David Beloved

1. Radio Spot

2. For the Flow

3. Put in Work

4. Be like Christ Poem

5. Be like Christ

6. Next Level

7. Skit

8. Next Level (Remix)

9. Christian Man Poem

10. The Flow (Remix)

Editorial Reviews

consumer
Refreshing and new beat

Product Description
Positive motivating Hip-Hop

David Beloved

Tracks:

Five Pieces from "Album for the Young," Op. 79. Ostinato
Five Pieces from "Album for the Young," Op. 79. Starry Night
Five Pieces from "Album for the Young," Op. 79. Melancholy
Five Pieces from "Album for the Young," Op. 79. Hommage a Faure
Five Pieces from "Album for the Young," Op. 79. Hommage a Alkan
Sonata for flute and guitar, Op. 25. Nocturne - Adagio comodo
Sonata for flute and guitar, Op. 25. Allegro
Eight Pieces for solo flute, Op. 59. Ophelia
Eight Pieces for solo flute, Op. 59. Etude
Eight Pieces for solo flute, Op. 59. Forgotten Waltz
Eight Pieces for solo flute, Op. 59. Etude
Eight Pieces for solo flute, Op. 59. Hongroise
Eight Pieces for solo flute, Op. 59. Cypher
Eight Pieces for solo flute, Op. 59. Fanfare
Eight Pieces for solo flute, Op. 59. March
Sonata for flute and harp, Op. 56. Grave; Allegro
Soliloquy for solo flute, Op. 44. Adagio con rubato
Sonata for flute and piano, Op. 23. Lento con rubato
Sonata for flute and piano, Op. 23. Presto energico
A Poet to His Beloved, Op. 40. A Poet to His Beloved
A Poet to His Beloved, Op. 40. He Remembers Forgotten Beauty
A Poet to His Beloved, Op. 40. He Hears the Cry of the Sedge
A Poet to His Beloved, Op. 40. He Thinks of His Past Greatness
A Poet to His Beloved, Op. 40. He Wishes His Beloved Were Dead
A Poet to His Beloved, Op. 40. He Wishes for the Clothes of Heaven

Customer Reviews:

LIEBERMANN LOVES ALEXA"S CD!!!.......2003-10-10

Lowell Liebermann quoted that Alexa plays his works the way he wants a flutist to play them. To me Alexa is the most beautiful and powerful flutist around. Nice to know Liebermann feels this way himself! I'm a flutists myself and listen to as many flutists recordings and concerts as much as possible. I heard her recital in Ann Arbor last summer. I went back stage and suddenly started crying because her playing is so outstanding! I told her this was the best recital since I went to hear Elaine Shaffer when I was a kid. Alexa's playing is powerful but warm and beautiful. Her use of vibrato is perfect. Phrasing is the best. I love all of her recordings, but this has to be the best yet. In March of 2002, I went to Boulder to study with her. She was recording this CD at the time. Liebermann is so hard to play that you have to be in good shape to record these pieces. She was swimming and lifting weights to get ready to work on the CD. It paid off and she sure looked great too!! Alexa should win a Grammy for this one. Of all the flute CD's,PLEASE buy this one. Alexa is world class!!

Average customer rating:

Abe Schwartz -- King of Yiddish Music
Old-Time American Roots Klezmer Music
Joy, Joy, Happy, Happy
Close your eyes and you're at a Jewish wedding
Time warp

Klezmer King
Abe Schwartz
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Jewish & Yiddish Music | Folk | Styles | Music

Klezmer | Folk | Styles | Music

General | International | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

The King of the Klezmer Clarinet
Yiddish-American Klezmer Music 1925-1956
Tanz! With Dave Tarras and the Musiker Brothers
Klezmer: Early Yiddish Instrumental Music 1908-1927
From Avenue A to Great White Way 1914-1950

ASIN: B000066401
Release Date: 2002-04-30

Tracks:

Russishe Shehr - Abe Schwart'z Orchestra
Ch'Sidishe Nigunim (Hasidic Melodies) - Boibriker Kapelle
Die Reize Nuch Amerika (The Trip To America) - Abe Schwartz's Orchestra
Die Greene Cousine (The Greenhorn Girl Cousin) - Abraham Moskowitz
Russian Scissors - Oriental Orchestra
Dovid'l Bazetzt Die Kalleh (Little David Seats The Bride) - Dave Tarras
Gelebt Und Gelacht (Live And Laugh) - Phillip Greenberg
T'Kias 'Shofer Blosen' (Blowing The Ram's Horn) - Sam Beckerman
Hurra! Far Unzer Held Levine (Hurray! For Our Hero Levine) - Irving Grossman
Der Shtiller Bulgar (The Quiet Bulgar) - Jewish Orchestra
Roumanian Doina - Abe Schwartz & His Daughter, Miss Schwartz
Zorg Nit Mama (Don't Worry, Mama) - Abe Schwart'z Orchestra
Hora Midor De Romania (Roumanina Hora) - Unknown Orchestra
Nit Die Hagode, Nor Die Kneidlech (Not The Haggadah, But The Matzo Balls) - Abraham Moskowitz
Frauen Liebe (Lady Love) - Abe Schwartz Orchestra
Akdomes Un Af B'ri (At The Beginning And Daybreak) - Boibriker Kapelle
Roumeinishe Doina - Naftule Brandwein
Der Automobile - Morris Goldstein
Yosel - Abe Schewartz's Orchestra
A Galitzianer Tenzil (Galician Dance) - Sam Beckerman
Die Boibriker Chasseneh - Pt. 1 (The Boibrik Wedding) - Boibriker Kapelle
Russian Sher - National Dance - Russkij Orkestr 'Novinka'
Mameniu, Liubeniu (Mama, My Beloved) - Abraham Brandwein
Fihren Di Mechutonim Aheim-Tanz (Escorting The Parents Of The Bride And Groom Home) - Naftule Brandwein
Lebedig Un Frehlach (Lively And Happy) - Abe Schwartz's Orchestra

