Orchestral Spectaculars [20 CD Set]
Rendezvous of Angels - Concert Collection [20 CD Set]

ASIN: B00000K1C9
Release Date: 1999-08-24

Tracks:

Brandenbutg Concerto No.3 In G First Movement
Overture No.3 In D Second Movement
Violin Concerto In E First Movement
Prelude In C minor
Jesu Bleibet Meine Freude (Chorus From Cantata No.147)
Overture No.2 In B minor Minuet And Badinerie
Oboe Concerto In D minor Second Movement
Brandenburg Concerto No.4 In G Third Movement
Musical Offering - Fuga canonica
Easter Oratorio - Overture
Minuet In D minor
Kommst Du Nun, Jesu, Vom Himmel herunter(From Choral Prelude BWV 650
Brandenburg Concerto No.1 In F Second Movement
Art Of The Fugue - Contrapunctus 9
Concerto For Flute, Violin, Harpsichord And Strings. Triple Concerto - Third Movement
Overture No.4 In D - Réjouissance
Concerto No. 1 in E: Spring
Concerto No. 1 in E: Spring
Concerto No. 1 in E: Spring
Concerto No. 2 in G minor: Summer
Concerto No. 2 in G minor: Summer
Concerto No. 2 in G minor: Summer
Concerto No. 3 in F: Autumn
Concerto No. 3 in F: Autumn
Concerto No. 3 in F: Autumn
Concerto No. 4 in F minor: Winter
Concerto No. 4 in F minor: Winter
Concerto No. 4 in F minor: Winter
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto for Flute, Strings & Basso Continuo in G minor, Op. 10, no.2
Concerto Grosso in A minor, Op. 3, no. 8
Concerto Grosso in A minor, Op. 3, no. 8
Concerto Grosso in A minor, Op. 3, no. 8
Water Music - Alla Hornpipe
Xerxes - Ombra Mai Fu (Largo)
Messiah - And The Glory Of The Lord
Concerto Grosso In A Minor, Op. 6, No. 4 - Larghetto Affettuoso
Organ Concerto In F, Op. 4, No. 4 Allegro
Water Music - Air
Messiah - For Unto Us A Child Is Born
Concerto Grosso In B flat, Op. 3, No. 2 - Largo
Salomon - Sinfonia, Act 3
The Choice Of Hercules - While For Thy Arms
Water Music - Allegro (Suite No. 1)
Suite No. 5 In E - Air With Variations
Jephtha - How Dark, O Lord
Organ Concerto In F, Op. 4, No. 5 Alla Siciliana - Presto
Mi Palpita Il Cor (Solo Cantata) S'un Di M'adora
Water Music - Andante Allegro Da Capo
Concerto for Trumpet & Orchestra in E-flat: First Movement
Symphony No. 94 in G: Surprise Symphony-second movement
Concerto for Violin No. 2 in D: Third Movement
Flute Trio No. 31 in G: Second Movement
Symphony No. 31 in D: Hornsignal-First Movement
String Quartet No. 17 in F, Op. 3, no. 5: Serenade Quartet-Second Movement
Sinfonia Concertante in B-flat for Violin, Cello, Oboe, Bassoon and Orchestra-Third Movement
Concerto for 2 Horns & Orchestra in E-flat: Second Movement
Symphony No. 88 in G: Fourth Movement
String Quartet No. 77 in C: Kaiser Quartet-Poco a