Symphony 4 / Symphony 5

1. Symphony No. 4 in D minor, Op. 120
Composed by Robert Schumann
Performed by NBC Symphony Orchestra Conducted by Bruno Walter

2. Symphony No. 5 in E Minor, Op. 64
Composed by Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky
Performed by NBC Symphony Orchestra Conducted by Bruno Walter

Symphony 4 / Symphony 5,Schumann,Tchaikovsky,Walter,Grammofono 2000,Classical

Average customer rating: Lame Sounds like a cheap plastic toy would make you sleepy.. Kid's Music Not soothing

Baby Einstein: Lullaby Classics Manufacturer: Buena Vista ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Pachelbel | Pachelbel, Johann | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Smetana | Smetana, Bedrich | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Bagatelles | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Lullabies | Children's Music | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music CDs | Music & Video | Products | Similar Items: Baby Mozart Baby Beethoven Baby Einstein: Traveling Melodies Baby Neptune Baby Einstein: Playtime Music Box ASIN: B0001IXTU4 Release Date: 2004-03-16

Tracks:

1. Variations (Twinkle, Twinkle), K265/300e
2. Minuet In G From Anna Magdalena
3. Piano Sonata In C, K 545, 2nd Movement
4. Spring Song
5. Piano Sonata In D, K 576, 3rd Movement
6. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring, BWV 147
7. Canon
8. The Moldau
9. Preludes Book II, Clair De Lune
10. Sonata No.14 (Moonlight), 2nd Movement, Op.27
11. Symphony No.9, New World
12. Fur Elise, WoO 59
13. The Four Seasons, Winter, RV267, 2nd Movement
14. Orchestral Suite No.3 In D, Air, BWV 1068
15. Sonata No.8 (Pathetique), 2nd Movement, Op.13
16. Kinderscene, Op.15
17. 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 Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Chopin | Chopin, Frédéric | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Sousa | Sousa, John Philip | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Strauss Jr., Johann | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Concerto Grossi | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Divertimentos | Serenades & Divertimentos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Marches | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Ballets & Dances | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music French Horn | Brass | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Marches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: 25 Romantic Classics 25 Mozart Favorites 25 Beethoven Favorites 25 Tchaikovsky Favorites 25 Bach Favorites ASIN: B0000058HT Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

1. Eine Klein Nachtmusik: (I. Allegro)
2. Nutcracker Suite: (Russian Dance)
3. The Four Seasons, Op. 8: (Spring: I. Allegro)
4. Hungarian Dance No. 5 In G Minor
5. Symphony in D, K. 161 - 163: (III. Presto)
6. Waltz In D-Flat Major, Op. 64, No. 1
7. Tritsch-Tratsch Polka, Op. 214
8. Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 In G, S. 1048: (III. Allegro)
9. Swan Lake: (Dance Of The Swans)
10. Carmen Suite No. 2: (Habanera)
11. Messiah: (Overture)
12. Wind Serenade 'The Marriage Of Figaro': Overture
13. Violin Concerto No. 1 In G Minor, Op. 12: (III. Allegro)
14. Water Music: (Overture)
15. Sleeping Beauty Ballet Suite, Op. 66: (Panorama)
16. Symphony No. 26 In E-flat Major, K. 184: (III. Allegro)
17. Waltz No. 10 In B Minor, Op. 69 No. 2
18. Violin Concerto No. 1 In A Minor, S. 1041: (III. Allegro)
19. Water Music: (Lentement)
20. Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 In G Major, S. 1049: (II. Andante)
21. Habanera
22. Horn Concerto No. 3 In E-Flat Major, K. 447: (II. Romanza)
23. Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini, Op. 43: (Variation No. 18)
24. Thunder And Lightning Polka, Op. 324
25. 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!!

Average customer rating: How can you go wrong with Mozart?...Buy this and find out. 25 Mozart Favorites Wonderful collection and price! Nice Mozart selection - Nice price Mozart Listener

25 Mozart Favorites Manufacturer: Vox (Classical) ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Divertimentos | Serenades & Divertimentos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sinfonia Concertante | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music French Horn | Brass | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Clarinet | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Flute | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Minnesota Orchestra | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Salzburg Chamber Orchestra | ( S ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Requiems | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Requiems | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Sonatas | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: 25 Beethoven Favorites 25 Bach Favorites 25 Vivaldi Favorites 25 Tchaikovsky Favorites 25 Classical Favorites ASIN: B0000058HV Release Date: 1996-08-20

Tracks:

