The Fairy Queen (complete)

Editorial Reviews
Album Description
The Symphony of Harmony and Invention, The Sixteen's acclaimed baroque orchestra, makes its first appearance on a CORO disc. The Fairy Queen, one of Purcell's grandest creations, is a fantastic blend of magic, mystery, passion and tomfoolery - both profoundly moving and entertaining in turn. The Sixteen's superb recording features soloists Ann Murray, Lorna Anderson, Gillian Fisher, Michael Chance and Richard Suart. Based on Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, Henry Purcell's The Fairy Queen was composed in 1691/2 and remains without doubt one of his greatest works adding his magic, wit and sensuality to that of the play. One of the greatest of England's composers, Purcell flourished in the years that followed the Restoration of Charles II to the throne, his unique talents celebrated and admired in the atmosphere of artistic creativity and courtly opulence of the time. "A performance like this shows dimensions of Purcell's genius that are all too rarely heard on disc." - Gramophone

Tracks:

Scenes Form Childhood: Foreign Lands And People
Scenes Form Childhood: Dreaming
Scenes Form Childhood: Child Falling Asleep
Dream Of Children: Andante
Dream Of Children: Allegretto Piacevole
Sicilienne
Study No. 5: Moderato
The Nutcracker Suite Op. 71a: Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy - Tchaikovsky
Notebooks Of Anna Magdalena Bach: Minuets 4 and 5
The Indian Queen: Adagio
Album Leaves: Lullaby
Album Leaves: Cradlesong
Prelude In C Major - Bach
The Carnival Of Animals: The Swan
Gymnopedie I
Gymnopedie III
Album for the Young: Morning Prayer - Tchaikovsky
Album for the Young: My Dear Little Mother - Tchaikovsky
Album for the Young: Sweet Reveries - Tchaikovsky
A Midsummer Night's Dream: Nocturne No. 7 - Mendelssohn
Contes D'Hoffmann: Barcarolle
Piano Concerto No. 26 In D Major: Larghetto
Melody
Lullaby

Amazon.com

I think this music is intended for adults, though the photo on the cover is of a sleeping baby. In any event, Schumann's work, Scenes From Childhood, Op. 15, featured here is more likely to bolt you out of bed than put you to sleep, as the mike is far too close to the piano being played by Cyprien Katsaris. Purcell's Adagio from The Indian Queen is magnificent, performed by John Elliott Gardiner and the English Baroque Soloists. The Weird Award goes to triple harpist Tim Hobrough and lutenist Stephen Barber for their bizarre, spiky rendition of Minuets Nos. 4 and 5 from the Notebook of Anna Magdalena Bach. I would like to meet Bill Holland, producer of all these Atlantic Records classical compilations. He's programmed Satie's Gymnopedie No. 1 on three different CDs, billed alternately as sensuous, romantic, and now here: good for a long snooze. --Gwendolyn Freed

Customer Reviews:

What is all the hype about?.......2007-07-09

I purchased this CD on the basis of the reviews written on Amazon. I have to say I am terribly disappointed. My son hates the CD, I listened to it and I am not all that impressed either. It is ok but nothing like described by other users.

great cd.......2007-06-26

We play this cd every night at bedtime. It not only helps my baby stay asleep, but helps me fall asleep. The only issue I have is that one of the tracks near the end of the cd is a little louder than the tracks before it, so I just make sure I keep it on very quiet and it's wonderful.

My girls listen to this every night.......2006-11-10

My girls (ages 3 & 5) have a hard time winding down at night. We have a regular bedtime routine (bath, snack, teeth brushing, books, hugs), but they still take forever to settle down and sleep. Adding this CD to the bedtime routine has really helped.

I would give it more than 5 stars...........2005-11-18

I had this CD when my daughter was born 5 years ago, and it gave us such a soothing environment in which to bond during quiet times. We also put it on shortly before we'd put her down to sleep, and by 6 weeks she was sleeping through the night in her own crib. I think it was her sanctuary, and the music helped her feel comforted. We've since then completely worn out the CD (she listened to it through her 3rd year), and will have to buy a new one for our next little addition (coming soon!). I found it on this site and just listened to the samples from each track. Aahhh... very soothing for Mommy, too!
I also plan to get it as a baby gift for a friend. :)

Great CD: soothing music by best performers. Worth every penny........2005-08-05

I listened to this CD countless times ever since I first bought it from BMG music service back in 1997. Compositions of this CD are popular classical hits. That is, you will likely recognize at least some of them if you listen to the sampler.

What sets this CD apart is supreme music performance. Every composition is performed flawlessly, with real feeling and passion. There is a good reason why this CD that was released in 1997 is still around and costs over ten dollars. This reason is called quality.