Amazon.com

It would be impossible to overstate Abe Schwartz's influence on the development of klezmer music in America. He was a fine violinist and pianist, an excellent composer, an arranger who added modern instruments like saxophones and banjos to the Old World sound, and a bandleader with a nose for talent who helped launch the careers of Dave Tarras and Naftule Branwein, among others. The Klezmer King collects 25 tracks from the 75 or so sides that Schwartz recorded for Columbia between 1917 and 1935. Schwartz was remarkably versatile, and the selections include traditional dance tunes like "Roumanian Doina," Yiddish pop tunes such as "Die Greene Cousine," which was later a hit for Benny Goodman as "My Little Cousin," and sly social commentary like "Der Automobile." Also here are three versions of the old melody "Russian Sher," which were recorded in 1917, 1927, and 1935. Listening to them, you can trace Schwartz's style as it evolves from its European roots to a more American version of klezmer. The sound quality of these rare recordings is outstanding; there are almost no clicks, pops, or hiss to mar the music. The Klezmer King is an essential recording from one of the pioneers of New World klezmer. --Michael Simmons

Customer Reviews:

Abe Schwartz -- King of Yiddish Music.......2007-02-22

Abe Schwartz was an American klezmer pioneer who discovered such talents as Dave Tarras and Naftule Brandwein as well as inspiring the contemporary klezmer revival bands. Don't miss this collection of his original recordings.

Old-Time American Roots Klezmer Music.......2004-04-15

Abe Schwartz and his orchestra developed and defined klezmer music in America from the mid-1920s up until the 1940s and early '50s. If the beginning sounds of American roots klezmer music is of interest, this is the CD you want. I find that half-way through, my mind wanders. It sounds too schmaltzy for me. I love Central European and Balkan style music ... this CD has diluted versions of this styling. This CD contains Central/East European "cross over" music that is becoming Americanized. In reality it is not quite either, besides the violin, there is the requiste clarinet, other instruments are saxaphone, tuba, piccolo, alto sax, bass sax, drums, and other percussions. The music occasionally sounds like a Balkan Brass band ... fortunately the longing and nostalgia of the klezmer sound, the Jewish roots are evident in all the tracks. The 'sher', 'doina', and 'hora' are types of dance music played by this famous composer, bandleader, and fiddler. My favorite is "Escorting the Parents of the Bride and Groom Home" ("Fihren Di Mechutonim Aheim-Tanz') which features Naftule Brandwein on the clarinet. His improvisations and glissandos are brilliant. The famous klezmer clarinetist, Dave Tarras, is also featured on many of these recordings. "Hasidic Melodies" ("Ch'sidishe Nigunim") is one of my favorite examples of his playing. His command of the clarinet and the creative musical phrasing is phenomenal. "The Greenhorn Girl Cousin" ("Die Green Couisine") is famous for the music, lyrics, and message which brought to the public's attention the bad working conditions in the sweatshops, the first job of immigrants arriving in the USA. It is a catchy tune with Abe Schwartz featured on the violin and Abraham Moskowitz singing the vocals. Spin-offs of this song were written by many including one by Benny Goodman. Overall, if discovering and investigating early klezmer roots music is your goal, this CD will meet your criteria with highest expectations. Otherwise, give me "The Klezmatics", "The Klezmer Conservatory Band" or any modern klezmer group which expresses the music in a more explosive and exciting manner. For me, the modern sound is much more appealing than the early roots which is on this CD. Erika Borsos (erikab93)

Joy, Joy, Happy, Happy.......2004-02-05

I came to Klezmer music via Izaak Perlmann's "In the Fiddler's House," which is one of my all time favorite CDs. I'm just learning about the genre, via other Amazon reviewers, so have just recently arrived at this and other "Klezmer roots" CDs (Dave Tarras, as another reviewer mentions, is also excellent). It's just exceedingly harmonious, well orchestrated, tightly knit music, transported from the old world to the new. The tradition lives on, and an increasing number of us goyim are coming to appreciate it. Sound quality, these can't compete with modern recordings like those of the Klezmer Conservatory Band, or the Klezmatics, but it will definitely give you an idea of where they learned from. Mazaltov!!

Close your eyes and you're at a Jewish wedding.......2003-03-31

If you've ever heard new groups like the Yiddish Cup Klezmer Band and The Klezmatics and marveled at how they got all those great old tunes, look no further. Abe Schwartz, the Klezmer King is now available on CD. Before this, 78 RPM records these were remastered from was the only place you could hear him.

The Klezmer King album is old, both in sound and style. But keep in mind that clarinet klezmer is more of an American thing. This music is a generation or two removed from the original originals. Songs called Russian Sher and Roumanian Doina indicate that, just like today, wedding musicians from the old country were jamming the hits of the day as well as the "Jewish" stuff.

But it was guys like Schwartz, Dave Tarras and the Musiker Brothers, whom the new wave learned from. But unlike the younger versions, these melodies don't seem to have jazz-like improvisation. They are straight ahead rollickers, heavy on catchy rhythm and melody. There are a total of twenty-five tracks on the album and most are short and fast.

The instruments employed are the violin, played by Schwartz, the clarinet and horns. The beat is so danceable that you forget there's no percussion. That's traditional, because back in the old country, if the klezmorim had any percussion at all it was just a bass drum.

For you Yiddish speakers, The Klezmer King is not all instrumental. There are tracks that start with lively shouts as well as straight singing pieces like Mameniu Liubeniu or the satirical Hurra Far Unzerheld Levine.

Then there's Die Bolbriker Chasseneh, which has Schwartz introducing a bride and groom in between slow music. He raises his voice, half speaking and half singing in rapid-fire Yiddish. Then he gasps out that the couple is now officially married and the band breaks into fast, bouncy jamming. Close your eyes and you can imagine you're one of the guests. That goes for most of the tunes here.

