Serenades

Serenades

Track Listings

1. Lovelorn Rhapsody

2. Sweet Tears

3. J'Ai Fait une Promesse

4. They (Will Always) Die

5. Sleepless

6. Sleep in Sanity

7. Scars of the Old Stream

8. Under a Veil (Of Black Lace)

9. Where Shadows Dance

10. All Faith Is Lost

11. ...And I Lust

12. Sweet Suffering

13. Everwake

14. Crestfallen

Serenades,Anathema,Futurist Records,Death Metal/Black Metal,Doom Metal,Goth Metal,Heavy Metal,Popular Music,Rock

Nocturnes & Serenades
Average customer rating:

Great for massage therapy and yoga class

Another Scott Hamilton Hit

Nocturnal vibes.

Late night sounds

Scott Hamilton continues to impress

Nocturnes & Serenades
Scott Hamilton
Manufacturer: Concord Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Jazz | Styles | Music
Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music
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You Taught My Heart to Sing

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Back in New York

ASIN: B000FZET02
Release Date: 2006-08-01

Tracks:

Man With A Horn
Autumn Nocturne
Flamingo
I'm Glad There Is You
Serenade In Blue
Isn't It A Pity
You Go To My Head
Chelsea Bridge
By The River Sainte-Marie
A Portrait Of Jenny

Album Description

Since his debut album, released to considerable critical acclaim in 1977 on Concord Jazz, Scott Hamilton (b. 1954) has established himself as one our foremost tenor saxophone balladeers, one with a keen ear for indelible first-rate tunes. With Nocturnes and Serenades, his forty-first Concord Jazz disc as a leader or co-leader, Hamilton's balladry takes center stage, and with sublime results. Eight of the ten performances herein are ballads (the medium-tempo exceptions are "Flamingo" and "By the River Sainte Marie"), and Hamilton's aged-in-oaken-casks approach has never been warmer or more full-bodied. Now residing in England, the Providence, RI native is backed by his regular touring rhythm section; their empathetic support is at once unobtrusive and in-the-moment. Early in his career it was observed that Hamilton's sound and conception channeled those of giants Ben Webster and Zoot Sims. But on Nocturnes and Serenades it's the soul of Scott Hamilton that comes to the fore. And he builds a "Chelsea Bridge" that is every bit on a scale with that of Webster, its previous master architect.

Customer Reviews:

Great for massage therapy and yoga class.......2007-07-13

If you're searching for a mellow, mellifluous, lyrical, tranquil jazz CD, this is it! As a massage therapist and yoga instructor, I am constantly searching for good mood music for my clients and students. This one will undoubtedly become an enduring favorite in my collection of soothing and sensual ambiance music. I have received more (unsolicited) favorable comments from clients about this CD than any other I have played in the last ten years. Enjoy.

Another Scott Hamilton Hit.......2007-05-01

Scott Hamilton is like wine. He gets better with age. Lovely melodies in tenor saxophone. The classics like Chelsea Bridge is reason enough to buy this album. A great album no doubt. Buy it now!

Nocturnal vibes........2007-03-13

There are many reasons to love the wonderful tenor saxophone playing of American jazz star Scott Hamilton, but his gorgeous, velvet tone and exquisite lyricism are probably best showcased on ballads, which is why this collection is such a winner.

It's a rare treat to hear an album which conjures up one particular mood and functions like a suite of music, but Hamilton and his trio establish a late-night, seductive vibe with the soulful opener, 'Man With A Horn', and keep it going throughout.

Late night sounds.......2006-11-27

From the first slur on the wonderful "Man with a Horn" Scott Hamilton fans are in for a great treat of pure Hamilton lush tones.Call your girlfriend,turn down the lights, this is romance time music. Scott takes a page from his protege ,Harry Allen who has producted to great highly successful cd's with the new jazz label "mcmahon jazzmedicine", "Jazz for the soul and Jazz for the heart,"which are all Ballad albums.Scott plays 8 ballads here which are 8 of his best.All Scotts cd's are available at [...]

Scott Hamilton continues to impress.......2006-11-06

Ever since he began recording for the late Carl Jefferson's Concord Jazz label in the 1970s, Scott Hamilton has been one of the premier tenor sax men in jazz. He plays with a masculine tone and with the melodic line of a modern-day Ben Webster, and the listener can always follow that melodic line thoughout his improvisations, which are always a joy to hear. Unlike too many sax players today, who seem to think that their efforts can best be displayed by the number of notes they can fit into a measure with the greatest speed, Hamilton does not "over play" his music.

With Hamilton joined here with an excellent rhythm section, this latest CD continues the long line of great music that he has produced over the past 30 years. After listening to this, go buy all of his other CDs, and don't forget all those great recordings he did for Concord Jazz with Rosemary Clooney.

