Villa-Lobos: Guitar Music

1. Prelúdio, for guitar No. 1 in E Minor, A. 419/1
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
with Rafael Iturri

2. Prelúdio, for guitar No. 2 in C Minor, A. 419/2
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
with Rafael Iturri

3. Prelúdio, for guitar No. 3 in A Minor, A. 419/3
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
with Rafael Iturri

4. Prelúdio, for guitar No. 4 in E Minor, A. 419/4
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
with Rafael Iturri

5. Prelúdio, for guitar No. 5 in D Major, A. 419/5
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
with Rafael Iturri

6. Estudio, for guitar No. 5 in C Major, A. 235/5
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
with Rafael Iturri

7. Estudio, for guitar No. 6 in E Minor, A. 235/6
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
with Rafael Iturri

8. Estudio, for guitar No. 8 in C-sharp Minor, A. 235/8
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
with Rafael Iturri

9. Chôros No. 1, for guitar, "Tipico brasileiro", A. 161
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
with Rafael Iturri

10. Suite populaire brésilienne (5), for guitar (Brazilian Folk Suite), A. 020
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
with Rafael Iturri

Villa-Lobos: Guitar Music,Heitor Villa-Lobos,Rafael Iturri,Rene Gailly,Chamber,Chamber Music & Recitals,Classical,Guitar Solo

Average customer rating: Excellent Introduction to Spanish Classical Guitar Music The guitar is an orchestra in miniature! GUITAR MAJESTY Sweet, sweet music, an essential addition to your collection A True Classic

Spanish Guitar Music Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Albeniz, Mateo Pérez de | ( A ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Falla | Falla, Manuel de | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Granados, Enrique | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tarrega | Tarrega, Francisco | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Turina | Turina, Joaquin | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Ballets & Dances | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Williams, John [guitar] | ( W ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Essential Guitar: 33 Guitar Masterpieces 300 Years of Guitar Masterpieces Baroque Guitar Masters of Flamenco Guitar Classic Williams: Romance of the Guitar ASIN: B00005YJ4Q Release Date: 2002-01-29

Tracks:

1. Albeniz: Asturias
2. Albeniz: Tango
3. Sanz: Canarios
4. Rodrigo: Fandango
5. Torroba: Nocturno
6. Segreras - El Colibri
7. Albeniz: Sonata in D
8. De Falla: The Corregidor's Dance
9. De Falla: Fisherman's Song
10. De Falla: The Miller's Dance
11. Torroba: Madronos
12. La Nit de Nadal
13. El Noy de la Mare
14. Granados: Ma Maja de Goya
15. Abeniz: Cordoba
16. Tarrega: Recuerdos de la Alhambra
17. Granados: Spanish Dance No. 5
18. El Testamen de Amelia
19. Villa-Lobos: Prelude No. 4 in E Minor
20. Albeniz: Sevilla
21. De Falla: Homanaje
22. Mudarra: Fantasia
23. Turina: Fandanguillo

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Introduction to Spanish Classical Guitar Music.......2005-09-18

As a sampler, this CD is an excellent introduction both to Spanish classical guitar music and to guitarist John Williams.
The music ranges from Renaissance composers (Sanz, Mudarra) and harmonized folk melodies to standard 20th Century works (Rodrigo, Torroba etc).

John Williams is excellent throughout. The CD is also cheap, and can be used either just for enjoyment, or further to explore other recordings by Williams, the classical guitar repertoire, or other classical guitarists.

As a marketing ploy, it is very effective.

For the collector or classical guitar enthusiast, the chief disadvantages of the CD are duplication of other recordings, and that the way at least some of the works on this CD are listed isn't helpful in telling the listener the set(s) to which these pieces belong and how to find them (e.g. "from ______, Op # "). The font listing the titles and track numbers is small and somewhat hard to read.

However, this CD should attract many listeners and enthusiasts both to the classical guitar, the repertoire, and guitarist John Williams - and I'm all for that.

Over 70 minutes playing time.

Recommended.

The guitar is an orchestra in miniature!.......2005-02-05

This admirable concept belongs to Hector Berlioz and it must not be a surprise the best guitarrists in the story have in common this trademark.

John Williams has always known the delicate equilibrium between the expresiveness and the glamouer. His impresive technique however is not exposed as his prima edonna. He goes directly to the soul of the composer, melts in his spirit and let the music sharp the qith eloquent conviction the composer's demanded atmosphere.

From Granados to Albeniz, from Rodrigo to Agustin Barrios - El indio Mangore -, from Moreno Torroba to Ponce , you will find the warmth, the passion and the Midas touch of this golden guitarrist.

GUITAR MAJESTY.......2004-12-21

John Williams is a true Guitar virtuoso. His repetoire is very extensive and I use his music in my office while I work at my daily office duties. This album is a must for all guitar enthusiasts old or young.

Sweet, sweet music, an essential addition to your collection.......2004-12-07

I originally bought this album three years ago, looking for a good introduction to Spanish guitar music. And this one fits that need perfectly. I still listen to and enjoy it today. I play this for guests at happy hour or dinner for a relaxed atmosphere. At Amazon's current price, this is a great value.

A True Classic.......2004-01-26

This album/cd is extraordinary. All the songs are gorgeous and exciting to listen to. John Williams' interpretation and technique are perfect. After 22 years of listening to it, I still enjoy and appreciate it more every time. I love giving it as a gift.

