Romantic Rhapsodies [Enhanced]

1. Rose After Dark

2. Shades of Love

3. Moonspace

4. Lovers in the Moonlight

5. Adagio

6. Dolphin Dream

7. Epiphany

8. Solar Wind

9. Riding the Rainbow

10. Dance Me to Heaven

Romantic Rhapsodies,Tom Barabas,Soundings of Planet,Adult Alternative,Contemporary Instrumental,Meditation,New Age / Meditation,Pop

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Average customer rating: Martha shows up WOW! Absolutely stunning! Undeniably Argerich You have to listen to this Lizst sonata Unbelievably Amazing...

Debut Recital / Martha Argerich Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Chopin | Chopin, Frédéric | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Prokofiev | Prokofiev, Sergei | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Toccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Argerich, Martha | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Barcarolles | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Chopin, Frédéric | ( C ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Prokofiev, Sergei | ( P ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Argerich, Martha | ( A ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Martha Argerich Plays Chopin: The Legendary 1965 Recording Rachmaninoff: Concerto No. 3 in D minor, Op. 30 / Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No. 1 in B flat minor, Op. 23 J.S. Bach: Toccata, Partita, English Suite 2/ Martha Argerich Chopin, Liszt: Piano Concertos / Martha Argerich, London Symphony Orchestra Prokofiev, Ravel: Piano Concertos, etc / Martha Argerich ASIN: B000001GQJ Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

1. No. 3 C Sharp Minor, Op.39: Scherzo No. 3 In C Sharp Minor, Op.39
2. Rhapsody, Op.79: No.1 Agitato In B Minor
3. Rhapsody, Op. 79: No. 2 Molto passionato, ma non troppo allegro In G Minor
4. Toccata, Op. 11
5. Jeux D'Eau: Tres doux
6. Barcarole In F Sharp Major, Op. 60
7. Hungarian Rhapsody No.6: Tempo Giusto - Presto - Andante - Allegro - Presto
8. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Lento assai - Allegro energico
9. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Grandioso
10. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Cantando espressivo
11. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Pesante - Recitativo
12. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Andante sostenuto
13. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Quasi Adagio
14. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Allegro energico
15. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Piu mosso
16. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Cantando espressivo senza slentare
17. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Stretta quasi Presto -- Presto -- Prestissimo
18. Sonata For Piano In B Minor: Andante sostenuto - Allegro moderato - Lento assai

Amazon.com essential recording

Classical music people, critics in particular, have a reputation for being grumpy, and this disc illustrates why. It's called Martha Argerich Debut Recital. Now, what does this tell you about it? Nothing, that's what. And the title isn't even correct! Actually, there's more material here than appeared on her debut recital, not the least of which is a stunning Liszt Sonata in B minor, which is the major work on the disc. When one of the two or three greatest living pianists turns in a performance of a major work like the Liszt Sonata that has been generally acclaimed, you would think that her record company would somehow get that piece of news into the title of the recording. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Martha shows up.......2007-07-22

If you are a piano afficionado, especially solo piano, you're gonna wanna hear Martha play.

WOW! Absolutely stunning!.......2007-01-16

I just bought this disc and was blown away by it. It was everything I thought it would be and then some. It has to be one of the great piano recital CDs of all time. I can't imagine anyone being disappointed with this.

Undeniably Argerich.......2006-11-08

Any one interested in knowing how piano should be played and can be played should get this CD. When I first heard the CD, I was surprised already by her debut recital Argerich has mastered such a distinctive style. I must disagree with the reviewer below who describe this as not imaginative, for nothing could be further from the truth. Argerich's playing is clearly her own, and no one else's. If one wants to hear a technically perfect but emotionally empty playing of Chopin, many of the newer artists would happily fill that bill. And for the record, Horowitz can make plenty of mistakes too, but that doesn't take the charm away from listening to his playing.
That being said, this is one of the most turbulent, drenching rendition of Chopin there is. I love it.

You have to listen to this Lizst sonata.......2006-07-05

Before this performance I thought that I did not like the sonata because no other pianist could keep its many parts and segments together from the beginning to the end. This is the only performance that does that for me. When I listened to it for the first time, I broke up in tears. Argerich's interpretation is mezmerizing. Buy it! Any serious music collector should have this CD.

Unbelievably Amazing..........2006-06-16

I've never paid attention to the Liszt Sonata until I heard this recording. I canNOT BELIEVE some people are calling her without soul or "muddy"... This is the single most inspiring and shocking CD. Really gives you chills when you listen to it. Makes your heart beat faster.

Average customer rating: I disagree with the consensus here Don't hesitate to get this set Superb interpretations by Katchen A little rushed sometimes, but beautiful Radiant and inspired recordings

Brahms: Works for Solo Piano Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ballads | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Intermezzos | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Variations | Variations | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | 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 The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Schubert: The Piano Sonatas Liszt: Piano Works Chopin: The Piano Works Works for Solo Piano Brahms: Concertos for Piano No. 1 & 2, Fantasia Op. 116 ASIN: B0000042GM Release Date: 1997-11-11

Tracks:

1. Variations On A Theme By Paganini, Op.35: Book 1 - Heft 1
2. Variations On A Theme By Paganini, Op.35: Book 2 - Heft 2
3. Variations And Fugue On A Theme By G.F. Handel, Op.24: B Flat Major
4. 4 Ballades, Op.10: Andante
5. 4 Ballades, Op.10: Andante
6. 4 Ballades, Op.10: Intermezzo. Allegro
7. 4 Ballades, Op.10: Andante con moto

Tracks:

1. Works For Solo Piano: Ziemlich langsam
2. Works For Solo Piano: Poco larghetto
3. Works For Solo Piano: Allegro
4. Works For Solo Piano: Walzer Nr. 1 - 8
5. Works For Solo Piano: Walzer Nr. 9 - 16
6. Works For Solo Piano: Scherzo es-moll