Average customer rating:

Altogether Wonderful
The Best
Musical bliss

String Serenades

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Hindemith: Symphonic Metamorphoses; Concert Music for Strings and Brass; Bartók: The Miraculous Mandarin - Suite
Dvorak: Serenades Op. 22 & 44
Scandinavian String Music
Suk: Summer Tale / Fantastic Scherzo - Charles Mackerras / Czech Philharmonic
Tchaikovsky: Serenade for Strings

ASIN: B00004LCB1
Release Date: 2000-06-27

Tracks:

Ser Op.48: Pezzo In Forma Di Sonatina: Andante Non Troppo - Allegro Moderato
Ser Op.48: Waltz: Moderato, Tempo Di Valse
Ser Op.48: Elegie: Larghetto Elegiaco
Ser Op.48: Finale: Tema Russo: Andante - Allegro Con Spirito
Ser in E, Op.22: Moderato
Ser in E, Op.22: Tempo Di Valse
Ser in E, Op.22: Scherzo: Vivace
Ser in E, Op.22: Larghetto
Ser in E, Op.22: Finale: Allegro Vivace - Moderato - Presto
Intro & Allegro Op.47
Ser in e, Op.20: I. Allegro Piacevole
Ser in e, Op.20: II. Larhetto
Ser in e, Op.20: III. Allegretto

Tracks:

The Lark Ascending, Romance
Fant On 'Greensleeves'
Fant On A Theme By Thomas Tallis
Ser Op.8: Andante Con Moto
Ser Op.8: Allegro Ma Non Troppo E Grazioso
Ser Op.8: Adagio
Ser Op.8: Allegro Giocoso, Ma Non Troppo Presto

Customer Reviews:

Altogether Wonderful.......2005-12-25

I like this cd.

Tchaikovsky's Serenade had some tempi I hadn't been used to, especially in the first movement, but the orchestra made just as wonderful a recording.

Dvorak's Serenade is my favorite among the four, and this recording is great. The orchestra is never too harsh, especially in the second, and fourth movements.

Introduction and Allegro is an interesting piece. I love how full the sound is. Some recordings feature smaller orchestras, and the sound is not as big and lush. As for Elgar's Serenade, it was played precisely. Besides that, i don't have much to say about it.

The Lark Ascending on this cd is a good version, maybe not the best, but there are certainly many ups about it. The violinist is very playful and does a good job of portraying the little bird. I don't listen to Fantasia on "Greensleeves" much. I don't know why. I can't say much about it, but they certainly do a good job of making it sound "English", for that matter. The Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis is fine. I wouldn't choose this version though. The piece just didn't sweep me up, especially during the climax.

Suk's Serenade is a fun piece to listen to. The piece never gets boring, perhaps due to the actual composition but also with help from the orchestra.

Get this cd if you want a collective, but good picture of the String Serenades out there. I would recommend it.

The Best.......2003-01-26

The music and the musicians of this CD are the of greatest quality. I do not think that many words are necessary, but I must say that this is by far one of my favorite CDs. If you are unsure about classical music or dyed in the wool listener, or a musician, I would recommend this by all means. Even as a musician who has played several of these serenades and heard them many times, I do not tire of hearing them. Coupled with the great sound of the London Chamber orchestra this album is a rare jewel.

Musical bliss.......2000-08-13

I attended a concert in which the Los Angeles Mozart Orchestra, known better for their Mozart music, performed the Serenade for strings by Dvorak. It is an excellent piece. The Larghetto, the slowest movement in the serenade, is a fine work. It is slow and nearly an adagio for strings, with a serious and meditative tone. The scherzo, like the measure, is a rollicking and bouncy bit of music, with skipping strings and bouncing notes. The scherzos of Mendelsshon I particularily enjoy. Dvorak is'nt exactly like Mendelsshon when it comes to the scherzo form, but he is can alternate from grave to joyous tones.

Jean Sibelius: Violinkonzert/Serenaden/Humoreske

Average customer rating:

Dismal!
A divider, not a uniter
Striving for effect (or maybe just showboating?)
A splendid rendition
She did it

Jean Sibelius: Violinkonzert/Serenaden/Humoreske

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music
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Mendelssohn/Brahms: Violin Concertos
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Vivaldi: The Four Seasons/Tartini: The Devil's Trill

ASIN: B000001GRK
Release Date: 1996-02-13

Tracks:

Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: 1. Allegro moderato
Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: 2. Adagio di molto
Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: 3. Allegro, man non tanto
Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: Serenade No. 1 In D Major, Op. 69a - Andante assai
Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: Serenade No. 2 In G Minor, Op. 69b - Lento assai
Conerto For Violin And Orchestra In D Minor, Op. 47: Humoresque No. 1 In D Minor, Op. 87 No. 1 - Commodo

