Complete Orchestral Works 6

On this CD:

1. Vox Maris, symphonic poem for orchestra, Op 31
Composed by George Enescu
Performed by Romanian Broadcasting Orchestra & Chorus with Robert Nagy
Conducted by Horia Andreescu

2. Study Symphony No.1 in D minor
Composed by George Enescu
Performed by Romanian Broadcasting Orchestra & Chorus Conducted by Horia Andreescu

3. Ballade for violin & orchestra, Op 4a
Composed by George Enescu
Performed by Romanian Broadcasting Orchestra & Chorus Conducted by Horia Andreescu

Complete Orchestral Works 6,Enescu,Anghelescu,Romanian Nat'l Radio Orch,Olympia,Classical,Orchestral & Symphonic
Bartok: Complete Solo Piano Music
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Microcosmos
  • Great value with a few flaws
  • eeh, I guess I don't like Bartok that much
  • Best classical value out there
  • 5 Stars for the music and performance
Bartok: Complete Solo Piano Music

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

DancesDances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Bartók, Béla | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
EtudesEtudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
ImprovisationImprovisation | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
ElegiesElegies | Requiems, Elegies & Tombeau | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
RondosRondos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
BagatellesBagatelles | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
ImpromptusImpromptus | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SuitesSuites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
SonatasSonatas | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
NoelsNoels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
General ChristmasGeneral Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
General ChristmasGeneral Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Bartok: The Piano Concertos
  2. Béla Bartók: The 6 String Quartets - Takács Quartet
  3. Complete Piano Works of Scriabin
  4. Bartok: Violin Concertos, Viola Concerto, 6 Duo for 2 Violins, Violin Rhapsodies; Yehudi Menuhin
  5. Brahms: Works for Solo Piano

ASIN: B00008X5AY
Release Date: 2003-05-27

Amazon.com

Sàndor, still active at 90 as this reissue appears, was a student of Bartók and a preferred interpreter of his music. Since this set appeared on nine LPs in the early 1960s, it has been the standard for Bartók's piano music; in this fine-sounding reissue, it still is. Sàndor can hit hard enough for such virtuoso pieces as the Piano Sonata and "Out of Doors," but he also retains the romantic element heard in the composer's own playing which tempers the harsher qualities of the music. While this collection isn't quite as complete as advertised (some early, insignificant piano music by Bartók is omitted), it includes all of Bartók's significant piano music, including such relatively obscure gems as the Bagatelles, eight Improvisations, and many delectable folk arrangements which will appeal even to listeners who think Bartók is too challenging for them. Vox's recorded sound, superbly remastered, resists obsolescence as effectively as Sàndor's performances. Even with the inclusion of the early books of "Mikrokosmos," which will appeal mostly to piano students, this set is worth several times the asking price. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Microcosmos.......2007-03-08

Sándor was a champion not only of Bartók's music but also of Bartók's style of playing. He often complained that people were too quick to see Bartók as ultra-modern, and to fail to appreciate the rich seam of lyricism that also runs through his music.

The piano music is dominated by short pieces, many of them written for piano students, notably the collections "Microcosmos" and "For Children". These, together with suites of folk dance arrangements, make up the bulk of the solo piano output.

Sandór plays these short, and often simple pieces, with neither too much nor too little art. As a gifted teacher, he knew unerringly how much music each of these small vessels held. The result is beguiling - but be warned: no-one can listen to the 153 short pieces of Microcosmos end-to-end. This is an anthology to be dipped into, not swallowed whole.

The remastering is pretty successful (fortunately - some of Vox's CD reissues are plagued by severe deterioration of the original tapes). And it's for half nothing-what's not to like?

4 out of 5 stars Great value with a few flaws.......2006-07-28

I am not a Bartok expert by any scale, but I do like the way these pieces, without exception, are played. There are, however, a couple of other problems.

As mentioned by an earlier reviewer, very few of the works are split into tracks - Mikrokosmos is divided into 7 for each of its six volumes, and to accomodate for a full CD. In these seven tracks there are 121 songs. I would have much preferred if the songs had been split into tracks. Almost the entire CD set is this way - Fifteen Hungarian Songs is one track, Fourteen Bagatelles, etc. It is very annoying when one wants to hear a particular song in those tracks and not the others.

Another detriment to the collection is the recording quality. It is decent most of the time, but in loud sections the piano buzzes. One might be able to ignore it, but I think that it detracts from the passion of the forte quite a bit.

Overall, for $18 it is pretty decent, but if you are like me and like to keep your music library neatly organized (and aren't extremely cheap), I would not recommend this set.

3 out of 5 stars eeh, I guess I don't like Bartok that much.......2006-07-25

I like the fact that Bartok is into the folk tradition and all, but he just tends to forget the fact that melody has to be SOMEWHERE in the music. I'm all for creative expression when you're sitting alone at the piano, but abstract music should be reserved for performance art. I like playing some of your stuff Bela, but I just don't want to listen to you.

5 out of 5 stars Best classical value out there.......2005-10-05

To put this set in perspective, for months I would go to my local Tower Records fishing for worthwhile classical CDs at least once a week. One of the discs that sat in the bins the longest was a single CD of Bartok piano music, played by Zoltan Kocsis. It was Volume 7 of a complete series. This CD listed for $17.99, and as long as I went to that Tower Records, it did not budge an inch, nor was its price amended.

Now, Kocsis is one of the greatest pianists alive, and if anyone is worthy of commanding a premium, it is him. And to be fair, that CD is going to be re-released on October 11 as part of a Collector's Edition - eight CDs, $63.97 MSRP. But it's already going up against this little gem, which contains five CDs with all of the truly great solo-piano works by an internationally recognized Bartok specialist for $21 - not much more than the cost of one CD from the other set. This kind of value is not to be taken lightly.

I came to this set with my impression of Sandor informed by his complete Prokofiev - ultra-hard, sometimes rhythmically slack, always melodically lacking in some way or another. But he held a very special feeling for Bartok, and saved his best playing for the great Hungarian. In passages like the first of the Three Csik Dances, the opening of the Improvisations Op. 20, or in the Ten Easy Pieces, there is a simplicity, charm and wistful homesickness that is quite touching. In pieces like the Out of Doors suite, the Sonata, or the Burlesques, there is a vicious, impulsive energy, a wicked sense of humor and an overabundance of overtones. It is never mindless, inappropriate or even overly harsh - it's just very, very loud.

In this set I like best the endless landscape of the Sonatina, the unusual colors and fragrances in the Etudes, the brilliantly conceived Bear Dance (the last of the Ten Easy Pieces), and the multifaceted, complex, gorgeous Improvisations. Any fan of Bartok should hear these.