Tracks:

1. Works For Piano Solo: Allegro
2. Works For Piano Solo: Andante
3. Works For Piano Solo: Scherzo. Allegro molto e con fuoco
4. Works For Piano Solo: Finale. Allegro con fuoco
5. Works For Piano Solo: Allegro non troppo ma energico
6. Works For Piano Solo: Andante con espressione
7. Works For Piano Solo: Scherzo. Allegro
8. Works For Piano Solo: Finale. Introduzione (sostenuto) - Allegro non troppo e rubato
9. Works For Piano Solo: Agitato
10. Works For Piano Solo: Molto passionato, ma non troppo allegro

Tracks:

1. Works For Piano Solo: Allegro maestoso
2. Works For Piano Solo: Andante espressivo - Andante molto
3. Works For Piano Solo: Scherzo. Allegro energico
4. Works For Piano Solo: Intermezzo. Andante molto
5. Works For Piano Solo: Finale. Allegro moderato ma rubato
6. Works For Piano Solo: Presto energico
7. Works For Piano Solo: Andante
8. Works For Piano Solo: Allegro passionato
9. Works For Piano Solo: Adagio
10. Works For Piano Solo: Andante con grazia ed intimissimo sentimento
11. Works For Piano Solo: Andante teneramente
12. Works For Piano Solo: Allegro agitato

Tracks:

1. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op.76 - I Capriccio in F sharp minor
2. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - II Capriccio in B minor
3. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - III Intermezzo in A flat major
4. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - IV Intermezzo in B flat major
5. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - V Capriccio in C sharp minor
6. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - VI Intermezzo in A major
7. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - VII Intermezzo in A minor
8. Works For Solo Piano: 8 Pieces, Op. 76 - VIII Capriccio in C major
9. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - I Intermezzo in A minor
10. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - II Intermezzo in A major
11. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - III Ballade in G minor
12. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - IV Intermezzo in F minor
13. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - V Romanze in F major
14. Works For Solo Piano: 6 Pieces, Op. 118 - VI Intermezzo in E flat minor
15. Works For Solo Piano: 4 Pieces, Op. 119 - I Intermezzo in B minorn B
16. Works For Solo Piano: 4 Pieces, Op. 119 - II Intermezzo in E minor
17. Works For Solo Piano: 4 Pieces, Op. 119 - III Intermezzo in C major
18. Works For Solo Piano: 4 Pieces, Op. 119 - IV Rhapsody in E flat major

Tracks:

1. Works For Solo Piano: Andante moderato
2. Works For Solo Piano: Andante non troppo e con molto espressione
3. Works For Solo Piano: Andante con moto
4. Works For Solo Piano: g-moll
5. Works For Solo Piano: d-moll
6. Works For Solo Piano: F-dur
7. Works For Solo Piano: fis-moll
8. Works For Solo Piano: fis-moll
9. Works For Solo Piano: Des-dur
10. Works For Solo Piano: F-dur
11. Works For Solo Piano: a-moll
12. Works For Solo Piano: e-moll
13. Works For Solo Piano: E-dur
14. Works For Solo Piano: d-moll
15. Works For Solo Piano: d-moll
16. Works For Solo Piano: D-dur
17. Works For Solo Piano: d-moll
18. Works For Solo Piano: B-dur
19. Works For Solo Piano: f-moll
20. Works For Solo Piano: fis-moll
21. Works For Solo Piano: D-dur
22. Works For Solo Piano: h-moll
23. Works For Solo Piano: e-moll
24. Works For Solo Piano: e-moll

Customer Reviews:

I disagree with the consensus here.......2007-07-11

I was disappointed by this set and would not recommend it. It's great that all of Brahms' piano works are included here and the boxed set includes some difficult to find works (like those Op. 21 variation sets) as well as the better known and wonderful later piano pieces and the Op. 39 Waltzes.

The problem is that Katchen's performances are flawed and often unpleasant. The worst problem is that he bangs the keys a lot. Fortissimo passages are ideally not supposed to be noisy; they are intended to be loud and forceful without being unpleasant. It's a key distinction that Katchen fails to realize. I also think that Katchen's technique is a bit patchy. He blurs the passagework and there is a lack of both accuracy and delicacy in the fast passages. To take an example, the Op. 76 set is marred by both of these problems: a lack of accuracy and a tendency to bang on the keyboard. I also found many of the passages that didn't suffer from these problems to be interpretationally uninteresting (the slow parts of the Paganini Variations, Bk II are undistinguished, to take an example). Big thumbs down.

I did some direct comparison of sets to the Katchen performances and in every case Katchen was far inferior.

Take the Op. 39 Waltzes: Leon Fleisher's old recording is wonderful and much more sensitive and interesting than Katchen.

I also listened to Radu Lupu's recording of the Opp. 117-119 pieces (THAT is a wonderful recording - if you are looking for a superb recording of Brahms piano music, get that one and save yourself the aggravation of the Katchen set) and it's simply no contest.

I also sampled the terrific Op. 79 Rhapsodies and the Paganini Variations as played by a favorite pianist of mine, the lesser-known French pianist Nicholas Angelich, and Katchen's sloppy and undirected interpretations pales before the versions by a "non-superstar" pianist.

So while I admit I haven't listened to every portion of the Katchen set, I found every reason to avoid it when compared to some alternatives available.

Don't hesitate to get this set.......2007-07-04

It's a good thing I waited to write this until I'd heard these CDs a few times. I would have been guilty of understatement. Katchen's work grows on me in much the same way Brahms' music itself does. It is rich in nuance and insight, and never fails to please.