Amazon.com essential recording

The very first notes of this extraordinary performance show how thoughtfully Anne-Sophie Mutter has approached the work. Sibelius's marking for the solo violin is dolce ed espressivo, which for most violinists would mean "with vibrato." But Mutter plays senza vibrato and achieves a hauntingly expressive effect over the muted pianissimo oscillations of the orchestral violins. Happily, she sustains this high level of engagement with the score through the entire account, playing the taxing solo part with riveting intensity, making every note count, producing a gloriously rich and varied tone, and giving the listener a memorable musical experience in the process. The effect of all this on André Previn and the Staatskapelle Dresden, to paraphrase Mark Twain, appears to have been prompt and electric. They give a spectacular reading of the score, one notable for both its sonorous depth and its sense of atmosphere. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

Dismal!.......2007-06-21

I am sorry to disagree with those who seem to like this performance as much as they do. I think that they should listen to what Isaac Stern does with this music -- to me the way it should be played. Here the soloist playing is, well, fussy and contrived. Mutter often emphsizes the wrong things and phrases and plays some of the notes in odd ways that I doubt the composer intended. Her rhubato, for example, does not inform, but instead distracts. Mutter and the orchestra play the work so slowly that they strain and sometimes very nearly lose altogether the integrity of the music's melodic line. How can one play Sibelius like this? (I do not think I can blame the tempos chosen on the conductor. Mutter seems determined to play almost everything too slowly.) Mutter's playing betrays no understanding of this music at all. Add the fact that neither the conductor nor the orchestra seems to have any idea of what Sibelius might be about, producing as a result laughably dull, directionless accompaniment, and we are left with a dismal performance by all.

A divider, not a uniter.......2005-11-02

Violin mavens aren't middle-of-the-road, any more than opera buffs. Mutter typically divides opinion strongly about whether her highly technical, extremely detailed and personal playing is a sign of exceptional musicianship or the opposite: a self-absorbed fussiness that ignores the composer so that everything can focus on herself.

I fall into the latter group. To my ears this is an impossibly fussed-over Sibelius concerto, with hardly a natural phrase to be heard. I won't go into detail--what's the point? The consensus here seems to be that this is a gorgeous woman playing a gorgeous violin in a gorgeous virtuosic romp. Okay.

Striving for effect (or maybe just showboating?).......2005-08-28

There seem to be two Anne-Sophie Mutters. The first was the violinist from her debut till about 1994, who made some of the best recordings I've heard in modern times, even if some of them were perhaps a *little* over-hyped. The second is this far more technical, far more, well, egotistical soloist, who seems to say in every recording, "Woohoo, look what *I* can do." Or, to put it another way, she plays the violin but not the concerto. Watching her in a recent documentary comment on her first recording of the Beethoven concerto, she said it had nothing to do with how she would handle the piece today. Undoubtedly so, and what a pity. I have nothing against interpretations that get off the beaten path and take us to unfamiliar regions, but her journey today sounds superficial, with overly-mannered playing (slooowing down at the eeend of eeevery phraaaaaase) and a futzing with vibrato and color every ten bars, rather than saving her special effects for key dramatic moments. That latter would demonstrate to me that she knows the *concerto* as well as the *violin.* As it is, now that she has conquered the fiddle--and there is no doubt that she has; she almost seems bored with it at times--she should dedicate her life to studying the *scores.* Hubby Andy (although he wasn't her hubby back then) wades through the work with a decaffeinated Staatskapelle Dresden, following his partner rather than sparring with her. The second movement works best, where things really do get a bit over the top at the big climax, but even here it comes dangerously close to hysterics and melodrama. This concerto to me is about fire meeting ice. In their hands, it's about blubber meeting more blubber.

For some really intense accounts, try Heifetz/Beecham, Mullova/Ozawa (and I'm generally not an Ozawa fan, but the two of them struck magic here), and above all, the gold standard, Oistrakh/Rozhdestvensky, where the fire and ice are almost too much to bear, and the technique is just as assured, if not as showboaty. Listening to these recordings, you get the impression the artists studied the work first and then decided how they would approach it from the point of view of violin technique. I greatly admire Mutter's prowess on her instrument, but technique is not an end to itself, and I have not gotten the feeling she has really penetrated a work to the core since her 1992 recording of the Berg concerto. Perhaps this is the danger of being the world's number one violin star at the moment. If so, she needs to get over herself.