Ceremonial Music for Trumpet & Symphonic Organ

Average customer rating:

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

Ceremonial Music for Trumpet & Symphonic Organ

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Toccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

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

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

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

ASIN: B000003CZG
Release Date: 1993-04-27

Tracks:

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

Customer Reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Average customer rating:

Interesting and Lovely Music
If you like Monteverdi, you will love Purcell

Purcell: The Fairy Queen

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

$6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

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Purcell: Dido and Aeneas / James, Lewis, Baker, Herincx

ASIN: B00005IA24
Release Date: 2002-04-09

Tracks:

First Music: Prelude - David Wilson-Johnson
First Music: Hornpipe - David Wilson-Johnson
Second Music: Air - David Wilson-Johnson
Second Music: Rondeau - David Wilson-Johnson
Overture - David Wilson-Johnson
Act One: Song In Two Parts: Come, Let Us Leave The Town - Richard Wistreich
Act One: Scene Of The Drunken Poet - David Wilson-Johnson
Act One: First Act Tune: Jig - Roger Norrington
Act Two: Song: Come All Ye Songsters - Howard Crook
Act Two: Prelude - Roger Norrington
Act Two: Trio: May The God Of Wit Inspire - David Wilson-Johnson
Act Two: Echo - Howard Crook
Act Two: Chorus: Now Joyn Your Warbling Voices - Schutz Choir Of London
Act Two: Song And Chorus: Sing While We Trip It - Schutz Choir Of London
Act Two: Song: See, Even Night Herself Is Here - Susan Bickley
Act Two: Song: I Am Come To Lock All Fast - Lorraine Hunt
Act Two: Song: One Charming Night - Mark Padmore
Act Two: Song And Chorus: Hush, No More - Schutz Choir Of London
Act Two: Dance For The Followers Of Night - Roger Norrington
Act Two: Second Act Tune: Air - Roger Norrington
Act Three: Song In Two Parts And Chorus: If Love's A Sweet Passion - Schutz Choir Of London
Act Three: Overture: Symphony While The Swans Come Forward - Roger Norrington
Act Three: Dance For The Fairies - Roger Norrington
Act Three: Dance For The Green Men - Roger Norrington
Act Three: Song: Ye Gentle Spirits Of The Air - Lorraine Hunt
Act Three: Dialogue Between Coridon And Mopsa - Mark Padmore
Act Three: Dance For The Haymakers - Roger Norrington
Act Three: Song: When I Have Often Heard - Catherine Pierard
Act Three: Song And Chorus: A Thousand, Thousand Ways - Howard Crook
Act Three: Third Act Tune: Hornpipe - Roger Norrington

Tracks:

Act Four: Symphony - Roger Norrington
Act Four: Solo And Chorus: Now The Night - Catherine Pierard
Act Four: Duet: Let The Fifes, And The Clarions - Howard Crook
Act Four: Entry Of Phoebus - Roger Norrington
Act Four: Song: When A Cruel Long Winter - Mark Padmore
Act Four: Chorus: Hail! Great Parent - Schutz Choir Of London
Act Four: Song: Thus The Ever Grateful Spring - Lorraine Hunt
Act Four: Song: Here's The Summer - Howard Crook
Act Four: Song: See, See My Many Colour'd Fields - Mark Padmore
Act Four: Song: Now Winter Comes Slowly - David Wilson-Johnson
Act Four: Chorus: Hail! Great Parent - Schutz Choir Of London
Act Four: Fourth Tune Act: Air - Roger Norrington
Act Five: Prelude - Roger Norrington
Act Five: Epithalamium: Thrice Happy Lovers - Susan Bickley
Act Five: Song: The Plaint - O Let Me Weep - Lorraine Hunt
Act Five: Entry Dance - Roger Norrington
Act Five: Symphony Dance - Roger Norrington
Act Five: Song: Thus The Gloomy world - Mark Padmore
Act Five: Solo And Chorus: Thus Happy And Free - Catherine Pierard
Act Five: Song: Yes, Daphne - Howard Crook
Act Five: Monkey's Dance - Roger Norrington
Act Five: Song: Hark, How All Things - Susan Bickley
Act Five: Song And Chorus: Hark, How The Echoing Air - Lorraine Hunt
Act Five: Solos And Chorus: Sure The Dull God - Susan Bickley
Act Five: Prelude - Roger Norrington
Act Five: Solo: See, See, I Obey - David Wilson-Johnson
Act Five: Duet: Turn Then Thine Eyes - Susan Bickley
Act Five: Solo: My Torch, Indeed - David Wilson-Johnson
Act Five: Trio And Chorus: They Shall Be As Happy - David Wilson-Johnson
Act Five: Chaconne: Dance For Chinese Man And Woman - Roger Norrington

Amazon.com

Purcell worked immensely hard on his score for The Fairy Queen, but the original was lost. The version on which this performance is based arrived at London's Royal Academy of Music by devious routes a century and a half later. But in Roger Norrington's hands, it emerges in its pristine beauty: you could not wish for a better introduction to Purcell's greatest stage work. Only a "semi-opera," maybe, but one studded with exquisite songs and majestic choruses. The anonymous libretto is loosely based on Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, but its inexhaustible melodic invention is imbued with Shakespearean magic. Some songs have become concert favorites, notably "O let me weep," but the joy of this double CD is that you discover dozens more, and of comparable quality. Purcell's music breathes in perfect tandem with the words and Norrington creates out of this a riveting symbiosis. The singing is pure Baroque-instrumental clarity of tone, unsullied by any vibrato, and the playing is immaculate. Comedy and pathos are both here in spades; vast space is evoked through the pairing of flutes and the echoing of trumpets. And so are all the colors of nature: Purcell's music foreshadows Vivaldi. --Michael Church

Customer Reviews:

Interesting and Lovely Music.......2004-02-06

This 'semi-opera' is one of the last works of Henry Purcell, the greatest English Baroque composer. Essentially a series of scenes with linking music, The Fairy Queen, like other semi-operas, lacks the integrity of plot and action of real opera. In performance, I suspect this work would be somewhat static, sort of a serious music variety show. The music, however, is lovely. The Fairy Queen contains some of Purcell's best vocal and instrumental work with some components that became part of the concert repertoire. Hearing all the music together is a fine experience, though the semi-opera format tends to work against the dramatic and musical cohesion which can be found in even merely good operas. The vocalists are splendid, particularly Lorraine (as she was then spelling her name) Hunt. The orchestral playing is just as good.