If you didn't know the difference between a bulgar and freilach and nigun before, you better start learning. Abe Schwartz taught long of young folks about what it takes to be a king of klezmer. Companion CDs of Dave Tarras and the Musiker Brothers are available from Legacy Recordings.

Time warp.......2002-08-11

Listening to the 25 old but timeless cuts on this set of remastered Yiddish greats provides many layers of enjoyment. In hearing these long-forgotten tunes, one enjoys clarinet and violin strains influenced by ancient melodies and traditions. And some will recognize varied renditions of old favorites. The 6th cut, for example, Dovid'l Bazetzt die Kalleh, is engrained into my memory from Jewish Music, a Benedict Silberman recording, circa 1955, of Yiddish orchestrations.

The music is all decidedly Eastern European. The Roumanian Doina, for example, played by Abe Schwartz (violin) and his daughter, strongly resembles the brilliant Rom music generated by the same region.

No wonder. Born in Bucharest, Romania, Abe Schwartz (1881-1963) emigrated to the U.S. with his parents in 1899 and became the most influential composer, fiddler and bandleader to shape and define modern U.S. klezmer groups. He arrived in the musical establishment via an acquaintance from small jobs with David Nodiff, a part-time composer and so-called A&R (for artist and repertoire) man for Columbia Records, who helped bring klezmer and other ethnic musicians to record companies. Nodiff hired Schwartz in 1917 to find new Jewish talent and head up instrumental recording sessions.

This recording provides some of the time and style progression of Yiddish American music from 1917, when Schwartz recorded Russian Scissors for Columbia with the Oriental Orchestra. In 1927, he recorded the same tune again as Russishe Shehr, in a brassier rendition played by his own orchestra. Still a later 1935 version can be heard in Russian Sher National Dance, the 22nd cut, recorded with the Orkestr Novinka. (And that is the most recent recording here.) The musical and stylistic progressions from 1917 and 1918 through 1935 are admirably explained in an accompanying 8-page pamphlet.

This is not the jazzy stuff many will remember from the 1940s and 1950s. It came before the Barry Sisters, before Naftule Brandwein and Dave Tarras. Abe Schwartz was their mentor.

Tracks:

Love Divine All Loves Excelling - Choir Of Gloucester Cathedral
Father Hear the Prayer We Offer - Choir Of Gloucester Cathedral
Now Thank We All Our God - Choir Of Gloucester Cathedral
This Day, The First of Days - Choir Of Gloucester Cathedral
Stars of the Morning So Gloriously Bright - Choir Of Gloucester Cathedral
God Save the Queen - Choir Of Gloucester Cathedral
Day of Resurrection - Choir Of Gloucester Cathedral
God Rest You Merry Gentlemen - Choir Of Gloucester Cathedral
Of the Father's Heart Begotten - Choir Of Gloucester Cathedral
O Come All Ye Faithful - Choir Of Gloucester Cathedral
Awake My Soul and With the Sun - Choir Of Norwich Cathedral
Thine Arm O Lord in Days of Old - Choir Of Norwich Cathedral
All People That on Earth Do Dwell - Choir Of Norwich Cathedral
Good Christian Men Rejoice and Sing - Choir Of Norwich Cathedral
There Is a Green Hill - Choir Of Norwich Cathedral
Lord of Beauty - Choir Of Sheffield Cathedral
Rejoice Today With One Accord - Choir Of Sheffield Cathedral
New Every Morning - Choir Of Sheffield Cathedral
Lead Us Heavenly Father Lead Us - Choir Of Sheffield Cathedral
O God Our Help in Ages Past - Choir Of Sheffield Cathedral

Tracks:

Morning Has Broken - Choir Of Marlborough College Chapel
Happy Are They - Choir Of Marlborough College Chapel
In Christ There Is No East or West - Choir Of Marlborough College Chapel
Silent Night - Choir Of Marlborough College Chapel
Be Thou My Guardian - Choir Of Marlborough College Chapel
Ye Servants of the Lord - Choir Of Marlborough College Chapel
At the Name of Jesus Every Knee Shall Bow - Choir Of Marlborough College Chapel
To Thee O Lord Our Hearts We Raise - Choir Of Marlborough College Chapel
Behold the Great Creator Makes - Choir Of Marlborough College Chapel
Rejoice the Lord Is King - Choir Of Marlborough College Chapel
Creator of the Stars of Night - Ely Cathedral Choir
He Comes With Clouds Descending - Ely Cathedral Choir
O Little Town of Bethlehem - Ely Cathedral Choir
Alleluya Alleyluya Alleyluya - Ely Cathedral Choir
This Is the Day the Lord Hath Made - Ely Cathedral Choir
How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds - Ely Cathedral Choir
Lord Thy Word Abideth - Ely Cathedral Choir
Jesus Lord We Look to Thee - Ely Cathedral Choir
O Lord Our God Arise - Ely Cathedral Choir
Lord of All Hopefulness - Ely Cathedral Choir

Tracks:

Soldiers of Christ Arise - Choir Of Wakefield Cathedral
Lift Up Your Hearts - Choir Of Wakefield Cathedral
Holy Father, Cheer Our Way - Choir Of Wakefield Cathedral
Maker of the Sun - Choir Of Wakefield Cathedral
O King Most High - Choir Of Wakefield Cathedral
O Praise Our Great and Glorious Lord - Choir Of Wakefield Cathedral
Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive - Choir Of Wakefield Cathedral
We Love the Place O God - Choir Of Wakefield Cathedral
Let Us With a Gladsome Mind - Choir Of Wakefield Cathedral
Give Rest O Christ - Choir Of Wakefield Cathedral
Come Holy Ghost Our Hearts Inspire - Choir Of Truro Cathedral
O Thou in All Thy Might So Far - Choir Of Truro Cathedral
O Christ, Who Art the Light and Day - Choir Of Truro Cathedral
O God Thy Soldiers' Crown and Guard - Choir Of Truro Cathedral
Strife Is O'er the Battle Done - Choir Of Truro Cathedral
O Christ Our Hope, Our Hearts' Desire - Choir Of Truro Cathedral
Jesus Shall Reign - Choir Of Truro Cathedral
God of Love My Shepherd Is - Choir Of Truro Cathedral
O Jesu Saviour of Mankind - Choir Of Truro Cathedral
Immortal Invisible God Only Wise - Choir Of Truro Cathedral