I'll confess, I bought this set to fill the gaps in my piecemeal collection. What a delightful surprise to find my "stopgap" set more than holds its own against recordings by the likes of Richter, Rubinstein and Gilels. To help the reader overcome any reluctance I offer a few comments on the few "downsides" mentioned by others:

Yes, Katchen does play fast, but not always, and certainly not out of inability to hold the listener's attention through more artful means. Katchen's track times are often slower than Rubinstein's or even Gilels'; but where the spirit moves him, he can go like a rocket. He's generally fastest in the earlier works, where a case can be made for playing them with youthful ardor; Katchen does this to a T. This applies to the first 2 sonatas, the Paganini variations (why would anything associated with Paganini lack splash and dazzle?) and to a much lesser extent, parts of the Handel variations. The main thing is, it works. The very few places where I felt Katchen was rushing the music are heavily outnumbered by places where the added energy seems to "fit" like a glove.

Yes, in an exhaustive set you inevitably endure the "bottom of the barrel." I'm surprised how little of this 6-CD set strikes me as anything less than indispensible. Every track is worth hearing. Katchen has been surpassed here and there, but he doesn't put in a bad performance in the whole batch.

Yes, the recordings are more than 40 years old. They will not satisfy the most jaded audiophile (there's not quite the "presence" of a good recording today). But they are amazingly clean and lifelike for their age (even the 3 tracks that are mono). They sound noticeably better than the popular Rubinstein recordings of equal vintage. At first I thought I heard a touch of bass-heaviness, but now I just think Katchen gives us a strong, clear bass line. Once again, it works. The sound is simply not a problem for a normal listener.

Finally, there's the small stuff. Getting the CDs out of their tight-fitting sleeves without putting your fingerprints on the playing surface is well-nigh impossible, unless you give in and apply a letter opener to solve the problem once and for all. Is that any reason not to get this much wonderful music at such a low price? London has even revived the old practice of offering different program notes in different languages, so that multilingual readers can benefit from more than one set of comments. All around it's a winner!

Superb interpretations by Katchen.......2006-11-16

Katchen's performace throughout this collection are excellent.Brahms integrates many of Schumann's,Bach's and Beethovens compositional ideas into his own works.He is a master of the appoggiatura(suspension of the dominant chord).And the ghosts of Bach,Schumann,and Beethoven appear at intervals throughout this collection of his piano works.The VARIATIONS ON AN ORIGINAL THEME is an ethereal experience,and the Op.09 VARIATIONS ON A THEME BY SCHUMANN, composed after his death,Brahms's pathos,especialy in the slower variations, make you aware of his sadness of Schumann passing, as there is vivid sense of despair and remorse you can hear throughout.It is well documented the profound influence Shumann had on Brahms's compositional process.OP.76 is a passionate performance by Katchen.You also have short piano works culminated in Op116,Op 117,Op.118,which includes the great masterpiece in Ebminor,and Op.119.The Pagganini Variations,Variations on a theme by Haydn,the Ballads Op. 10.And both volumes of the HUNGARIAN DANCES,the 2 Rhapsody's,and VARATIONS ON A THEME BY HANDEL.It quite remarkable that such music could be created by such a young man in the astonishing Sonatas,OP.1,OP.2,and OP.5.The slow movements in all three sonates are very inspiring,and heart fealt.It makes you glad to be alive in order to hear such remarkable music.A well balanced performance throughout.If your a Brahms lover,this is a must for your collection.Enjoy

A little rushed sometimes, but beautiful.......2005-02-03

To be honest, I can't really figure out how much I like Katchen's performance. It's hard to gauge because Brahms's piano music is inherently exceptional played by just about any performer.

I feel that the ballades, op. 10 are played way too fast (although I'm not exactly sure how close Katchen is to Brahms's tempi indications). I've heard them by several other performers and, being a Gould fan, would have to say that his slower interpretation really captures how beautiful the pieces are more than anyone else. I also enjoy Kempff's performances of many later works. Katchen really seems so rushed for some reason. To me, that really takes attention away from the fine details, which I think are so essential to Brahms's piano music. He's not quite delicate enough with some of the pieces.

This faster speed is only very slight for the rest of the set, but pretty consistently. I think he does a better job with more intense pieces like many of his larger-scale variations and the sonatas. Those I would give 5 stars, but only 4 stars for the op. 116-119, for they're a little too fast.

My only other qualm is the arrangement of the set. It would be nice to have all the sonatas together on a disc, 116-119 on a disc, etc., going along with the whole chronological thing..

However, all these things are personal preference. I would definitely recommend this set. It's made up about 1/2 of my music listening for the past couple months. It's not expensive at all for what you're getting, and if you get just one Brahms piano cd, you're going to want to get more, so you should just get it over with and have this whole set, it's fabulous music. Just keep in mind that this is not the only interpretation that should be considered.

Radiant and inspired recordings.......2004-09-19

If there is a more effervescent , idiomatic , innovative and resplendently performance of the Handel Variations , I have not heard it . Katchen emphasizes with colossal scrupulosity the wide doe and the diversity spectre of the orchestral instruments . You must marvel at the technical equipment of Katchen playing .
The other outstanding version of these Variations is of Michael Ponti (live preformance)
gifted with a major emphasis in the striking and color tone ; but the point to remark is that in both performings the approach is similar ; every one of the Variations must be played as a microcosmos in itself ; with nuance , grace , majesty, powerful imagination, sense of the span and above al ; savoir vivre . If you intend to play with authoritative precision without Mediterranean dewy and radiant mood ; you are destined to fail with these Variations and becoming unbearable for the audience and the listener . Lamentably , there are many of them in the actual market but I think you can guess them .
The two Rhapsodies are performed with the highest commitment . Melodic flight and arresting lyricism .
The Sonatas are superbly performed . The Sonata No. 3 may find serious matchers with Clifford Curzon and Paul Badura Skoda .
The intermezzos are depicted with the adequate illuminating . These intimate pages must be played with the perfect balance of light and shadows ; think in Chopin Nocturnes for instance . Only Glenn Gould gets close to him in the Intermezzo Op. 117 No. 2 .
The Ballades may be the weakest works of this fundamental set . Benedetti Michelangeli and Emil Gilels recorded brilliant and eloquent versions.
Finally The Paganini Variations find in Benedetti Michelangeli a serious and unbeatable adversary .
To be honest , this set is widely recommendable for you , to know the whole and intimate world of Johannes Brahms , the beloved son of Hamburg.
Katchen also recorded a powerful Islamey and an unforgettable Rachmaninoff No. 2 .

