20th Century Polish Piano

1. Sonatina for piano
Composed by Szeligowski
with Ewa Osinska

2. Tatta Triptych, for piano
Composed by Artur Malawski
with Ewa Osinska

3. Bucolics, 5 pieces for piano
Composed by Witold Lutoslawski
with Andrzej Dutkiewicz

4. Suite of Preludes for piano
Composed by Kazimierz Serocki
with Andrzej Dutkiewicz

5. Danse Vive, for piano
Composed by Stefan Kisielewski
with Andrzej Dutkiewicz

6. Little sonata for piano
Composed by Romuald Twardowski
with Andrzej Dutkiewicz

7. Fragmenti for piano
Composed by Marian Borkowski
with Andrzej Dutkiewicz

8. Sonata for piano
Composed by Zbigniew Rudzinski
with Andrzej Dutkiewicz

9. Suite for piano
Composed by Andrzej Dutkiewicz
with Andrzej Dutkiewicz

20th Century Polish Piano,Osinska,Dutkiewicz,Olympia,Classical,Classical Music

Average customer rating: This collection focuses more on Prokofiev's ballet works

Best of Prokofiev Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Prokofiev | Prokofiev, Sergei | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | 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 | 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 CDs Under $7 | Waltzes | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Waltzes | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 Soundtracks | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Best of Shostakovich Best Of Stravinsky The Best of Haydn Best Of Rimsky-Korsakov Best of Elgar ASIN: B0000014HW Release Date: 1999-06-22

Tracks:

1. Symphony No. 1 in D major, Op. 25: Allegro
2. Romeo and Juliet, Ballet, Op. 64: Juliet as a Young Girl
3. Romeo and Juliet, Ballet, Op. 64: Montagues and Capulets
4. Romeo and Juliet, Ballet, Op. 64: Madrigal
5. Romeo and Juliet, Ballet, Op. 64: Folk Dance
6. Violin Concerto No. 1 In D Major, Op. 19: Moderato
7. Symphony No. 5 In B Flat Major, Op. 100: Allegro marcato
8. Lieutenant KijSuite, Op. 60: Troika
9. Love for Three Oranges - March
10. Piano Concerto No. 3 In C Major, Op. 26: Adante - Allegro
11. Waltzes, Suite For Orchestra, Op. 110 - No. 1: Since We Met
12. Symphony No. 1 in D major, Op. 25: Molto Vivace
13. Cinderella, Ballet Suite No. 1 Op. 107: Fairy Godmother And The Winter Fairy
14. Cinderella, Ballet Suite No. 1 Op. 107: Cinderella Goes to the Ball
15. Cinderella, Ballet Suite No. 1 Op. 107: Cinderella's Waltz
16. Cinderella, Ballet Suite No. 1 Op. 107: Midnight

Customer Reviews:

This collection focuses more on Prokofiev's ballet works.......2001-08-12

I found it quite interesting that the two main CD collections featuring the assorted works of Sergei Prokofiev have so little overlap. Outside of key works like the March from "The Love for Three Oranges" and excerpts from his Classical Symphony in D Major, the two collections go in opposite directions. This particular collection emphasizes "Romeo and Juliet" and "Cinderella," while completely ignoring "Peter and the Wolf." What I like most about this one is that it has an excerpt from Prokofiev's Third Piano Concerto, which is the one the Amy Irving character plays in "The Competition." Consequently, this is one of the few times when you do not really have to choose between two competing "hits" collections, you can simply pick them both up. The "Best of Prokofiev" might be the one I would recommend picking up second, but it will still be a worthwhile addition to your classical music collection.

Average customer rating: Thrilling Performances, Gorgeous Sound "new music" from 75 years ago

Varèse: Arcana; Intégrales; Déserts Christopher Lyndon-Gee , and Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Octets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | 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: Varese: Arcana; Ameriques; Ionization; Offrandes; Density 21.5; Octandre; Integrales Varèse - The Complete Works / Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra · Asko Ensemble · Chailly Boulez Conducts Varèse Luciano Berio: Laborintus 2 Penderecki: St. Luke Passion ASIN: B00005MFGX Release Date: 2001-08-21

Tracks:

1. Arcana
2. Octandre: Assez Lent
3. Octandre: Tres Vif Et Nerveaux
4. Octandre: Grave
5. Offrandes: Chanson De Le-haut - Maryse Castets
6. Offrandes: La Croix Du Sud - Maryse Castets
7. Integrales
8. Deserts - 1st episode
9. Deserts - 1st interpolation of organized sound
10. Deserts - 2nd episode
11. Deserts - 2nd interpolation
12. Deserts - 3rd episode
13. Deserts - 3rd interpolation
14. Deserts - 4th episode

Customer Reviews:

Thrilling Performances, Gorgeous Sound.......2002-12-01

I bought this CD just to get 'Deserts' in its full form, but after listening to whole thing, I decided to dump my Boulez version of the other works on this disc, because the performances of 'Arcana', 'Integrales' etc., are superior in every way. The clarity, wit, drive and spaciousness are as good as can be. So buy this, and use the money you would have spent on Boulez or Chailly to check out other challenging music.

"new music" from 75 years ago.......2001-10-01

this is my first introduction to varese, so i can't compare it against the many other recordings available. but i like
what i hear- it's amazing that most of these pieces were composed over 75 years ago.

from the loopy but compelling "offrandes" (settings of surrealest poetry) to the orchestral-industrial riot of
"deserts", this stuff isn't easy listening but has an odd internal logic of horns, precussion and angry strings.

someone commented parts of deserts sounds like a videogame of some sort. i think the inclusion of the tape sounds was a wonderfully brave move and makes the whole piece work; i can't even imagine it without the tapes sounds now.

bravo again to naxos for making such interesting music more popular, and please issue a volume 2 with the rest of this amazing composer's small output.