Tracks:

Ride on Ride on in Majesty - Choir Of All Saints - Margaret Street, London
All Glory Laud and Honour - Choir Of All Saints - Margaret Street, London
Come Rejoicing - Choir Of All Saints - Margaret Street, London
God Is Love and Where True Love Is - Choir Of All Saints - Margaret Street, London
Magnificat: The Great Advent Antiphons - Choir Of All Saints - Margaret Street, London
Come, Christ's Beloved - Choir Of All Saints - Margaret Street, London
Children of the Hebrews (Palm Procession) - Choir Of All Saints - Margaret Street, London
Veneration of the Cross/The Reproaches (Veneratum and Reproaches) - Choir Of All Saints - Margaret Street, London
Once in Royal David's City - Choir Of Keble College
God Be in My Head - Choir Of Keble College
O Thou Who Camest from Above - Choir Of Keble College
Judge Eternal Throned in Splendour - Choir Of St Edmunsbury Cathedral
Christ the Lord Is Risen Again - Choir Of St Edmunsbury Cathedral
For All the Saints - Choir Of St Edmunsbury Cathedral
Thy Hand O God Has Guided - Choir Of St Edmunsbury Cathedral
Christ the Dawn of Our Salvation - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
I Was Glad - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
Dear Lord and Father of Mankind - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
Locus Iste - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
Praise My Soul the King of Heaven - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel

Tracks:

Stand Up! Stand Up for Jesus! - The Choir of the Abbey School, Tewkesbury
While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks - The Choir of the Abbey School, Tewkesbury
O Worship the King - The Choir of the Abbey School, Tewkesbury
O Heavenly Word of God on High - Choir Of The Collegiate Church Of St Mary
Praise to the Lord, The Almighty - Choir Of The Collegiate Church Of St Mary
Jesus Christ Is Risen Today - The Choir of York Minister
First Nowell - The Choir of York Minister
Abide with Me - The Choir of York Minister
Breathe on Me Breath of God - Choir Of Keble College
Rock of Ages - Choir Of Keble College
On This Day, The First of Days - Choir Of Keble College
Jesu Sweet and Mary - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
O Quam Gloriosum - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
Ye Holy Angels Bright - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
O for a Closer Walk With God - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
Prayer of St Patrick - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
Lord's Prayer - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
Blessed Be the God and Father - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
Day Thou Gavest Lord Is Ended - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel
Jerusalem (And Did Those Feet in Ancient Times) - Choir Of Eastbourne College Chapel

Album Description

Full Title - 100 Hymns & Songs Of Inspiration. UK box-set featuring 100 tracks performed by Britain's finest Cathedral Choirs including, Gloucester Cathedral, Norwich Cathedral, Sheffield Cathedral, & many more. Five standard jewel cases housed in a slipbox. Castle Pulse. 2003.

Customer Reviews:

The picture.......2006-12-11

I haven't purchased the CD but the picture of the inside of a church on the cover is not of a British church, like one would assume since it says its a recording of British choirs. This picture is of Notre Dame Basilica in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Just thought i'd let you know. I'll be honest; I'm one to judge things by it's cover and if the company took such care to choose a 'British' church for their British choir CD, I'm willing to bet the music is equally well selected... I'm being sarcastic. But I gave the product 5 stars because I didn't want to hurt its ratings just because i'm cynical. But check out the church if you're ever in Montreal, it's truly beautiful... here I'm not being sarcastic.

Britten: The Canticles; Ian Bostridge, David Daniels

Average customer rating:

Benjamin Britten and English as a Musical Language
Excellent
Three Amazing Voices at Their Peak
Literate, Schmiterate
Exquisite Singing in Lesser Known Britten

Britten: The Canticles; Ian Bostridge, David Daniels
Ian Bostridge , David Daniels , Christopher Maltman , Julius Drake , Aline Brewer , Timothy Brown , and Benjamin Britten
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Britten: Holy Sonnets Op35 / Bostridge, Johnson
Britten: Serenade for Tenor, Horn & Strings; Les Illuminations; Nocturne
Britten: Seven Sonnets of Michelangelo; The Holy Sonnets of John Donne; Winter Words
Peter Lieberson: Neruda Songs
Ian Bostridge - Songs of Faure, Debussy & Poulenc

ASIN: B00005UV9G
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

Canticle I: My Beloved is Mine
Canticle II: Abraham and Isaac
Canticle III: Still Falls the Rain
Canticle IV: Journey of the Magi
Canticle V: The Death of Saint Narcissus
The Plough Boy
The Salley Gardens
The foggy, foggy dew
There's none to soothe
O Waly, Waly
The Ash Grove
Greensleeves