Average customer rating: Illuminating Essential recordings Exquisite The "cool school" of guitar playing Bach and others on the Guitar

300 Years of Guitar Masterpieces Manufacturer: Vox (Classical) ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Cimarosa, Domenico | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Giuliani, Mauro | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Granados, Enrique | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Paganini, Niccolò | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Domenico Scarlatti | Scarlatti, Domenico | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Instruments | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Bargain Box Sets | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Similar Items: Essential Guitar: 33 Guitar Masterpieces Baroque Guitar Spanish Guitar Music Classic Williams: Romance of the Guitar Art of Segovia ASIN: B000001K62 Release Date: 1992-11-04

Tracks:

1. Spanish Dances: No. 4 Villanesca
2. Spanish Dances: No. 12 Arabesca
3. Etudes For Guitar: No. 7 In E Minor
4. Etudes For Guitar: No. 3 In D Major
5. Etudes For Guitar: No. 5 In C Major
6. Etudes For Guitar: No. 12 In A Minor
7. Etudes For Guitar: No. 2 In A Major
8. Etudes For Guitar: No. 8 In C - Sharp Minor
9. Etudes For Guitar: No. 11 In E Minor
10. Etudes For Guitar: No. 1 In E Minor
11. Estudo No. 1
12. 3 Pieces For Guitar: No. 1 Largo
13. 3 Pieces For Guitar: No. 2 Tranquillo
14. 3 Pieces For Guitar: No. 3 Un poco mosso
15. Suite populaire bresilienne: Mazurka - Choro
16. Suite populaire bresilienne: Schottish - Choro
17. Suite populaire bresilienne: Valsa - Choro
18. Suite populaire bresilienne: Gavotta - Choro
19. Suite populaire bresilienne: Chorinho

Tracks:

1. Sonata In D Major, K. 290, L. 206
2. Sonata In E Minor, K. 292, L. 24
3. Sonata In E Major, K. 380, L. 23
4. Sonata In A Major, K. 208, L. 238
5. Sonata In A Major, K. 209, L. 428
6. Sonata In D Minor
7. Sonata In A Major
8. Sonata In B Minor
9. Sonata In A Major, Op. 3, No. 1
10. Variations sur les Folies d'Espagne, Op. 45
11. Sonata In E Minor, Op. 3, No. 6
12. Gran Sonata Eroica In A Major, Op. 150: Allegro maestoso
13. Spanish Dances: No. 1 Minuetto
14. Spanish Dances: No. 5 Andaluza (Playera)
15. Spanish Dances: No. 3 Zarabanda

Tracks:

1. Suite No. 4 In E Major: Prelude
2. Suite No. 4 In E Major: Loure
3. Suite No. 4 In E Major: Gavotte en Rondeau
4. Suite No. 4 In E Major: Menuett
5. Suite No. 4 In E Major: Bourree
6. Suite No. 4 In E Major: Gigue
7. Suite No. 2 In A Minor: Preludio
8. Suite No. 2 In A Minor: Fuga
9. Suite No. 2 In A Minor: Sarabande
10. Suite No. 2 In A Minor: Gigue - Double
11. First Suite Espagnola, Op. 47: Granada (Serenata)
12. First Suite Espagnola, Op. 47: Cataluna (Curranda)
13. First Suite Espagnola, Op. 47: Sevilla (Sevillanas)
14. First Suite Espagnola, Op. 47: Cadiz (Cancion)
15. First Suite Espagnola, Op. 47: Cuba (Capricho)

Amazon.com

Manuel Barrueco is one of the best guitarists I've ever heard. Listen to his own arrangement of Albeniz's Suite Española and you'll have trouble believing it's only two hands on one guitar. But Barrueco doesn't use his technique to show off. He's a solid musician, as expressive in Bach as in Villa- Lobos. He also makes transcriptions that respect the origins of the music. This is a wide-ranging guitar collection, but all the music is worth hearing, especially in performances like these. The disc is one of the best bargains among all guitar recordings, and Vox's recordings still sound like a guitar. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Illuminating.......2007-07-04

I'm a thoughtful and introspective person with a diverse background. Of all the old countries, Spain's diverse background appealed to me. This music reflects that appeal.

Essential recordings.......2007-04-06

Not much else really to say about this. It is a collection of brilliant interpretations and the guitar has the most amazing sound I've ever heard on a recording. You will find yourself almost spiritually bound to share this recording with any classical guitar playing friends and aficionados.

Exquisite.......2006-12-14

I was browsing Amazon, shopping for gifts, and when I listened to the snippets of this, I couldn't resist ordering it for myself. It's a 3CD set of beautiful, varied music played by a brilliantly skilled and sensitive master. Barrueco has an extraordinary touch that seems perfect for each piece, from Bach to Paganini to Villa-Lobos. Anyone who likes classical guitar would treasure this set.

The "cool school" of guitar playing.......2006-10-26

This three CD collection is a reissue of Cuban born virtuoso Manuel Barrueco's early Vox LPs, recorded in the late 1970s to early 1980s. Included in this set is his stunning performance of selections by Spanish composers Isaac Albéniz and Enrique Granados. This 1978 Albéniz/Granados recording is perhaps the greatest example of what I call the "cool school" of guitar playing, eschewing color and warmth in favor of restraint, taste, and note perfect execution. One complaint: in this reissue VoxBox inexplicably spread the Albéniz/Granados selections over three CDs.