4 out of 5 stars 5 Stars for the music and performance.......2005-04-04

This is a fantastic deal, but the problem with this Collection stems from the fact that the pieces are often not separated by tracks. This is especially annoying for the Children's Pieces and Mikrokosmos. There are so many pieces, one wears out the fast forward button and still may miss the particular piece one is looking for. The booklet is fairly insightful, and the performer is widely hailed as the supreme interpreter of Bartok's piano music. So aside from this slightly annoying at times and ridiculously annoying at other times flaw, this is one of the best deals in Classical music. Don't hesitate. Add it to the cart.
Debussy, Ravel: Complete Works for Piano Duet and Two Pianos
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Superlative Performances
Debussy, Ravel: Complete Works for Piano Duet and Two Pianos

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

WaltzesWaltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
Ravel, MauriceRavel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by DebussyAll Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
SuitesSuites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
ScherzoScherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ContemporaryGeneral Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
PianoPiano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Ravel: Complete Works for Solo Piano
  2. Milhaud: Scaramouche; Le Bal Martiniquais; Paris
  3. Encore!
  4. Fauré: Piano Music complete [Box Set]
  5. Gladrags

ASIN: B0007RA7AY
Release Date: 2005-05-24

Tracks:

  1. I. En Bateau
  2. II. Cortege
  3. III. Menuet
  4. IV. Ballet
  5. Marche Ecossaise Sur Un Theme Populaire
  6. I. Pour Invoquer Pan
  7. II. Pour Un Tombeau Sans Nom
  8. III. Pour Que La Nuit Soit Propice
  9. IV. Pour La Danseuse Aux Crotales
  10. V. Pour L'Egyptienne
  11. VI. Pour Remercier La Pluie Au Matin
  12. Lindaraja
  13. I. Avec Emportement
  14. II. Lent - Sombre
  15. III. Scherzando
  16. Prelude A L'apres-Midi D'un Faune
  17. I. Nuages
  18. II. Fetes
  19. II. Entre-Cloches

Tracks:

  1. I. Pavane De La Belle Au Bois Dormant
  2. II. Petit Poucet
  3. III. Laideronnette, Imperatrice Des Pagodes
  4. IV. Les Entretiens De La Belle Et De La Bete
  5. V. Le Jardin Feerique
  6. Frontispice: For Two Pianos And One Hand
  7. Mouvement De Vaise Viennoise
  8. I. Prelude A La Nuit
  9. II. Malaguena
  10. III. Habanera
  11. IV. Feria
  12. I. L'Escarpolette
  13. II. La Toupie
  14. III. La Poupee
  15. IV. Les Chevaux De Bois
  16. V. Le Volant
  17. VI. Trompette Et Tambour
  18. VII. Les Bulles De Savon
  19. VIII. Les Quatre Coins
  20. IX. Colin-Maillard
  21. X. Saute-Mouton
  22. XI. Petit Mari, Petite Femme!
  23. XII. Le Bal
  24. L'Apprenti Sorcier

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Superlative Performances.......2007-03-07

Superlative Duo in superlative music - really sums up these performances. The Debussy is sublime from the "Six Epigraphes antiques" the exotic,"Lindaraja", the spirited,"Marche Ecossaise",the charming, "Petite Suite", to the modern abstract,"En Blanc et noir". The Ravel is as ravishing and the music's strong linear sweep is revealed in two pianos or four hands(with Ravel's "Frontispice" for two piano with one hand - an unusual combination). This is music that brightens up your aural realm!
Paul Hindemith: Complete Orchestral Works [Box Set]
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Great performances of a great composer
  • Hindemith, Hindemith, Hindemith!!!!!
  • DIDN'T THINK THAT THEY MADE THEM LIKE THIS ANYMORE
Paul Hindemith: Complete Orchestral Works [Box Set]

Manufacturer: Cpo Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

DancesDances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by HindemithAll Works by Hindemith | Hindemith, Paul | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SinfoniaSinfonia | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
MarchesMarches | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
OverturesOvertures | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
SymphoniesSymphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
VariationsVariations | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
General ContemporaryGeneral Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
GermanGerman | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ClassicalClassical | Box Sets | Stores | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Hindemith: Complete Orchestral Works, Vol. 2 (Box Set)
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  3. Hindemith: Complete String Quartets
  4. Milhaud: The Complete Symphonies (Box Set)
  5. Alban Berg Collection / Various (Coll)

ASIN: B000001RXO
Release Date: 1995-01-25

Amazon.com

Hindemith was the greatest German composer of the post-War period, and the last in that great line that began with Bach and extended through the Classical and Romantic periods. His orchestral music is varied and generally extremely approachable, and the percentage of major works is very high. Nobilissima visione, Symphonic Metamorphoses, Mathis der Maler, Symphony in E-flat, and Concert Music for Strings and Brass are all popular masterpieces, while works such as the Symphonic Dances, Symphonia Serena, and Harmony of the World Symphony deserve the same accolades. This set, excellently performed and recorded by a selection of fine Australian orchestras, really deserves the widest circulation among fans of listenable contemporary classical music. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Great performances of a great composer.......2006-08-23

While Hindemith will never be known for changing the way the world hears music, he will always be recognized as composing well-crafted minor masterpieces, even if they can be a little formulaic and his sense of melody was a little warped. All six discs in this set have gems that should be heard more often in the concert halls and recorded more. In particular, the Concerto for Orchestra on Disc 6 is fantastic -- with its addictive and fun themes and transparent structure, it was the only work I listened to for about a month. Of the rarer works recorded here, his Symphony Serena on Disc 5 is a little tougher to like, but is really quite good, while his Symphony in E flat on Disc 4 is nothing short of amazing. The Philharmonic Concerto, a set of variations on a strange but catchy theme that only Hindemith could write, also really shines in this set.

Of his more well known -- if you can call any Hindemith "well known" -- works, the recordings are a mixed bag. His Concert Music for Strings and Brass on Disc 3 have a wonderful fullness in the lower brass that I haven't heard in other performances. But the Mathis der Maler Symphony and Nobilissima Visione are both so-so and a little dull. And the performance of Symphonic Metamorphosis here is just outright terrible and a big disappointment, full of mistakes and uneven tempos.

But that's ok. Because you can get good recordings of his better-known works elsewhere. But because his lesser works are presented here in such convincing performances, this set is a must buy for anyone exploring Hindemith! The other 2 box sets on CPO that round out his complete orchestral works are just as good, if not even better. All are highly recommended.

5 out of 5 stars Hindemith, Hindemith, Hindemith!!!!!.......2005-05-15

Wow, this box set is phenomenal. First off, HIndemith is one of the most underappreciated and underrated composers of the 20th century. In my opinion he is definetly in the top 5 along with Stravinsky, Schoenberg, etc. This box set is simply amazing. Whether it is the sound quality, or the works themselves, they will provide you with hours and hours of great music. Although Hindemith was a 20th century composer, his works are EXTREMELY ACCESSIBLE and have a chromatic-romantic feeling to them. I am a music teacher and I have a huge classical collection and this box set is played more than most else. Also, I would recommend the other two volumes by CPO, they are just as good as this set.