Average customer rating: two discs of fine, lesser-known Lutoslawski

Lutoslawski: Orchestral Works; Songs; String Quartet Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Lutoslawski | Lutoslawski, Witold | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Cello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: The Essential Lutoslawski Lutoslawski: Double Concerto; Dances Preludes; Chain I Piano Concerto (Dig) Lutoslawski: Symphony No. 2; Chantefleurs et Chantefables; Piano Concerto György Ligeti Edition 1: String Quartets and Duets - Arditti String Quartet ASIN: B0001RVQKU Release Date: 2004-08-10

Tracks:

1. Preludes 1-7 - Polish Chamber Orchestra
2. Fugue - Polish Chamber Orchestra
3. No.1 Pensees - Krakow Radio Chorus
4. No.2 Le Grand Combat - Krakow Radio Chorus
5. No.3 Repos Dans Le Malheur - Krakow Radio Chorus
6. Paroles Tissees - Louis Devos
7. Postlude No.1 - Witold Lutoslawski

Tracks:

1. No.1 The Sea - Halina Lukomska
2. No.2 Wind - Halina Lukomska
3. No.3 Winter - Halina Lukomska
4. No.4 Knights - Halina Lukomska
5. No.5 Church Bells - Halina Lukomska
6. Introduction - - Ramon Jablonski
7. Four Episodes - - Ramon Jablonski
8. Cantilena - - Ramon Jablonski
9. Finale - Ramon Jablonski
10. I: Introductory Movement - Alban Berg Quartett
11. II: Main Movement - Alban Berg Quartett

Customer Reviews:

two discs of fine, lesser-known Lutoslawski.......2005-06-22

This is a great 2-disc set, part of EMI's Gemini series. Everything here was recorded in Poland in 1976 and 1977, and all feature Lutoslawski himself conducting the Polish Radio National Symphony Orchestra (or Polish Chamber Orchestra), except the "String Quartet," which was recorded in 1997. I strongly recommend it (especially at the price!) to anyone who has heard THE ESSENTIAL LUTOSLAWSKI (see my review) and wants to hear more.

The first disc opens with "Preludes and Fugue for 13 solo strings" (1972 -- 33'32). A complex work that will sound forbidding to many, it is constructed from six lines (cantabile, grazioso, lamentoso, misterioso, estatico and furioso) bundled into seven interlocked preludes and an extended fugue. Then follow two vocal works, which are quite accessible and appealing -- "Trois poemes d'Henri Michaux" (1963 -- 20'11) for twenty-part all female choir and orchestra, and "Paroles tissees" (1965 -- 13'51) featuring the tenor Louis Devos. "Trois poems" includes some of the wildest, funniest passages I've heard from Lutoslawski, while the tenor piece, which evokes medieval love poetry, is one of the warmest and most moving. The first disc ends with "Postlude No. 1" (1958 -- 4'03), a very impressive orchestral work. It makes you wish for more, but apparently Lutoslawski was dissatisfied with No.s 2 and 3.

The second disc opens with another vocal work, "5 Songs for soprano and orchestra" (1957 -- 9'59), with the topics 1) The Sea, 2) Wind, 3) Winter, 4) Knights and 5) Church Bells. My one criticism of this fine set is that there is no text provided for the songs. All three vocal works are highly evocative, and are effective on a musical level regardless, and I suppose I shouldn't complain given that this is the Gemini budget series. The last two works are not Lutoslawski's best, but these are the best performances of them that I've heard. The "Cello Concerto" (1970 -- 22'20) was written for Msistislav Rostropovich, who recorded it for EMI. Roman Jablonski is the cellist here, and he and the Polish orchestra are far more convincing than the version recorded a few years later with Andras Schiff on cello, and Lutoslawski conducting a German orchestra (that recording is found on THE ESSENTIAL LUTOSLAWSKI, on Philips). The form, pitting the soloist against the orchestra, is standard, and I find the cumulative effect underwhelming, though again, the performance is committed.

Finally, the "String Quartet" (1964 -- 23'16) is here performed by the Alban Berg Quartet. This is a much better interpretation than the Arditti Quartet's (on KURTAG LUTOSLAWSKI GUBAIDULINA on Montaigne -- see my review), and I'm convinced that it's because of the ABQ's immersion in the classical repertoire. (I haven't heard the Kronos recording.) There are four sections, a long, slow opening movement which includes an element of improvisation and sounds gently chaotic, then a second movement that begins fast and agitated, culminating in an outburst which is followed by a sad, mournful, elegiac passage, and then a calm coda which returns to the sound of the first movement. Comparing the two versions, the ABQ's is warmer, and conveys the contrast between sections much more strongly than the Arditti Quartet, which plays the first movement with an edgier tone that undercuts the dramatic shift to the second movement.

That contrast is further evidence for my view that Lutoslawski was not at his best when he strayed the furthest into avant forms (ie, Symphonies 2 and 3, the String Quartet). I would place Lutoslawski alongside Dutilleux as one of the loveliest, not the most radical, of late 20th century composers. When he stayed closer to the classical tradition, extending Bartok and Debussy rather than competing with the Darmstadt Circle, Lutoslawski found his uniquely beautiful voice, as the best works on this disc demonstrate fantastically.