Bach and others on the Guitar.......2006-08-10

A wonderful combination between the Great Bach and a master of Guitar

Average customer rating: Great recording, great interpretation Excellent performance! awesome music What a wounderful work... Flawless technique - musically flat

Villa-Lobos: Complete Music for Solo Guitar Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | 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 $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Leo Brouwer: Guitar Music, Vol. 1 Barrios: Guitar Music, Vol. 1 Lauro: Venezuelan Waltzes for Guitar 300 Years of Guitar Masterpieces Essential Guitar: 33 Guitar Masterpieces ASIN: B00004YYRQ Release Date: 2000-11-21

Tracks:

1. Chor No.1 (Typico)
2. St Populaire Bresilienne: No.1 Mazurka - Choros
3. St Populaire Bresilienne: No.2 Schottisch - Choros
4. St Populaire Bresilienne: No.3 Valsa - Choros - Norbert Kraft N
5. St Populaire Bresilienne: No.4 Gavota - Choros
6. St Populaire Bresilienne: No.5 Chorinho
7. 12 Etudes: No.1 Allegro Non Troppo
8. 12 Etudes: No.2 Allegro
9. 12 Etudes: No.3 Allegro Moderato
10. 12 Etudes: No.4 Un Peu Modere
11. 12 Etudes: No.5 Andantino
12. 12 Etudes: No.6 Poco Allegro
13. 12 Etudes: No.7 Tres Anime - Norbert Kraft N
14. 12 Etudes: No.8 Modere
15. 12 Etudes: No.9 Tres Peu Anime
16. 12 Etudes: No.10 Tres Anime
17. 12 Etudes: No.11 Lent - Anime
18. 12 Etudes: No.12 Anime
19. 5 Prlds: No.1 in e
20. 5 Prlds: No.2 in E
21. 5 Prlds: No.3 in a
22. 5 Prlds: No.4 in e
23. 5 Prlds: No.5 in D

Customer Reviews:

Great recording, great interpretation.......2007-07-23

I listened to this recording and at first listening I said "Great, somebody took these hackeneyed pieces and breathed new life into them"... I mean, how many Villalobos recordings are out there? Too many... Norbert took this to a different level by re-interpreting them... that's the only way this music is going to sound new... So, to all these fuddy duddies who gave this album a bad review, you should listen with a clear head, as opposed to listening with some "ideal" recording of this in you mind... to the guy who went on and on as to how this "should" be interpreted and how he sat there with the score and the recording should be this and that, I ask you, are you the Villalobos police?? Get a life.. If you've heard the villalobos guitar works before, this is a great new interpretation of them...

Excellent performance!.......2007-01-11

To play old classic, especially the guitar classic, in a new way is highly difficult task. None the less, Norbert Craft has found absolutely new, as it appears to me, intonations in Villa Lobos quitar music, especially in the studies. The technique is beyond reproach. Excellent performance!

awesome music.......2006-11-05

This music is awesome to listen to and to play. I bought it because it has all the songs from Heitor's guitar sheet music compilation "Villa-Lobos Solo Guitar: Heitor Villa-Lobos Collected Works for Solo Guitar".

Norbert Kraft is a very skilled guitarist. He puts his own interpretation into the music, which I like a lot. The recording is very good.

What a wounderful work..........2006-08-06

If you play classical guitar, you know that you just got to know how to play the Villa-Lobos 12 studies...
What a wounderful interpretation by Mr. Kraft.

Flawless technique - musically flat.......2006-06-05

Kraft's performance on this album is rushed, mechanical, and emotionally shallow. It's like listening to a MIDI sequencer -- every note is perfect, but somehow Kraft manages to lose the music.

At the end of this CD, I felt very disappointed.

Average customer rating: Excellent Duo Dynamic Duo Worth the wait!!! Worth the wait!

Jubilation Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Copland | Copland, Aaron | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | 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 Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Partsongs | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Grace Like A River - Christopher Parkening Jubilant Grace Like a River Simple Gifts: Christopher Parkening David Russell: Art of the Guitar ASIN: B000MGTFG2 Release Date: 2007-03-06

Tracks:

1. York: Jubilation
2. The Water Is Wide (Trad., arr. Dave Grusin)
3. Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child (Trad., arr. Russ)
4. He's Got the Whole World in His Hands (Trad., arr. Russ)
5. Myers: Cavatina
6. Pantoja: Ciranda Bambolé
7. Villa-Lobos: Modinha
8. Pantoja: Lamento
9. Almeida: Caçador
10. Carlevaro: Campo
11. Gustavino: La Rosa y El Sauce (arr. Russ)
12. America (My Country 'Tis of Thee) (Trad., arr. Phillip Lester)
13. Copland: At the River (arr. Russ)
14. Copland: Ching-a-ring Chaw (arr. Russ)
15. Rodrigo: Cançoneta
16. Anchieta: Con amores, la mi Madre (arr. Russ)
17. Torre: Pampano Verde (arr. Russ)
18. Castelnuovo-Tedesco: La Arrulladora (from Platero and I)
19. Granadinas (Trad., arr. Russ)
20. Domeniconi: Koyunbaba, Op. 19

Album Description

Christopher Parkening, whose remarkable life and career were recently chronicled in his autobiography and companion CD, Grace Like a River, described the young baritone Jubilant Sykes as "phenomenally gifted". Through the years, as Christopher and Jubilant's friendship grew, so did the scope of their individual careers. The two performed together in concert quite frequently so the idea of recording together seemed a natural progression. When Christopher Parkening and Jubilant Sykes walked into Capitol Studios' famous Studio A, where so many legendary artists have recorded, something special was going to happen. This recording, aptly named Jubilation, is a musical journey through Brazil, Spain and the Americas.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Duo.......2007-04-10

This CD is a collection of music both traditional and modern. Christopher Parkening and Jubilant Sykes are a perfect match for the completion of perfection in this collection of music. Christopher Parkening's performance of solos are brilliant and heart felt. Jubilant Sykes is excellent as well and his deep tones mix so well with the gentle harmony of the classical guitar. This is a must for any music library.

Dynamic Duo .......2007-04-03

Going out on a limb here. This cd may be as good or better than Pleasures of Their Company. There is some real magic going on here. Christopher's sensativity and willingness to let Jubilant take the spot light is really what makes this cd for me. The tunes with the vocalise are particularly satisfying. It's just great to see Christopher continue to put out such quality work so many years into his career. I have seen them play some of these tunes live and hope to again someday in the near future. If you like this cd check them out live... at times I thought Jubilant's voice was going to bring the ceiling down.