A splendid rendition.......2005-01-28

The post-Karajan Mutter continues to impress me with her growing musical maturity, and her in-depth exploration of the Sibelius is yet another testament to her artistry. As with all of her recordings, her fabulous tone is evident throughout, as is a technique that is more than equal to the challenges of the composer. I would dispute the one reviewer who argues that she slows down in the more technically challenging passages; certainly one cannot make that claim in the 3rd movement, which is certainly as brisk in its tempi as any recording available on the market today, and in any case, Mutter has always had a tendency to try and draw everything she can out of each note. A particularly notorious example of this would be her youthful recording of the Beethoven concerto with Karajan, where slow tempi cause the whole piece to become absolutely bogged down to a level beyond redemption. One certainly cannot find anything of that sort in this recording of the Sibelius, which remains a coherent performance throughout.

So why only 4 stars? Well, first and foremost, Previn & the Dresden Staatskapelle really seems to be phoning in their performance at times, and with a concerto like this, such a defect can cause quite a bit of damage. This could be due to mike placement as much as anything, but whether it is the sound engineer or the performers themselves, the result is an ensemble that sounds at times disengaged and at others overwhelmed by the soloist.

Also, as another reviewer has observed, a 47-minute CD at full price (where a third of the music consists of nice but relatively inconsequential compositions), simply put, is a ripoff. Why not fill it out a little? Put all six Humoreskes on the recording, or a tone poem if you like, or perhaps a lesser known piece like the Suite Mignonne. There are plenty of options, but none is explored here. Consumers expect a full CD for full price, so DG should deliver accordingly.

However, the consumer should be have nothing to complain about when it comes to Mutter's performance. She certainly appears to be fulfilling all of her potential as an artist.

She did it.......2001-10-03

When I first bought the CD I was skeptical, I haven't found many non-Finnish musicians who could make Finnish music sound like it should. You have to be able to imagine vasts forests and thousands of blue, clean lakes on a sunny day in the backgraound. But Mutter did it. She plays with feeling and yet she is very sharp. The only diappoinment was the conductor, I think he did a very sloppy job, the orcestra was dragging along too much, it sounded like they needed a good kick in the pants. But Mutter's performance made it all up. One of the best performances of Sibelius I've ever heard.

Average customer rating:

Tranquil Dreams

Bedtime Serenades (2 CDs)

Manufacturer: Denon Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

$8.99 and Under | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

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All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

$8.99 and Under | Prices | Blowout Music | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Bedtime Beats: The Secret to Sleep
New York Memories
Love Songs
Dreaming
The Homecoming

ASIN: B000LKAR9S
Release Date: 2007-01-30

Tracks:

Canon in D Minor -- Pachelbel
Air on a G String -- JS Bach
String Quartet -- Ravel
Violin Sonata -- Saint-Saens
Clair de Lune -- Debussy
Aquarium -- Saint-Saens
Fur Elise -- Beethoven
The Planets - Venus -- Holst
1"Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" Romance -- Mozart
Pathetique Sonata -- Beethoven
Piano Sonata in F-sharp minor -- Schumann
Piano Concerto No. 2 -- Rachmaninoff
Violin Concerto -- Mendelsohhn

Tracks:

Moonlight Sonata, Adagio Sostenuto -- Beethoven
"New World" Symphony -- Dvorak
String Quartet No. 2 -- Borodin
Adagio for Strings -- Barber
Serenade for Strings -- Dvorak
Adagio in G Minor -- Albinoni
Sonata for Two Pianos -- Brahms
Violin Concerto No. 4 -- Vivaldi
Prelude and Fugue in C minor -- Bach
Etude in E Major -- Chopin
Serenade for String Orchestra -- Tchaikovsky

Album Description

Based on recently-published articles from leading sleep research institutions, music pulsating at roughly 60 to 80 beats per minute has a soothing effect, causing the listener to fall in to a deep, long lasting sleep. Bedtime Serenades will feature a collection of 24 tranquil classical tracks.

Customer Reviews:

Tranquil Dreams.......2007-03-12

This is a very pleasing program of selections of great romantic melodies, beautifully arranged. This album is also a wonderful album to listen to while falling asleep and would make a great gift for someone who appreciates classical music but doesn't have specific preferences.

Ciao Amore! A Lovestruck Set of Swinging Serenades

Average customer rating:

Ciao Amore! A Lovestruck Set of Swinging Serenades
Lhasa , Dean Martin , Louis Prima , Pink Martini , Paolo Conte , Rosemary Clooney , Bobby Darin , Ennio Morricone , Domenico Modugno , and Lou Monte
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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A Thousand Splendid Suns

ASIN: B000QAD3IA

Average customer rating:

Elly Ameling now more available
Delight in every note
While they last...
Treasures From a Treasure
More than fully earned praise for an exceptional singer.