Amazon.com

If you were assembling a latter-day dream team for a package program of all five Britten Canticles, this would probably be it. With one or two exceptions, it delivers everything you'd want. Ian Bostridge--the most literate tenor on God's earth--was born to sing this repertory, observing subtleties of text and niceties of diction without compromise to the beauty of fine-spun legato lines. David Daniels, an accomplished actor, sings the boy in Abraham and Isaac with exactly the right mix of pathos and restraint. Christopher Maltman provides the vocal equivalent of lithe, young, gym-toned muscularity in "Journey of the Magi" and the group of folk-song settings that pad out the disc. And Julius Drake homes in as if by instinct on what really tells in the accompaniments: a figure here that signals something to the voice, a chord there that transforms the color of a phrase. The two supporting instrumentalists (Timothy Brown, horn, and Aline Brewer, harp) add to the pleasure of it all. Just one reservation: Bostridge doesn't quite have the climactic roar of joy required for "My Beloved Is Mine" or the authoritative weight for Abraham, and Daniels can sound womanly, as well as overartful in the folk songs (although not everyone feels comfortable with countertenors singing folksongs). And in any case, it's not enough to counter the outstanding virtues of the disc. --Michael White

Customer Reviews:

Benjamin Britten and English as a Musical Language.......2007-01-22

Benjamin Britten was a prolific composer who managed to conquer every range of musical writing - chamber works, symphonies, operas, big choral works, song cycles for both soloist and orchestra and soloist and piano, children's works, ballets, works for amateur performers (such as the Church Parables), concerti, and works for solo instruments. There are few composers even today who understood the complexities of the English language as a source of lyrics as did Britten and though all of his works are penultimate examples of this talent, surely the Five Canticles are the zenith of this gift.

The Canticles were composed over a thirty-year period (1947 - 1974) and are a microcosm of Britten's development as a composer and philosopher. The five works are all inspired by religious themes and yet they also can be seen as occult references to Britten's own homage to his sexual proclivity. Here the canticles are sung impeccably by Ian Bostridge, tenor, David Daniels, countertenor, and Christopher Maltman, baritone and the series is beautifully united by the pianism of Julius Drake (with collaboration of harpist Aline Brewer and horn player Timothy Brown). To review each canticle would take far too much space, but at least some mention must be paid to the opening of the second canticle (Abraham and Isaac) in which the voice of God telling Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son is intoned by close harmony duet by Bostridge and Daniels: the effect is ethereal and wholly spiritual. Each of the five canticles is successful on every level.

Accompanying the Canticles are seven of Britten's Folksong arrangements and each of the three singers is given time and interpretive flair for each one. It would be difficult to imagine three better matched singers than Bostridge, Daniels, and Maltman - three artists who continue to grow in stature (these recordings were made in 2001). This CD contains some of Britten's more difficult works - but also some of his most sublime. Highly Recommended. Grady Harp, January 07

Excellent.......2006-09-03

This is a really nice recording of the Britten Canticles with some of the folk song arrangements added to fill out the CD. The quality of singing is excellent though some aspects of interpretation could be argued. Excellent accompaniment as well.

Three Amazing Voices at Their Peak .......2004-08-17

With tones alternately dream-like and discordant, Benjamin Britten could certainly write music that can challenge as well as soothe, and his five canticles are no exception. Amazingly, he wrote these canticles over a 26-year period, the first in 1947 and the last in 1973 near his death, yet in spite of each canticle's individuality, they feel very much like parts of a whole. The two longest canticles, "Abraham and Isaac" (Canticle 2) and "Journey of the Magi" (Canticle 4, based on the poem by T.S. Eliot), are the most dramatically effective. Canticle 2 is especially moving because of the touching story it tells of the sacrifice of the child Isaac for his father Abraham only to be spared at the last minute. Canticle 4 provides an emotional retelling of the Three Kings' journey to the Christ child heightened by the immaculate blending of the three distinct voice types. It is no coincidence that countertenor David Daniels plays a prominent role in both as he is a highly skilled and versatile actor when it comes to playing a king or evoking the pleas of an innocent child. The voice, of course, is unparalleled. Tenor Ian Bostridge sings prominently on all five canticles and does quite well throughout, in particular, with his diction and tone. He is called on to exhibit a wide variety of emotions, and he rises to the challenge despite the towering shadow of Peter Pears.

The last twenty minutes of the disc are devoted to a wide array of English folk songs, and this is where each singer gets an opportunity to shine in solo turns. In particular, baritone Christopher Maltman does a fine job on "The Plough Boy" and "The Salley Gardens". Although Britten is not for everyone's taste, this is a beautifully realized recording with three great singers at their peak, and special mention needs to go to pianist Julius Drake who accompanies with great skill.

Literate, Schmiterate.......2003-12-10

What you need is a tenor with gonads. These canticles rank among my favorite works by any composer, and I do like Bostridge sometimes, but I can't stand the hooting around I hear on this disc. I mostly agree with the editorial review in the details, but not at all with its recommendation. I think the negatives far outweight the positives. Try the Hyperion release with Anthony Rolfe Johnson. It's also flawed, but far more satisfactory.

Exquisite Singing in Lesser Known Britten.......2002-12-27

This may be the vocal CD of the year. Bostridge, Daniels and Maltman sing this repertoire with all of the conviction of the original London recordings. And the Canticles themselves are pinnacles of Britten's vocal art.

Neither art songs nor operatic scena, in the Canticles Britten fashions his own vocal form, based in part on the extended Baroque solo cantata as realized by Purcell. Each Canticle is based on a poem with religious overtones, and set with sensitivity to the prosody and shades of meaning conveyed by the poet. The first Canticle, set to a parody of the Song of Songs by Anglican poet Frances Quarles, is fashioned in the most Purcellian manner of the Canticles, complete with Baroque devices like the canon and the ground bass. Each stanza is given a different form, almost like a suite, though unified by melodic material. The second stanza is a setting of the story of Abraham and Isaac from the Chester Miracle plays for tenor and countertenor (originally for alto, the tendency now is to use countertenor.) The work is dramatic, a mini-scena with many sections forcasting a very different setting of this story in the War Requiem. Canticle III is composed for tenor and horn and uses the very beautiful Sitwell poem, Still Falls the Rain. Britten's music matches the deep pathos of the poem. The final two Canticles use poetry by T.S. Eliot. They are in Britten's late style, tonal and yet austere and richly dissonant. Canticle V in particular has overtones of the music Britten would use for his final operatic masterpiece, Death in Venice.