Worth the wait!!!.......2007-03-25

After hearing Jubliant and Christopher on a Christmas tour a couple years ago I have been waiting for them to record something since... Finally!!! After listening I am just amazed by Jubliant's virtuoso voice. I think all the Americal Idol hopefuls should really listen to true God given talent versus copying commerical radio stars. Amazingly good voice. Now, I have been playing guitar for 18+ years and am an avid player and fan of classical guitar. Christopher Parkening has always been my inspiration for starting and he shows no signs of letting up on his wonderful styling, phrasing and best of all his sound! This was a match made in Heaven. Literally!

Worth the wait!.......2007-03-16

Finally, these two great musicians who have toured this music for over a year have recorded a delightful collection of songs, spirituals and solo guitar works. Sykes' voice is complimented by Parkening's masterful playing of the classical guitar. I highly recommend this recording. What a treat!

Average customer rating: Excellent recording Highly Recommended! Amazing A gentleman musical agreement! Extreme virtuosity

Christopher Parkening - The Great Recordings ~ By America's Preeminent Guitar Virtuoso Johann Sebastian Bach , François Couperin , Gabriel Fauré , Isaac Albeniz , Anonymous , Francisco Tarrega (y Eixea) , Silvius Leopold Weiss , Claude Debussy , Maurice Ravel , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Gordon Young , Georg Philipp Telemann , Heitor Villa-Lobos , Manuel de Falla , Manuel Ponce , Enrique Granados , Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco , Andrew York , Fernando Sor , Gaspar Sanz , Joaquin Rodrigo , and Christopher Parkening Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Couperin, François | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Falla | Falla, Manuel de | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Granados, Enrique | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Satie | Satie, Erik | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tarrega | Tarrega, Francisco | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Telemann, Georg Philipp | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Character Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Telemann, Georg Philipp | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | 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 | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Parkening, Christopher | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Christopher Parkening plays Bach Simple Gifts: Christopher Parkening The Christopher Parkening Guitar Method - Volume 2: Guitar Technique In the Spanish Style / Christopher Parkening Christopher Parkening - A Tribute to Segovia ASIN: B000002RTR Release Date: 1993-09-14

Tracks:

1. Fugue From Violin Sonata No. 1, BWV 1001 - J S Bach
2. Estudio brillante
3. Etude No. 1 In E Minor
4. Recuerdos de la Alhambra
5. Leyenda
6. Romance
7. Rumores de la Caleta
8. Capricho Arabe
9. Cantata 147: Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
10. Well-Tempered Clavier: Prelude No. 1
11. Well-Tempered Clavier: Prelude No. 6
12. Cantata 140: Sleepers Awake
13. Prelude, Fugue, And Allegro: Allegro
14. Cantata 208: Sheep May Safely Graze
15. Les Barricades mysterieuses
16. Preambulo & Allegro vivo: Preambulo And Allegro vivo
17. Passacaglia
18. The Girl With The Flaxen Hair
19. Gymnopedie No. 1
20. Empress Of The Pagodas
21. Afro-Cuban Lullaby

Tracks:

1. Fourth Lute Suite: Praludium
2. Fairest Lord Jesus
3. Praise Ye The Lord, K. 339
4. Simple Gifts
5. Hymn Of Christian Joy
6. Cantata 29: We Thank Thee, Lord
7. Cantata 156: Arioso
8. Cantata 99: What God Hath Done
9. Canon
10. Dolly Suite: Berceuse
11. La Vida breve: Spanish Dance No. 1
12. Terezinha De Jesus
13. Prelude (In The Baroque Style)
14. Goyescas: Intermezzo
15. Prelude & Fugue No. 4 In E: Fugue
16. Evening Dance
17. Variations On A Theme Of Mozart
18. Canarlos
19. La Maja de Goya
20. El Noi de la Mare
21. Concierto de Aranjuez: Adagio - J. Rodrigo

Customer Reviews:

Excellent recording.......2007-05-12

If you are a fan of classical guitar than this is a must own set. I enjoy every moment.

Highly Recommended!.......2006-12-23

I would recommend this CD to anyone who loves music--period! Christopher Parkening is unquestionably one of the greatest classical guitarists of all-time. He embodies personal excellence like no other and is a brilliant artist. This CD is a must-have for any classical enthusiast. My favorite pieces include: Tárrega's "Recuerdos de la Alhambra," "Romance," Bach's "Prelude No. 6," and Rodrigo's "Concierto de Aranjuez." There are other versions of these pieces as well, but I always prefer Parkening's renditions, as they are oh so extraordinary--especially the recording of Aranjuez!! Other guitarists never seem to capture the essence of Rodrigo's musical masterpiece (e.g., Göran Söllescher in "Mad About Guitars"). But Parkening did! And the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra was a perfect accompaniment.

This CD is definitely worth buying. Included is a CD booklet, which illustrates the history of Parkening's illustrious career, interesting tidbits about all 25 recorded pieces, and several photos of his early life to his "breathtaking performance" at Rodrigo's 90th birthday celebration at the Royal Festival Hall in London, 1992.

Amazing.......2006-05-08

I am not going to go into great detail. I am working on a degree in classical guitar and I can say this is something to strive for. His musical interpretation of the peices represented here are some of the best I've heard. His tone,color, and phrasing is incredible.

A gentleman musical agreement! .......2006-03-16

In guitar ` s playing there have been many renowned performers, gifted of exuberant technique. But curiously the Apollonian playing is not by itself strictly enough. The guitar is the instrument which is closer to heart as any other one. It demands from you passion and sentiment. There have been three well known guitarists, one of them from England and the other one from Spain and the third one from Japan whose sensibility was totally absent in their performances.