Average customer rating: Romantic andre rieu Andre Rieu Music is beautiful

André Rieu - La vie est belle (Life is Beautiful) Manufacturer: Sin-Drome Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Lehár, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Rieu, Andre | ( R ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music Pop Instrumental & Easy Listening | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Classical | Indie Music | Stores | Music Pop Instrumental & Easy Listening | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: Romantic Moments Tuscany Fiesta At The Movies Dreaming ASIN: B00005NNOW Release Date: 2001-09-04

Tracks:

1. La Vie Est Belle
2. You Are My Hearts Desire
3. Juliska From Budapest
4. Danube Love
5. Ole Guapa
6. Kalinka
7. Ramona
8. Heia In The Mountains
9. Stenka Rasin
10. I Want To Dream Of You, My Darling
11. Lara's Theme
12. Snowwhite
13. Amazing Grace
14. Poliushko Polka
15. Glenn Miller Melody
16. The Andre Sisters
17. Bolero

Amazon.com

The Viennese waltz is never far from violinist Andre Rieu's heart, but you won't find a single work from Johann Strauss on Life Is Beautiful. This time around, Rieu is globetrotting for his hummable, danceable melodies--to solid results. "Ole Guapa" is a tango featuring accordion; "Kalinka" is a familiar Russian tune; and "Amazing Grace," "Snow White," and Rieu's "Glenn Miller Melody" are tried-and-true American. Throughout, Rieu and his orchestra perform these works with plenty of style and polish; it's easy to see why he's such a hit with public-television audiences. His shortened version of Bolero may not be the sexiest available, but it is fun. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

Romantic.......2003-09-10

Andre Rieu captures the romantic's heart once again in this, what is for the most part, a passionate album.

I feel the best tracks on this album are the russian-themed ones, like the title track (which I listen to on REPEAT when I am looking through my russian countryside or Romanov family album books). I feel that this and "Lara's Theme" (Maurice Jarre's love theme from the film DR. ZHIVAGO (a wonderful book and DVD)! conveys the passion for homeland which I strongly feel beats strongest in the hearts of all russians, more than than any other people). These compositions are so beautiful that it brings tears to the eyes if one surrenders oneself to them.

andre rieu.......2002-09-04

all i can say about andre,s music is i have over 15 cd,s and love ever one and rate them 5 stars.

Andre Rieu.......2001-09-28

I am a big fan of Andre Rieu but didnot enjoy this as much as several of his earlier recordings. It didn't have quite the zip as "Andre Rieu Live" or "The Holland I Love".

Music is beautiful.......2001-09-11

As soon as I saw Ravel's Bolero performed by Andre Rieu on PBS I wanted to have a copy of this beautiful album.. classical music that makes you get up and dance..

Average customer rating: Another Triumph for the White Box

Rachmaninov: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos Sergey Rachmaninov , Antoni Wit , Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra , National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland , and Alexander Anissimov Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | 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 Similar Items: Mendelssohn: The Complete Symphonies & String Symphonies Mozart: The Complete Symphonies Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies, Kullervo Chopin: The Piano Works Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies; 7 Overtures ASIN: B00005QISD Release Date: 2002-02-19

Tracks:

1. Caprice Bohemien - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
2. Grave - Allegro Ma Non Troppo Vivace - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
3. Allegro Animato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
4. Larghetto - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
5. Allegro Con Fuoco - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

1. Largo: Allegro Moderato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
2. Allegro Molto - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
3. Adagio - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
4. Allegro Vivace - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

1. Lento - Allegro Moderato - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
2. Adagio Ma Non Troppo - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
3. Allegro - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
4. Melodie In E - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland
5. Polichinelle Op.3, No.4 - National Symphony Orchestra Of Ireland

Tracks:

1. Vivace
2. Andante
3. Allegro Vivace - Andante Ma Non Troppo - Tempo Primo
4. Allegro Vivace
5. Largo
6. Allegro Vivace
7. Introduction
8. Variation 1
9. Theme
10. Variation 2
11. Variation 3
12. Variation 4
13. Variation 5
14. Variation 6
15. Variation 7
16. Variation 8
17. Variation 9
18. Variation 10
19. Variation 11
20. Variation 12
21. Variation 13
22. Variation 14
23. Variation 15
24. Variation 16
25. Variation 17
26. Variation 18
27. Variation 19
28. Variation 20
29. Variation 21
30. Variation 22
31. Variation 23
32. Variation 24

Tracks:

1. Moderato
2. Adagio Sostenuto
3. Allegro Scherzando
4. Allegro Ma Non Tanto
5. Intermezzo: Adagio
6. Finale: Alla Breve

Customer Reviews:

Another Triumph for the White Box.......2006-01-12

It is both a tremendous honor and a great surprise that I am the first to review this item. It is another triumph for Naxos, and their flagship series, "The White Box." Presented here are Rachmaninov's 4 complete Piano Concertos, 3 Symphonies (including the reconstructed and rarely heard 1st) and some standard concert favorites like the Caprice Bohemien, and the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. This compellation is the result of the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, and more preeminently, the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Antoni Wit. And he does a fantastic job. (Wit's competency can also be seen in his work on Tchaikovsky's complete symphonies and piano concertos, also for Naxos' "White Box" series.) The pianist here is Bernd Glemser. His playing is both flawless and graceful, and with a composer like Rachmaninov, that effect is not easy to produce. Those chords don't exactly play themselves. As far as I'm concerned there is no legitimate reason for why he is not well known. (Another great Glemser performance is his recording of Schumann's 3 piano sonatas, also for Naxos, which I would highly recommend.)

A real surprise for me was the first symphony. The score was lost until 1945, and it was only ever performed once in Rachmaninov's lifetime. It is really a forgotten gem in every sense, and I would venture to say it is actually the best of the three symphonies although I'm sure others would vehemently disagree. I am also very pleased to say that the sound and recording quality, which can be something of a toss up with Naxos, is impeccable on all 5 discs.

If you are looking for a complete set of Rachmaninov's Piano Concertos, there is really no reason not to get this set. As for the symphonies, although there probably are better renditions out there, they are played very expertly on this set. In terms of musical quality, I never compromise, and what you would gain by buying the symphonies separately through a more expensive label would ultimately be very, VERY minute, and most likely financially unjustifiable.

And there you have it. This set is a winner through and through, and I recommend it highly.