Average customer rating: Tom Barabas "Romantic Rhapsodies" Magically romantic - no fluff here... Rhapsodic piano music!

Romantic Rhapsodies Tom Barabas Manufacturer: Soundings of Planet ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Sedona Suite Classical Healing Journey Back to Sedona Sunset Meditation Timeless ASIN: B00000DBWN Release Date: 1998-10-06

Tracks:

1. A Rose After Dark
2. Shades Of Love
3. Moonspace
4. Lovers In The Moonlight
5. Adagio
6. Dolphin Dream
7. Epiphany
8. Solar Wind
9. Riding The Rainbow
10. Dance Me To Heaven

Customer Reviews:

Tom Barabas "Romantic Rhapsodies".......2004-07-05

This smooth, wonderfully interpreted CD turned into my fave CD for relaxing, doing artwork, computer tutorials & gardening. Also, so inspired by him that I bought his sheet music & now play some of his work on piano. This is my 2nd purchase as someone misplaced the first one. A must have for right-brainers.

Magically romantic - no fluff here..........2001-04-26

I have many of Tom's CD's, and finally got around to getting this one - and I waited tooo long! Unlike many of today's 'romantic' pianists around (who do write and play well), Tom Barabas - classically trained with one very creative and passionate mind - is in a league of his own. For those fans of 'Sedona Suite' - you will not be disappointed. He has taken the 'ethereal new age' tone of SS, refined and reshaped it, and wrapped his loving soul into every piece on this beautiful CD. There is a new side of TB that you will hear on this CD, and tracks like 'Moonlight', 'Adagio', 'Epiphany' and 'Dolphin Dream' weave a soothing, at times rhapsodic sound - yet still remain focused on the intent of the pieces - to make you, the listener, feel a sense of joy and uplifting of the spirit.

Tom added some very tasteful - and not overdone - arrangements on many of the tracks. The injection of flute, guitar and synth accent many of the pieces very well. The only negative point is that the second piece ("Shades of Love") didn't seem to fit - a bossa-nova inflected piece that sounded too much like cheap night club music, amidst 9 other *magnificent* piano tracks that take you on one of Tom's best journeys. Not a point that should stop you from adding this CD to your collection today!

Overall, I am in full agreement with the artist himself - it is truly one of his best CD's. I think he opened a door here for 'new age haters' that would have shyed away from his 'Sedona' inspired works, and created a CD of music that anyone would enjoy (without selling out!).

Rhapsodic piano music!.......2000-01-27

The first two tracks of Romantic Rhapsodies gave me the impression that this was going to be a very pleasant smooth jazz album, but it is so much more than that! I have to admit that this is my first Tom Barabas recording, so I apologize to his long-time fans (Barabas has recorded twelve albums to date). However, I will be digging into his other CDs for more! Steeped in classical traditions as well as jazz influences, Barabas has a varied approach to his music, keeping it consistently elegant and sophisticated. Barabas' years at the Liszt Conservatory in Hungary as a child really show! This kind of understanding of the piano and it's capabilities can only come from one who has devoted his or her life to music and the instrument to the point that he or she has become one with it.The first four tracks are beautiful, and I was thoroughly enjoying my initial ride through the album, but the fifth track, Baroque composer Tomas Albioni's "Adagio" really grabbed me. A familiar piece occasionally used in soundtracks, Barabas' treatment simply shimmers! It is primarily a piano piece with background choral and instrumental accompaniment - what a incredible beauty! "Epiphany" is another favorite. It opens with an energetic piano solo as the sax begins to weave its way into the melody. Dark and haunting, I find this piece has an almost ominous quality that I really like - the percussion certainly adds to the drama - and then the dark clouds open to welcome a burst of musical sunshine. This is also a very remarkable piece! "Solar Wind" is piano with synth strings - again, a haunting and incredibly beautiful piece. The last two tracks return to a more upbeat, jazzy feel - especially "Dance Me to Heaven", a light and breezy love song. This is a very strong album from start to finish, but the middle four tracks are incredible! I'm hooked, and look forward to discovering Tom Barabas' other works!

Average customer rating: A good recording as far as it goes

Janos Starker Virtuoso Music for Cello Manufacturer: Denon Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD 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 Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Paganini, Niccolò | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | 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 General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | 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 Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Cello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Starker Encore Album The Road To Cello Playing Italian Cello Sonatas Romantic Cello Favorites Popper: Romantic Cello Showpieces ASIN: B0000034O8 Release Date: 1993-08-27

Tracks:

1. Sicilienne
2. Variations On One String On A Theme By Rossini: Moses Fantasie
3. Apres Un Reve
4. Hungarian Rhapsodie, Op. 68
5. 'Goyescas': Intermezzo
6. Danse Rituelle Du Feu
7. La Fille Aux Cheveux De Lin
8. Piece En Forme De Habanera
9. 'The Barber Of Seville': Figaro

Customer Reviews:

A good recording as far as it goes.......2000-09-14

Janos Starker is undoubtedly on of the best cellists of our time, and his technique is effortless on all of these virtuoso selections. Not only is his execution flawless, he is one of a few artists who can make their individual styles come out beautifully in a recording. His tone is strong and compelling in all of the selections, never forced but also never obsessed with smoothing over every trace of an individual performance. As a result the recording has a wonderfully spontaneous and solid flavor. Highlights are David Popper's Hungarian Rhapsody and the Falla Danse Rituelle. Unfortunately, it is true that many of these virtuoso pieces simply do not hold the listener time and time again as do, for example, the Brahms cello sonatas or the Dvorak concerto. So though you may listen to this recording many times (and get to love Janos Starker's playing in the process) also buy his recording of the Dvorak.