But fortunately for us, there have been notable interpreters that have been maintained a desired balance and contrast between brain and heart, achieving great distinction and total acknowledgement around the world. I would name seven primordial names along the instrument `s story. First of all: the mythic soloist Andres Segovia, Regino Sainz de la Maza, John Williams, Alirio Diaz, Manuel Berrueco, Siegfried Behrend and Christopher Parkening, among the most representative ones of a great list.

Christopher Parkening `s career has made a brilliant colorist, an impeccable and sensitive interpreter of this well reduced repertoire. His profound artistic conviction and convincing phrasing has been a perpetual motive of constant invitations and presentations around the world.

Extreme virtuosity.......2005-09-25

CP has become my chief inspiration to improve as a classical guitarist. His performances here are, without exception, phenomenal. He makes the most difficult pieces sound effortless. I prefer CP over John Williams because, while Williams is also unquestionably a master, he sounds a bit robotic to me at times. CP, on the other hand, never sacrifices musicality to precision. He sublimely maintains both.

Average customer rating: Amazing again!!!!

David Russell: Art of the Guitar Manufacturer: Telarc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Grieg, Edvard | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Elegies | Requiems, Elegies & Tombeau | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Character Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Lullabies & Berceuse | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Renaissance Favorites for Guitar John Williams - The Seville Concert / John Williams, Paco Pena, Andres Segovia Jubilation Aire Latino: Latin American Music for Guitar Reflections of Spain: Spanish Favorites for Guitar ASIN: B000N4SADW Release Date: 2007-03-27

Tracks:

1. Malaguena, Op.165, No.3
2. Fantasia On Themes From Verdi's La Traviata
3. Prelude No.1 In E Minor
4. Prelude No.2 In E Major
5. Cavatina From The Deer Hunter
6. Spring Dance, Op.38, No.5
7. Elegie, Op.38, No.6
8. Waltz, Op.12, No.2
9. Lullaby, Op.38, No.1
10. Norwegian Melody, Op.12, No.6
11. La Fille Aux Cheveux De Lin From Preludes, Book I
12. Campo From Preludios Americanos
13. Fantasie Hongroise, Op.65, No.1
14. Variations On A Theme By Mozart, Op.9
15. Cantico
16. Aguinaldo
17. Cancion
18. Aire Venezolano
19. Galeron
20. Pensamiento Espanol
21. Campanas Del Alba

Amazon.com

David Russell's program ranges wide and far, from arrangements of such exotica as Arcos' Fantasia on Themes from Verdi's La Traviata to original guitar solos by the likes of Villa Lobos and modern Latin composers. They're all played with technical polish and, more important, genuine musicality. For Russell's playing here, as in his other popular albums for Telarc, has the communicative sparkle that draws the listener into the music, even listeners not especially enamored of the instrument. In arrangements of familiar piano works like the five Grieg Lyric Pieces or Debussy's La Fille aux Chevaux de Lin, Russell's playing is so warmly idiomatic he makes you forget the originals and revel in the rounded, radiant tone of his guitar. Telarc's outstanding sound is a big plus as well. This one's not just for Russell's fans or guitaristas, it's a joy for all. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Amazing again!!!!.......2007-05-10

Another great recording from David Russell and Telarc. Just listen Grieg pieces and Galeron by Sojo. No more words needed. Every year a new David Russell CD....... Thank you Telarc.......

Average customer rating: Never ever to find more graceful play! Grunting and moaning explained Great Introduction to Classical Guitar Excellent collection Parkening in top form

In the Spanish Style / Christopher Parkening Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Tarrega | Tarrega, Francisco | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Parkening, Christopher | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Tarrega, Francisco | ( T ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Parkening, Christopher | ( P ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Christopher Parkening - A Tribute to Segovia Christopher Parkening plays Bach Simple Gifts: Christopher Parkening Artistry of Christopher Parkening Christopher Parkening - The Great Recordings ~ By America's Preeminent Guitar Virtuoso ASIN: B000002RNK Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Suite espanola: Leyenda
2. Capricho arabe (Serenata)
3. Rumores de la Caleta (Malaguena)
4. Prelude No. 1
5. Prelude No. 2
6. Prelude No. 3
7. Estudio brillante
8. Recuerdos de la Alhambra
9. Fantasia: Fantasia No. 10
10. Estudio No. 17 In E Minor
11. Estudio No. 19 In B Flat
12. Twelve Etudes: Etude No. 1 in E Minor
13. Twelve Etudes: Etude No. 11 In E Minor
14. Vals venezolano No. 3
15. Four Preludes
16. Catalonian Song
17. Romance

Customer Reviews:

Never ever to find more graceful play!.......2007-03-09

The incredible representation and sound Parkening created by the guitar is
sublimity itself. Though I have listened to many a world-famous guitarist,
I have never been so fascinated as by his play. I couldn't but make intimate friends of mine a present of Parkening's CDs like "In the Spanish Style", through which I felt I could show them what real music is like. I never ever imagine I could find more graceful play than that of Christopher Parkening at least in the world of the guitar.

Grunting and moaning explained.......2006-01-03

I met Parkening in 1972, a few years after this album was first released. I asked him about the "groans" that could be heard. He explained that at the time he let his thoughts wander and thought about the future, when some Swiss moron named Peter Gilman would complain about the recording. Absentmindedly, he groaned at the thought of it all. He told me if ever I should meet Peter that I was to apologize.

Peter, sorry about that.

Great Introduction to Classical Guitar.......2005-04-07

My parents had this on vinyl when I was kid. I listened to it a lot in high school when I was listening to a lot of musical styles. This and Parkening's Bach CD are probably my two favorite classical guitar discs.