If you like Monteverdi, you will love Purcell.......2002-08-21

Absolutely beautifull baroque opera! The arrangament, singing and instrumentation is superb. If you liked Monteverdi's Coronation of Poppea, it is a must to have this baroque masterpiece! It is too bad that Henry Purcell is not as widely known as Bach, because he should be recognized equally well.

Average customer rating:

The Best Battle Album.
Ah, Kathleen!
The greatest of recital albums, part 2
The Magnificent Kathleen Battle Has Done It Again!!
The greatest of recital albums!

Kathleen Battle in Concert

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

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Kathleen Battle Sings Mozart
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ASIN: B000001GNP
Release Date: 1995-03-14

Tracks:

The Fairy Queen: Come All Ye Songsters
Oedipus: Music For A While
Pausanias: Sweeter Than Roses
Joshua: O Had I Jubal's Lyre
Bei der Wiege Op. 47 No. 6
Neue Liebe Op. 19a No. 4
Schlagende Herzen Op. 29 No. 2
Ich wollt' ein Strausslein binden Op. 68 No. 2
Sausle, liebe Myrte Op. 69 No. 3
Ridente la calma K. 152 (210a)
Das Veilchen K. 476
Un moto di gioia K. 579
Mandoline Op. 58 No. 1
Les Roses d'Ispahan Op. 39 No. 4
En Priere
Notre amour Op. 23 No. 2
Honor, Honor
His Name So Sweet
Witness
He's Got The Whole World In His Hand

Amazon.com

After years of being one of the foremost singers of light lyrics, Kathleen Battle, searching for challenging new musical expression, tackles the dramatic Mozart repertory. Blessed with one of our generation's prettiest soubrette voices, Battle breezes through the technical challenges of the Countess and Constanze, but sounds like a little girl trying on Mommy's shoes. She lacks the vocal variety and depth to successfully bring these pieces to life. Her renditions of the soubrette repertory, especially "Ruhe sanft," are Mozartfully graceful. In the Magic Flute excerpts she demonstrates that merely singing Mozart's written notes is enough to bring its beauty to life; practically all necessary expression is written into the musical lines. -- Barbara Eisner Bayer

Customer Reviews:

The Best Battle Album........2007-02-10

I have most of Kathleen Battle's albums and must say this is my favorite. Her distinctive voice is crisp and sails effortlessly through the music, James Levine on the piano is fantastic and compliments her as if the two had been made for each other, the repitoire is expertly selected, and the recording is crystal clear. This is Battle in the prime of her career -- this is one of those albums you will find yourself coming back to.

Ah, Kathleen!.......2006-03-04

I have been looking to reacquire this album for forever!! It's great, and I love Kathleen's voice here.

I have to say, though, that the Amazon.com editorial review must have been written for another album, for neither 'Ruhe Sanft' nor anything from 'Die Zauberflote' is on this disc.

=^_^=

The greatest of recital albums, part 2.......2005-09-04

It's hard to simply repeat what someone else has written, but before I noticed the review above, I was going to say that this is the greatest vocal recital I've ever heard. It's a pleausre to be the second to voice that opinion.

Why is the editorial review about Mozart? Amazon nods.

The Magnificent Kathleen Battle Has Done It Again!!.......2002-03-04

Go Kathleen! I often dream of what music will sound like behind the Pearly Gates of Heaven-my dreams are no more, I have found what I've been searching for. Just push play and then be prepared for your body and soul to leave this earth behind. Believe me new and established fans-she IS that good.

From the first to the last track "La Battle" captivates and stuns her audience into a cult-like stupor. Indulge in Purcell's "Music for a While". After listening to a 30 second clip, I knew I needed this CD. She slowly and sensually lulls you with her perfected pronunciation. Her performance is like rich imported chocolate melting in your mouth. On Mendelssohn's "Neue Liebe" "La Battle" does an about face and speeds things up a bit. This tounge-twisting, finger-snapping performance is outstanding. Only a great opera Diva can handle such difficult piece of work, but as well all know, Kathleen never disappoints!

Kathleen masters Mozart's " Ridente la calma, Das Veilchen and Un moto di gioia". She paints such wonders with her voice that Monet must be rolling around in his grave. ;)
The 4 Spiritual at the end deserves only the utmost Praise. "Honor, Honor, His Name So Sweet, and Witness and He's Got the Whole World in His Hand". Check out her fantastically flawless super-HIGH notes! These songs are reason enough to get this CD.

I will forever be a Battle fan because of this recital. Thank you for making the Opera world a better place. We LOVE you Kathleen!