Artistry of Elly Ameling (Coll)
Elly Ameling
Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music
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ASIN: B00007KMSJ
Release Date: 2003-10-14

Tracks:

Matthaus-Passion
Johannes-Passion
Weihnachts-Oratorium
Juditha Triumphans
Messiah
Crudel Tiranno Amor
Die Schopfung
Orlando Paladino
7 Lieder
Le Nozze Di Figaro
Exsultate, Jubilate Ch'io Mi Scordi Di Te, K505
Misera! Dove Son! K369
18 Lieder
Frauenliebe Und- Leben
11 Lieder
20 Morike-Lieder

Customer Reviews:

Elly Ameling now more available .......2007-03-07

I had a 33 rpm album of Elly Ameling singing Schubert lieder accompanied by piano and clarinet at times. It was one of my all time favorite albums so I have been disappointed that I have not been able to find it anywhere on CD.

Now I can just buy this excellent collection. So much music in one place! Since I confess that I am far from an expert on the rest of her records, I look forward to hearing her sing many other styles and composers.

I think it is silly to criticize her for not singing Wagner, for example, since her version of many songs, especially lieder, are nothing short of sublime. I would like to hear how many Wagnerians sing Schubert or Mozart.

I doubt if they could approach the skill and soul with which Elly Ameling sings lieder.

Delight in every note.......2006-03-10

To speak as briefly as possible about this superb collection from an equally superb singer, what can I say but that Ms Ameling possessed a voice that shone with radiant warmth and star-like shimmer? And unlike many another light lyric soprano, Elly Ameling was possessed of a very high standard of musicianship, considerable intelligence, and a sort of immediate charm that captivates the listener.

So many of her recordings have still to be released on CD, but this 5CD-set goes some way towards remedying the situation. The repertoire spans a wide variety - French mèlodies, Lieder, light-hearted "sentimental" songs, Bach, etc. - and in each piece, Ms Ameling shows that quality of pearl-like beauty. It is a beauty which is also extremely pretty - a beauty of voice that is never overbearing and over-ripe, but perfectly blossoming upon the tree of inspiration.

I recommend this set unequivocally. It truly is sheer delight.

While they last..........2005-05-17

Elly Ameling held the quiet stage for recitals of great artistry and dignity for several decades and sadly most of the enormously successful CDs of her long career output are now unavailable. For those who have little access to the documentation of this very special artist, this box set is a must. It is a compilation of many of her recordings with differing accompanists, conductors, orchestras and composers. And while not all of the choices for inclusion here would be considered her greatest moments, there are enough works that sustain the warm memories of the little Dutch hausfrau who quietly and simply paid homage to composers with her clear and intelligent musicianship and radiant voice.

Ameling was known to schedule recitals of Schubert cycles and songs and in the afterglow of her performance answer the demand for curtain calls with additional Schubert melodies: she gifted her audience with the dignity of honoring a composer's works by maintaining the focus on that composer rather than milk the audience with the usual encore applause-getting favorites. And special moments such as quietly and pensively strolling through the orchestra during the Mahler 4th symphony to arrive at front stage, unapplauded, just in time for the opening line of her singing - those simple homage to composers and collaborators made her selfless manner endearing to audiences.

Despite the fact that Ameling's voice was on the small side she was always able to muster the projection to carry her message solidly in context with an orchestra. Yes, other more famous singers have recorded Ravel's quintessentially French SHEHERAZADE, but few have the perfection of diction and aura of mystery that Ameling maintained. Whether singing with piano or orchestra, or interpreting Bach, Mozart, Handel, and Vivaldi with the same degree of involvement as Brahms and Schumann and Schubert, Elly Ameling spanned a career that engendered passionate commitment from her fans. And this boxed set is a pocket full of memories to be treasured. Buy it before this too becomes unavailable. Grady Harp, May 05

Treasures From a Treasure.......2004-09-25

Treasures from a Treasure.

Ameling, one of the world's most beloved recitalists is captured here in a 5 CD collection offering some of her most beautiful recordings of song. While we are used to her perfection in songs of Bach, Mozart, Schubert, Schumann, Faure and Hahn, an added joy is her "pop" side, tackling - without a whiff of pretension, Porter, Kern, Gershwin, Ellington, et al.

What an absolute joy it is listening to this amazing artist sing these songs with an almost uncanny natural ease. There is no resorting to a "pop" voice and yet most of these pop standards songs sound as though they could have been written for her. Clean attacks, sometimes a bit of the pop technique of hanging on to a consonant longer than a classical artist normally would shows an appreciation and understanding of the style. Still, there is never once a compromise of her vocal beauty.

I like the way the songs have been arranged for her voice in that she sort of sings them clean, unaffected in the first half and then lets loose and kinda "swings" with it adding embellishments but never really changing her voice (Price, von Stade and other favorite singers of mine seem to have always added a breathy quality to much of their crossover material.)

Ameling doesn't resort to trying to "let her hair down" or get down and dirty, but rather the honest with which she approaches every one of these songs shows how much she enjoys singing them and her style is as refreshing as stumbling onto a cool spring on a sweltering summer's afternoon. A wonderful surprise.