As a rock/blues/pop guitarist, I've been learning some classical over the last few years. And this disc has been my reference. Parkening's playing is confident and enjoyable. Capricho Arabe stands out as does the Sor studies that he covers.

My only complaint is Leyenda, his performance is less than passionate and the recording doesn't sound EQ'd correctly in a few spots. Other artists have better recordings of this song (John Williams comes to mind).

If you are looking for a great classical guitar CD, this is a great place to start.

Excellent collection.......2004-05-06

This is the album that made me want to take up classical guitar. Great selection of songs, played with incredible feeling and tone. Brilliant performances of Capricho Arabe, Recuerdos and the Villa-Lobos and Ponce Preludes. His rendition of Romance is what every student should strive for. The student (Parkening) has most definitely learned all of his master's (Segovia) lessons and went even further. Still fresh after 25 years of regular listening.

Parkening in top form.......2004-02-28

Christopher Parkening's technical prowess is in full effect here, showing he's truly the ultimate successor to the great Andres Segovia.

I don't know about grunting, but if you listen closely, there is some noticeable sighing from Parkening on a few of the tracks, especially the third. Presumably, he was getting weary from all the work his fingers were getting in playing those immensely complex arrangements. But to go as for as to say it ruins the recording is ludicrous. In fact, the sighing adds to the intimacy and accessibility of the recording. I had always felt distant while listening to a Parkening album because he sounded TOO polished. He plays great here, but to hear his voice, even in its slightest audible sound, adds to the album's charm.

If you're a classical guitar enthusiast, this album is essential.

Average customer rating: Brilliant Artist! Incredible technique and emotional range Incredible Musicality and Technique!!! any kid can do it

Romance de Amor Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Takemitsu | Takemitsu, Toru | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tarrega | Tarrega, Francisco | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Si ji (Four Seasons) Romance Chamber Music Jubilation Shostakovich: Violin Concertos ASIN: B000HIVGT4 Release Date: 2007-02-06

Tracks:

1. Asturias
2. Romance De Amor
3. Recuerdos De La Alhambra
4. Zapateado
5. Michelle
6. Cavatina
7. El Colibri
8. El Condor Pasa
9. Seis Por Derecho
10. Un Sueno En La Floresta
11. Etude No. 7
12. La Cumparsita
13. I Believe
14. Sakura
15. Spring Breeze
16. Anak

Customer Reviews:

Brilliant Artist!.......2007-06-01

I just received Xuefei Yang's "Si Ji" and "Romance De Amor" from Amazon. Xuefei's playing is both powerful and exquisite. Specifically, I want to mention about the piece "Romance De Amor". This is my all time favourite solo guitar piece. Xuefei's interpretation of this piece is personal and intimate, and I enjoyed it very much. She plays it as if gently caressing her lover in her arms, almost to the point of being too careful; by her playing, one can really hear that she loves the piece "Romance De Amor".

With due respect to Xue Fei's insightful performance, I have my very own reference performance of "Romance D'Amour" that is truly haunting, romantic, passionate, and nostalgic. Listening to it really gives a sense of the 1970's -- the self discovery and the lost of innocence of the period. It is the best I have heard (maybe you may feel the same if you heard it). Many other performances simply fall flat compared to the one I have.

About it's history: My father bought a classical guitar music tape in 1979 when I was living in Macao. This tape has travelled far with us, and been played many, many times. The tape is by some foreign label that probably does not exist anymore; internet searches does not bring anything up. Consequently, I cannot find a copy of this anywhere in CD format or tape. What a shame.

Last year, I bought myself an elite Nakamichi (one of the best) 3-head tape deck and a Pioneer CD recorder (not the computer kind), and transferred this music from tape to CD. Now, it is preserved and I no longer need to worry about further deteriorating the tape everytime I play it. The transfer is as ideal as I can get it, with a bit of tape hiss, but with the Nakamichi deck's purity and great sonics shining through.

Drop me an email at "kyleyyi@gmail.com" for further discussion on this rendition if you're interested. And yes, it is also called "Romance D'Amour".

Incredible technique and emotional range.......2007-05-12

Following "Si Ji" is no small task. That CD was a masterpiece of modern guitar; so different from anything else out there that it shines in a totally different light.
That being said, "Romance de Amor" showcases some of the great gems of this instrument's repertoire by one of the world's premier guitarists. Yang Xue Fei is a masterful technician, but make no mistake, emotionally she gives her all in every note. After listening to 3 of her CD's (the two already mentioned, and "Classical Guitar") I've been impressed with her passion for music. I've heard her say that she looks at the guitar as a lover. Her playing shows this by being at turns powerful, seductive, intimate, tender and even humorous. She can play incredibly fast and still retain her phrasing and subtlety.
"Asturias" has rarely been so explosive
"Requerdos de la Alhambra" breaths with a life of its own thanks to her pacing
"El Colibri" is a great example of her speed and accuracy
If you are at all a fan of classical guitar, you've heard these pieces from other artists. Part of the fun of this genre is hearing how individual artists interpret the same piece. I love the sensitivity of Ana Vidovic, the smokiness of Lily Afshar, the intelligence of the Assad brothers and the sheer artistry of John Williams, and this is just to name a few. One might think that Segovia laid down the law for pieces like Asturias (judging from Christopher Parkening's description of his studies with this great master, Segovia certainly thought so), but Yang Xue Fei is such a wonderful talent, she is a law unto herself. She displays a vitality that makes each piece uniquely hers. To take ownership of these songs with such authority across the board makes this CD a worthy addition to any collection.