5 out of 5 stars DIDN'T THINK THAT THEY MADE THEM LIKE THIS ANYMORE.......2002-12-08

I listened upstairs in bed, on the couch watching football with the sound off, while typing my uncle William E. Crawford's WWII journals. It doesn't get any better than Paul Hindemith, whether it is band music, symphony, ragtime, or overture.
I confess I sometimes have a love-hate feeling about the role of the Jewish Diaspora musicians and composers. But they do the time to the beat and more. I always go to them for performance. They should teach other Americans to compose and perform.

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra under Werner Andreas Albert just goes to show the universality of good music. Notice I didn't say classical music.
This is a real buy. Das Merienleben by Christophorus-Verlag GmbhI bought up in Regina Canada in June of 1995. I don't see it listed but would recommend it for parts like the suspicions of Joseph. CPO has many German composers I don't have like Reicha. Sancta Susanna from 1998 conducted by Yam Pascal Tortelier is by Chandos ASIN:B00005Z6V. I am eagerly awaiting it from Amazon.
Zemlinsky: Complete choral works and orchestral songs
Average customer rating: Not rated
    Zemlinsky: Complete choral works and orchestral songs

    Manufacturer: EMI Classics
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    All Works by ZemlinskyAll Works by Zemlinsky | Zemlinsky, Alexander von | ( Z ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    ChorusesChoruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    PsalmsPsalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    Similar Items:
    1. Zemlinsky: Der Zwerg
    2. Zemlinsky
    3. Schmidt: Das Buch mit sieben Siegeln
    4. Zemlinsky: Piano Music
    5. Zemlinsky: Quartets 1 & 2

    ASIN: B0002XV2ZM
    Release Date: 2005-02-15

    Tracks:

    1. Psalm 13 Op.24 - Chor des Stadt. Musikvereins zu Dusseldorf
    2. Psalm 23 Op.14 - Chor des Stadt. Musikvereins zu Dusseldorf
    3. Psalm 83 - Chor des Stadt. Musikvereins zu Dusseldorf
    4. Fruhlingsglaube - Andre Sebald
    5. Geheimnis - Andre Sebald
    6. Minnelied - Andre Sebald
    7. Hochzeitsgesang - Lothar Blum
    8. Aurikelchen - Mulheimer Kantorei
    9. Horch! Vom Hugel, Welch Sanfter Klang - Deborah Voigt
    10. Schoner Jungling - Deborah Voigt
    11. Wie Lieblich Er Ruht - Deborah Voigt
    12. Stumm In Wehmut Schaut Der Mond Herab - Deborah Voigt
    13. Und Ein Specht Klopft - Deborah Voigt
    14. Als So Weihevoll Der Alte Sprach - Deborah Voigt
    15. Horch! Vom Hugel, Welch Ein Wilder Klang? - Deborah Voigt

    Tracks:

    1. Waldgesprach - Soile Isokoski
    2. Maiblumen Bluhten Uberall - Soile Isokoski
    3. 1. Der Alte Garten - Andreas Schmidt
    4. 2. Erdeinsamkeit - Andreas Schmidt
    5. 1. Die Drei Schwestern - Violeta Urmana
    6. 2. Die Madchen Mit Den Verbundenen Augen - Violeta Urmana
    7. 3. Lied Der Jungfrau - Violeta Urmana
    8. 4. Als Ihr Geliebter Schied - Violeta Urmana
    9. 5. Und Kehrt Er Einst Heim - Violeta Urmana
    10. 6. Sie Kam Zum Schloss Gegangen - Violeta Urmana
    11. 1. Lied Aus Dixieland - Michael Volle
    12. 2. Lied Der Baumwollpacker - Michael Volle
    13. 3. Totes Braunes Madel - Michael Volle
    14. 4. Ubler bursche - Michael Volle
    15. 5. Erkenntnis - Michael Volle
    16. 6. Afrikanischer Tanz - Michael Volle
    17. 7. Arabeske - Michael Volle
    Alberto Ginastera: Complete Music for Piano & Piano Chamber Ensembles
    Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
    • From awesome to awful . . .
    • cello pieces disappointing
    • Classic Ginastera
    Alberto Ginastera: Complete Music for Piano & Piano Chamber Ensembles
    Barbara Nissman , Aurora Natola-Ginastera , Laurentian String Quartet , Alberto Ginastera , and Ruben Gozalez
    Manufacturer: Pierian
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    QuintetsQuintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
    All Works by GinasteraAll Works by Ginastera | Ginastera, Alberto | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    PreludesPreludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    RondosRondos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    SuitesSuites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    ToccatasToccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    SonatasSonatas | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    PianoPiano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    CelloCello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    ViolinViolin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    Similar Items:
    1. Ginastera: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 and 2

    ASIN: B00005LC3C
    Release Date: 2001-07-31

    Customer Reviews:

    2 out of 5 stars From awesome to awful . . . .......2005-03-04

    When I first heard Ms. Nissman's performance of the dances from Estancia over a typical, everyday radio many years ago, I was quite impressed with her aplomb in tossing off Ginastera's acute rhythms --- but it was, after all, an ordinary boombox, not your high-end FM-receiver in a split-hairs, blockbuster sound system. I'd heard many of her other Ginastera pieces over a mundane radio, in fact, and became very interested in finding out more regarding her pianism.

    It's with great disappointment that I must revise the earlier imprint of her being quite awesome to being somewhat awful - in this recording, at least. I can't exactly say that I was thrilled when I finally had the chance to hear the whole program and the important First Sonata. No doubt about it, Ms. Nissman has a strong and sure rhythmic sense. Her colors in such fast-moving, hard-edged music could be almost enjoyed, were she not so lead-footed, pedaling so deeply. Her articulation, already so wanting in clarity and precision, is thus even more smeared in the brillante, rapido passages. That she is not better-recorded also serves her poorly.

    But then, if Ginastera was well-pleased with Nissman's performance and the recording, then apparently the rhythmic demands take highest priority over other considerations. After all, with his sylistic hallmark, that would have to be a given - and indeed, in this set, that is Ms. Nissman's strong suit (perhaps the only one...). So, who am I to complain?? We can have the moon, maybe, but it's probably unreasonable to ask for the galaxies... .