More than fully earned praise for an exceptional singer........2003-07-15

As I had the privilige of hearing this outstanding Lied-singer during her long career in Holland and being the proud possessor of almost all her recordings, I cannot but fully agree with the professional and joyful review of Mr. Robert Holliston from Victoria, B.C. Canada.
Yes, it is unbelievable that of about the 150 recordings Mrs. Ameling made during her long career (for the greater part of course on the 'oldfashioned' LP's, as well as the innumerable Dutch live-recorded radio-concerts), so few CD's have been released.
Speaking of tradition: it was the page-turner of the Wigmore Hall in London who told Mrs. Ameling after her first recital in this hall, that she reminded him of Elisabeth Schumann. (And he certainly didn't mean her looks only!)
For those who are eager to hear her singing Ravel's Shéhérazade (just one example of stirring imagination combined with her Art of Singing) I can tell you that Philips released a 2-box CD of this work in 1999, combined with Debussy's La Damoiselle élue and a compilation of French mélodies, i.e. Debussy, Fauré, Duparc, Satie. One of the gems is Caplet's Le Corbeau et le Renard which even make children, who know the fables of La Fontaine, revel in the singing of the quarrelsome birds....
Her brilliant accompanyist is Rudolf Jansen. Let us cherish great artists in their art!

Debussy - Mélodies / Ameling · Mesplé · Command · Souzay · von Stade · Baldwin

Average customer rating:

Apart from flutter and bluster, this is divinely beautiful.
good value
Very nice sellection of pieces and artists
Fabulous compositions, moments of great performing
A Great Tribute to Debussy's Melodies

Debussy - Mélodies / Ameling · Mesplé · Command · Souzay · von Stade · Baldwin
Claude Debussy , Mady Mesplé , Gérard Souzay , Frederica von Stade , Elly Ameling , Michèle Command , and Dalton Baldwin
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Susan Graham - La Belle Époque (The Songs of Reynaldo Hahn)
The Songs of Chausson / Lott · Murray · McGreevy · Trakas · Chilingirian Quartet · G. Johnson
Forgotten Songs: Dawn Upshaw Sings Debussy

ASIN: B000002S32
Release Date: 1992-01-23

Tracks:

Claude Debussy: Nuit d'etoiles
Claude Debussy: Fleur de bies
Claude Debussy: Beau soir
Claude Debussy: Mandoline
Claude Debussy: La Belle au Bois dormant
Claude Debussy: Voici que le printemps
Claude Debussy: Paysage Sentimental
Claude Debussy: Zephyr
Claude Debussy: Rondeau 4 Chansons de jeunesse
Claude Debussy: I Pantomime
Claude Debussy: II Clair de lun, 1re Version
Claude Debussy: III Pierrot
Claude Debussy: IV Apparition
Claude Debussy: Rondel chinois
Claude Debussy: Aimons-nous et dormos
Claude Debussy: Jane
Claude Debussy: Jane
Claude Debussy: Romance
Claude Debussy: Les Cloches
Claude Debussy: Les Angelus
Claude Debussy: Dans le jardin
Claude Debussy: La Mer est plus belle
Claude Debussy: Le Son du cor s'affige
Claude Debussy: L'Echelonnement des haies Fetes galantes
Claude Debussy: I En sourdine
Claude Debussy: II Fantoches
Claude Debussy: III Clair de lune

Tracks:

Claude Debussy: I Le Balcon
Claude Debussy: II Harmonie du soir
Claude Debussy: III Le Jet d'eau
Claude Debussy: IV Recueillement (Meditation)
Claude Debussy: V La Mort des amants
Claude Debussy: I De Reve
Claude Debussy: II De Greve
Claude Debussy: III De Fleurs
Claude Debussy: IV De Soir
Claude Debussy: I C'est l'extase
Claude Debussy: II Il pleure dans mon coeur
Claude Debussy: L'Ombre des arbres dans la riviere
Claude Debussy: IV Paysages delges - Chevaux de bois
Claude Debussy: V Aquarelle n 1 Green
Claude Debussy: VI Aquarelle n 2 Spleen

Tracks:

Claude Debussy: I La Flute de Pan
Claude Debussy: II La Chevelure
Claude Debussy: III Le Tombeau des Naiades
Claude Debussy: I Les Ingenus
Claude Debussy: II Le Faune
Claude Debussy: III Colloque sentimental
Claude Debussy: I Rondel ; 'Le Temps a laissie son manteau'
Claude Debussy: II Rondel : 'Pour ce que plaisance est morte'
Claude Debussy: I Aupres de cette grotte somre
Claude Debussy: II Crois mon conseil, chere Climene
Claude Debussy: III je tremble en voyant ton visage
Claude Debussy: I Ballade de Villon a s'amye
Claude Debussy: II Ballade que Vilon feit ala
Claude Debussy: III Ballade des femmes de Paris
Claude Debussy: I Soupir
Claude Debussy: II Placet futile
Claude Debussy: III Eventail
Claude Debussy: Noel des enfants qui n'ont plus de maison