Average customer rating: The "Clinker" of the bunch

Brahms: The Masterworks (Box Set) Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Sextets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ballads | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Concertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Romantic | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Intermezzos | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Variations | Variations | 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 Requiems | Forms & Genres | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Clarinet | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Cello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Brilliant Classics | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Dvorák: The Masterworks [Box Set] Mendelssohn: The Masterworks [Box Set] Vivaldi: The Masterworks (Box Set) Beethoven: The Masterworks (Box Set) Schubert: The Masterworks [Box Set] ASIN: B00062FLIS Release Date: 2004-11-30

Customer Reviews:

The "Clinker" of the bunch.......2006-12-19

Having collected the entire "The Masterworks" series (including the Bach and Mozart Complete Works) this set is the 'clinker' of the bunch. First off... 6 CD's of Lieder 'historic' (pre-historic) recordings. No Overtures, No Orchestral Seranades, No Haydn Variations?? The performances of the Symphonies and the Concertos are shakey and not very well recorded. Brilliant Classics, who has done such a wonderful job with the Hadyn Complete Symphonies (licensed from Nimbus), the Mozart and Bach Complete sets, has stumbled a bit with this release.

Average customer rating: Fun Music Wonderfully Recorded I love the Rhapsodies

Enesco: Roumanian Rhapsody No. 1; Liszt: Hungarian Rhapsodies Nos. 1-6 [Hybrid SACD] Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Enescu, Georges | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Suppé: Overtures; Auber: The Bronze Horse [Hybrid SACD] Stravinsky: The Firebird (Complete Ballet); Fireworks [Hybrid SACD] Respighi: Ancient Dances and Airs for Lute Suites 1, 2 & 3 [Hybrid SACD] Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 3 [Hybrid SACD] Dvorák Cello Concerto in B minor, Op. 104; Bruch Kol Nidrei; Tchaikovsky Variations on a Rococo Theme / Dorati, Starker, London Symphony Orchestra (3-Channel and Stereo Hybrid SACD) ASIN: B0007YP0TU Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

1. Roumanian Rhapsody No.1, Op.11
2. Hungarian Rhapsody No.1 In F Minor
3. Hungarian Rhapsody No.2 In D Minor
4. Hungarian Rhapsody No.3 In D Major
5. Hungarian Rhapsody No.4 In D Minor
6. Hungarian Rhapsody No.5 In E Minor 'Heroide Elegiaque'
7. Hungarian Rhapsody No.6 In D Major 'Carnival In Pesth'

Customer Reviews:

Fun Music Wonderfully Recorded.......2006-10-11

It may sound like a broken record, to use the old analogue cliche, but you can almost never go too far wrong on these Mercury reissues. In this case whatever the limitations of the repetoire itself, there is little to fault with the performances. Other excellent CDs of this music would be found under Ormandy (surprise - he's Hungarian!) and Karajan.
All these selections were recorded in 1960 and 1963 in London, and the bloom off this CD makes a mockery of 40 plus years of the so-called latest advances' in recording. The music calls to mind the dark red Hungarian wine, "Bulls Blood" and the heavy sour cream dishes so beloved by the natives. Mix in the ever present love of gypsy music and the gypsy virtuosi and you have a pretty good idea of what sort of colorful and over rich orchestra program you have in store. The cover accurately captures the whirling, dizzing excitement this music attains.
Original instrument fans please note - this music is played on original instruments - original late 19th century ones - and it sounds wonderful!

I love the Rhapsodies.......2005-07-20

I purchased this CD to help me fill out my collection of classical favorites. It did not disappoint. I am not a musician but the music sounds real good to me.

Average customer rating: sonic and musical spectacular! Dance for days!! Dorati In His Prime Dorati In His Prime

Liszt & Enesco Rhapsodies No. 1 Manufacturer: Polygram Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Enescu, Georges | ( E ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Enesco: Roumanian Rhapsody no 2 Paul Paray Conducts Dances of Death Stravinsky: The Firebird (Complete Ballet); Fireworks; Song of the Nightingale Chabrier: España, rhapsody; Bourrée fantasque Bizet: Carmen Suite; Arlésienne Suites Nos. 1 & 2; Thomas: Mignon & Raymond Overtures ASIN: B0000057KX Release Date: 1991-05-10

Tracks:

1. Roumanian Rhapsody No. 1, Op. 1
2. Hungarian Rhapsody No.1 In F Minor
3. Hungarian Rhapsody No.2 In D Minor
4. Hungarian Rhapsody No. 3 In D Major
5. Hungarian Rhapsody No. 4 In D Minor
6. Hungarian Rhapsody No. 5 In E Minor
7. Hungarian Rhapsody No. 6 In D Major

Amazon.com

The most famous Hungarian Rhapsody is No. 2--the one that had Bugs Bunny chasing a mouse up and down the keyboard of his piano. However, if you like No. 2, you'll like the rest of them. There are about 16 in all, but only these six also exist in orchestral versions, and they sound very different from the piano originals. Antal Dorati is simply unbeatable in music like this: he keeps everything moving in an exciting fashion, gets a disciplined response from the orchestra, and knows the music like the back of his hand. Mercury's recording is close-up and colorful, much like the music itself. This is pure fun, no more, no less. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

sonic and musical spectacular!.......2005-08-20

This must have been one of the most spectacular recordings of the early stereo period, when they were striving for effect. I don't know enough to say whether the orchestration is authentic, but the record is worth the price for the cembalom sounds alone. A friend listened to it with me and remembered getting the Second Rhapsody as a promotion as a child. It started him on a life-long love of classical music. I too remember the cover, but my entry-point was probably Offenbach and Suppe. Anybody out there remember a 78 of Suppe's Fatinitza, backed by Toselli's Rimpianto? The madeleine of music. John Keane

Dance for days!!.......2002-10-23

These rhapsodies bubble over with foot-tapping dance rhythms, contagiously jovial melodies, sensuous gypsy tunes, and an incredible endless array of striking ORCHESTRAL COLOR. Liszt's flair for such intense and specific coloration with his piquant harmonies and orchestration make these pieces irresitable in the hands of ANY conductor.