    However, when I weighed the aspects of the price of boxed sets, and especially, of having to listen to these CDs over and over again (because I like Ginastera), I realized that I wouldn't be able to stand such uneven, sloppy pianism on repeat for very long, which even her fine musicianship cannot over-ride. It's too bad that this is the case, as there are still so few, if any, recordings of complete Ginastera piano and piano-chamber works in the catalogue. That said, the Nissman set is at least serviceable, in view of this gap. (See comments on the cello performance in other reviews here.)

    It was after repeat listening to a different recording, a quite stupendous Brazilian pianist doing the Ginastera First Sonata, that I came to this assessment on Nissman's performance of the Sonata No. 1 and of her entire program. This new pianist's razor-sharp articulation, transparent pedaling, wide dynamic range, rhythmic integrity, and arching lines are absolutely rewarding to listen to, over and over and over. To render sensitively nuanced phrasing as the music blazes headlong and forte is not least in this other recording's high marks. Following along with the score, I was most impressed indeed.

    Her tempos, though fast, are just a tad slower, but her pianism is even more ferocious than Nissman's - who takes yet higher speeds - and this is because of her dazzlingly clean technique, crisp, judicious pedal, and incisive articulation. In the hands of this Brazilian pianist, this glittering, fast-paced music throws out its flashing shafts and sparks with the clarity of diamond brilliance (and this is so in the CD's Brouwer set as well). If Nissman had taken her tempos down a couple of notches, her technical command could have been impeccable, and her overall performance could then have not suffered so.

    This Hungarian guitar-piano duo - he's American, and they both have the surname Halasz (Debora and Franz; maybe they're married to each other...?) - are remarkable musicians to keep an eye on, based on the merits of their probably first CD (Ginastera- Brouwer-Ponce, BIS-CD-671, ASIN-B0000016L6; the guitar performance is equally superlative, musically and technically.) With the many-hued palette of her sensitive touch, especially showcased in the Ginastera slow movement and the Ponce, she's just splendid throughout. I'll hold out for Ms. Halasz. Maybe if we're lucky, one day she'll put out a big Ginastera recording. I'd be among the first to buy.

    4 out of 5 stars cello pieces disappointing.......2004-06-13

    In other reviews there are many glorious comments of Barbara Nissman's playing, and they are well deserved. However, this is not a good CD to buy if you are looking for good recordings of the two cello pieces on this CD. Slow tempos, sloppy articulation, missed notes, incorrect rhythms unfortunately abound in the playing of Aura Natola-Ginastera in both the recordings of the Pampeana No. 2 and Cello Sonata. Being the wife of Alberto Ginastera herself I'm sure she has great insight into his music, but it seems as though her technical playing ability is not on a level to play these pieces well.

    5 out of 5 stars Classic Ginastera.......2002-01-15

    Ginastera who was present during the original recordings, must have been overjoyed having Barbara Nissman. She is the ideal pianist to capture the elemental power of his ferocious gaucho-inspired folk rhythms. Her rhythmic exuberance and bravura have to be heard to be believed. It reveals Ginastera as the Bartok of Argentina as their respective treatment of gaucho and Magyar folklore is perfectly analogous. She clearly understands this point too as her stylistic insight is just as incisive in the chamber works on volume 2 as in the solo piano pieces comprising volume 1. Originally recorded on Newport records in 1992, they are now safely achived on Pierian label and protected from the deletions axe. Justly so. Nissman's spontaneity, exhilaration and stylistic insight make these performances classics that will never date.
    Anton Webern: Complete Works, Opp. 1-31
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • Excellent Webern from the master Boulez and company.
    • Webern may grow on you and Boulez et al. are worth every penny.
    • Interesting and Challenging
    • The original and still the best
    • Boulez's Webern -- brilliant modern miniatures
    Anton Webern: Complete Works, Opp. 1-31
    Anton Webern , Pierre Boulez , Heather Harper , Charles Rosen , Isaac Stern , Halina Lukomska , Colin Bradbury , John [guitar] Williams , Daniel Majeske , Robert Marcellus , Abraham Weinstein , and Barry McDaniel
    Manufacturer: Sony
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    DancesDances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
    QuartetsQuartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
    TriosTrios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
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    Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
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    CantatasCantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    Modern & 20th CenturyModern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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    Opera & VocalOpera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
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    ASIN: B000002707
    Release Date: 1991-02-08

    Tracks:

    1. Passacaglia fur grobes Orch Op.1 - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    2. 'Entflieht auf leichten Kahnen' Op.2 (Text: Stefan George) - John Alldis Chor/Pierre Boulez
    3. Funf Lieder Op.3, aus 'Der siebente Ring' von Stefan George: I. Dies ist ein Lied fur dich allein... - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    4. Funf Lieder Op.3, aus 'Der siebente Ring' von Stefan George: II. Im Windesweben-Sehr fliebend - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    5. Funf Lieder Op.3, aus 'Der siebente Ring' von Stefan George: III. Am Bachesranft-Ziemlich rasch - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    6. Funf Lieder Op.3, aus 'Der siebente Ring' von Stefan George: IV. Im Morgentaun-Fliebend - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    7. Funf Lieder Op.3, aus 'Der siebente Ring' von Stefan George: V. Kahl reckt der Baum-Langsam - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    8. Funf Lieder Op.4, nach Gedichten von Stefan George: I. Eingang-Ruhevoll - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    9. Funf Lieder Op.4, nach Gedichten von Stefan George: II. Noch zwingt mich Treue-Bewgt - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    10. Funf Lieder Op.4, nach Gedichten von Stefan George: III. Ja Heil und Dank-Sehr langsam - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    11. Funf Lieder Op.4, nach Gedichten von Stefan George: IV. So ich traurig bin-Sehr fliebend und zart - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    12. Funf Lieder Op.4, nach Gedichten von Stefan George: V. Ihr tratet zu dem Herde-Langsam - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    13. Funf Satze fur Streichquartett Op.5: I. Heftig bewegt - Juilliard Str Qt
    14. Funf Satze fur Streichquartett Op.5: II. Sehr langsam - Juilliard Str Qt
    15. Funf Satze fur Streichquartett Op.5: III. Sehr bewget - Juilliard Str Qt
    16. Funf Satze fur Streichquartett Op.5: IV. Sehr langsam - Juilliard Str Qt
    17. Funf Satze fur Streichquartett Op.5: V. In zarter Bewegung - Juilliard Str Qt
    18. Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: I. Etwas bewegte Achtel - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    19. Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: II. Bewgt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    20. Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: III. Zart bewegt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    21. Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: IV. Langsam - LSO/Pierre Boulez L
    22. Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: V. Sehr langsam - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    23. Sechs Stucke fur grobes Orch Op.6: VI. Zart bewegt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    24. Vier Stucke fur Geige und Klavier Op.7: I. Sehr langsam - Isaac Stern/Charles Rosen
    25. Vier Stucke fur Geige und Klavier Op.7: II. Rasch - Isaac Stern/Charles Rosen
    26. Vier Stucke fur Geige und Klavier Op.7: III. Sehr langsam - Isaac Stern/Charles Rosen
    27. Vier Stucke fur Geige und Klavier Op.7: IV. Bewegt - Isaac Stern/Charles Rosen
    28. Zwei Lieder fur mittlere Stimme und acht Instrumente Op.8, nach gedichten von Rainer Maria Rikle:... - Heather Harper
    29. Zwei Lieder fur mittlere Stimme und acht Instrumente Op.8, nach gedichten von Rainer Maria Rikle:... - Heather Harper
    30. Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: I. Mabig - Juilliard Str Qt
    31. Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: II. Leicht bewegt - Juilliard Str Qt
    32. Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: III. Zeimlich fliebend - Juilliard Str Qt
    33. Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: IV. Sehr langsam - Juilliard Str Qt
    34. Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: V. Auberst langsam - Juilliard Str Qt
    35. Sechs Bagatellen fur Streichquartett Op.9: VI. Fliebend - Juilliard Str Qt
    36. Funf Stucke fur Orchester Op.10: I. Sehr ruhig und zart - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    37. Funf Stucke fur Orchester Op.10: II. Lebhaft und zart bewegt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    38. Funf Stucke fur Orchester Op.10: III. Sehr langsam und auberst ruhig - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    39. Funf Stucke fur Orchester Op.10: IV. Fliebend, auberst zart - LSO/Pierre Boulez L
    40. Funf Stucke fur Orchester Op.10: V. Sehr fliebend - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    41. Drei kleine Stucke fur Violoncello und Klavier Op.11: I. Mabige Achtel - Gregor Piatigorsky/Charles Rosen
    42. Drei kleine Stucke fur Violoncello und Klavier Op.11: II. Sehr bewegt - Gregor Piatigorsky/Charles Rosen
    43. Drei kleine Stucke fur Violoncello und Klavier Op.11: III. Auberst ruhig - Gregor Piatigorsky/Charles Rosen
    44. Vier Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.12: I. Der Tag ist vergangen (Volkslied)-Sehr ruhig - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    45. Vier Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.12: II. Die geheimnisvolle Flote (Li Tai po/Bethge)-... - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    46. Vier Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.12: III. Schein mir's als ich sah die (aus August ... - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen
    47. Vier Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.12: IV. Ein Winterabend (Goethe0-Sehr flieBend - Heather Harper/Charles Rosen