1. 'The Marriage Of Figaro': Overture
2. Symphony No. 29 In A, K. 201: ll. Andante
3. Symphony No. 25 In G Minor, K. 183: l. Allegro con brio
4. Piano Concerto No. 9 In E Flat, K. 271: ll. Andantino
5. Piano Concerto No. 17 In G, K. 453: l. Allegro
6. 'The Magic Flute': Overture
7. Symphony No. 40 in G minor: l. Molto Allegro
8. Symphony No. 38 In D, K. 504 'Prague': lll. Finale: Presto
9. Serenade In B-Flat For 13 Winds, K. 361/370A 'Gran Partita': lll. Andante
10. Clarinet Concerto In A, K. 622: l. Allegro
11. Flute Concerto No. 2 In D, K. 314: ll. Andante ma non troppo
12. Clarinet Quintet In A, K. 581: ll. Larghetto
13. Piano Sonata In C Minor, K. 457: ll. Adagio
14. Piano Sonata In A Minor, K. 310: l. Allegro maestoso
15. Piano Concerto No. 23 In A, K. 488: ll. Adagio
16. Symphony No. 39 in E-flat, K. 543: lV. Finale: Allegro
17. Horn Concerto No. 3 In E-Flat, K. 447: lll. Allegro
18. Piano Concerto No. 21 In C, K. 467: ll. Andante
19. Sinfonia Concertante For Violin And Viola In E-Flat, K. 364: l. Allegro maestoso
20. String Quartet No. 17 In B-Flat, K. 458 'The Hunt': l. Allegro vivace assai
21. Violin Concerto No. 4 In D, K. 218: ll. Andante cantabile
22. Violin Concerto No. 5 In A, K. 219: ll. Adagio
23. Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, K. 525: lV. Presto
24. Requiem, K. 626: Confutatis Maledictis
25. Exsultate Jubilate: Alleluia

Amazon.com

This is an astonishing collection of works - or parts of works - by Mozart that covers almost every aspect of his creative output: symphonic, religious music, concerti (for piano, horn, violin, clarinet, flute), chamber music, serenades (for strings; winds), a couple of opera overtures and more. Those who know and love Mozart's music will not need this, but it's a great introduction, a great overview. The selections are well-chosen and interestingly organized, with familiar pieces splrinkled among some not-so well known. A good primer. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

How can you go wrong with Mozart?...Buy this and find out........2007-05-13

I was extraordinarely ignorant when I purchased this recording. I thought,"WOW!! Look at all the music you get in this CD set. The price cannot be beat!" When I received the CD, I discovered that you don't really get any music at all. This is a great sample CD, and should be bought by a person brand new to classical music. However, if you have any experience with classical music, you will want to pass on this CD.

Each of the pieces are hacked apart to the point of it being comical. It's interesting to listen to the greatest music in the world, only to have the development cut. All of a sudden I was thrust into a new key, I thought my ears were going crazy. Perhaps an effort by a decent high school orchestra, but this music is not up to snuff with any other recording.

Do yourself a favor and go out and purchase real recordings of Mozart, and not watered down stereotypes.

25 Mozart Favorites.......2007-05-12

Very pleased with product, delivery, cost and service. Will use this vendor again.

Wonderful collection and price!.......2007-05-11

I found this to be a nice collection of favorites, especially to keep in the car and listen to. It is a variety of well known compilations. Although not encompassing, it is perfect as a review for driving, relaxing, and enjoyment. Plus, the price is right!

Nice Mozart selection - Nice price.......2006-09-24

Nice selection of Mozart work that give us inner peace...

Mozart Listener.......2006-08-31

This is a good CD if you like Mozart's music. It is not the best CD I ever purchased. It is nice to listen to it in the morning before I go to work. And I sometimes listen to it in the evening before I go to bed. It is relaxing and soothing. I am not a music major or therapist. This is the best review I can write. Mary Agnes Cross

Average customer rating: Lives Up To The Title, Fine Variety Of Genre's. Good for relaxing pregnant women Too much opera Does what it set out to do, very well TRULY The most relaxing and beautiful music ever written.

The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World...Ever! Johann Sebastian Bach , Léo Delibes , Gabriel Fauré , Erik Satie , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Edvard Grieg , Johann Pachelbel , Claude Debussy , Felix Mendelssohn , Camille Saint-Saens , Henryk Gorecki , Antonio Vivaldi , Edward Elgar , Jocelyn Pook , Sergey Rachmaninov , Tomaso Giovanni Albinoni , Luigi Boccherini , Jules Massenet , Ludwig van Beethoven , Jacques Offenbach , Pietro Mascagni , Antonin Dvorak , Giacomo Puccini , Ralph Vaughan Williams , Alexander Borodin , Joaquin Rodrigo , and Samuel Barber Manufacturer: Angel Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Albinoni | Albinoni, Tomaso | ( A ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. 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The Most Relaxing Classical Music in the Universe 25 Classical Favorites Best of the Millennium: Top 40 Classical Hits ASIN: B00000I93Z Release Date: 1999-03-30

Tracks:

1. Air 'On the G String' - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
2. Morning - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
3. Canon In D - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
4. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
5. Gymnopedie No.1 - City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
6. II. Andante - Stephen Hough
7. Viens, Mallika - Mady Mesple
8. In Paradisum - Choir Of King's College, Cambridge
9. Clair De Lune - Dame Moura Lympany
10. II. Andate - Yehudi Menuhin
11. The Swan - Osian Ellis
12. II. Lento E Largo - Tranquillissimo - Zofia Kilanowicz
13. II. Andantino - James Galway
14. II. Largo - Yehudi Menuhin
15. Nimrod - London Symphony Orchestra
16. Blow the Wind - Pie Jesu - Jocelyn Pook
17. Variation 18 - Cecile Ousset
18. Pavane Op.50 - Gareth Morris

Tracks:

1. Zion Hort Die Wachter Singen - South German Madrigal Choir
2. Adagio In G Minor - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
3. Minuet - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
4. II. Largo - Andrei Gavrilov
5. Meditation - Hans Kalafusz
6. I. Adagio Sostenuto - Dame Moura Lympany
7. Belle Nuit, O Nuit D'amour (Barcarolle) - Elisabeth Schwarzkopf
8. II. Andante - Nigel North
9. II. Adagio - Jack Brymer
10. Intermezzo - Philharmonia Orchestra
11. I. Moderato - London Chamber Orchestra
12. O Mio Babbino Caro - Montserrat Caballe
13. Fantasia On 'Greensleeves' - Sinfonia Of London
14. II. Adagio Sostenuto (Opening) - Cecile Ousset
15. Nocturne - Academy Of St. Martin In The Fields
16. II. Adagio (Opening) - Julian Bream
17. Adagio For Strings Op.11a - The Philadelphia Orchestra
18. Entr'acte To Act III - Orchestre National De France

Amazon.com

You want relaxing classical music that'll soothe your soul but won't lull you into sleep? Here's a double CD for you. The Most Relaxing Classical Album in the World ... Ever! does its best to cover both well-worn classical favorites (Bach's "Air on the G String," Pachelbel's "Cannon," Debussy's "Clair de Lune") and some eclectic left-field choices (an excerpt from Górecki's Symphony No. 3, Jocelyn Pook's "Blow the Wind," and Samuel Barber's Adagio for Strings. The performances of most of these excerpts are top-notch--artists include Sir Neville Marriner, James Galway, Jacqueline du Pré and the Philadelphia Orchestra--and there's enough variety here for everyone. --Edward Garabedian

Customer Reviews:

Lives Up To The Title, Fine Variety Of Genre's........2007-02-04

This CD is a great way to enjoy a large variety of Classical Composers & many of their best known pieces. Vivaldi's "Four Seasons," is an all time favorite. There are vocals, Piano pieces, & some fine Violins. I found the latter the most enjoyable. Here you can find Rodrigo & Pachelbell. Samuel Barber's haunting Adagio will make your skin tingle. This may not be to everyones taste, but if you wish to relax? Give this a couple of listens.

Good for relaxing pregnant women.......2007-01-17

I stumbled onto this album whilst searching bit torrent websites for classical music. I don't normally listen to classical music but thought it might be relaxing for my pregnant wife. After hearing the quality of the performances, the arrangement, and the recording I decided to buy the album from amazon. All the songs you would expect from a "best album in the world" are there and they are not boring to listen to like a lot of other classical albums. I now play this album in the car constantly and the wife requested it be played at the hospital during the birth.

Too much opera.......2007-01-10

If it wasn't for the opera this would be a great CD.

Does what it set out to do, very well.......2006-11-15

So i'm a classical music veteran, someone who prefers to collect a complete work, rather than classical compilations. I probably would not have listened to this album at all if my dad didnt buy it for me as a gift. By now, i own the complete works that over half of the excepts on this disc come from. I am a purist if ever there was one.

That said, i totally adore this set because i have learned to take it on its own terms. These discs weren't meant for expert classical listeners, so a review from that sort of mindset is useless. This set was meant for pure, easy listening, and for a basic starters kit for classical newbies. Most of all, it was just meant to do what the title says, to relax the average human being. classical expert or not.

Yes, some of these pieces have been altered or shortened, like Mozart's Flute and Harp Concerto Andantino, but they have been edited for a good enough reason: the full versions would have been too long to flow with the rest of the album. And also, the full versions contain so much development that they don't become easy listening anymore. The shortened versions work in the context of the album. Most essentially, the shortened versions on the discs still convey the main flavor the composers were going for. The melodies and themes remain unchanged.

To sum up, it is true that when i want to actually listen deeply to classical music, this album would never be a choice. I would want to hear the complete works like the composers intended. But at certain times when i simply don't mind about that stuff, when i just need to loosen up and free my mind of stress with some nice melodies, this set does the job well enough.

Last but not least: being a purist and a classical buff, i am very particular about performance quality. I was very glad to find that EMI did not get lazy about this. All the artists are world-class, and all the performances are at least exceptional. Some performances are even quite excellent, like the Clair De Lune, which is one of the best i've heard. (Credit to Dame Lympany, the pianist.)

So once again, recommended for its stated purpose, to relax. I am a purist, a classical buff, and i still enjoy this disc. That says something.

TRULY The most relaxing and beautiful music ever written........2006-11-10

This album along with Volume 2 are now the two most valued albums in my music collection. I have all of the songs contained on these two albums but they are scattered through at least a dozen different albums and several are not performed by artists such as those that recorded this album and Volume 2.
SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL !!!!!!!!!!

Average customer rating: Great for the road Beethoven 25 Favorites 25 Beethoven Favorites bEtHoVeN mAnIaC Great Price...Not so good itself

25 Beethoven Favorites Manufacturer: Vox (Classical) ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Ecossaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Bagatelles | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Incidental Music | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Ballets & Dances | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Minnesota Orchestra | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Sonatas | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Sonatas | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Symphonies | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: 25 Mozart Favorites 25 Bach Favorites 25 Tchaikovsky Favorites 25 Vivaldi Favorites 25 Classical Favorites ASIN: B0000058HX Release Date: 1996-08-20

Tracks:

1. Egmont Overture - Ludwig Van Beethoven
2. Symphony No. 5 In C Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven
3. Piano Sonata No. 21 In C Major - Alfred Brendel
4. Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor - Jerome Rose
5. Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor - Jerome Rose
6. Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor - Jerome Rose
7. Symphony No. 6 In F Major - Ludwig Van Beethoven
8. Symphony No. 7 In A Major - Ludwig Van Beethoven
9. 'The Creatures Of Prometheus' Ballet - Ludwig Van Beethoven
10. Violin Concerto In D Major - Susanne Lautenbacher
11. Sonata For Violin And Piano No. 5 In F Major - Aaron Rosand
12. Piano Trio In B Flat - Mannheimer Trio
13. Fse - Various Artists
14. Quintet In E Flat For Piano And Winds - Abbey Simon
15. 'Chorale Fantasy' In C Minor For Piano, Chorus And Orchestra - Walter Klien
16. Piano Concerto No. 2 In B Flat - Alfred Brendel
17. Piano Concerto No. 3 In C Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven
18. Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Major - Alfred Brendel
19. Piano Concerto No. 5 In E Flat - Alfred Brendel
20. Symphony No. 3 In E Flat - Ludwig Van Beethoven
21. 'The Ruins Of Athens,' - Ludwig Van Beethoven
22. 'Corolian,' - Ludwig Van Beethoven
23. Ecossaise For Piano - Alfred Brendel
24. Symphony No. 9 In D Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven
25. Symphony No. 9 In D Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Customer Reviews:

Great for the road.......2007-05-11

I found this to be a nice collection of favorites, especially to keep in the car and listen to. It is a variety of well known compilations. Although not encompassing, it is perfect as a review for driving, relaxing, and enjoyment. Plus, the price is right!

Beethoven 25 Favorites.......2006-11-21

Very good! I ordered it especially for Piano Sonata No. 8 Pathetique

25 Beethoven Favorites.......2006-11-05

Good overview of his works----an introduction into his depth as a composer

bEtHoVeN mAnIaC.......2005-11-03

[...] Honestly, it isn't THAT THAT great, but its good enough for its price. I'd say that your $ pays off, for a while. I've noticed how after a long time, it gets aggrivating at times. No harm meant, "Beethoven lover". I just mean don't plunge into this cd with all the hopes in the world. Besides, it's just my opinion, so you may like it more than me. All i can say is; a) listen to some samples before you buy, b)know this is not REALLY the great Beethoven himself, and c) enjoy YOUR music, whatever it may be.

Great Price...Not so good itself.......2005-05-19

This a great priced cd, but the content is why it is so cheap. It's a true-amateur album. Beethoven Lover is over her/his head. This is the real world, not a fantasy-everyone-likes-every-type-of-music world. Deal with it and agree with me. It isn't so great.

Average customer rating: Toscanini's last Beethoven cycle -- a unique, bargain glimpse of the performing rite i can't take it anymore Classic circa 1950 Beethoven Symphony Cycle Beethoven's symphonies Great Historical Collection

Ludwig van Beethoven: The 9 Symphonies - Arturo Toscanini / NBC Symphony Orchestra Ludwig van Beethoven (Composer) , Arturo Toscanini (Conductor) , and NBC Symphony Orchestra Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Toscanini, Arturo | ( T ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Toscanini, Arturo | ( T ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Brahms: The Four Symphonies Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade; Capriccio Espagnol; Russian Easter Overture Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos Vaughan Williams: The Nine Symphonies Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet ASIN: B0000CNTLU Release Date: 2003-12-09

Customer Reviews:

Toscanini's last Beethoven cycle -- a unique, bargain glimpse of the performing rite.......2007-06-30

This set's insighful and irresistable, especially at the 'Amazon' price. 5 stars from me!

Imagine being able to hear works played by musicians with direct links to performers who've remembered what the composer wanted in performance of his/her works during his/her lifetime. Such opportunities arise through listening to recordings made by maestros like Arturo Toscanini (born 1867, began orchestra conducting 1886) whose musicianship -- not just in terms of scholarship and technical powers -- take us to a view of the contemporary Beethoven performing rite that seems to have dimmed with successive generations. Not that every Toscanini performance of a work is the same -- indeed there's noticeable evolution -- but his basic underlying approach remained sufficiently consistent for it to be captured in recordings, like this set, made quite late in his career (it ended in mid-1954, he died early 1957).

This Beethoven cycle is ADD mono and may not be any sonic improvement over either RCA's "74321", or "GD", series CDs of the same cycle; and it's unlikely to be sonically better than the superb LP transfers in the 100-disc set released (in the late 1970s) by RCA Japan (n.l.a.). But if you don't already own this latest RCA CD package, then, at the 'Amazon' price, it'll be an indispensible part of your Beethoven cycle experience.

The NBC Symphony is in great form (Toscanini reportedly said it didn't really become a top symphony orchestra until around its 1950 continental US tour and these discs are from that period) and the recorded sound, for the most part (say except for the Seventh's last movement) captures the dynamics and unique, chrystaline fabric of the Toscanini orchestral sound.

There's apparently some confusion over whether the set's 'Eroica' is the 1949 "studio" or 1953 "live" (broadcast) performance, but the insert-booklet's per-movement timings indicate it's the 1953 one (which is broader and differently inflected compared to the '49, and some earlier, Toscanini Eroicas; the 1949 one is included in RCA's "GD" CD series). Anyhow, this kind of issue is more for discographers than those out on a journey of important musical discovery.

Buy this set, especially at the price, the performances shouldn't fail to stimulate and inspire!