The performances on this CD are stupendous. Ian Bostridge is probably the finest interpreter of English art song alive today. His attention to diction, nuance of text, beauty of tone and intelligence make these for me even better than the marvelous Peter Pears performances of these works. David Daniels is the finest countertenor working today. His tone is honey-sweet but never weird or cloying as Alfred Deller could be. And he strikes the perfect tone as Isaac, both childlike and saintly. Maltman too is in fine form in Canticle IV. The instrumentalists are also superb. Special mention goes to Julius Drake, who is a technically brilliant and sensitive accompanist in music that sounds simple but is deceptively tricky.

The disc is rounded out by several of Britten's beautiful settings of English folk songs. A marvelous way to end a truly spectacular vocal disc.

Music Divine: 1662 Book of Songs for 3-6 Parts
Average customer rating:

Another fantasic recording

Music Divine: 1662 Book of Songs for 3-6 Parts
Tomkins , and I Fagiolini
Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Vocal & Song | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems
General | Classical | Styles | Music
General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

All The King's Horses

ASIN: B00007BGXY
Release Date: 2003-01-21

Customer Reviews:

Another fantasic recording.......2007-01-16

I Fagiolini is one of those groups where I try to get my hands on every recording they've made. This CD is just another example of why. Great individual voices but the ensemble really comes together well. They make it sound so easy to sing this repertoire. Tomkins is a a master of writing sad laments such as Woe is Me, When David Heard, and I Fagiolini brings out the raw emotion of these pieces. If you are an early music connoisseur, you will love this group. Pick up this CD, and while you're at it, get their Triumphs of Oriana and the two Byrd recordings. You won't regret it.

Henry Purcell: Music for the Funeral of Queen Mary

Average customer rating:

Henry Purcell: Music for the Funeral of Queen Mary

Manufacturer: Polygram Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Anthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
ASIN: B00000E55G
Release Date: 1994-04-19

Tracks:

The Queen's Funeral March (Procession) - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Geraint Watkins/Timothy Pride/Julian Podger/Donald Sweeney
Canzona - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Geraint Watkins/Timothy Pride/Julian Podger/Donald Sweeney
Thou Knowest, Lord, The Secrets (1st Setting) - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Geraint Watkins/Timothy Pride/Julian Podger/Donald Sweeney
The Queen's Funeral March (Recession) - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Geraint Watkins/Timothy Pride/Julian Podger/Donald Sweeney
Man That Is Born Of A Woman - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Geraint Watkins/Timothy Pride/Julian Podger/Donald Sweeney
In The Midst Of Life - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Geraint Watkins/Timothy Pride/Julian Podger/Donald Sweeney
Thou Knowest, Lord, The Secrets (2nd Setting) - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Geraint Watkins/Timothy Pride/Julian Podger/Donald Sweeney
Rejoice In The Lord Alway - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Christopher Robson/William Kendall/Stephen Roberts
Remember Not, Lord, Our Offences - Winchester Cathedral Chor/David Hill
Voluntary in C - Winchester Cathedral Chor/David Hill
Give Sentence With Me, O God - Winchester Cathedral Chor/William Kendall/Peter Butterfield/Hilary Brooks
Jehova, Quam Multi Sunt Hostes - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Julian Podger/Donald Sweeney/Hilary Brooks
O, I'm Sick Of Life - Winchester Cathedral Chor/William Kendall/Julian Podger/Donald Sweeney
A Double Verse in G - Winchester Cathedral Chor/David Hill
My Beloved Spake - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Christopher Robson/William Kendall/Stephen Roberts/Donald Sweeney
Hear My Prayer, O Lord - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Hilary Brooks
O God, Thou Art My God - Winchester Cathedral Chor/Hilary Brooks

Average customer rating:

A good collection
A Musician of Great Dignity and Style
Passed the "Opera in English" test with flying colors.

Great Operatic Arias

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Arias | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

A Treasury of English Song
Songs My Father Taught Me
More Songs My Father Taught Me
On the Idle Hill of Summer: Song Cycles & Songs by Vaughan Williams, Butterworth, Quilter, Peel
Great Baritone Arias

ASIN: B0006SGF1Y
Release Date: 2005-02-22

Tracks:

'Even Bravest Heart My Swell'
'I Am The Barber Everyone Wants, I Am!
'Must I Be Made To Suffer'
'Look Down, Oh Gentle Evening Star'
'You Have My Love And My Devotion
'Oh Wine, Deliver Me From Sadness' - Geoffrey Mitchell Choir
'Marriage Is Sacred' - I Was Right To Be So Suspicious'
'Turning My Gaze Upon This Proud Assembly'
'O Nadir, Best Of Friends'
Billy In The Darbies
'Though I'm Somewhat Out Of Practice' - Janice Watson
'Hello, Here's A Soldier Bold' - Janice Watson
'I Wonder What He'll Think Of Me!'
'In Visions, Illusions'

Customer Reviews:

A good collection.......2007-05-14

Unlike the huge names, collections by Allen are not many - plenty of his opera performances are recorded, but there are only a few collections. My voice teacher recommended I listen to him to understand better how to deliver power without weight, something we've been working on. Yes, it's all in English, but that's fine, and the quality of Allen's instrument comes through very well.

A Musician of Great Dignity and Style.......2005-07-27

Sir Thomas Allen is one of the enduring baritones who has been able to move throughout the operatic repertoire and the recital stage with intelligence, informed characterization, and immaculate musicianship. To have a recording of some of the roles he has inhabited at this point in his career is a gift (this CD was recorded in 2003). To have the added challenge of retaining the stature of the roles while sung in English translations at the request of Chandos is a credit to his abilities and communicative powers.