However, in Dorati's hands, a ballet master, the dance truly lives in every bar. Muscular, controlled, yet allowing for the written-in zany-ness inherent in each rhapsody. Also, again his gutty strings coupled with Mercury's "front-row-seat" sound really make for thrilling experiences. (as in the opening bars of number 4 on the disc: WOW!)

Those who buy this CD for the popular Rhapsody 2 (from Tom and Jerry and other various cartoons) will be delighted to know that you will soon fall in love with EVERY rhapsody on here. They all have their own unique character, but are comprised of those same essential elements of anything so purely likable and fun. The Enesco Rhapsody which begins the CD is another one which I am thankful to be introduced to- poignant, tender, and later racous and brutishly energetic.

You will not be displeased with this. Beware the contagious nature though, you may find yourself singing and dancing to these on the inside all day!

Dorati In His Prime.......2000-12-02

When I want a CD to play for friends who are non-classical, I pick this one. What fun! Dorati is indeed in his element with this music, particularly the Enescu work. This is music accessible to people of all musical persuasions.

Of course, the Living Presence technique of recording only enhances the beauty of Dorati's performance. Convincing argument for the analog crowd!

Dorati In His Prime.......2000-12-02

When I want a CD to play for friends who are non-classical, I pick this one. What fun! Dorati is indeed in his element with this music, particularly the Enescu work. This is music accessible to people of all musical persuasions.

Of course, the Living Presence technique of recording only enhances the beauty of Dorati's performance. Convincing argument for the analog crowd!

Average customer rating: Very good recordings of favorite pieces by Brahms EXCEPTIONAL VARIATIONS Worth listening to again...and again!

Brahms: Handel Variations/Six Piano Pieces/Two Rhapsodies Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Ax, Emanuel | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Brahms: 7 Fantasies, Op. 116; 4 Piano Pieces, Op. 119; Sonata No. 2, Op. 2 Brahms: Piano Sonata No. 3, Op. 5; Intermezzi, Op. 117 Chopin: 4 Ballades; Scherzos; Mazurkas Mendelssohn: Sonata for Piano; Prelude & Fugue; Variations Sérieuses; Rondo Capriccioso Bartok: Complete Solo Piano Music ASIN: B0000027TU Release Date: 1992-06-02

Tracks:

1. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Aria
2. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var I
3. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var II
4. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var III
5. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var IV: Risoluto
6. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var V: Espressivo
7. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var VI
8. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var VII: Con Vivacita
9. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var VIII
10. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var IX: Poco Sostenuto
11. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var X
12. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XI
13. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XII
14. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XIII: Largamente, Ma Non Piu
15. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XIV
16. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XV
17. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XVI
18. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XVII: Piu Mosso
19. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XVIII
20. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XIX: Leggiero E Vivace
21. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XX
22. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XXI
23. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XXII
24. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XXIII
25. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XXIV
26. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Var XXV
27. Vars And Fugue On A Theme, Op.24: Fuga
28. Six Pieces, Op.118: No.1 Intermezzo in a: Allegro Non Assai, Ma Molto Appassionato
29. Six Pieces, Op.118: No.2 Intermezzo in A: Andante Teneramente
30. Six Pieces, Op.118: No.3 Ballade in g: Allegro Energico
31. Six Pieces, Op.118: No.4 Intermezzo in f: Allegretto Un Poco Agitato
32. Six Pieces, Op.118: No.5 Romanze in F: Andante
33. Six Pieces, Op.118: No.6 Intermezzo in e flat: Andante, Largo E Mesto
34. Two Rhapsodies, Op.79: No.1 in b: Agitato
35. Two Rhapsodies, Op.79: No.2 in g: Molto Passionato, Ma Non Troppo Allegro

Amazon.com

Emanuel Ax obviously knows exactly what to do with all of this music, but he doesn't do it consistently. He plays the difficult Variations with everything perfectly in place, an amazing pianistic feat in itself. This work has some excitement and grand climaxes built into it, and Ax minimizes them, giving us Brahms sounding politer than the composer may have intended. He obviously does what he does on purpose, since he whips up exciting climaxes in the Rhapsodies. He also plays the late Piano Pieces very beautifully, almost enough reason in itself to buy the disc. But compare what Leon Fleisher does with the Variations (Sony MH2K 63225). --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Very good recordings of favorite pieces by Brahms.......2002-07-05

I believe Emanuel Ax is a better pianist than he often gets credit for being. He has never been a heaven storming virtuoso or a beloved poet of the keyboard. And yet he seems always to be able to do whatever he wants to do very credibly. I have never heard anything other than fine playing from him.

Here we have some wonderful pieces by Brahms that most people love. I know I love them. Mr. Ax plays them very very well with great clarity and intelligence. He never seems to strain and has an intimacy with these pieces.

If you asked me to pick a favorite from this album I would have to say that it would change from day to day. The Handel Variations are terrific, but so are the Op 118 pieces (I mean WHO DOESN'T LOVE THEM!?). And of course we have all tried our hand at the Opus 79 Rhapsodies.

Mr. Ax has provided us with models we can enjoy and try to emulate. That is a wonderful service for all of us who love to play this music as well as listen to the recordings.

EXCEPTIONAL VARIATIONS.......2001-12-30

Whatever drew Brahms to Handel's eight bars of stately, constrained melody, whose range is limited to an octave and whose notes never stray outside the eight notes of their Bb major home scale, will remain a musicological mystery! But compositionally their very "simplicity" is ideal for the incredible journey penned by the master variationist of his time.