Average customer rating: One of the best, (if not the best,) recordings of a masterpiece. A chance to explore some seriously R-rated music Modern French Music Messiaen's Most Magnificent Work - The Turangalila Symphony Magic carpet ride...

Olivier Messiaen: Turangalîla Symphony; L'ascension Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Messiaen | Messiaen, Olivier | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Olivier Messiaen: Quartet for the End of Time Olivier Messiaen: Vingt Regards sur l'Enfant-Jésus Schnittke: Chamber Music Olivier Messiaen: Éclairs sur l'Au-delà The Ligeti Project II: Lontano / Atmosphères / Apparitions / San Francisco Polyphony / Concert Românesc - Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra / Jonathan Nott ASIN: B00004WJVS Release Date: 2000-10-17

Tracks:

1. Turanglila-Symphonie: I. Introduction
2. Turanglila-Symphonie: II. Chant d'amour 1
3. Turanglila-Symphonie: III. Turangalila 1
4. Turanglila-Symphonie: IV Chant d'amour 2
5. Turanglila-Symphonie: V. Joie du sang des etoiles
6. Turanglila-Symphonie: VI. Jardin du sommeil
7. Turanglila-Symphonie: VII. Turangalila 2

Tracks:

1. Turanglila-Symphonie: VIII. Developpement de l'Amour
2. Turanglila-Symphonie: IX. Turangalila 3
3. Turanglila-Symphonie: X. Final
4. L'ascension: I. Majeste du Christ demandant sa gloire a son Pere
5. L'ascension: II. Alleluia sereins d'une ame qui desire le ciel
6. L'ascension: III. Alleluia sur la trompette, Alleluia sur la cymbale
7. L'ascension: IV. Priere du Christ montant vers son Pere

Amazon.com

If you don't already own a copy of Messiaen's epic, weird, and beautiful Turangalîla Symphony, here's your chance. And if you already own a copy, pick up this CD, anyway--you'll love it. Conductor Antoni Wit and the Polish National Radio Symphony deliver an awe-inspiring reading of the complex work, showcasing all the drama, tonal colors, and spiky rhythms the Turangalîla demands. Messiaen's 10-movement work is a grab bag of musical themes from throughout the composer's career; you'll find elements of birdsong, Eastern mysticism, a gorgeous "love theme," and serialism in this epic composition. With this much going on, it's no wonder that few ensembles (however famous) get it right. But Wit and company do get it right, letting the masterpiece's multiple themes (statue, love, flower, chord) all unfold dramatically, with great playing all around. Naxos's sonics are remarkable as well, capturing the magnitude of the 100-piece orchestra and providing a rich balance during the tricky passages for ondes martenot (a sort of glorified theremin). As a bonus on this budget priced, two-CD set, we get L'ascension, an earlier work from Messiaen but one that's just as interesting. Here, intense rhythms are replaced by lush symphonic passages, but the playing is just as splendid. Highly recommended. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

One of the best, (if not the best,) recordings of a masterpiece........2007-07-01

I originally bought this CD to hear the playing of Thomas Bloch on Ondes Martenot, as I'm a big fan of his. Turangalila-Symphonie has been one of my favorite pieces of music ever since I listened to my brother's copy several years ago, and this recording does not disappoint in the least bit. The sound is great, and just like I prefer classical music recordings; you can hear every player, and it sound like you're in the middle of the orchestra, as opposed to being 50 rows away from the stage. The orchestra is in excellent shape, as they always are. I greatly enjoy the Naxos recordings of Antoni Wit and the PNRSO performing modern music, and this is a great addition to that group. While some movements are a little slower than I prefer, the orchestra makes up for it with outstanding clarity. Even newer recordings like the Nagano/Berlin one or the Chailly/Concertgebuw disc lack some in terms of instrumental clarity, and this recording delivers that in every movement of the piece. L'Ascension is also given a top-notch reading. Many groups would be content to treat the piece as an afterthought, compared to the Turangalila, but the group here gives it just as much attention as the first work. All in all, an outstanding recording of the work of a 20th century musical genius. Highly recommended.

A chance to explore some seriously R-rated music.......2006-03-15

There are some great recordings of Messiaen's "Turangalila" and while this isn't the only good one at budget price (Ozawa with the Toronto Symphony is now available as an RCA re-release), it has the added attraction of including "L'Ascension." The latter four-movement suite is perhaps the composer's most accessible orchestral score, also serving as a helpful introduction to his unique Christian music. I particularly like the ever-upward-reaching strings of the slow, serene finale entitled "Christ ascending to His Father." Again addressing the Turangalila, I can smile at the reaction of the young reviewer who spoke of "cat scratches" because at one point, I too found Messiaen's music to be a bit much. Now in my mid-40s, I doubt I'll ever lose my deep affection for it, particularly those ecstatic passages that express erotic delirium -- something a pre-adult listener wouldn't (and shouldn't) understand just yet. Curious listeners should go ahead and make the modest investment that Naxos, to its credit, has again made possible.

Modern French Music.......2006-01-27

Olivier Messiaen, the great French modern composer, is here represented by two of his most famous compositions: the early four meditations on L'Ascension and, a composition written after he was released from a German prison camp, the Turangalila-Symphonie, a work of monumental proportions.

L'Ascension is a 25-minute work also well known as an organ solo. Each of the four meditations has specific scripture attached to it, representing Christ's ascension. The first, written for brass ensemble, is a slow undulating progression of chords, which continually resolve themselves gloriously. The second opens with woodwinds alone, a chanting oboe (heavy on tritones), with added outbursts of nature on flute and clarinet. The huge lush string tremolos which end the piece, makes it truly French sounding. The third meditation is a scherzo with brash trumpets and full orchestra. Swift string glissandi, a heroic horn melody and calls are features of this outgoing section, all of which ends in a blaze of glory. The final meditation is marked "extremely slow and solemn" and is written for string ensemble only. Prayerful in nature, like the first, it is made up of a succession of undulating, and more importantly, rising progressions of chords. It is obvious Messiaen studied with the great Romantic/Impressionist teacher Paul Dukas, because the various orchestrations are quite vivid and colorful, amply depicting the prayers of the ascension. An interesting work from his youth.