Some suggested references:-

'The Toscanini Legacy' by Spike Hughes (pub. 'Dover')
'Toscanini and the Art of Conducting' by Robert C. Marsh (pub. 'Collier Books') (in UK, titled 'Toscanini and the Art of Orchestral Performance' (pub. 'Allen & Unwin'))
'Arturo Toscanini - The NBC Years' by Mortimer H. Frank (pub. 'Amadeus Press').

i can't take it anymore.......2007-06-02

i'm tired of aficionado's bashing toscanini around while praising furtwangler as the ultimate interpreter of beethoven. just as an average "uneducated" listener is likely to praise karajan, an average "uneducated" aficionado is likely to praise furtwangler as the only viable option of beethoven performance.
which is just utterly not true!
don't get me wrong - i love furtwangler. he is one of the conductors i revere most, and i DO think that his beethoven is rarely surpassed. but there are a million ways to perform a piece! and most likely than not, this is not a matter of the cliched "subjective vs. objective" argument that most people put forward.
to argue that beethoven would not have conducted his music a la toscanini is absurd. very presumptious, of you ask me. actually, comparing beethoven's metronome markings with furtwangler's and tostanini's recordings, toscanini actually is closer to the norm. furtwangler actually disregards a lot of beethoven's instructions regarding tempi, phrasing, development, dynamics, etc.
many people, including me, would argue that furtwangler is not disregarding beethoven's intentions at all. beethoven's intention when, for instance, composing the first movement of the eroica, was not, as toscanini has said, "allegro con brio." it was the expression of beauty, the expression of the human soul. beethoven might've heard in his head the movement much faster than is usually performed. but music that occures in the mind and in the physical is significantly different (think of printing - the blue on your computer screen doesn't really turn out to be the blue you want when you print it out!). if furtwangler's performances best achieve this end (which i do believe they do), he has serviced beethoven immensly.
but who is to judge that furtwangler expressed what beethoven intended? perhaps beethoven intended a different kind of beauty? a different kind of soul? and this is why people who love music often have more than one record of the same music.
toscanini was a supreme maestro in his own right. he might not have the ability to direct a mind towards musical epiphany like furtwangler, or to steadily provoke the mind and heart to a state of climax like klemperer, but he does have a supreme sense of orchestral control. no one makes tuttis sound like tuttis as toscanini. he also has an insuperable talent of conveying musical excitement: not even erich kleiber, who in my opinion had one of the most powerful rhythmical senses amongst all the great conductors, can imbue a performance with as much explosive propulsion.
i must admit that i was also infected with the "toscanini-hate" for a while, particularly because sergiu celibidache, absolutely one of the greatest conductors, derided him as being a "note-factory." compared with celibidache or furtwangler, toscanini is a note factory. but this is merely because he prefers a more "absolute music" approach. to him, music is not an emotional, or spiritual language. it is just music. what the audience feels from the music is because of the innate quality of the notes themselves, not because the conductor tries to express them. one might say that people who prefer the first chords of the fifth symphony to be blatantly like "fate knocking on the door" would be disappointed by toscanini. but in a sense, such expectations are naive. to some performers and listeners, fate knocking on the door does not have to take on the gothic melodrama that most modern performances aim to achieve.
surely, there are sets out there that please me more - and this is not a collection of toscanini's best performances. there is a particularly noteworthy seventh on naxos coupled with an equally compelling fifth. this collection, however, serves as a worthy exponent of the virtues of toscanin's art.
for catharsis, look to furtwangler. for a sense of musical consummation, look to klemperer. elegance and liveliness, to erich kleiber. rough-edged and fiery, hawk-eyed execution, to schuricht. weingartner, walter, carlos kleiber, bohm, scherchen, and kempe also provide heartwrenching accounts. amongst the HIP performers, only gardiner had me convinced. actually, toscanini wouldn't be on top of my list of favorite beethoven conductors. but for others, he surely is, and it is more than a proper position.

Classic circa 1950 Beethoven Symphony Cycle.......2007-05-30

Toscanini was born in 1867, the same year as my great grandfather. According to RCA, his first gig as a conductor was in 1886! These recordings were made at Carnegie Hall between November 1949 and November 1952 except symphonies 4 & 5 which were taken from NBC broadcasts.

After seeing a great performance of Verdi's La Traviata, I bought Toscanini's rendition of the preludes from this opera. This was in 1978. Toscanini's music were on budget lps at the time. And being in college, I was on a budget. I have several of his budget lps plus this Beethoven Symphony cycle on the RCA plum dog label from the 1950s that I bought used. I have always enjoyed the performances and have always had misgivings about the at best AM radio like fidelity of the recordings.

I recently listened to Toscanini's Brahms Symphonies at Rhapsody and the remastering has almost brought the sonics into the space age. WOW! The Beethoven symphonies too are at Rhapsody. They sound pretty good, but far from the great Analog of the late 50s to when digital kicked in circa 1980. When the music intensifies, it seems to my ear to start to distort a little and get a little shrill. Kinda like a movie theater where you can enter and egress with abandon as long as no one yells "Fire!!"

If we look at the fidelity coming from the 1930s and 40s, all complaints would be dropped and instead our astonishment would be given at just how great they sound. For historical recordings, they do sound GREAT. I enjoyed listening again to them.

Toscanini has gone from being the best thing since sliced bread to being regarded as an out of favor commissar who is now commissaring in outer Siberia. By listening to these recordings I would hope that your perspective will improve and that you would realize that Toscanini was a pretty good conductor, who brought great classical music to the masses, who had wide influence that is still felt thru his understudies, and that he was not the boogie man!