The greatest of recital albums!.......2002-01-16

Kathleen Battle In Concert has been a part of my classical listening experience for many, many years, and many, many repeated playings. Every time I play it, I feel real joy at hearing Kathleen Battle in the opening bars of Purcell's "Come All Ye Songsters."

Miss Battle brings a high level of musicality, an impeccable use of phrasing and some truly beatiful high notes to a wonderful mix of lighter art/love songs, and more serious, but very joyous gospel classics, as in her rendition of "He's Got the Whole World In His Hands."

Tracks:

O Solitude - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North
Ah! How Sweet It Is To Love - Nancy Argenta/Richard Boothby/Paul Nicholson
Not All My Torments - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Paul Nicholson
Stripp'd Of Their Green - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Richard Boothby/Paul Nicholson
Tell Me, Some Pitying Angel - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Richard Boothby/Paul Nicholson
If Music Be The Food Of Love - Nancy Argenta/Richard Boothby/Paul Nicholson
Hark! Hark! The Echoing Air - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Richard Boothby/Paul Nicholson
The Fatal Hour Comes On Apace - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North
Incassum, Lesbia - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Paul Nicholson
Sweeter Than Roses - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Richard Boothby
Cupid, The Slyest Rogue Alive - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Richard Boothby/Paul Nicholson
From Silent Shades - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Richard Boothby/Paul Nicholson
Dear Pretty Youth - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Richard Boothby
From Rosy Bow'rs - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Richard Boothby/Paul Nicholson
Now That The Sun Hath Veil'd His Light - Nancy Argenta/Paul Nicholson
Beneath A Poplar's Shadow - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Richard Boothby
I Attempt From Love's Sickness To Fly - Nancy Argenta/Paul Nicholson
Let Us Dance - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/Richard Boothby/Paul Nicholson
Fairest Isle - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North
O Solitude - Nancy Argenta/Richard Boothby

Tracks:

Nymphs And Shepherds - Nancy Argenta/Nicholas Robinson/Fiona Huggett/Trevor Jones/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
Amidst The Shades And Cool Refreshing Streams - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North
Love In Their Little Veins Inspires - Nancy Argenta/Rachel Becket/Marion Scott/Richard Boothby/Nigel North
Fly Swift, Ye Hours - Nancy Argenta/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
They Tell Us That Your Mighty Powers - Nancy Argenta/Nicholas Robinson/Fiona Huggett/Trevor Jones/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
The Plaint: O Let Me Weep - Nancy Argenta/Pauline Nobes/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
In The Black, Dismal Dungeon Of Despair - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/John Toll
See, Even Night Herself Is Here - Nancy Argenta/Nicholas Robinson/Fiona Huggett/Trevor Jones
Why Should Men Quarrel? - Nancy Argenta/Rachel Becket/Marion Scott/Richard Boothby/John Toll
Seek Not To Know - Nancy Argenta/Paul Goodwin/Sophia McKenna/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
Retir'd From Mortals' Sight - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North
To Arms, Heoric Prince - Nancy Argenta/Mark Bennett/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
O Lead Me To Some Peaceful Gloom - Nancy Argenta/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
Halcyon Days - Nancy Argenta/Paul Goodwin/Pauline Nobes/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
Bid The Virtues - Nancy Argenta/Paul Goodwin/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
Lord, What Is Man? (A Divine Hymn) - Nancy Argenta/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
Music For A While - Nancy Argenta/John Toll
If Music Be The Food Of Love (1st Setting) - Nancy Argenta/Richard Boothby/John Toll
Sawney Is A Bonny Lad (A Scotch Song) - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North
When I Have Often Heard Young Maids Complaining - Nancy Argenta/Nicholas Robinson/Fiona Huggett/Richard Boothby/Nigel North/John Toll
Ah! Cruel, Bloody Fate - Nancy Argenta/Nigel North/John Toll
Thy Hand, Belinda... When I Am Laid In Earth - Nancy Argenta/Nicholas Robinson/Fiona Huggett/Trevor Jones/Richard Boothby/Nigel North

Customer Reviews:

Nice Collection.......2007-03-05

I have many collections of Purcell's Music. This collection stands up to them at half the price. Solid buy.

PERFECT!.......2006-10-26

There is only a word with which I can describe this set of discs: perfect!
The only flaw there is, is not related to the singing or playing: no text enclosed.

Great singing and excellent value for money.......2004-09-19

This is probably one of the best anthologies of Purcell songs around, and not just because it's two-for-one pricing means it contains twice as much music (CD1:74'24" & CD2: 77'41")! Nancy Argenta has an irrepressible sense of style and crystal clear diction. But unlike Emma Kirby, whose vocal purity can become tiresome, these renditions radiate warmth. She is also, I have found, more consistently involving than any one of the singers in Hyperion's three disc survey of Complete Secular Songs (recently reissued as a single set). One marvels at how she judiciously balances restraint and emotional forthrightness. The accompaniments (archlute, viola da gamba, harpsichord, and organ) are well judged and blend with the voice, all helped by an excellently defined recording acoustic. This is an absolute winner at any price!