The massive 80-minute Turangalila-Symphonie is a ten-movement work which features solo piano and a solo ondes martenos, an electronic contraption that makes an unearthly, ghost kind of sound. The title is from Sanskrit which means many things, including time, joy, love, life, and death. The opening movement introduces two important themes: the gigantic, heavy brass chords (called the statue theme) evoking ancient Mexico; and the delicate "flower theme". Together with a large battery of percussion, the movement is forceful and animated. The second movement has an almost jazzy groove which leads into the sumptuous "love theme" in the strings and ondes martenos. An other-worldly, menacing march with weird string tremolos, ondes martenos glissandos, and col legno strings enter, as well as a rhythmical, almost a Copland-ish dance-like section, gives the movement great variety. The third movement displays four themes alone and then puts them together to form utter chaos; while the fourth movement begins as an industrious scherzo, but gives way to a romantic sweeping melody and an almost jazzy secondary melody which dominates the movement. The middle movement has such a joyful and nearly humorous melody, you can't help but smile. The addition of constant tinkly bells and piano, and the confusion of the middle section, it is all a breathless account. Whereas the fifth movement is a dance of love, the sixth movement is more a love slumber, with lazy harmonic development, pulsating vibraphone, lush strings, and woodwind meanderings, all sounds subside in a peaceful sleep. Movement seven opens with a piano cadenza, and later features percussion alone, and a woodwind ensemble with solo cello. Messiaen takes some great themes from earlier movements and develops them in the eighth movement. There are some very dramatic and satisfying arrivals here; a climactic movement. The penultimate movement is a simple natural crescendo, achieved through adding instruments to increase volume. The glorious final movement has a Copland-like perpetual motion with a syncopated melody that is rather engaging. A short love theme, nearly cinematic, invades, and a huge major chord ends the work. The music has advanced harmonies, but they are all based in the tonal world, and Messiaen uses dissonance freely to accent the innate tonal world he writes in. He is especially gifted at writing great melodies and themes which are inventive and engaging, as well as infusing jazz-like rhythms and perpetual motion into the underlying score.

Do not be afraid of this CD because it is a budget label, it is by and far a first-class recording. This may be the finest recorded version on disk (in my opinion). The playing is cohesive, and the forces are closely miked so all voices speak exceedingly clear. The ondes martenos is heard every time it needs to be; the piano soloist is excellent; and while this is the first time I have heard Antoni Wit and the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra, their cohesiveness, commitment, and emotional depth are in high gear. Wit's pacing of the work is the stand-out quality, forward movement and prominent textures, melodies, and secondary effects all are heard in a musical manner. The ensemble gives this modern work such emotion and make it fun for the listener; an experience if nothing else. One fair warning, the music of Messiaen is not for everyone; listen to the examples first! Even at budget price, this 2-CD extravaganza outranks many overly-hyped full-price CD's; an enthusiastic recommendation.

Messiaen's Most Magnificent Work - The Turangalila Symphony.......2005-05-27

I first heard the name Olivier Messiaen when I listened to "Illuminations of the Beyond". I burrowed the CD from a local public library. It was a beautiful atmospheric piece. Very modern and complex, yet so innocent and full of mysticism (except for couple tense moments). I really felt as if I was launched from Earth into the Heavens or a strange new extraterrestiral world...

After telling to one of my music friends about this new mysterious composer and his piece, he recommended me to listen to the well-known Turangalila Symphony. As a person who loves contemporary Classical music and has to will to be exposed to many more, I quickly did. I bought this album at a budget price, the first Naxos album I obtained.

The piece turned out to be a work I would embrace forever. Once again I felt as if I was launched into some strange world. This massive 80-minute so-called Symphony (not a "symphony" in traditional means) truly seduced me; its modern sound (including the Ondes Martenot - I first heard that name in the music from movie "The Black Cauldron" by Elmer Bernstein) and exotic features, its mysticism in ideas, and especially its theme on love/erotica inspired from Tristan and Isolde. No other music seemed to describe more than this work of my hunger for both physical and emotional love, not even the more obvious music ranging from Rachmaninoff to modern pop love songs (and some are even lame or just plain "dirty").

My favorite movements includes "Song of Love I", the scherzo-like "Joy in the Blood of the Stars", and the beautiful "Garden of Sleep".

Ever since, Messiaen has become on the composers I embrace. He is one of my favorite 20th century composers because of his distinct, subliminal style. Even atonal features (which I'm not too fond of) seems so beautiful. The Turangalila Symphony is definitely one of my desert island pieces so I can always take myself into a cosmic ride listening to this work. And I wish my future significant other would appreciate the type of love I feel the most through this music.

The album also features "The Ascension". Originally scored for solo organ, separately available elsewhere, this work describes Christ's ascent into the Heavens. The first movement is particularily moving, played by the warm sound of brass, as it seems to rise toward heaven just like Christ the Lord. Great work for a symphonic wind ensemble.

Kudos to Antoni Wit, and the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra (with Francois Weigel on piano and Thomas Bloch on Ondes Martenot) for a marvelous performance. I have heard couple other performances including Chung's, Nagano's and Salonen's, each with relative ups and downs, but overall, this recording is still my favorite.

If you're completely new to Messiaen, the Turangalila Symphony is an excellent start to enter his mysterious world of music. At a budget price, this is a bargain.

Magic carpet ride..........2004-05-03

Having repeatedly listened to this superb Naxos double cd, I have no hesitation in heartilly reccommending it to you.