Beethoven's symphonies.......2007-05-12

When the master conducts the master, you will get nothing but a superb rendition of excellent musice. A must for classics lovers

Great Historical Collection.......2007-05-07

Any collection of all nine Beethoven symphonies is likely to have some great recordings and some not-so-great ones, and this collection is no exception. On balance, however, if you appreciate the Toscanini style (generally fast paced), this group ranks very close to the 1963 Karajan with the Berlin SO and right there with Walter and the Columbia SO. Plus, this is the most economical way to get Toscanini's recordings of the third, seventh and ninth, so the others are a "bonus."

Average customer rating: Just what you would expect Wonderful collection and price! Like Floating On A Cloud Bach Good CD, especially for novices

25 Bach Favorites Manufacturer: Vox (Classical) ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Concertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Concerto Grossi | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Organ | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Magnificats | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Fugues | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Fugues | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs Under $7 | Preludes | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Preludes | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: 25 Mozart Favorites 25 Beethoven Favorites 25 Vivaldi Favorites 25 Tchaikovsky Favorites 25 Handel Favorites ASIN: B0000058I1 Release Date: 1996-08-20

Tracks:

1. Toccata In D Minor For Organ
2. Brandenburg Concerto No. 1 In F: I. Allegro
3. Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 In G: I. Allegro
4. Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 In D: II. Affetuoso
5. Concerto For 2 Violins In D Minor: I. Vivace
6. Concerto For 2 Violins In D Minor: II. Adagio
7. Violin Concerto No. 1 In A Minor: I. Allegro
8. Violin Concerto No. 2 In E: I. Allegro
9. Magnificat In D: Magnificat
10. Magnificat In D: Deposuit potentes
11. The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude 1
12. Concerto For 3 Harpsichords In C: II. Adagio
13. Concerto For 2 Harpsichords In C Minor: II. Adagio
14. Concerto For 4 Harpsichords In A Minor: First Movement
15. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
16. Toccata, Adagio & Fugue In C: II. Adagio
17. Partita No. 3 For Solo Violin: Prelude
18. 2-Part Invention: No. 8 In F
19. Wachet Auf: Sleepers Awake
20. Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 In G: III. Presto
21. Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 In F: III. Allegro assai
22. Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 In D: III. Allegro
23. Orchestral Suite No. 2 In B Minor: VII. Badinerie
24. Mass In B Minor: Gloria
25. Mass In B Minor: Dona Nobis Pacem

Customer Reviews:

Just what you would expect.......2007-05-19

I was looking for a CD of exclusively Bach music, not necessarily played by a famous artist or orchestra. This had a lot of his well-known pieces and was exactly what I was looking for.

Wonderful collection and price!.......2007-05-11

I found this to be a nice collection of favorites, especially to keep in the car and listen to. It is a variety of well known compilations. Although not encompassing, it is perfect as a review for driving, relaxing, and enjoyment. Plus, the price is right!

Like Floating On A Cloud.......2006-09-20

My first real appreciation of this sound was from watching the film "Slaughterhouse Five" in the theater, back in the '70s. That soundtrack was just a taste of what you get with this recording. My family pops this CD in the car stereo on long trips, and glide down the highway to some original smooth grooves. Helps the miles pass swiftly. Music for the soul.

Bach.......2006-08-27

Surely you don't need me to review the guy. You know who he is, you've heard his music, and I hope you own some. So let me turn the podium over to a cat named Picasso, and you can read into that whatever you wish. She's in a chair, near the CD player. She has entered the room specifically for the music. Her eyes are squinted, almost but not quite shut, little face concentrating on just how contented those sounds make her feel. Nobody can say why they move her so, any more than we can say why they move us so. If we knew the answer to that one, we'd copy the guy. But anyway, she loves the music, and don't you dare make a sound such as squeaking your computer chair. If you do, her golden orbs will open, fix upon your face, and shame you. Yes they will. But if you are quiet long enough, you can watch a little calico sleep, with the very same sweet kitten face that drew you to her five years ago. Bach is gooooood.

Good CD, especially for novices.......2005-10-12

I was looking for a recommended Bach CD - certain music by a certain orchestra - and stumbled on this. It is an excellent choice for a new library. I think when there was more than one movement to a piece, it would have made more sense to go ahead and keep the movements together instead of separating them, but a novice listener would not notice. A great way to become exposed to a great composer.

Average customer rating: Those who ignore repeats should be taken outside and shot One of the best cycles out there - if not the best! Excellent set of Beethoven's 9 Symphonies SACD set is better one of the best beethoven cycles

Beethoven: 9 Symphonies Ludwig van Beethoven , Herbert Von Karajan , Gundula Janowitz , Waldemar Kmentt , Hilde Rossel-Majdan , and Berlin Philharmonic Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Bargain Box Sets | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Mozart: Symphonies Nos. 35-41 Tchaikovsky: Symphonies no 4, 5, & 6 / Karajan, Berlin PO Bach - The Complete Brandenburg Concertos / Pearlman, Boston Baroque Brahms: The Complete Symphonies / Karajan, Berlin PO Mozart: The Great Piano Concertos, Vol. 2 ASIN: B000001GBQ Release Date: 2007-06-05

Tracks:

1. Symphony No.1 in C major, Op. 21: 1. Adagio molto - Allegro con brio - L.V. Beethoven
2. Symphony No.1 in C major, Op. 21: 2. Andante cantabile con moto - L.V. Beethoven
3. Symphony No.1 in C major, Op. 21: 3. Menuetto. Allegro molto e vivace - L.V. Beethoven
4. Symphony No.1 in C major, Op. 21: 4. Adagio - Allegro molto e vivace - L.V. Beethoven
5. Symphony No. 3 in E flat major, op.55 Eroica: 1. Allegro con brio - L.V. Beethoven
6. Symphony No. 3 in E flat major, op.55 Eroica: 2. Marcia funebre. Adagio assai - L.V. Beethoven
7. Symphony No. 3 in E flat major, op.55 Eroica: 3. Scherzo. Allegro vivace - L.V. Beethoven
8. Symphony No. 3 in E flat major, op.55 Eroica: 4. Finale. Allegro molto - L.V. Beethoven

Tracks:

1. Symphonie No. 2 D-dur Op.36: I. Adagio Molto - Allegro Con Brio - L.V. Beethoven
2. Symphonie No. 2 D-dur Op.36: Larghetto - L.V. Beethoven
3. Symphonie No. 2 D-dur Op.36: Menuet & Trio: Allegro Molto E Vivace - L.V. Beethoven
4. Symphonie No. 2 D-dur Op.36: Adagio - Allegro Molto E Vivace - L.V. Beethoven
5. Symphonie No. 4 B-dur Op. 60: I. Adagio - Allegro Vivace - L.V. Beethoven
6. Symphonie No. 4 B-dur Op. 60: Adagio - L.V. Beethoven
7. Symphonie No. 4 B-dur Op. 60: Allegro Vivace: Un Poco Meno Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
8. Symphonie No. 4 B-dur Op. 60: Allegro Ma Non Troppo - L.V. Beethoven

Tracks:

1. Symphonie No. 5: 1. Allegro Con Brio - L.V. Beethoven
2. Symphonie No. 5: 2. Andante Con Moto - L.V. Beethoven
3. Symphonie No. 5: 3. Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
4. Symphonie No. 5: 4. Allegro - L.V. Beethoven
5. Symphonie No. 6: 1. Erwachen Heiterer Empfindungen Bei Der Ankunft Auf Dem Lande (Allegro Ma Non Troppo) - L.V. Beethoven
6. Symphonie No. 6: 2. Szene Am Bach (Andante Molto Mosso) - L.V. Beethoven
7. Symphonie No. 6: 3. Lustiges Zusammensein Der Landleute (Allegro) - L.V. Beethoven
8. Symphonie No. 6: 4. Gewitter - Sturm (Allegro) - L.V. Beethoven
9. Symphonie No. 6: 5. Hirtengesang, Frohe Und Dankbare Gef Hle Nach Dem Sturm (Allegretto) - L.V. Beethoven

Tracks:

1. Symphony 7: 1 Poco Sostenuto - Vivace - Ludwig Van Beethoven
2. Symphony 7: 2 Allegretto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
3. Symphony 7: 3 Presto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
4. Symphony 7: 4 Allegro Con Brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
5. Symphony 8: 1 Allegro Vivace I Con Brio - Ludwig Van Beethoven
6. Symphony 8: 2 Allegretto Scherzando - Ludwig Van Beethoven
7. Symphony 8: 3 Tempo Di Menuetto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
8. Symphony 8: 4 Allegro Vivace - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Tracks:

1. Symphony No. 9: Allegro ma non troppo, un poco maestoso - Ludwig Van Beethoven
2. Symphony No. 9: Molto vivace - Ludwig Van Beethoven
3. Symphony No. 9: Adagio molto e cantabile - Ludwig Van Beethoven
4. Symphony No. 9: Presto - Ludwig Van Beethoven
5. Symphony No. 9: Presto. - - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Amazon.com essential recording

By general consensus, Herbert von Karajan's first (1963) Beethoven cycle for Deutsche Grammophon is the best of the four (!) that he recorded. The Berlin Philharmonic was in top form, and they had not yet made an artistic fetish out of the bland smoothness that typified the conductor's later recordings of this music (and just about everything else). Karajan's squeaky clean, emotionally cool Beethoven will always be something of an acquired taste, but this set makes the best possible case for it. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Those who ignore repeats should be taken outside and shot.......2007-06-07

Karajan shows no respect for the balance of Beethoven's score. Overall, there is little here to laud or hate......a bonus second star for spectacular execution by the Berlin Phil, without actually playing any music. Glossy, zero rubato, zero sforzati, continuous mezzo forte.

In 20 years, music notation software with masterful samples will sound exactly like this: the most perfect and beautiful sounds a computer can generate. These performances are soulless.

Give me Bernstein/VPO or Solti/Chicago any day over this rubbish.

One of the best cycles out there - if not the best!.......2007-05-05

The 9 Symphonies play a great role in my life because of their sheer beauty and touching deepness. So I have obtained a lot of recordings of these pieces through the years, some of them on CD, some on casette, some on LP. And there are the concerts, of course. As a natural consequence, I have listened to a lot of different interpretations of these masterpieces. All interpretations (well not all but a great majority) have their moments but when I listen to Maestro Karajan's recordings of these, I always discover something that wasn't there the last time I heard. Karajan has always been critiqued for being too mechanical, too much in control but he always introduced something new to the music through his interpretation... The artistical point of the 1963 Karajan cycle has already been talked about a lot, I've got nothing more to say about it, I can only repeat that this cycle is perpahs the best cycle you will ever find. It is one of those works which become to be the yardstick for the later recordings to be compared with.