    Tracks:

    1. Vier Lieder fur Sopran und Orch Op.13: I. Wiese im Park (karl Kraus)-Sehr ruhig - Heather Harper
    2. Vier Lieder fur Sopran und Orch Op.13: II. Die Einsame (Wang Xen Yu/Bethge)-Bewegt - Heather Harper
    3. Vier Lieder fur Sopran und Orch Op.13: III. In der Fremde (Li Tai Po/Bethge)-FlieBend - Heather Harper
    4. Vier Lieder fur Sopran und Orch Op.13: IV. Ein Winterabend (Georg Trakl)-Sehr ruhig - Heather Harper
    5. Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: I. Die... - Heather Harper
    6. Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: II. ... - Heather Harper
    7. Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: III. ... - Heather Harper
    8. Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: IV. ... - Heather Harper
    9. Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: V. Nachts... - Heather Harper
    10. Sechs Lieder fur Singstimme und vier Instrumente Op.14, nach Gedichten von Georg Trakl: VI. Gesang.. - Heather Harper
    11. Funf geistliche lieder fur Sopran und funf Instrumente Op.15: I. Das Kreuz-Getragen - Halina Lukomska
    12. Funf geistliche lieder fur Sopran und funf Instrumente Op.15: II. Morgenlied (aus'Des Knaben... - Halina Lukomska
    13. Funf geistliche lieder fur Sopran und funf Instrumente Op.15: III. In Gottes Namen aufstehn-... - Halina Lukomska
    14. Funf geistliche lieder fur Sopran und funf Instrumente Op.15: IV. Mein Weg geht jetzt voruber-... - Halina Lukomska
    15. Funf geistliche lieder fur Sopran und funf Instrumente Op.15: V. Fahr hin , o Seel'-FlieBend - Halina Lukomska
    16. Funf Kanons nach lateinischen Texten fur Sopran, Klarineete und BaBklarinette Op.16: I. Christus... - Halina Lukomska
    17. Funf Kanons nach lateinischen Texten fur Sopran, Klarineete und BaBklarinette Op.16: II. Dormi... - Halina Lukomska
    18. Funf Kanons nach lateinischen Texten fur Sopran, Klarineete und BaBklarinette Op.16: III. Crux... - Halina Lukomska
    19. Funf Kanons nach lateinischen Texten fur Sopran, Klarineete und BaBklarinette Op.16: IV. Asperges... - Halina Lukomska
    20. Funf Kanons nach lateinischen Texten fur Sopran, Klarineete und BaBklarinette Op.16: V. Crucem... - Halina Lukomska
    21. Drei Volkstexte fur Singstimme und drei Instrumente Op.17: I. Armer Sunder, du - Halina Lukomska
    22. Drei Volkstexte fur Singstimme und drei Instrumente Op.17: II. Liebste Jungfrau, wir sind dein - Halina Lukomska
    23. Drei Volkstexte fur Singstimme und drei Instrumente Op.17: III. Heiland, unsre Missetaten - Halina Lukomska
    24. Drei Lieder fur Singstimme, Es-Klarinette und Gitarre Op.18: I. Schatzerl klein - Halina Lukomska/John Williams/Colin Bradley
    25. Drei Lieder fur Singstimme, Es-Klarinette und Gitarre Op.18: II. Erlosung - Halina Lukomska/John Williams/Colin Bradley
    26. Drei Lieder fur Singstimme, Es-Klarinette und Gitarre Op.18: III. Ave Regina - Halina Lukomska/John Williams/Colin Bradley
    27. Zwei Lieder fur gemischten Chor und funf Instrumente Op.19, aus'Chinesisch-deutsche Jahres-... - John Alldis Choir/Pierre Boulez
    28. Zwei Lieder fur gemischten Chor und funf Instrumente Op.19, aus'Chinesisch-deutsche Jahres-... - John Alldis Choir/Pierre Boulez
    29. Streichtrio Op.20: I. Sehr langsam - Members of the Juilliard Str Qt
    30. Streichtrio Op.20: II. Sehr getragen und ausdrucksvoll - Members of the Juilliard Str Qt
    31. Sym Op.21: I. Ruhig schreitend - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    32. Sym Op.21: II. Variationen - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    33. Qt fur Geige, Klarinette, Tenorsaxophon un Klavier Op.22: I. Sehr maBig - Charles Rosen/Daniel Majeske/Robert Marcellus/Abraham Weinstein
    34. Qt fur Geige, Klarinette, Tenorsaxophon un Klavier Op.22: II. Sehr schwungvoll - Charles Rosen/Daniel Majeske/Robert Marcellus/Abraham Weinstein
    35. Drei Gesange Op.23, aus 'Viae inviae' von Hildegard Jone: I. Das dunkle Herz-Getragen - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen
    36. Drei Gesange Op.23, aus 'Viae inviae' von Hildegard Jone: II. Es sturzt aus hohen Frisch-Bewegt - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen
    37. Drei Gesange Op.23, aus 'Viae inviae' von Hildegard Jone: III. Herr Jesus mein-Langsam - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen
    38. Konzert fur neum Instrumente Op.24: I. Etwas lebhaft - Members of the LSO/Pierre Boulez
    39. Konzert fur neum Instrumente Op.24: II. Sehr langsam - Members of the LSO/Pierre Boulez
    40. Konzert fur neum Instrumente Op.24: III. Sehr rasch - Members of the LSO/Pierre Boulez
    41. Drei Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.25, nach Gedichten von Hildegard Jone: I. Wie bin ich... - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen
    42. Drei Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.25, nach Gedichten von Hildegard Jone: II. Des Herzens... - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen
    43. Drei Lieder fur Singstimme und Klavier Op.25, nach Gedichten von Hildegard Jone: III. Sterne, Ihr... - Halina Lukomska/Charles Rosen