Other reviewers have praised the orchestra, the soloists and Naxos; I acknowledge them all but would like to add my nine-penneth. This work (Tuangalila) is possibly or even probably, the single most important work of the twentieth century. It is huge, it is a cartoon soundtrack, it is profound and it is mind-blowing. Messiaen alone could have welded such a work from such disparate parts and made them a glorious whole.

To put it simply I like Messiaen, I like Naxos, and this has to be one of their finest disks. I take my hat off to all concerned.

Average customer rating:

Szymanowski: Symphonies #2-4, Harnasie, 2 Mazurkas, Concert Overture in E Wieslaw Ochman Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Szymanowski | Szymanowski, Karol | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Ballets & Dances | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Violin Concertos 1 & 2 Karol Szymanowski: Stabat Mater/Litany/Symphony No.3 Ince: Symphony No. 3 'Siege of Vienna'; Symphony No. 4 'Sardis' Yasushi Akutagawa: Ellora Symphony; Trinita Sinfonica Rapsodia per Orchestra Stravinsky: Symphony of Psalms; Symphony in Three Movements ASIN: B0000CE7FZ Release Date: 2004-06-01

Tracks:

1. Concert Overture, Op.12 In E - Polish Radio National Symphony Orchestra
2. I. Allegro Moderato: Grazioso - Meno Mosso (Quasi Andante) - Piu Mosso (Quasi Tempo I) - Meno Mosso (Quasi Andante) - Vivace - Poco Meno (Quasi Tempo I) - Piu Mosso. Con Passione - Poco Meno Mosso (Tranquillo) - Wojciech Musial
3. II. Tema: Lento - War. 1: L'Istesso Tempo - War 2: L'Istesso Tempo - War. 3: Scherzando. Molto Vivace - 4: Tempo Di Gavotte - War. 5: Tempo Di Minuetto - Finale Introduzione War. 5: Vivace E Capriccioso - Fuga Finale: Allegro Moderato, Molto Energico .... - Wojciech Musial
4. I. Moderato Assai
5. II. Vivace Scherzando
6. III. Largo

Tracks:

1. 1 Prelude And Rural Scene
2. 2 Mimed Scene
3. 3 Robbers' March
4. Mimed Scene
5. Robbers' Dance
6. 6a The Wedding
7. 6b Entry Of The Bride
8. 6c Drinking Song
9. 7 Highlanders' Dance
10. 8 Entry And Dance Of The Highland Robbers
11. 9 The Mountain Meadows
12. I. Moderato - Tempo Commodo - Piotr Paleczny
13. II. Andante Molto Sostenuto - Piotr Paleczny
14. III. Allegro Non Troppo, Ma Agitato Ed Ansioso - Piotr Paleczny
15. Mazurka, Op.50 No.1 For Solo Piano In C - Felicja Blumenthal
16. Mazurka, Op.50 No.2 For Solo Piano In A - Felicja Blumenthal
17. Variations, Op.3 For Solo Piano In B Flat Minor - Felicja Blumenthal

Average customer rating: A geniune bargain at any price Mazurkas and Etudes best

Karol Szymanowski: Piano Works, Vol. 3 Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Szymanowski | Szymanowski, Karol | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | 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: Karol Szymanowski: Piano Works, Vol. 2 Szymanowski: Piano Works, Vol. 4 Karol Szymanowski: Piano Works, Vol. 1 Karol Szymanowski: Violin Concertos 1 & 2/Nocturne and Tarantella Szymanowski: Harnasie (Ballet Pantomime) Op.55/Mandragora (Patomime), Op. 43/Etude For Orchestra In B ASIN: B00004U2KY Release Date: 2000-08-15

Tracks:

1. Mazurkas, Op.50: No.13: Moderato
2. Mazurkas, Op.50: No.14: Animato
3. Mazurkas, Op.50: No.15: Allegretto Dolce
4. Mazurkas, Op.50: No.16: Allegramente - Vigoroso
5. Etudes, Op.33: No.1: Presto
6. Etudes, Op.33: No.2: Andantino Soave
7. Etudes, Op.33: No.3: Vivace Assai
8. Etudes, Op.33: No.4: Presto
9. Etudes, Op.33: No.5: Andante Espressivo
10. Etudes, Op.33: No.6: Vivace
11. Etudes, Op.33: No.7: Allegro Molto
12. Etudes, Op.33: No.8: Lento Assai Mesto
13. Etudes, Op.33: No.9: Animato
14. Etudes, Op.33: No.10: Presto
15. Etudes, Op.33: No.11: Andante Soave
16. Etudes, Op.33: No.12: Presto Energico
17. Folk Dances Of The World: Poland IV: Mazurka
18. Folk Dances Of The World: Poland V: Krakowiak
19. Folk Dances Of The World: Poland VI: Oberek
20. Folk Dances Of The World: Poland VII: Polonaise
21. Prld And Fugue in c#: Prld
22. Prld And Fugue in c#: Fugue
23. Pno Son in c, Op.8: Allegro Moderato
24. Pno Son in c, Op.8: Adagio
25. Pno Son in c, Op.8: Tempo Di Minuetto
26. Pno Son in c, Op.8: Finale

Customer Reviews:

A geniune bargain at any price.......2006-04-30

I always tended to make Szymanowski not much and had little interest in him because the 2 discs I had of his didn't really appeal much to me (and neither did his long name). I recently discovered reviews of some of his piano works and decided to give it a try again. I was simply astounded by this volume and wish I had heard it a long time ago instead of blacklisting him
as of little importance based on my past below average experiences with him. This composer, when it comes to piano, is plain brilliant and has moulded some great composers before him to help him achieve his own astonishing art form. I am rushing to get the three other volumes by Naxos. This composer is a new found treasure!