Customer Reviews:

Apart from flutter and bluster, this is divinely beautiful........2007-05-18

This 3CD recording presents a very substantial part of Debussy's vocal works. It's full of the most superb and mysterious songs you'll ever hear. Debussy had such a marvellously unique harmonic approach, and it gives the impression of mist and mystery, of the insubstantial and unearthly. This makes those songs which feature characters of the Italian commedia d'arte (Harlequin, Pierrot, Columbine, etc.) so astonishing, and his songs of the beauties of the night and the moon so very beautiful.

The songs are almost entirely of a very high standard, and show how well Debussy knew the voice. (In my opinion, he particularly knew the virtues of the typical light high French soprano voice, and I can certainly attest that the majority of his songs lie beautifully and very comfortably in the soprano coloratura voice.) Occasionally there's a song that isn't of that typical high standard (the peculiar but very early song "Rondel chinois" comes to mind - it's a lovely thing to sing, but it's not a song of any distinction), but most of these are perfect gems.

The singing on this set varies a little. On the plus side is the ever-beautiful Elly Ameling, who had perhaps the most limpidly beautiful light lyrical soprano voice the world has ever heard; the amazing Frederica von Stade, who sings divinely; Michele Command, whose more robust soprano voice is often stunning; the experienced baritone Gérard Souzay (I have to admit I do not like his voice myself - his timbre and approach are not to my taste - but he is certainly very experienced in this genre and his French is so beautiful to listen to)... and on the not-so-plus side (for me, anyway) is the coloratura soprano of Mady Mesplé. I know there are devoted fans of Ms Mesplé - I must admit I am not one of them. While I admire the glorious ease of her top notes, and the young and attractive sound of the voice's natural timbre, I LOATHE what is to me an unbearable fluttering vibrato that ruins her singing. It sounds extraordinarily under-supported and very uncomfortable - but I also admit that Ms Mesplé clearly has a deep feeling for these mélodies. She certainly knows how to phrase - and certainly the range of her voice is remarkable. If only that twitter could be magicked away... then I'd probably be very satisfied with her singing.

Overall, then, this set is a charming and well-chosen array of almost all of Debussy's vocal output. It is not complete, though. I would recommend supplementing this delightful 3CD set with the recording of Debussy songs by Sandrine Piau, the somewhat bland but extremely pretty recording of Debussy's early songs by Gillian Keith, and the recording of Debussy songs sung by Anne-Marie Rodde (again, so very pretty, and it is one of the few recordings to include Debussy's duet "Chanson espagnole" - which is otherwise represented quite hideously on a recording by a tenor and baritone).

There's also some amazingly beautiful singing of Debussy songs on an album by Christine Oelze (her timbre reminds me so much of Ameling's - just lovely, and what excellent French!).

I have not listened to Dawn Upshaw's recording of Debussy songs, as she is not one of my favourite singers, but given that I've enjoyed her French performances in the past, I do plan to add her recording entitled "Forgotten Songs" to my collection.

And with all of that lot, you, the Debussy collector, will have a truly wonderful collection of Debussy's songs to hand!

good value.......2007-01-07

Whilst this may not be the most amazing of all recordings of Debussy's works, it stands to say that it is a valuable source of listening reference for singer and indeed fans for Debussy's works. 3 discs make it a worthwhile bargain!

Very nice sellection of pieces and artists.......2006-05-01

'Melodies', a three CD collection of art songs by Claude Debussy is a far better investment than the Dawn Upshaw issue, 'Forgotten Songs' which I recently reviewed. At the very least, it seems these songs are not as forgotton as Upshaw would make us believe, as here they are on a collection headlining Elly Ameling and Frederica von Stade. I am not really up on modern classical performers, but even I know these are two major league sopranos.

If you like Debussy, you will certainly like this collection. If you are a died in the wool Upshaw fan, Miss Dawn's effort may sould a bit better to you.

I think this one definitely gives you more for the money.

Fabulous compositions, moments of great performing.......2002-08-07

This compilation is a fantastic resource for singers and colaborative pianists everywhere--and no one will argue with the beauty of Debussy's compositions.
Gerard Souzay seems like he's just going through the motions on all of his tracks; Elly Ameling has fabulous technique as always, but there is something wanting; Mady Mesple gives a great (if not heartfelt) performance. The standout performance on this disc is of the Ariettes Oubliees, as performed by Frederica von Stade. Beautiful, and the emotion is there.
I would recommend it for any singer's library. I do, however, hesitate to give it 5 stars and recommend it to everyone because the emotion just isn't there through many of the tracks--and Debussy without emotion is like bread without yeast--flat.