    Tracks:

    1. 'Das Augenlicht' fur gemischten Chor und Orch Op.26, Worte von Hildegard Jone - John Alldis Chor/Pierre Boulez
    2. Variationen fur Klavier Op.27: I. Sehr maBig - Charles Rosen
    3. Variationen fur Klavier Op.27: II. Sehr schnell - Charles Rosen
    4. Variationen fur Klavier Op.27: III. Ruhig flieBend - Charles Rosen
    5. Streichquartett Op.28: I. MaBig - Juilliard Str Qt
    6. Streichquartett Op.28: II. Gemachlich - Juilliard Str Qt
    7. Streichquartett Op.28: III. Sehr flieBend - Juilliard Str Qt
    8. Kantate Nr.1 Op.29, Worte von Hildegard Jone: I. Zundender Lichtblitz-Getragen - Halina Lukomska/John Alldis Chor
    9. Kantate Nr.1 Op.29, Worte von Hildegard Jone: II. Kleiner Flugel, Ahornsamen-Leicht bewegt - Halina Lukomska/John Alldis Chor
    10. Kantate Nr.1 Op.29, Worte von Hildegard Jone: III. Tonen die seligen Saiten -Ruhig - Halina Lukomska/John Alldis Chor
    11. Variationen fur Orch Op.30 - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    12. Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: I. BaB. Schweigt auch die Welt - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
    13. Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: II. BaB. Sehr tiefverhalten - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
    14. Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: III. Chor. Schopfen aus Brunnen des Himmels - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
    15. Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: IV. Sopran. Leichteste Burden der Baume - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
    16. Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: V. Chor. Freundselig ist das Wort - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
    17. Kantate Nr.2 Op.31: VI. Chor. Gelockert aus dem SchoBe - Halina Lukomska/Barry McDaniel/John Alldis Chor
    18. Funf Satze fur Streinchquartett Op.5: I. Heftig bewegt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    19. Funf Satze fur Streinchquartett Op.5: II. Sehr langsam - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    20. Funf Satze fur Streinchquartett Op.5: III. Sehr bewegt - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    21. Funf Satze fur Streinchquartett Op.5: IV. Sehr langsam - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    22. Funf Satze fur Streinchquartett Op.5: V. In zarter Bewegung - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    23. J.S. Bach/A. Webern: Fuga (Ricercata) Nr.2 aus dem 'Musikalischen Opfer' - LSO/Pierre Boulez
    24. F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): I. - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern
    25. F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): II. (I.Da capo) - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern
    26. F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): III. (I.Da capo) - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern
    27. F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): IV. - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern
    28. F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): V. (IV. Da capo) - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern
    29. F. Schubert: 'Deutsche Tanze' (German Dances/Danses allemandes/Danze tedesche): VI. (IV. Da capo) - Frankfurter Funkorchester/Anton Webern

    Amazon.com essential recording

    This collection presents all Webern's works with opus numbers in chronological order, allowing listeners to scrutinize the inner workings of this influential composer's intense, compressed style from the lush Passacaglia to the starkness of his late vocal works. A broadcast recording of Webern conducting a group of Schubert Dances makes a lively bonus. --Jed Distler

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars Excellent Webern from the master Boulez and company........2006-09-12

    Boulez has a DG recording, which I have several singles from that set. The DG is very good and recommended as a second set. This Sony recording is outstanding and the finest in my Webern collection. If you have this set , you still may want to look at the DG set. Why? Because this music is so wonderful, so that another experience is well worth the price of say $40. But if you have the DG set, you definetly want to keep that set and also get this Sony set.
    Notice how few new Webern recordings are released. When conductors hear this set, I guess they feel its pointless to try to meet these standards. The artists here are all in excellent form and understanding of this extremely difficult but rewarding music.

    4 out of 5 stars Webern may grow on you and Boulez et al. are worth every penny........2005-09-18

    If you are looking for an introduction to Webern, give this a try. It has the advatage of being comprehensive and well played. If you don't like all of Webern, so be it. If you buy this recording and give it a few listenings you will have heard enough to make an informed judgement.

    I have found that Webern's music demands mutiple hearings before you can say you've really heard it. When you are in the mood for some 20th century pioneering work, turn to this recording and listen. Over time, you will be glad you did.

    5 out of 5 stars Interesting and Challenging.......2004-04-09

    I don't know if I "like" Webern, but he is certainly interesting and challenging. The textures of his music are very fragile and transparent. The pieces are extraordinarily economical (the average Webern piece, I would guess, is about two minutes in duration, maybe less). The dissonances are extreme (strange to say, twelve-tone music can vary in how dissonant it sounds, as some twelve-tone composers (Berg, for example) use "easier" tone rows as the bases of their works). Webern was a musician of great integrity, and he pushed twelve-tone music to the radical extreme (as compared his more conservative teacher, Schoenberg, and fellow-pupil, Berg.) Again, I don't know if it works, and I don't know if I like it. I will definitely continue to listen to it. What I definitely like is this wonderful recording, with performances lovingly rendered. For this reason, I'm giving the recording five stars. However, if you want an "easier" introduction to twelve-tone and atonal music, get Berg's Violin Concerto, or even Schoenberg's piano concerto. With respect to the Schoenberg piano concerto, Mitsuko Uchida's disc is wonderful, and is highly recommended.