Mazurkas and Etudes best.......2001-12-21

This is the third and last disc of Szymanowski's piano music by Naxos. In fact, I probably would not have bought it if either of the other two discs were at the store, but it has some very cool pieces. The Mazurkas Op. 50 have the quirky dance rhythm that is associated with mazurkas, and a lot of additional twists and turns that make them quite fascinating. The oblique-sounding (but not ugly) harmonies are supposedly characteristic of the folk music that inspired him to write the pieces. The Etudes Op. 33 are very refreshing to hear. They are extremely well crafted pieces, and in an extremely complex harmonic language no less. The twelve pieces alternate between slow and fast but seem linked by some kind of common thread. Little convoluted details appear throughout, and be sure to listen for the ending which defies all expectation. As for the other works.. compared to the earlier mazurkas, the Folk Dances seem less inspired, and Szymanowski's early works (the Prelude and Fugue and Sonata) were obviously written before he fully developed his own style. But overall, the interpretations are good and the disc is well worth the price.

Average customer rating: Half a loaf not always better Surrealism in music. Magnificent Lutoslawski at a bargain price! The best "Third" and sensational Paganini Var. One of the great symphonic works of the century.

Lutoslawski: Symphony No. 3; Paganini Variations; Paroles Tissées; Les Espaces du Sommeil Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Lutoslawski | Lutoslawski, Witold | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | 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 CDs $7 - $10 | 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 | 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: Lutoslawski: Symphony No. 4; Partita for Violin & Orchestra Lutoslawski: Orchestral Works Vol. 2 Lutoslawski: Double Concerto; Dances Preludes; Chain I Lutoslawski - Symphony No. 1 · Chantefleurs et Chantefables, etc Lutoslawski: Concerto for Orchestra; Three Poems; Mi-Parti ASIN: B0000014DP Release Date: 1997-04-22

Tracks:

1. Paganini Variations - Bernd Glemser
2. Paroles Tissees
3. Paroles Tissees
4. Paroles Tissees
5. Paroles Tissees
6. Les Espaces Du Sommeil - Adam Kruszewski
7. Symphony No. 3 - Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra (Katowice)

Amazon.com

These pieces run the full length of Witold Lutoslawki's career. The Paganini Variations are based on the same theme that both Brahms and Rachmaninoff used in their Paganini variations (so did Boris Blacher and about a million other composers, including Paganini himself--it's a great tune). The Third Symphony was commissioned by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and first performed by them under Sir Georg Solti. As with many of the composer's larger works, it falls naturally into two parts, an introduction and a main movement. The essence of the music is simple: nothing happens until the end, when the orchestra at last achieves an unbroken melody. The other two pieces are both song cycles that show the composer's sensitivity in setting words. The performances are very good indeed, and texts with translations are included. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Half a loaf not always better.......2007-02-06

Lutoslawski's Paganini Variations is very engaging. His vocal music leaves me cold. His Symphony #3 is half annoying and half stunning. Why a talented composer writes a work in which the first section is intended to be unsatisfying--and obtains this result--is beyond me. The second section is stunning, but the composer simply wastes my time with the first section. Unfortunately, he does the same thing in several other of his so-called "mature" works. In sum, the "mature" Lutoslawski is not for me. Caveat Emptor!

Surrealism in music........2001-11-30

Few composers have come as close as Lutoslawski to achieving an aural equivalent to the Surrealist universe. In his epic setting of Robert Desnos' 'Les espaces du sommeil' (the spaces of Sleep), he creates a restless, nocturnal world, fraught and fragile with fragments of sound imploding and exploding, like a dreamer stumbling through a nightmare, fearful of what the next footstep will bring; a fluid world of metamorphoses - of the self, of the elusive object of desire, of the environment, of the atmosphere.

The delicious song-cycle 'Parole Tissees' (woven words), based on a poem by Jean-Francois Chabrun, is close to Ravel in its playful use of the orchestra to evoke sounds and colour, describing a very Ravelian world of screeching cats, shadows, spells, horses etc. - the representations aren't dully onomatopaeic, but disturbingly suggestive. The second movement, 'Quand le jour au revert les branches du jardin', has a precarious night stillness, a hush of wonder and imminent transformation, the equal of anything by the master. the use of Polish singers to sing French texts is inspired - not only signifying Lutoslawski's outsider status as a Pole working with a foreign language; but in dramatising that estrangement from one's very self that is the experience of these poems and settings.

Although the monumental Symphony no.3 has no direct basis in Surrealist literature, it carries over this unsettling world-view from the previous works in its vast and terrifying soundscape, its ringing clash of modes and sounds, its lurching from the grotesque and carnivalesque to the lush and melodic. You emerge from it convinced you've voyaged through another world. The CD begins, incongruously perhaps, with yet another variation on Paganini's over-familiar theme, but the composer's very defamiliarising of this piece, his darkening and reworking and reconfiguring it until it sounds new and strange, is itself Surrealist.

Antoni Wit and his Polish National Symphony Orchestra may not agree with what I've just written, but they extract maximum imaginative thought and feeling from these works.

Magnificent Lutoslawski at a bargain price!.......2000-01-31

This disc is an absolute must for anyone that enjoys the music of Lutoslawski. Considering that these pieces cannot be found on very many recordings, there isn't a lot to compare them to, but in this case, they don't have to be compared to anything - they simply stand wonderfully on their own. The 'Paganini Variations' are superbly performed by Wit and Bernd Glemser. Piotr Kusiewicz makes 'Paroles Tissees' sound like it was written for him. 'Les Espaces du Sommeil' is almost entracing in its beauty, and thrilling in its climax. And, of course, the 3rd Symphony. From the opening and closing Beethovenesque notes to all of the majesty that falls in between, this Symphony is certainly among the top five written in the last quarter-century. And this recording gives an electrifying account of it; maybe even better than the great one with Esa-Pekka Salonen.