English is a difficult language to make musical, though saying that abruptly is countered by the fact that some of the most beautiful operas in history are by Benjamin Britten, a composer who truly understood his native tongue and kept it as fluid as the soaring melodies he wrote, as Thomas Allen proves here in 'Billy in the Darbies' from Britten's 'Billy Budd'. It is the other major arias from Korngold to Wagner to Tchaikovsky to Rossini, Bizet, Mozart, Gounod, Verdi, Thomas, Strauss, and Lehar that Allen proves that English translations do not detract at all from the performances!

For those purists who prefer opera sung in the original language (and for those who don't even need supertitles in the opera house!), then this recording may provide a temporary barrier to respecting Allen's singing. But once caught up in the ease with which he moves from style to style and comedy to drama, it is hard not to relinquish old preferences and not be wholly impressed with the beauty of the voice and the warmth and dignity of this fine musician. Highly recommended. Grady Harp, July 05

Passed the "Opera in English" test with flying colors........2005-07-04

For me, the test here was Figaro's Cavatina, from Rossini's Barber of Seville - sung in English, as is this entire compilation of 14 operatic favorites, sung by baritone Sir Thomas Allen. Could he pull it off? Could Chandos pull it off? The answer is an unequivocal, unqualified yes! The secret in singing classics in English, that were written and scored in another language, is in three things: pacing, vocal agility and appreciation for "fit", and what greater test for tongue and timing than Figaro? When you listen to this one song, you will understand why Chandos and its benefactor, Sir Peter Moores have such a passion for their Opera in English series. Sir Allen's voice is a matured unmistakably settled baritone voice that contains a lifetime's worth of understanding of the music and words he imparts through his magnificent delivery. For example, when he sings, Tchaikovsky's "You have my love and devotion" from The Queen of Spades, he delivers a smooth and deeply emotional rendition that lacks nothing in translation. Wagner's "Turning my gaze upon this proud assembly", from Tannhäuser is another example of how fine, full orchestration behind a seasoned voice that waxes eloquent with every phrase, can create a mood of relaxed familiarity with word and music, that may be lacking when sung in another tongue. Great Operatic Arias, serves up a smorgasbord of tunes that are familiar, made more so by the care and attention given to creating a place for the Opera in English series in every home library. The mood here is romantic, relaxed and with few exceptions consistent throughout. If you haven't heard Opera in English, this might be a good way to start, given the fact that the listener gets to sample how different composers might sound in other than German, Italian or French. You might be surprised to discover that when done with care, as is obviously the case here, the sound is about as good as it gets. As an added bonus, the booklet that comes with the CD is full of pictures, libretto in English, and biography that gives us a good insight into history of the singer and his identifying rolls.

Average customer rating:

Greatness
So So CD
Excellent relaxing music
Great!
Truly music to the heart

Beloved: A David Lanz Collection
David Lanz
Manufacturer: Narada
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | New Age | Styles | Music

Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music

Relaxation | New Age | Styles | Music

Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music

Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Sacred Road
Return to the Heart
Desert Vision
Skyline Firedance
Bridge of Dreams

ASIN: B000005P6Y
Release Date: 1995-08-29

Tracks:

Beloved
Leaves On The Seine
Madre De La Tierra
Madrona
Return To The Heart
First Light
Courage Of The Wind
Summer's Child
Variations On A Theme From Pachelbel's Canon...
Cristofori's Dream
Angel Of Hope
Reverie
Before The Last Leaf Falls

Customer Reviews:

Greatness.......2007-03-27

I am a piano player who has risen from being just an average person, to having my own album, play at many restaurants, and make maybe 90,000 dollars a year from just playing piano. And I have David Lanz to thank for this. I stumbled across this exact CD when I was 10 and it has inspired me so much, that I can't even begin to explain how talented he is. I own every single CD and advise you to do the same, because every note that man plays and every note that you here can inspire you to greatness. Love be with you all.... Greg Kates

So So CD.......2006-08-21

I've been playing New Age music for a very long time, and I have personally met New Age masters like John Tesh and Yanni, and Yanni being my favorite. I would suggest to any listeners to not buy David Lanz cd. Once you've heard 3 songs, the rest you know. He does not distinct himself from his peers. Try Yanni's IN MY TIME cd, a grammy nominated cd. You will enjoy, and is great for any type of listeners.

Excellent relaxing music.......2005-09-19

My wife and I recently were at a bed & breakfast where this was playing as background music. We enjoyed it so much that we wrote down the artist and album and purchased it as soon as we got home. One reviewer said the music all souded the same. I agree somewhat in that, it is ALL relaxing! I really like that there aren't fast/harder pieces in there - this way I don't get jolted with anything while trying to relax.

Great!.......2003-07-10

I first heard one of David Lanz's songs in dance class. The song was Cristofori's Dream and I had no idea who it was by. That song touched my heart so much so I searched for the artist and I found this CD. At first I was reluctent to buy it because I only heard one song from his CD and I wasn't sure if the rest of the songs were as good. The CD turned out to be better than I expected! I would have given this CD 5 Stars but the one thing I have to complain about...it does need a little more variety but it is still excellent. It is perfect for reading, dancing, spleeping...etc. ENJOY!

Truly music to the heart.......2000-10-26

I am writing this review as comments to Mr. Mark Baum's review on this CD as a "slow" one, and he also thinks that Yanni's music is NOT repetitive but Lanz's is. I rather not say whose music is repetitive, but any decent piano player would know whom between Lanz and Yanni. I only have one comment: There are those who enjoy music and there are those who take music to the heart.