Incredible Musicality and Technique!!!.......2007-03-24

Wow! I just bought this cd and have listened to it over and over again. Fantastic interpretations of the classics. I fell in love with these standards all over again. Incredible tone and technique. Buy it now!!!!

any kid can do it.......2007-03-20

just terrible makes one want to leave the room

Average customer rating: Like a rainy day in a good bookstore Not "Ultimate", but Wonderful! Everyone would love this album! Incredible One well worth the price of two

Ultimate Guitar Collection Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Albeniz, Mateo Pérez de | ( A ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Dowland | Dowland, John | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Falla | Falla, Manuel de | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Granados, Enrique | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tarrega | Tarrega, Francisco | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Instruments | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Bream, Julian | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Barcarolles | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Julian Bream: The Ultimate Guitar Collection-Volume 2 Essential Guitar: 33 Guitar Masterpieces 300 Years of Guitar Masterpieces Baroque Guitar Classic Williams: Romance of the Guitar ASIN: B00000I9M1 Release Date: 1999-03-09

Tracks:

1. Allegro Giusto
2. Largo
3. Allegro
4. Packington's Pound
5. Greensleeves
6. Fantasia 'A Fancy'
7. Canarios
8. Sonata In D
9. Leyenda (Asturias)
10. The Three Cornered Hat: The Millar's Dance
11. Recuerdos De La Alhambra
12. Choros No.1
13. Andantino Espressivo
14. Poco Animato
15. En Los Trigales
16. Allegro Con Spirito
17. Adagio
18. Allegro Con Brio

Tracks:

1. Mallorca, Op. 202 - Albeniz
2. Cataluna
3. Granada
4. Sevilla
5. Cadiz
6. Cordoba
7. Dedicatoria
8. La Maja De Goya
9. Danza Espanola No. 4
10. Valses Poeticos - Granados
11. Danza Espanola No. 5 - Granados
12. Fandango
13. Passacaglia
14. Zapateado

Customer Reviews:

Like a rainy day in a good bookstore.......2007-07-10

"Always pleasant, never a false cord." That's what I think each time I listen to this collection. I guess I should be listening more closely, but I find the music and the virtuosity with which it is played to be a springboard to other thoughts and activities. I can read with it in the background, write with it or simply drift into thought. And that is really quite enough for me.

Not "Ultimate", but Wonderful!.......2007-03-29

As good a guitarist as Julian Bream is, one must begin by acknowledging that the title of this 2-CD set containing 32 admittedly seminal pieces written for hand-played strings ( primarily, the lute) is a tad hyperbolistic. An "Ultimate" collection of anything would have to be more complete, by definition, than any two CDs can be and, again, it almost goes without saying that no two people are apt to be in total agreement about what should or should not have been included in any such collection. All caveats considered and aside, this is, indeed, a thoughtfully selected and masterfully performed collection of what is, unarguably, some of the very best classical pieces ever written for the lute. Bream plays some of them on the guitar and others on a renaissance lute - the latter giving a somewhat truer indication of the stylings and musical nuances intended by the various composers. But, even the pieces he plays on the guitar - an instrument that, in it's current form, did not exist when many of the pieces were originally composed - are sensitive and lyrical interpretations that sound as if they MIGHT have been composed for the guitar.

Without spending space here reiterating the specific pieces, their titles and lengths, I will simply list the composers whose works Bream presents so nicely in this collection. They span a range of about five centuries beginning in the time of England's Elizabeth I and spanning the years through to the 20th Century's premier Spanish and Brazilian classical guitar composers. The list reads like a `Whose Who" of classical plucked-string instrument music and of composers whose keyboard compositions work particularly well on the strings of a lute or guitar, and includes;
- John Dowland
- Francis Cutting
- Antonio Vivaldi
- Gaspar Sanz (*)
- Mateo Albeniz (*)
- Manuel de Falla
- Enrique Granados (*)
- Hector Villa-Lobos, and
- Joaquin Rodrigo
(*) = Pieces originally written for keyboard play.

Every classical guitarist has his own recognizable style and approach to the instrument and the material. An experience listener would not confuse Bream's work with that of Andres Segovia, for example: but it is not that one is better than the other. Each, in his own distinctive way, is simply superb. Though the Spanish influence is clearly audible with both musicians, Bream's stylings have a more contemporary lilt and inflection than do those of Segovia; he makes each piece his own. One suspects that each time he plays a piece it comes out differently according to the moment, his mood, the instrument and God knows what else. Segovia, on the other hand, was well known for his constancy once he had found a version of each piece that fully suited his own ear and temperament.
While I am admittedly a Segovia fan, I find Bream's renditions to be noticeably fresher and each infused with an aura of presence in the here-and-now which I find especially enjoyable.

The collection is neither complete not `ultimate', but it is VERY good and well worth having in any collection of classical guitar music. In fact, for audiophiles not familiar with this genre, it is a fair place to begin to develop an ear for and a listener's knowledge of and experience with the classical guitar.

I recommend it highly.

Everyone would love this album!.......2007-01-16

This album is fantastic. Easy to listen to and wonderful background music for working or dinner parties

Incredible.......2005-10-24

This is the leading guitar player of his generation at his best.

He is especially amazing in the second CD, with some of the solo guitar transcriptions of Albeniz. His rendition of Rodrigo's three pieces is also sublime.

I can't imagine anybody buying this cd then regretting it.

One well worth the price of two.......2004-09-25

This two cd set is an odd juxtaposition. The first cd consists of a sampler of Bream's career output - but without (and I believe the omission is disgraceful) any acknowledgement of Bream's significant contribution toward the creation of a truly 20th century concert repertoire for guitar. The second cd is a re-release of his superb early 1980's recording of Albeniz and Granados transcriptions with the added bonus of a sublime interpretation of the "Three Spanish Pieces" by J Rodrigo.