Emanuel Ax seems as eager as the composer to share the wealth of ideas, sudden turns, unexpected harmonies and rhythmical drive that makes the twenty-five minute performance time disappear in a heady wink.

I last heard Ax some fifteen years ago where he tossed off the fiendishly difficult Khachaturian concerto at an American Symphony Conductor (now defunct) under the direction of my mentor Kazuyoshi Akiyama. His mastery of the keyboard was dazzling but at the time he wouldn't have been my first choice for the subtleties and breadth of another piano master. How wrong I can be.

This recording reveals a pianist who has all the tools: impeccable technique, rhythmic accuracy, endurance! but also the all too frequently missing talent of revealing the subtext of the art. He is a worthy advocate.

The aria is played just so - clean clear and subdued. Imagine being at the premiere and wondering what Brahms was up to with this wee tune!

Both Brahms and Ax waste no time announcing their intentions to push and pull the theme until it has revealed all of its undercurrents. Variation 1 is a nickel short of jazz and immediately brings Handel's music into the modern age. The lack of harmonic colour in the theme is beautifully foiled with the chromaticism of Variation 2 and the three against two conflicts between right and left hands provides a tension and flow unknown to the Baroque master.

Variation 3 plays unirhythmic peek-a-boo where Variation 4 provides a healthy does of octaves that are rendered with great aplomb by Ax. Many composers would be hard pressed to have this much variety in these opening minutes, but Brahms has just "done his technique."

Only Brahms could have written Variation 5. The tonic minor (with all 5 flats) seems worlds from its major namesake. The counterpoint of the two hands - no mere "tune and accompaniment" and the many dynamic shades take the breath away and Ax delivers its inner beauty with a calm that demonstrates special understanding.

Variation 6 is a textbook canon that provides the perfect contrast to the intimacy of its predecessor. 7 & 8, con vivacita, - now back in the major - have relentless drive that can only be dispelled by the brief silence Brahms inserts at their surprisingly quiet close. Was that a dream? The first section is over.

Now Brahms has armed to his subject and is ready to stretch the bounds of his subject. Ax's responses to the luxuriant legato of 9, the mischievous indecision of 10 and the sublime music-box of 11 are entirely appropriate. My only quibble with his playing is my penchant for even greater dynamic contrast, particularly the "small" crescendos and accents that are to be found in nearly every variation.

Now the variations start to link. The quiet, uncertain understatement of 12 sets the table beautifully for the return of the dark tonic minor in 13, where Brahms drops the repeat of each section and begins writing variations on the variations - this wonderful skill is most famously used in the first movement of the fourth symphony where conductors no longer have the "luxury" of skipping the repeat of the exposition!

The constant sixteenths of 14 & 15 keep the pianist busy and the listener engaged; 16 develops through counterpoint where 17 is a study in long and short. 18 brings dialogue - finally the left and right begin to talk to one another. 19 is the most "baroque" of the bunch. It's relaxing triple metre (a favourite of Handel's) provides a welcome respite from the wide range of expression experienced so far, but also quietly whets our curiosity for what might come next. Again Ax rises to the occasion and delivers perfect rhythm and masterful ornaments.

Variation 20 shows double darkness: deep two-sided chromaticism and a shuddering, searching dynamic shape. Nothing is settled but the final resolution to Bb through the very far door of Gb on the second last beat is one of the most exquisite moments in the entire work - and Ax's weight and slight hesitation shows that its significance has been understood.

The mist of Variation 21 comes from the subtle combination of three over four (triplets/sixteenths) and the unexpected foray into the relative minor. It's been along time coming but will not be re-visited.

Safely back in Bb, the next four variations build on themselves: 22 uses naivety; 23 uncertainly - nearly fear; 24 nervous then a defiant 25. What could follow?

Brahms presents Handel's theme in the most revered form of the Baroque - the fugue. Here we are given a four voice construction (complete with redundant entry). The trick is to listen horizontally, rather than our usual vertical (tune plus accompaniment) manner. Brahms develops the developed - he turns the shape upside down (inversion); slows its speed (augmentation) and through his mastery of both harmony and rhythm - particularly syncopated - manages to remove the bar line and just let the music go where it will. Truly the score is just a representation of the ideas. Ax navigates with purpose and skill so that when the clarion pedal F's arrive, the sense of joy and final resolution let us celebrate with him this astounding music that grew a wee "previously owned" theme into an affirmation of the human experience in the successful combination of notes and thought.

Ax brings it home with authority and truth.

Worth listening to again...and again!.......2001-05-24

Emanuel Ax tackles one of the most inventive and challenging sets of variations ever written for the piano, the Handel Variations, Op. 24, by the young Johannes Brahms. This was my first introduction to this remarkable composition and I have received many hours of enjoyable listening from this CD. The Six Piano Pieces, Op. 118 and the two piano Rhapsodies, Op. 79 are also masterfully played. Well worth the asking price! By the way, if you love the "Handel Variations" by Brahms like I do, also check out Max Reger's "Variations and Fugue on a Theme by G.P. Telemann", another large scale and similarly exquisite set of piano variations (Marc-Andre Hamelin has recorded an excellent version of this latter work on the Hyperion label).