Tracks:

Eight Epitaphs: Alice Rodd
Eight Epitaphs: Susannah Fry
Eight Epitaphs: Three Sisters
Eight Epitaphs: Thomas Logge
Eight Epitaphs: A Midget
Eight Epitaphs: No Voice To Scold
Eight Epitaphs: Ann Poverty
Eight Epitaphs: Be Very Quiet Now
Hermit Songs: At St. Patrick's Purgatory
Hermit Songs: Church Bell at Night
Hermit Songs: St. Ita's Vision
Hermit Songs: The Heavenly Banquet
Hermit Songs: The Crucifixion
Hermit Songs: Sea-Snatch
Hermit Songs: Promiscuity
Hermit Songs: The Monk and His Cat
Hermit Songs: The Praises of God
Hermit Songs: The Desire for Hermitage
Nature, the gentlest mother
There came a wind like a bugle
Why do they shut me out of Heaven-
This world feels dusty
Heart, we will forget him
Dear March, come in!
Sleep is supposed to be
When they come back
I felt a funeral in my brain
I've heard an organ talk sometimes
Going to Heaven!
12 - The Chariot

Customer Reviews:

A great album.......2001-12-30

This is an album of art songs composed by Samuel Barber, Aaron Copland and Theodore Chanler and sung by Sanford Sylvan. Until I listened to this album, I'd never really enjoyed vocal performances of Barber's Hermit Songs. Sylvan's performances are thoroughly enjoyable. He's always on key, his voice is gorgeous and his interpretations are subtle and understated. This guy can really sing! His performance of Copland's "Heart, We Will Forget Him" is particularly moving.

If you enjoy Sylvan's singing on this album, check out his "Walt Whitman in l989" on the AIDS Quilt Songbook CD. The song is unforgetable and Sylvan's performance is one of the highlights of the CD.

Spellbinding.......2000-07-16

I have lived with this disc for nearly two years now and am still blown away by it. It is simply breathtaking.

For those unaware, Sanford Sylvan is an American baritone best known for roles in John Adams' operas "Nixon in China" and "The Death of Klinghoffer." But where Sylvan really excels is in the world of the art song. These three song cycles showcase his considerable interpretive talents. He has a truly lovely lyric voice full of expressive capabilities and myriad colors, and he knows how to use the text intelligently without becoming blatant or arch.

The first song cycle, by Theodore Chanler, is a little-known gem consisting of epitaphs by Walter de la Mare. Each selection is so simple and direct that one can easily imagine oneself reading these epitaphs carved on tombstones in a New England cemetary. The simplicity is so affecting and Sylvan's performance so understated that after the cycle has ended the listener feels emotionally drained.

The two more famous selections are Barber's Hermit Songs and Copland's Emily Dickinson poems. The Barber interpretations rank with the best, if not perhaps topping any of them (Eleanor Steber's comes readily to mind). The Copland, on the other hand, is my favorite rendition of these pieces ever. This is a personal preference, for normally these songs are sung by a woman. But to hear Sylvan, an openly gay man, sing "Heart, we will forget him," is an experience not to be missed for its added dimension of loss and loneliness.

Not to slight the accompanist's contribution, Mr. Breitman plays exceptionally well, coloring the piano tone almost as expertly as Sylvan does his voice. These two make up an extraordinarily attuned duo.

Do yourself a favor and pick up this disc -- I guarantee you a listening experience you won't soon forget.

Sanford Sylvan.......2000-06-19

Sanford Sylvan is one of the best lyric baritones in America. This recording shows his clean tone and sensitivity in music. He's beautiful voice is filled with great emotion and he handles the text with good intelligence. I truly recommend this wonderful recording.

I Do! I Do! (1996 Off-Broadway Revival Cast)

Average customer rating:

Light hearted, fun, poignant, charming. Highly recommend.

I Do! I Do! (1996 Off-Broadway Revival Cast)
Tom Jones
Manufacturer: Varese Sarabande
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

I Do! I Do! (1966 Original Broadway Cast)
The Drowsy Chaperone (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
110 in the Shade (1999 Studio Cast)
Grey Gardens - A New Musical (2006 Original Broadway Cast)
Curtains (2007 Original Broadway Cast)

ASIN: B0000014Z3
Release Date: 1996-06-04

Tracks:

The Wedding: All The Dearly Beloved/Together Forever/I Do! I Do!
Michael Gets Undressed
Goodnight
I Love My Wife
Something Has Happened
The Waiting Room
Love Isn't Everything
Nobody's Perfect
It's A Well Known Fact
Flaming Agnes
The Honeymoon Is Over
Entr'acte
Where Are The Snows?
My Cup Runneth Over
When The Kids Get Married
The Father Of The Bride
What Is A Woman?
Someone Needs Me
Roll Up The Ribbons
This House

Customer Reviews:

Light hearted, fun, poignant, charming. Highly recommend........1999-04-01

Including songs from the light hearted and fun to the poignant, this CD is a treasure that should not be missed by those loving the classic Broadway musical sound. Two voices (Karen Ziemba, currently Roxie Hart in Chicago, and David Garrison, currently in Titanic) and a Steinway piano partner in this recording, and the blend of Ziemba's and Garrison's voices is perfect. The versatility of Ziemba's voice throughout this recording is most impressive, In addition to being an extraordinary dancer, Ziemba once again proves herself an exceptional singer. Garrison is terrific as well. If you like "darker" musicals, avoid this. But if you want to hear an up-tempo musical score that will make you tap your toes and if you want to hear two voices that can be listened to again and again with the same initial pleasure, get this recording.

Dance Music:

Dance Music

dance music

Dance Music

Your New Favourite Band [Explicit Lyrics] [Import]

Easter Collection

Eslabones

Very Best Time of Year [Import]

King Drapes Stomp

Finally

Don't Wait Too Long [CD-single] [Import]

Expanding Horizons [Live]

Free...

Critic's Choice

Incredible Jimmy Smith at the Organ [Extra tracks] [Import] [Limited Edition]

Down Town Live [Live]

Costumbres

Gregorian Chants for All Seasons

Cecil Taylor Unit