More than two hours of beautiful 17th century 'ayres'.......2001-08-02

Two CDs, totaling more than 150 minutes of sparsely-arranged (never more than 3-5 instruments at a time), sweetly-sung, 350 year old 'ayres' (a typically English form of secular music). Nancy Argenta's soprano voice is lovely, silvery indeed as her name implies. The instruments are a discreet but friendly accompaniment to her solo voice. Perhaps the instruments are a little too discreet -- there are times when I wish they were a touch more prominent. But that is a very, very minor complaint. A beautiful collection, and quite well worth the money.

Come, Gentle Night: Music of Shakespeare's World

Average customer rating:

Ensemble Galilei's music is lilting, elegant and unexpected!
beautiful
Excellent!
It will bring about many gentle nights
Visualizing Beauty

Come, Gentle Night: Music of Shakespeare's World

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B0000478S3
Release Date: 2000-01-25

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Mister Issac's Maggot, Chestnut (Dove's Vagary)
Woodycock
Death's Second Self
Jack's Health, Vale Of Years, Jack's Health Reel
Come, Gentile Night
Departe, Departe, The Cobbler's Hornpipe, Third Act Tune
But Let Them Go, Ladies, Sight No More
In A Garden So Green, Childgrove
Fire, Burn, and Cauldron Bubble
The Asp
Rumble Thy Bellyful
Pastime With Good Company, O Lusty May
Irish Lament
Joy To THe Person Of My Love
The Winter's Tale Set: Love's Winter Light, Apples In Winter, Drive The Cold Winter Away, Jenny Pluck Pears
Lilli Burleo
The Scottich Play Set: Life Is But A Walking Shadow, Mill, Mill O', Pawky Adam Glen
Heart's Ease, Now That The Spring, Gathering Peascods
No Longer Mourn For Me

Customer Reviews:

Ensemble Galilei's music is lilting, elegant and unexpected!.......2002-11-29

With their soulful playing and artful, sometimes even ephemeral arrangements, the six women of Ensemble Galilei convey a rare depth of emotion. In the insert notes, gamba player Carolyn Ann Surrick describes their creative process: "[In making this recording, we engaged in]...a kind of work that is so focused and intense that years can go by in one afternoon... Extraordinary music-making requires trust... [We] live for the times when the only thing that exists right then is the music--when the instruments are speaking as if we don't exist, and they are having their own conversation." Thank you, Ensemble Galilei, for allowing the rest of us the privilege of coming along for the ride! It's simply delectable. This chamber ensemble, featuring fiddle, harp, gamba, oboe, pipes and percussion, can also be heard on their other Telarc release, "From the Isles to the Courts", and "The Mystic and the Muse: Celebrating 600 Years of Women in Music", on the Dorian label.

beautiful.......2001-01-22

Sheer beauty, as a lover of English music I found this to be one of the most beautiful of all Shakespearean albums. Such harmony, such subtlety, one wishes that the gentle night will never stop.

Excellent!.......2001-01-04

Ensemble Galilei provide some excellent arrangements of English renaissance compositions. I believe that John Playford (English Dancing Master) fans will be particularly satisfied with the renditions presented here. It is very unfortunate that E.G. did not provide more arrangements from such early music sources. Some of E.G.'s own compositions seem very weak and not in the renaissance spirit of the rest of the CD. Nonetheless, this CD is highly recommmended.

It will bring about many gentle nights.......2000-11-22

I found this album to be solid. Very sweet, but not afraid to use percussion which makes it livelier and more fun. I adore the quiet, peacefulness of the music and the flawless execution of these renaissance songs.

Visualizing Beauty.......2000-08-20

I recently had the good fortune to direct a performance of King Lear--the ENTIRE five acts, in a community theatre, non-profit setting. I used twenty-four fully committed non-actors, who for the love of the ideas, participated in this performance. The first and main challenge that I faced was, how do I go "behind" the words, and invoke the right emotions, etc., to give these actors the range and tools needed for an effective, powerful performance? Critical to this performance was the beauty and brilliance of this recording, which I used throughout the various scenes of the play. This helped the performers tremendously, creating the different tapestries in the mind of the Bard. In short, this work is real genius, that I was so happy that I stumbled across. I am now putting in our performance programs, along with our most heart-felt thanks to E.G., the name of the recording and I have copies from Telarc to sell at each performance!

Average customer rating:

one of my favorites

For a Lazy Afternoon (Dig)
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Decca U.S.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

For a Summer Evening (Dig)
For Your Dreams (Dig)
For A Sunday Morning
For When You're Alone (Dig)
Dinner for Two

ASIN: B000065VBT
Release Date: 2002-05-07

Tracks:

Pachelbel: Canon in D
JS Bach: Concerto For Two Violins & Orchestra in D minor: Largo
Corelli: Concerto Grosso in G minor: Adagio. Allegro. Adagio
JS Bach: Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
JS Bach: Orchestral Suite No. 2: Badinerie
Handel: Water Music Suite No. 1: Air
Purcell: The Fairy Queen: Rondeau
Vivaldi: Concerto for Guitar in D: Largo
Marcello: Oboe Concerto in D minor: Adagio
Mozart: Clarinet Concerto: Adagio
Vivaldi: Flute Concerto in D: Cantabile
Mozart: Divertimento No. 2 in D: Menuetto
JS Bach: Cello Suite No. 1: Prelude
Mozart: Sonata for Piano and Violin in C: Andante Sostenuto
Mozart: Divertimento No. 2 in D: Menuetto (2nd)
Handel: The Arrival Of the Queen Of Sheba

Customer Reviews:

one of my favorites.......2002-07-31

A nice mix of classics that are soothing without being boring. I have this in my office and have found myself both happier and more relaxed when I play it. Because there are no real extremes in volume I can put it one low and have it in the background during a meeting or turn it up when I'm by myself.
I recommend it was antidote to stress and crabbiness.