    5 out of 5 stars The original and still the best.......2003-11-25

    Boulez's seminal original recordings of Webern are still important today. They capture the extraordinary distance this composer travelled from his tonal opus 1 passacaglia, though the atonal expressionism of the opus 5 and opus 6 pieces, the extreme compression of the opus 9 bagatelles, the contrapuntal abstraction of the mid-period songs to the serial masterpieces of his later years. These pieces still divide concert audiences today--I've been to Webern performances where half the audience was electrified and the other half clearly wanted to be elsewhere--but their historical significance cannot be denied. I believe their musical significance cannot either: close on a dozen of these works are amongst the finest pieces the 20th century has to offer. This set of performances, dating from the late 1960s and early 1970s and largely recorded under the direction by Pierre Boulez, has long since been regarded as being as close to definitive as one can get. I wouldn't go so far--there are occasional less impressive performances (such as the saxophone quartet) amongst the very fine ones. However, as complete sets go, I find the performances here largely superior to Boulez's more recent traversal on DG.

    Technically, this set is not a Complete Works. It only includes those works that Webern published with an opus number, with the addition of the composer's wonderful orchestral transcription of the Ricercare a 6 from Bach's Musical Offering, and an old recording of Webern conducting his orchestrations of Schubert's German Dances. There are more works included on Boulez's rival set on DG--at twice the price--but most of what you gain are juvenilia.

    And, for those who remain unconvinced that they'd like Webern, check out http://www.antonwebern.com -- a website that has free streaming mp3s of several of the recordings on this set. Listen to a few of them a few times (though skip the opus 16-18 songs, some of his driest works), and then decide.

    4 out of 5 stars Boulez's Webern -- brilliant modern miniatures.......2001-11-27

    All 31 works that Webern gave official Opus numbers on 3 discs, conducted by Boulez (not Kolbe!), with the Juilliard Quartet and the London Symphony Orchestra, and a superb booklet with commentary and lyrics -- so why only 4 stars? My objection is the strictly chronological presentation, and the fact that I am not won over by Webern's vocal works -- I would vastly prefer grouping the music by form. Everything is brilliantly performed, and Charles Rosen, who accompanies sopranos on piano on several pieces, plays with sparkling luminosity. But the reason I sought out this collection is because I wanted to hear Boulez's versions of Webern's masterpieces, the "Symphony (Op. 21)" and "Variations for Orchestra (Op. 30)," as well as the string trios and quartets. Here these instrumental works are mixed among the lieders, Webern's many vocal works, and I find this frustrating. I prefer hearing the instrumental pieces grouped together, as on the Dohnanyi or Sinopoli discs of orchestral works (see my reviews of both), or the Schoenberg or Emerson Quartet's discs of the string trios and quartets (see my reviews of both). Unfortunately there is not a Boulez disc comparable to the Dohnanyi (on London) or Sinopoli (on Teldec). So it's either this Sony box or the several more recently recorded discs on DG, unless of course you are a total Webern fanatic and want the Ultra-Complete box with all the numbered AND un-numbered pieces...

    It's really hard to fault this excellent Webern collection. Obviously if you have a more catholic appreciation of Webern's music than I (including the vocal works), my criticism is irrelevant. If you are a completist on a budget, this is a clear choice over the more expensive box. But if you are looking for an introduction to Webern's music, the best of which is some of the best of the 20th century in my opinion, I suggest that you begin with 1) Dohnanyi and the Cleveland Orchestra, and 2) the Schoenberg Quartet.

    [There is a mistake on the site. Pierre Boulez is the conductor, not Helmuth Kolbe. Careful inspection of the box reveals that Kolbe was the engineer...]
    A Celebration For Harp
    Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
    • A beautifully thought-out programme and stunning playing
    • Nancy Allen
    A Celebration For Harp

    Manufacturer: Angel Records
    ProductGroup: Music
    Binding: Audio CD

    All Works by J.S. BachAll Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Couperin, François | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    All Works by RespighiAll Works by Respighi | Respighi, Ottorino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    All Works by Domenico ScarlattiAll Works by Domenico Scarlatti | Scarlatti, Domenico | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    All Works by ProkofievAll Works by Prokofiev | Prokofiev, Sergei | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
    SonatinasSonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    SuitesSuites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    ToccatasToccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    OrganOrgan | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    FluteFlute | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    ViolinViolin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
    CantatasCantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
    CantatasCantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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    ASIN: B000002SDH
    Release Date: 1990-10-25

    Tracks:

    1. Toccata
    2. French Suite No.6 In E, BWV.817: Allemande and Courante
    3. Sonata In E K 380: Andante comodo
    4. Three Lute Dances: Courante
    5. Three Lute Dances: Pavane
    6. Three Lute Dances: Bransles
    7. Three Lute Dances: Le Coucou Daquin
    8. Romeo And Juliet: Aubade
    9. BMV.1031: Siciliano
    10. Violin Sonata No 2: Andante
    11. Op12 No 7: Prelude
    12. Siciliana
    13. B Flat K545: Sonata
    14. Les Barricades mysterieuses
    15. A K208: Sonata
    16. A K 209: Sonata
    17. BMV639: Ich ruf zu dir
    18. Jesu Joy Of Man's Desiring
    19. Confusing

    Customer Reviews:

    5 out of 5 stars A beautifully thought-out programme and stunning playing.......2007-04-18

    I bought this CD (with slight trepidation) because I was sure I would enjoy most of the music. The trepidation was only because, having discovered the inimitable Andrew Lawrence-King, I wasn't sure how the sound of the modern harp would stack up against his amazing instruments and the even more amazing range of sounds he gets from them. But I needn't have worried. Nancy Allen makes a beautiful, if mostly conventional, sound on her modern harp and her virtosity takes away one's breath. Her articulation is possibly the cleanest of any player of the modern harp I've heard and her sense of rhythmn is faultless. I'm no fan at all of modern music but I even enjoyed the two pieces by Prokofiev on this CD. I can't recommend it highly enough.