Average customer rating: New Compilation By Brahms' Best Interpreter

Brahms: Piano Concerto No. 1; Piano Sonata No. 3; Rhapsodies, Op. 79; Piano Pieces, Opp. 117-119 Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Intermezzos | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Variations | Variations | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Lupu, Radu | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Plays Schubert Beethoven: The Piano Concertos; 3 Sonatas; 2 Rondos Schubert: Impromptus D 899 & D 935 / Radu Lupu Grieg, Schumann: Piano Concertos / Radu Lupu, André Previn Robert Schumann: Radu Lupu - Kinderszenen/Kreisleriana/Humoreske ASIN: B000BVEKK4 Release Date: 2006-01-10

Tracks:

1. I. Allegro Maestoso
2. II. Andante Espressivo-Andante Molto
3. III. Scherzo: Allegro Energico
4. IV. Intermezzo (Ruckblick): Andante Molto
5. V. Finale: Allegro Moderato Ma Rubato
6. Theme And Variations In D Minor

Tracks:

1. I. Agitato In B Minor
2. II. Molto Passionato, Ma Non Troppo Allegro In E Flat Major
3. I. Andante Moderato In E Flat Major
4. II. Andante Non Troppo E Con Molto Espressione In B Flat Minor
5. III. Andante Con Moto In C Sharp Minor
6. I. Intermezzo: Allegro Non Assai, Ma Molto Appassionato In A Minor
7. II. Intermezzo: Andante Teneramente In A Major
8. III. Ballade: Allegro Energico In G Minor
9. IV. Intermezzo: Allegretto Un Poco Agitato In F Minor
10. V. Romanze: Andante In F Major
11. Intermezzo: Andante, Largo E Mesto In E Flat Minor
12. I. Intermezzo: Adagio In B Minor
13. II. Intermezzo: Andantino Un Poco Agitato In E Minor
14. III. Intermezzo: Grazioso E Giocoso In C Major
15. IV. Rhapsody: Allegro Risoluto In E Flat Major

Tracks:

1. I. Maestoso
2. II. Adagio
3. III. Rondo: Allegro Non Troppo

Customer Reviews:

New Compilation By Brahms' Best Interpreter.......2006-01-22

Wow, I have the honor of breaking in the review line on this 3-CD set! Here we have Radu Lupu's entire recorded output of Brahms' piano music, all from 1971-81. CD 1 (like CD 2) was previously released as a single CD, so be sure you're not duplicating your collection. CD 3 is a previously out-of-print recording of Concerto Nr. 1 with the London PO conducted by Edo de Waart. I'll address this first. I had never heard Lupu's concerto, and, as an unremitting Lupu fan, I had high hopes. He plays the socks off the thing as I envisioned. However, de Waart and the London PO aren't quite up to Lupu's standards, and a tug-of-war at times threatens the proceeedings. It seems Lupu wants to push ahead in tutti passages, then wants to luxuriate in solo moments--perfectly Brahmsian, I think, if de Waart would only allow him. Also the strings just play with sloppy intonation and execution. One wishes for Jochum's Berlin Phil. to come to Lupu's aid here! Having said that, I will likely keep this right up there with my Gilels version, if only to hear again and again Mr. Lupu's poetry and passion.
As for the other 2 discs (CD1: Sonata Nr.3, Theme and Var. in d minor; CD2: 2 Rhapsodies Op.79, 3 Intermezzos Op.117, 6 Piano Pieces Op.118, 4 Piano Pieces Op.119), I rate his playing to be the best I've heard of these works. If you think he's got the more wistful, roaming Brahms down, you may be surprised to hear his Op. 5 Sonata, where his architecture rivals Richter. I think Lupu just GETS Brahms, more so than anyone else. I feel the same way about Brendel and Schubert.
This 3-CD set makes a wonderful intro to Brahms piano music; if you only wish to own one, this would be a terrific choice!
* * * * 1/2 stars (because of the concerto)

Average customer rating: Glorious! Continued Enjoyment of Hungarian Classics

Franz Liszt: Hungarian Rhapsodies For Orchestra Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Liszt: The 19 Hungarian Rhapsodies Dvorak: Slavonic Dances Liszt: Hungarian Rhapsodies Strauss: Also Sprach Zarathustra, Don Juan / Karajan Liszt: 10 Hungarian Rhapsodies ASIN: B0000026Q6 Release Date: 1989-09-13

Tracks:

1. Hungarian Rhapsodies For Orchestra: Hungarian Rhapsody No. 1
2. Hungarian Rhapsodies For Orchestra: Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2
3. Hungarian Rhapsodies For Orchestra: Hungarian Rhapsody No. 3
4. Hungarian Rhapsodies For Orchestra: Hungarian Rhapsody No. 4
5. Hungarian Rhapsodies For Orchestra: Hungarian Rhapsody No. 5
6. Hungarian Rhapsodies For Orchestra: Hungarian Rhapsody No. 6 'The Carnival Of Pest'

Customer Reviews:

Glorious!.......2006-12-06

In an exuberant performance conducting the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Zubin Mehta offers this recording as a work of joy. Many people may know the work of Franz Liszt only through the overabundant (but appropriate) use of Rhapsody number 2 in many of the old Warner Bros. cartoons. There is so much more to offer and this recording makes that offering.

The orchestra captures the various moods from brooding to manic bordering on insane. They are expressive and the result is an exercise in joy.

Continued Enjoyment of Hungarian Classics.......2001-01-30

I can't recall at all how I came to purchase this. Likely, heard it on classical FM listening and then found and tried. Have played it often.

Read in the cd cover that Liszt dressed up the gypsy classics with influences from Paganini. Now I know why I like this so much!

Meditation Music:

1. Rubycon
2. Seven Waves
3. Sketch Proposals
4. Skys
5. Songs, Hymns & Carols
6. Stillpoint
7. Summer Solstice: A Windham Hill Collection
8. Sun Lake
9. The Blessing Way
10. The Great Southwest

Meditation Music

meditation music

Meditation Music

Another 5 Songs and a Poem [Import]

Max Lorenz Opera Arias of Wagner

Johnny McConnell September 11 Suite

Music: Piano Peaces

Mr. & Mrs. Bridge [Soundtrack]

Never Make a Promise [CD-single]

Love [CD-single] [EP] [Import]

Ill Communication

Masters of Reggae

K!L!A!V! - Music for Keyboard Instruments

Loudmouth : Best Of The Boomtown Rats [Import]

Le Vagabond [Import]

Mr. Hustlematic

Escape From Havana

Lucidarium