Angels Hide Their Faces: Dawn Upshaw Sings Bach and Purcell

Average customer rating:

Beautiful, fervent Bach, but the Purcell songs are a bit prettified
Now that the Sun hath veil'd his light.....
Picky reviewers
hark ! how well the lady sings

Angels Hide Their Faces: Dawn Upshaw Sings Bach and Purcell

Manufacturer: Nonesuch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Voices of Light
Forgotten Songs: Dawn Upshaw Sings Debussy
I Wish It So
Dawn Upshaw Sings Rodgers & Hart
Girl with Orange Lips

ASIN: B000059LXH
Release Date: 2001-03-27

Tracks:

Music For A While - Dawn Upshaw/Myron Lutzke/Arthur Haas
I Attempt From Love's Sickness To Fly - Dawn Upshaw/Myron Lutzke/Arthur Haas
Ah! How Sweet It Is To Love - Dawn Upshaw/Myron Lutzke/Arthur Haas
Lord, What Is Man - Dawn Upshaw/Myron Lutzke/Arthur Haas
Hark! How All Things - Dawn Upshaw/Myron Lutzke/Arthur Haas
Cantata BWV 199: Mein Herze Schwimmt Im Blut: Recitativo - Dawn Upshaw/Krista Bennion Feeney/Linda Quan/Lois Martin/Myron Lutzke/John Feeney/Peggy Pearson...
Cantata BWV 199: Mein Herze Schwimmt Im Blut: Aria - Dawn Upshaw/Krista Bennion Feeney/Linda Quan/Lois Martin/Myron Lutzke/John Feeney/Peggy Pearson...
Cantata BWV 199: Mein Herze Schwimmt Im Blut: Recitativo - Dawn Upshaw/Krista Bennion Feeney/Linda Quan/Lois Martin/Myron Lutzke/John Feeney/Peggy Pearson...
Cantata BWV 199: Mein Herze Schwimmt Im Blut: Aria - Dawn Upshaw/Krista Bennion Feeney/Linda Quan/Lois Martin/Myron Lutzke/John Feeney/Peggy Pearson...
Cantata BWV 199: Mein Herze Schwimmt Im Blut: Recitativo - Dawn Upshaw/Krista Bennion Feeney/Linda Quan/Lois Martin/Myron Lutzke/John Feeney/Peggy Pearson...
Cantata BWV 199: Mein Herze Schwimmt Im Blut: Chorale - Dawn Upshaw/Krista Bennion Feeney/Linda Quan/Lois Martin/Myron Lutzke/John Feeney/Peggy Pearson...
Cantata BWV 199: Mein Herze Schwimmt Im Blut: Recitativo - Dawn Upshaw/Krista Bennion Feeney/Linda Quan/Lois Martin/Myron Lutzke/John Feeney/Peggy Pearson...
Cantata BWV 199: Mein Herze Schwimmt Im Blut: Aria - Dawn Upshaw/Krista Bennion Feeney/Linda Quan/Lois Martin/Myron Lutzke/John Feeney/Peggy Pearson...
If Music Be The Food Of Love - Dawn Upshaw/Myron Lutzke/Arthur Haas
The Blessed Virgin's Expostulation - Dawn Upshaw/Myron Lutzke/Arthur Haas
An Evening Hymn - Dawn Upshaw/Myron Lutzke/Arthur Haas

Amazon.com

Soprano Dawn Upshaw's programs are always interesting, and this one's a beauty: one of Bach's most heartfelt cantatas flanked by songs and arias of Purcell. For the most part, she's in excellent voice, but with the tics that make some demur from enthusiasm: occasional swooping, thinning of the voice in the upper regions, lapses into a "Broadway" type of vocalism, and diction problems. The latter, oddly enough, are as present in Purcell's English as in Bach's German, as in the way Upshaw lands heavily on the r with a broad American accent rather than the lightly rolled r we're used to in performances of period English music. There's also some broad word-painting in the Bach, whose text, charting the soul's journey from sin to redemption, really needs no extra emoting. That said, Upshaw's fans will love this disc, and even those who prefer a different approach will enjoy it. Accompaniments are excellent: a continuo team in the Purcell, a small chamber group in the Bach. Outstanding sonics, too. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful, fervent Bach, but the Purcell songs are a bit prettified.......2006-08-24

Amazon's reviewer seems to have zoned out on how Dawn Upshaw pronounces words, missing most of the musical value here. Her singing of the Bach cantata, 'Mein Herze schwimmt in Blut,' is very moving. She is deeply involved, and her voice extracts the deep reverence and religious passion that makes this music so great. I'm not as convinced by the Purcell songs, however. Upshaw has chosen some of the most famous, and set against great singers like Battle, Baker, and Ferrier, her rendiitons seem a little shallow and prettified. She's considerably more tuned in to Bach, which is good enough to make this a memorable CD, if not her very best. Things would be much improved if the conducting by the (totally uncredited) conductor weren't so limp.