    5 out of 5 stars Nancy Allen.......2007-04-16

    Nancy Allen is the best harpist in the world and this CD reflects that.
    Constant Lambert: The Rio Grande; Horoscope
    Average customer rating: Not rated
      Constant Lambert: The Rio Grande; Horoscope

      Manufacturer: Asv Living Era
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      BalletsBallets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by ChabrierAll Works by Chabrier | Chabrier, Alexis Emanuel | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by LisztAll Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by MeyerbeerAll Works by Meyerbeer | Meyerbeer, Giacomo | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      All Works by WaltonAll Works by Walton | Walton, Sir William | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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      Ballets & DancesBallets & Dances | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      General ModernGeneral Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      Ballets & DancesBallets & Dances | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Classical | Styles | Music
      London Philharmonic OrchestraLondon Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
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      ASIN: B000AMY08G
      Release Date: 2005-11-22
      Massenet: Complete Works for Solo Piano, Piano Concerto & Complete Works for Piano Duet
      Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
      • Rare French Musique...
      Massenet: Complete Works for Solo Piano, Piano Concerto & Complete Works for Piano Duet
      Aldo Ciccolini , Jules Massenet , Sylvain Cambreling , and Orchestre National de l'Opera de Monte Carlo
      Manufacturer: EMI Classics
      ProductGroup: Music
      Binding: Audio CD

      All Works by MassenetAll Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
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      RomanticRomantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
      ToccatasToccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
      Chamber MusicChamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
      PianoPiano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music
      Ciccolini, AldoCiccolini, Aldo | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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      RomancesRomances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      GeneralGeneral | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      FrenchFrench | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
      Similar Items:
      1. Massenet: Orchestral Suites
      2. French Piano Concertos
      3. Jules Massenet: Ballet Suites
      4. Massenet: Orchestral Suites
      5. Kullak / Dreyschock: Piano Concertos

      ASIN: B0000CE7FS
      Release Date: 2004-06-01

      Tracks:

      1. I. Andante Moderato - Allegro Non Troppo (Cadenza)
      2. II. Largo
      3. III. Airs Slovaques: Allegro - Allegro Maestoso - Allegro Molto Animato
      4. 1. Papillons Noirs (Allegro Agitato Molto)
      5. 2. Papillons Blancs (Allegro)
      6. 1. Eau Dormante (Lent Et Calme)
      7. 2. Eau Courante (Vite)
      8. Toccata
      9. Musique Pour Bercer Les Petits Enfants
      10. 1. Nocturne: Andante Con Moto
      11. 2. Marche: Allegro Con Molto Di Moto
      12. 3. Barcarolle: Andantino Quasi Andante
      13. 4. Rigodon: Allegro Non Troppo
      14. 5. Melodie (Elegie Jouee Par Les Erinnyes): Lento Ma Non Troppo
      15. 6. Saltarello: Allegro Vivace
      16. 7. Vieille Chanson: Andante Quasi Andantino
      17. 8. Legende: Allegretto - Presto
      18. 9. Fughetta: Andantino Quasi Allegretto
      19. 10. Carillon: Allegro
      20. 1. Andantino (Calme Et Soutenu Sans Lenteur)
      21. 2. Allegretto Con Grazia - Con Moto
      22. 3. Triste Et Lent
      23. 4. Allegretto Scherzando
      24. 5. Andante Cantabile Espressivo (Quasi Recitativo)
      25. 6. Allegro Deciso Con Moto
      26. 7. Allegretto (Calme Et Simplement)

      Tracks:

      1. Valse Folle
      2. Valse Tres Lente (Tres Lente Et Tres Douce)
      3. Devant La Madonne (Souvenir De La Campagne De Rome, Nuit De Noel) (Allegro Moderato)
      4. I. A L'Ombre (Assez Lent Et Mysterieux)
      5. II. Dans Les Bles (Modere)
      6. III. Grand Soleil (Avec Ampleur)
      7. I. Feuilles Jaunes (Assez Lent)
      8. II. Deux Novembre (Triste, Assez Lent)
      9. III. Joyeuse Chasse (Tres Anime)
      10. I. Noel (Tres Modere)
      11. I. En Songeant (Tres Lent)
      12. III. On Valsait (Mouvement De Valse)
      13. I. Premiers Nids (Vif, Alerte Et Gai)
      14. II. Lilas (Tres Modere Et Caressant)
      15. III. Paques (Sortie De La Grand-Messe) (Modere)
      16. 1. Avec Entrain (In C)
      17. 2. Tres Anime (In G)
      18. 3. Expressif Et Triste, Sans Lenteur (In B Flat Minor)
      19. 4. Tres Anime (In D Flat)
      20. 5. Avec Elan (In C)
      21. 6. Avec Ampleur, Sans Lenteur (In F)
      22. 1. Modere Et Bien Rythme (In B Minor)
      23. 2. Allegretto, Avec Delicatesse (In G)
      24. 3. D'Une Allure Franche Et Gaie, Mesure Cependant (In C)
      25. La Vierge: Danse Galileenne
      26. I. Andante (In F)
      27. II. Allegretto Quasi Allegro (In G)
      28. III. Andante (In D Flat)
      29. 1. Tres Calme Avec Un Sentiment Intime (In E Flat)
      30. 2. (Sans Indication De Mouvement) (In G)

      Customer Reviews:

      5 out of 5 stars Rare French Musique..........2007-02-12

      .
      Nice reissue of some rare French piano music, at a bargan rate.

      Ciccolini is an adequate pianist who specializes in French art. His readings of Satie are questionable--but Massenet's piano pieces are otherwise unobtainable.

      Jules Massenet is not widely remembered now--aside from a couple of operas which maintain a toehold in the repetoire. In his heyday during the Second Empire, however, he was an important teacher and opera impresario. These little piano pieces reflect the pale rosy eroticism popular in art during the corrupt reign of Napoleon III.
      .
      Shostakovich: Complete Works for Piano Duo
      Average customer rating: Not rated
        Shostakovich: Complete Works for Piano Duo

        Manufacturer: Cpo Records
        ProductGroup: Music
        Binding: Audio CD

        WaltzesWaltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
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        All Works by ProkofievAll Works by Prokofiev | Prokofiev, Sergei | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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        2. Hamlet

        ASIN: B00000I7SJ
        Release Date: 1999-03-09

        Tracks:

        1. Con Op.94 in a
        2. Ste Op.6 in f#: Prld
        3. Ste Op.6 in f#: Fantastic Dance
        4. Ste Op.6 in f#: Nocturne
        5. Ste Op.6 in f#: Finale
        6. The Filmusic To 'The Gadfly': Tarantella
        7. The Ballet 'The Golden Age': Waltz & Polka: Waltz
        8. The Ballet 'The Golden Age': Waltz & Polka: Polka
        9. Con Per Due Pianoforte Soli 1935: Con Moto
        10. Con Per Due Pianoforte Soli 1935: Notturno
        11. Con Per Due Pianoforte Soli 1935: Quattro Variazioni
        12. Con Per Due Pianoforte Soli 1935: Prld E Fuga
        13. Schubert Waltz Ste
        14. Hora Staccato

        Track Listings:

        1. Complete Piano Sonatas 1
        2. Complete String Quartets 4
        3. Complete String Quartets 5
        4. Dmitri Kabalevsky 7
        5. Dmitri Kabalevsky 8
        6. Don Quixote/Festival Prelude/Dance of the Seven Veils
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        8. Edvard Lieber: Music to Paintings
        9. Enescu: Complete Orchestral Works, Vol. 1
        10. Enescu: Complete Orchestral Works, Vol. 2

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