I was most pleasantly surprised to discover that the sound quality is phenomenal for a 1963 recording, it is better than more recent ADD records. The sound engineering is also very good, it is like having the full orchestra play for you in youor living room. The deep notes of the double basses go right through you while the violins tease your ears in a most pleasent way. So, the sound quality is just great.

I also would like to talk about the CD design, which is something very important for me. I know it is strange but I like to own CDs that have good design. Of course the included material is a lot more important but... Anyway, there are two CD cases with the first one including the first 6 symphonies on 3 CDs, and the other presenting the remaining three on 2 CDs, with the last CD contains the 9th. CDs have mirror surface with the classic DG logo and the contents are listed on the CD itself as well as the booklet. The booklet offers a good read on the 9 symphonies and the cycle presented with the set.

I hope you will enjoy the set as much as I do...

Excellent set of Beethoven's 9 Symphonies.......2007-04-12

I have only one complaint: the first part of both the 5th and 6th
symphonies feel a bit rushed in my view, the tempo seems just a
little fast. Other than that, this is an excellent set of
Beethoven's 9 symphonies, well worth it.

SACD set is better.......2007-03-30

Beethoven's 5th by Karajan was my first classical record purchase.
Thousands of analogue and digital discs later, I again purchased the same 5th and eight others on this CD set.

Karajan lived through the eternal dilemma of the all artists who came after the great predecessors.
At his last Saltsburg Festival, after conducted "Don Giovanni"He said to his wife,

"Furtwangler would have said it wasn't all that great."
She consoled the Maestro,
"It was! It was!"
Karajan had a life long struggle with legacy of Furtwangler and was not too sure if he won.

Well, his style and interpretations are definitely non-Furtwangler, or to more precisely put non-German.
It seems to me that Karajan tried to avoid playing Beethoven's music in conjunction with German culture and spirituality.

Whether his attempt was successful one or not, has been a topic of many music critics and connoisseurs.

Personally, I have a mixed feeling toward this cycle.
I like No.1, 2 and 7 very much. However, there are some flaws; for instance in the fourth movements of 5th and 9th,
cello, bass, tympani and all lower notes suddenly disappear. All you hear is the first violin all the way to coda with painfully
bright tone.(it is called Karajan glare and is more obvious if you own high resolution Audiophile stereo system)

Wonder if this deletion of bass is a part of Karajan's interpretations or a fault of old analog recorder, which is incapable of
recording loud passages?

In each symphonies, the first violin is always exaggerated over other instruments. I think that is the reason why some people
call these recordings "light" Beethoven.

If you must listen to Karajan's Beethoven Symphonies, I would recommend SACD reissue, which is more expensive and bass is
still thin but tonal quality is somewhat more acceptable.

And if you want to listen to the best Beethoven cycle, do yourself a favor:
Obtain the 9 symphonies by Furtwangler.

This set is not my first choice.

one of the best beethoven cycles.......2007-02-22

generally this set is one of the best beethoven cycles, audio is good considering that this recording was done in the 60's. though the string section of the orchestra was quite dominant, the wind instruments were sonically weak maybe due to placements of microphones during recording( compare with carlos kleiber beethoven symphonies). Last movement of symphony no. 9 seems to be lacking of the high frequecy content of the sound. it seems that there was a cutting of the full audio frequency. maybe they were trying to suppress the noise but the fidelity of the audio was sacreificed. overall this cycle is a must for a beethoven fan.

Average customer rating: Selection is not good Baby Einstein: Traveling Melodies Saved My Sanity A Very Pleasant CD for Little Ones in the Car

Baby Einstein: Traveling Melodies Manufacturer: Buena Vista ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Polkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Chopin | Chopin, Frédéric | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Franz Joseph Haydn | Haydn, Franz Joseph | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mendelssohn | Mendelssohn, Felix | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Schubert | Schubert, Franz | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Smetana | Smetana, Bedrich | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Strauss Jr., Johann | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Concertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Divertimentos | Serenades & Divertimentos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Czech | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Noels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Compilations | Children's Music | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Children's Music | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Children's Music | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Pop | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Baby Einstein: Lullaby Classics Baby Einstein: Playtime Music Box Baby Einstein: Music Box Orchestra Baby Mozart Baby Neptune ASIN: B0009AJK3O Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

1. Orchestra Tune-Up
2. Bartered Bride Overture
3. Symphony 5, 1st Movement
4. The Four Seasons, Autumn, RV293, 1st Movement
5. Divertimento In F, K.138, 1st Movement
6. March Militaire
7. Symphony 5, 4th Movement
8. Annen Polka
9. Capriccio Espagnol, Alborada
10. Trish-Trash Polka
11. Concerto In C, RV537, 3rd Movement
12. Capriccio Espagnol, Fandango
13. The Four Seasons, Spring, RV269, 1st Movement
14. Serenade For Strings, Waltz
15. The Bartered Bride, Polka
16. Symphony 100, 'Military' 2nd Movement
17. Piano Sonata 15, Op.28, 4th Movement
18. Waltz In G Flat Op.70, No.1
19. Symphony 101, 'Clock' 2nd Movement
20. 6 Children Pieces, Op.72, 2nd Movement
21. Lullaby

Customer Reviews:

Selection is not good.......2006-07-27

This tape is short and the melodies are not engaging for kids. It was waste of money.