Now that the Sun hath veil'd his light............2001-08-04

Some say angels are God's messangers. When angels communicate, surely they sound like Dawn Upshaw. Upshaw's beautiful soprano voice rises to the stars and floats back again as she sings the beautiful collection of arias and cantatas by Purcell and Bach contained in ANGELS HIDE THEIR FACES.

Shaw's interpretation of Purcell's 'How sweet it is to love' reminds me of the elation I first felt on realizing love exists. 'Lord what is a man' brings one back to earth with a lamentation about human frailty and the finiteness of human existence. "Rejoice, rejoice" sings the angel in 'Hark! How all things' with lyrics from 'The Fairy Queen' -- a text by E. Settle after Shakespeare's 'A Midsummer Night's Dream.'

Bach's cantatas fill the air as Upshaw sings arias in German (interpretations are provided in the text accompanying the CD). J.S. Bach's songs are clearly and beautifully articulated by Upshaw while in the backgound various wind and string instruments accompany her vocalizations. Many of Upshaw's vocalizations by Bach in German as well as the instrumentation (including viol consort) remind me of the arias from 'The Messiah' -- majestic albeit on a very human scale. For example, Aria #9 by Bach is comparable to "He shall lead his flock.." (although the latter was written for an alto voice).

The music in English by Purcell is a bit lighter. My favorite piece is 'An evening hymn' by Purcell which I would expect to hear near dusk in an English chapel. However, ANGELS HIDE THEIR FACES contains music you can play year round at any time of day.

Picky reviewers.......2001-05-31

I've got a degree in musicology ( and am fluent in German as well), and for a while after total immersion in graduate school, found my listening enjoyment frustrated by the same pickiness that hampers your reviewer. Fortunately, that passed, and I'm now able to simply appreciate Dawn Upshaw's performance of the music we hear all too seldom. I hope that others will be able to participate in Upshaw's interpretation of the poetry behind the music, to think about the theological role of angels (not just pretty faces and feathery wings), to love this wonderful recording. We are indeed blessed that technology allows us to experience such music, such an artist.

hark ! how well the lady sings.......2001-05-31

This is one of those little gems that becomes more appealing with each hearing. The Purcell pieces are sweet and lovely, but the Bach ! This Cantata is the glory of this CD. It's verses are of the deepest sorrow and repentance, woeful utterances for God's forgiveness, until the final aria, "How joyful is my heart since God is appeased". Dawn Upshaw's interpretation is beautiful. She captures the emotion, the longing, the spirituality and heart of the piece.

Tracks:

Also Sprach Zarathustra: Opening - Berlin Philharmonic
William Tell Overture: Finale - Riccardo Chailly
Peer Gynt, Op.23: Morning Mood - Vienna Philharmonic
'O Sole Mio - Luciano Pavarotti
Suite No.3 In D Major, BWV 1068: Air - Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra
Suite No.2 In B Minor, BWV 1067: Badinerie - Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra
Piano Concerto No.21 In C Major, K 467: Andante - Andras Schiff
Radetzky March, Op.28 - Vienna Philharmonic
Violin Concerto No.1 In G Minor: Adagio - Kyung Wha Chung
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik: Allegro - Vienna Mozart Ensemble
Chants D'Auvergne: Bailero - Kiri Te Kanawa
Waltz In D Flat Major, Op.64 No.1 'Minute' - Vladimir Ashkenazy
Cantata No.28: Sheep May Safely Graze - Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra
The Flight Of The Bumblebee - Philharmonia Orchestra
Bolero: Finale - Charles Dutoit
Les Contes D'Hoffman: Barcarolle - Richard Bonynge
Adagio In G Minor - Martin Haselbock
Pizzicato Polka - Vienna Philharmonic
Das Land Des Lachelns: Dein Ist Mein Mein Ganzes Herz - Placido Domingo

Tracks:

Carmina Burana: O Fortuna - Radio-Symphonie-Chor Berlin
Jazz Suite No.2: Waltz II - Riccardo Chailly
Adagio For Strings - David Zinman
Fantasia On Greensleeves - Sir Neville Marriner
The Four Seasons: Spring: I. Allegro - Alan Loveday
Trumpet Voluntary - Philip Jones Brass Ensemble
Canon - Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra
Casanova: Nuns' Chorus - Mormon Tabernacle Choir
Piano Sonata No.14 In C Sharp Minor, Op.27 No.2 'Moonlight': I. Adagio Sostenuto - Vladimir Ashkenazy
Rome & Juliet: Fantasy: Love Theme - Vienna Philharmonic
Warsaw Concerto - Cristina Ortiz
Symphony No.9 'From The New World': II. Largo (Excerpt) - Chicago Symphony Orchestra
The Nutcracker: Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy - Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
Concierto De Aranjuez: II. Adagio (Excerpt) - Carlos Bonell
Solomon: Arrival Of The Queen Of Sheba - Sir Neville Marriner
Hungarian Dance No.5 In G Minor - Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
Thais: Meditation - Nigel Kennedy
Turandot: Nessun Dorma - John Alldis Choir

Customer Reviews:

Great CD.......2003-01-24

This is good CD for casual Classical listening, new comers to classical music or the car! I love it. It has a good variety of pieces, something to suit every mood.