Speaking as a musician I find the selections and the production of the first cd problematic. We get a few of the more lightweight examples of renaissance lute and baroque guitar (but no JS Bach and no (solo) baroque lute work); we get no vihuela repertoire and nothing truly representative of classical period composition. We do have all six movements from two contrasting concertos but the remainder of the cd consists mostly of neo-romantic repertoire from the twentieth century. Worse still, the recording quality is highly variable; for example one of the Villa Lobos pieces sounds as though it was recorded in an indoor swimming complex. Given the cd's title more care should have been taken to better represent Bream's career and musical diversity. In the opinion of one familiar with Bream's output this is a disappointing selection. Well played but not representative of the artist nor the art form.

However the opposite is the case with the second cd. These recordings were made at a time when Bream set out to commit to (then) vinyl, via the guitar, the musical heritage of Spain. Bream here was at the height of his interpretive power - and a fine film documentary also resulted from this endeavour.

The inclusion of the Rodrigo set makes this cd a better buy than the original Albeniz and Granados recording, although those who find this compilation rewarding might perhaps profit from researching Bream's catalogue, and adding the complete recording from which the Rodrigo is sourced (circa 1980-90) to their collection.

As for the Albeniz and Granados Bream offers his own transcriptions. These tread a fine line between fidelity to the piano scores and Bream's concept of what works on the guitar. As a general observation Bream seeks to include significantly more of the original score's textures than do many of his peers (e.g. J Williams, P Romero). At the same time he is not averse to significantly modifying the original (e.g. amongst others 'Granada' and 'Cordoba'). Such a process is part of any transcription but here the results are not only excellent but also personal to Bream, as a result we have further confirmation of the craft of a great performing artist.

Every listener will discover their own favourites and I have more than space allows me to relate. I believe that Bream brings more expression to his performances of the Valses Poeticos by Granados than any other guitarist I have heard, and the Passacaglia by Rodrigo is played with such a sense of a brooding menace that my spine tingles every time I listen to it.

The second cd alone is worth twice the compilation's asking price.

Average customer rating: Guitar music Great CD all around! Wonderfully relaxing! Very Relaxing, Highly Recommended! Has hard-to-find pieces by Bream

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Tracks:

1. Dedicatoria
2. Larghetto
3. Sempre Expressive
4. Pavane For A Dead Princess
5. The Master
6. The Son Of The Virgin
7. Pavanas
8. Prelude No.5 In D
9. Adagio, Op. 2 No.1
10. Cuna
11. Air
12. Adagio
13. Granada
14. You Beutiful Stream
15. Andante
16. Sarabande
17. Adante Sostentuo
18. Prelude

Customer Reviews:

Guitar music.......2007-02-12

This is an amazing CD. I recommend it highly for reading on a rainy day, relaxing, or just reading the paper on a Sunday morning. It's one of my top 10 relaxation CDs.

Great CD all around!.......2005-08-30

I got this CD because I am a massage therapist,and refuse to buy
those cheesey new agey relaxation CD's.I was finally getting a little tired of the bach cello concertos and a couple of other classical recordings that had been deemed "relaxing",and decided to try this one.It is great!I never seem to get tired of it!I have not had a client that didn't love it.Most even ask what it is because they like it so much.Based on the success of this CD,I am going to try the Cello For Relaxation CD in the same series.I hope that it is just as much of a hit!

Wonderfully relaxing!.......2005-05-09

This CD definitely lives up to it's name. Julian Bream's guitar playing is ethereal and leaves your mind in a state of blissful relaxation...A wonderful collection! Well worth the investment!

Very Relaxing, Highly Recommended!.......2005-05-03

I find myself choosing this CD whenever I want to unwind. It is absolutely exquisite. I have bought quite a few different "relaxation" CD's, and this is my favorite.

Has hard-to-find pieces by Bream.......2003-02-20

Despite a title sure to embarrass any self-respecting music snob, this is no less than a full disc of nicely mastered solo guitar recordings by the great Julian Bream (a string quartet joins Bream on one track). If these pieces could be easily found elsewhere, on albums with more continuity, then this disc wouldn't be worth buying. But probably 40% of the material on this cd can't be found in print, to my knowledge. In particular, the Mompou, Mozart, Llobet, Aguado, Henze, and Diabelli tracks aren't readily available elsewhere as of early 2003. Several of these tracks are nice hefty 6-7 minute pieces. In particular, the beautiful Andante from Diabelli's Sonata, arranged by Bream himself, is worth the purchase price by itself. If you're a Bream fan trying to get beyond his half-dozen easily available cds, add this to your collection.

Track Listings:

1. Vito-Delvaux: Chamber and Piano Music
2. Vivaldi: Magnificat - Gloria / Berganza, Valentini-Terrani; Muti
3. Weber: Masses 1 & 2
4. Weerst: Mimoïde; Cybernetica
5. What Is Life?: Songs, Arias and Sacred Pieces
6. Ausgewählte Lieder
7. Böttcher: Chamber Music
8. Bach: Cello Suites 1 - 3
9. Bach: Partita d-Moll; Sonaten g-Moll & C-Dur
10. Beethoven: String Quartet No12; Mozart: String quartets No19

Track Listings

track listings

Track Listings

A Session With the Remains

Henrik Rung: Works for Solo Guitar, Songs & Chamber Music

Greatest Hits [Original recording remastered]

Music: Snortin' Norton's Car Trip

Hollywood Hairspray, Vol. 3

Jimmy Bo Horne

How I Got Over: The Apollo Records Sessions [Box set] [Import]

Etudes Op 10 & 25 / Trois Nouvelles Etudes

Free Sailin' [Import]

Duets

Elemental

From Here To Tupelo

Disco Queen Carol Douglas Greatest Hits

Offenbach: Les Contes d'Hoffmann / Araiza, Ramey, Lind, Norman, Studer, von Otter; Tate [Highlights]

Risen