The best "Third" and sensational Paganini Var........1999-01-10

After listening with great enthusiasm to Salonen's recording of the 3rd (as well as that of the composer conducting), I always skipped that portion of this disc, on the assumption that I already knew the third in excellent performances. What a revelation the Wit performance is. And the Polish RSO has the deepest possible identification with this music. The intensity is almost terrifying but exhilerating. I simply couldn't believe how compelling this reading is. The other performances are equal to most other readings of these pieces and the bargain price makes it a must.

One of the great symphonic works of the century........1998-12-25

The Amazon.Com reviewer is misleading about the 3d Symphony. Nothing much happens until the end, he says. I suppose you could say that, if for you something happening has to mean the old, conventional symphonic gestures. But with Lut. everything happens between these gestures, as if he's noticing everything that the traditional symphony left out. And what he notices and conveys is magic and delight. In fact, the 3d Symphony is probably Lutoslawski's masterpiece (though there are a number of contenders), and certainly one of the greatest symphonies of the century.

Average customer rating: Good Performances of Early 20th Century Polish Music

Karol Szymanowski: Symphonies Nos. 3 ("Song of the Night") & 4 ("Symphonie Concertante"); Concert Overture Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Szymanowski | Szymanowski, Karol | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Overtures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | 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 | 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: Karol Szymanowski: Symphonies Nos. 1 & 2 Szymanowski: Harnasie (Ballet Pantomime) Op.55/Mandragora (Patomime), Op. 43/Etude For Orchestra In B Karol Szymanowski: Violin Concertos 1 & 2/Nocturne and Tarantella Karol Szymanowski: Stabat Mater Karol Szymanowski: Songs with Orchestra ASIN: B0000014ER Release Date: 1997-03-18

Tracks:

1. Sym No.3 'Song Of The Night', Op.27
2. Sym No.4 'Sym Con', Op.60: Moderato
3. Sym No.4 'Sym Con', Op.60: Andante Molto Sostenuto-Allegro Non Troppo
4. Con Ov, Op.12

Amazon.com

The Third Symphony is a setting of verses from a medieval Persian mystic and poet, and it's full of mysterious, exotic sounds and luscious orchestral textures. In fact, the music closely resembles similar "cosmic" creations by Scriabin (The Poem of Ecstasy, or Prometheus, the Poem of Fire), and if you're into that sort of thing, you'll love this symphony. The Fourth Symphony is actually a concerto for piano and orchestra, and it has become one of the composer's most popular works. Artur Rubinstein recorded it, but unfortunately only in mono sound. If you like Prokofiev, then you'll love this. The only drawback to this recording is that the sung texts aren't included, but it doesn't much matter in music where atmosphere in everything. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Good Performances of Early 20th Century Polish Music.......2003-01-23

For many people the history of Polish music begins and ends with Chopin. For those of more avant-garde tastes, the country goes underground musically for over 100 years, only to reemerge in the late 50s with Lutaslowski and Penderecki. But this is to underestimate many great composers in the country in between, and perhaps the greatest of these undervalued composers is Szymanoski.

Szymanoski began his career as a late romantic under the influence of Strauss and Wagner. This period is represented on this disc by the Concert Overture. On the surface the work is very Straussian, however there are hints of the more adventurous composer to come in the tensely dissonant lines of the music. If Szymanowski had remained in this style, he would be an interesting, if minor late-romantic. But fortunately, he fell under the influence of more advanced music.

The Symphony No. 3 is the crowning acheivement of Szymanowski's second period. This period shows influences of Scriabin, Debussy and Busoni in the extended tonality. Though Szymanoski's music is never just an assembly of influences. This symphony is a setting for chorus, tenor soloist and orchestra of poems by the Sufi poet Rumi. Szymanoski prooves a master of the exotic, creating an atmophere which is spiritual, sensual, but not the least deriviative or condescending of the East. This is a truly lovely early 20th century work.

The Symphony No 4 comes from the composer's last period. In it, Symanowski retreated from his more "atonal" style and enriched his music with Polish folk music. The piece is really almost a Piano Concerto and resembles nothing so much as the Bartok Third Concerto, though it was written some 15 years before the Hungarian master's great creation. The piece is immediately attractive, but with greater depth each time you listen to it.

Performances on this disc are good, but leave a little to be desired. Some of the vocal work from the tenor on the Symphony No. 3 is shakey and some of the ensemble of the orchestra sloppy in the Sinfonia Concertante. None of this is enough to mar the disc completely, but there are versions out there 9particularly Rodinski's) that I much prefer. If you can find them, they are better choices. However, if you are not sure if you will like Szymanowski, the Naxos price is hard to beat!

Track Listings:

1. 3 Pieces in Olden Style
2. 400 Years of Dutch Music
3. 400 Years of Dutch Music 6
4. 400 Years of Dutch Music 7
5. 400 Years of Dutch Music 9: Dutch String Quartets
6. 5 String Quartets
7. All Night Vigil
8. Annee De Pelerinage / Funerailles
9. Ballade, Opus 2 / Symphonic Poems
10. Beethoven: String Quartet No. 3 in D major, Op. 18 No.3 & String Quartet No. 7 in F major ("Rasumovsky 1") Op. 59 No. 1

Track Listings

track listings

Track Listings

Bedlam a Go Go

Eastman American Music Series, Vol. 2

Golden Country Hits

Music: Live in Belfast [Live]

Fuck You!!! & Loving It!!! [Import]

Damita Jo [Explicit Lyrics]

Dogman [Import]

Janacek: String Quartets Nos. 1 & 2

Freewheeling

Feliz Navidad: Christmas in Cuba [Import]

Drums and Wires

Extended Versions [Live]

Don't Be Afraid Get on [Import]

Mathias: Dance Overture, Op. 16; Divertimento/Op.25/Sinfonietta, Op.34; Laudi, Op. 62; Vistas, Op. 69

Thank God for Mental Illness