~*IT's Pure CLASSICAL*~.......2002-08-14

I dont own this cd yet, but i will. I listened to samples and this is a beautifull, famous, pure classical music... if there's anyone who doesn't agree with me they probably are not familiar with classical music or (maybe can't read!!) You will enjoy this cd though!

Poor Compilation.......2002-06-14

After just one listening to this cd, I had to stop. It is just such a poor compliation of music, the flow, the rythm, it is terrible. Unlike the #1 Opera album, which I enjoyed, this one is a throwback.

Average customer rating:

Awesome voice, exquisite performances
It may take you a little time to love her voice

A Tribute

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Kathleen Ferrier - Mahler ~ Kindertotenlieder & Gluck ~ Greene ~ Handel ~ Mendelssohn ~ Purcell / Baillie, Moore, B. Walter
World of Kathleen Ferrier V.1
Mahler: Das Lied von der Erde / Bruno Walter
Edition V8 / Blow the Wind Southerly
The Very Best of Janet Baker

ASIN: B0000A9DYO
Release Date: 2003-10-14

Tracks:

What Is Life To Me Without Thee?
Che Puro Ciel
Art Thou Troubled?
Ombra Mai Fu
An Die Musik
Der Musensohn
Gretchen Am Spinnrade
Die Junge Nonne
Woe Unto Them
O Rest In The Lord
Er, Der Herrlichste Von Allen
Geistliches Wiegenlied
Sapphische Ode
Botschaft
Like As The Love-Torn Turtle
A Soft Day
Go Not Happy Day
Come You Not From Newcastle
The Keel Row
Ma Bonny Lad
Kitty My Love
Blow The Wind Southernly

Tracks:

Ye Banks And Braes
I Have A Bonnet Trimmed With Blue
Down By The Salley Gardens
The Stuttering Lovers
Drink To Me Only
Hark! The Echoing Air
Father Of Heaven
O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings To Zion
He Was Despised
Have Mercy, Lord On Me
Agnus Dei
All Is Fulfilled
Du Bist Die Ruh' - Bruno Walter
Romance - Bruno Walter
Ich Bin Der Welt Abhanden Gekommen
Ich Atmet' Einen Linden Duft
Um Mitternacht

Customer Reviews:

Awesome voice, exquisite performances.......2006-08-27

These two CDs contain a great selection of classical, operatic and folk songs in English, German and Italian by the famous contralto (1912 - 1953). Highlights on the first CD include What Is Life from Orfeo et Euridice, Art Thou Troubled from Rodelina, Woe Unto Them and O Rest In The Lord from Elijah and the traditional song Blow The Wind Southerly.

My personal favorites appear on the second CD. The first is the divine Drink To Me Only With Thine Eyes, the Ben Jonson poem, which is a most mystical and transcending listening experience. The buoyant Stuttering Lovers is most catchy and appealing. Both of the aforementioned are sung to the piano accompaniment of pianist Phyllis Spurr.

Backed by the London Philharmonic, Ferrier renders splendid versions of Father Of Heaven from Judas Maccabaeus and O Thou That Tellest Good Tidings To Zion from The Messiah. These are truly awesome, the first one slow and somber, the second joyous and triumphant. Other highlights on this second CD include He Was Despised from The Messiah and All Is Fulfilled from St John Passion by Bach.

The informative CD booklet contains black and white photographs, a short biography in English, French and German, plus complete information on the recording of the tracks: composers, dates, venues, conductors and musicians. Kathleen Ferrier was a unique vocalist who made a magnficent contribution to classical and folk music.

It may take you a little time to love her voice.......2004-08-19

Kathleen Ferrier has one of the most instantly recognizable voices in music. And it's a voice that might take you time to love. As an eight year old I heard her version of Blow the Wind Southerly many times on British radio and intensely disliked it. I wasn't sure if it was a man or a woman, adult or child, such is the nature of her contralto. But over the years, especially hearing Ferrier sing Handel and Mahler, I've come to treasure her recordings alongside Callas, Sutherland, Flagstad and Baker. This two disc set contains performances which are about 45-55 years old. Many favourites are here especially the folk songs and selections from Bach, Handel and Mahler. The sound quality is excellent. The sleeve notes mention that Ferrier's vocal delivery may sound old fashioned to our ears. But her remarkable voice which stirs one's deepest emotions, transcends any thought of quaintness or mannerism. She is, quite simply, the greatest contralto ever. This selection will have you seeking out her other recordings on Amazon.com. And it might also lead you to Virginia Rodrigues, a Brazilian contralto with a superb voice who, like Ferrier, makes everything she sings, her own.

Track Listings:

Track Listings

track listings

Track Listings

Men of the World: the Early Years [Import]

Song for the Children

Stretch My Money

Meeting Mr. Thomas [Original recording remastered]

The Cliff Richard Show: Live at the ABC Kingston 1962 [Box set] [Limited Edition] [Live] [Import]

Soul Seduction

Sugar Me

Sonates romantiques pour flute & piano

The Best of Doug Sahm & The Sir Douglas Quintet 1968-1975

Still Rollin

The Best of the Lemonheads: The Atlantic Years

Slumber Party [Enhanced] [Import]

This Hard House [Box set] [Import]

Once

Everything Is Hotsy-Totsy Now