A Great Tribute to Debussy's Melodies.......2000-11-18

This set of cds is a must for anyone interested on performing any of Debussy's melodies. It really helps to listen to these to learn the pieces, as the singers are supurb and perform the songs with great artistic interpretation.

Average customer rating:

A superb collection of Mozart's finest
Excellent performances with great sound quality
Mozart of character and distinction
Beautiful and understated
First rate recordings

Mozart: The Great Serenades

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Mozart: The Great Piano Concertos, Vol. 1
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ASIN: B00002DDWZ
Release Date: 2000-01-11

Tracks:

Serenade In D, KV 239 'Serenata Notturna': Marcia. Maestoso
Serenade In D, KV 239 'Serenata Notturna': Menuetto
Serenade In D, KV 239 'Serenata Notturna': Rondeau. Allegretto-Adagio-Allegro
March In D, KV 249
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Allegro Maestoso - Allegro Molto
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Andante
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Menuetto
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Rondeau. Allegro
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Menuetto Galante
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Andante
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Menuetto
Serenade In D, KV 250 'Haffner': Adagio-Allegro Assai

Tracks:

Serenade In G, KV 525 'Ein Kleine Nachtmusik': Allegro
Serenade In G, KV 525 'Ein Kleine Nachtmusik': Romance. Andante
Serenade In G, KV 525 'Ein Kleine Nachtmusik': Menuetto. Allegretto
Serenade In G, KV 525 'Ein Kleine Nachtmusik': Rondo. Allegro
March In D, KV 335 No. 1
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Adagio Maestoso - Allegro Con Spirito
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Menuetto. Allegretto
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Concertante. Andante grazioso
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Rondeau. Allegro ma non troppo
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Andantino
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Menuetto
Serenade In D, KV 320 'Posthorn': Finale. Presto
March In D, KV 335 No. 2

Customer Reviews:

A superb collection of Mozart's finest.......2005-04-14

Serenades as these were commissioned by patrons for some nice background music for significant outdoor events (weddings, public celebrations). But, Mozart being Mozart, he went beyond the call in poured out fantastic displays of musical diversity and melodies in this music that went far beyond mere "wallpaper compositions." The four most popular of his serenades are suberbly recorded on these two discs. Each is a galante work of art - full of vivacity, celebration, youthful enthusiasm and skillful composition for a then young Mozart. They are some of the most upbeat and happy music Mozart wrote and showcase his talents at his galante finest. While any individual serenade might be slightly better performed by another ensemble, it is unlikely one will find a better complete set than these. The recorded sound is top notch and the vibrant performaces by the ASMF completely fitting to the type of celebratory music. Conductor Sir Neville Marriner is well-known for his affinity for Mozart and these recordings show that by their well-chosen tempos, tasteful accuntuations and smooth, lyrical flow throughout. A wonderful survey of Mozart's serenades most fitting for a sunny afternoon at home or festive occasion.

Excellent performances with great sound quality.......2003-09-30

Although analog recordings from the mid-80's, these have been digitally remastered and offer bright crisp sound along with a well-defined "stage presence" as if the orchestra were right there in your room. Marriner conducts the ASMF and their modern instruments with grace and elegance, letting the music carry you away. I have no idea what the "In The Fields" part of Academy Of St Martin's name means, but in fact if you close your eyes and use your imagination just a wee bit, you'll find yourself sitting among beautiful fields listening to this sublime music!
If you prefer period instruments, Manze and the English Concert have just released "Night Music" on the Harmonia Mundi label, which features excellent digital recordings of two of Mozart's serenades: Eine Kleine Nachtmusik and Seranata Notturna, as well as other Mozart compositions that Manze felt fit within the theme of night music.

Mozart of character and distinction.......2001-11-06

These are very fine performances by one of the leading conductors and ensembles of our time. Ensemble is crisp, phrasing is lovely, and the tempos are superbly judged. The recording is good, too, set in a glowing acoustic. At two discs for the price of one this simply can't be beat.

Beautiful and understated.......2001-03-06

A great introduction to several of Mozart's great masterpieces including the beloved Eine Kleine Nachtmusik as well as the Posthorn and other great serenades, all played with grace, meticulousness, and understatement by Sir Neville and the Academy. This great orchestra never goes over the top,and lets the music speak for itself. There may be more dramatic versions by larger orchestras, but these get to the essence of the music and let it speak, quitely and beautifully, for itself.

First rate recordings.......2000-12-16

Marriner, a great Mozart conductor, leads the AMSF in these masterpieces. All of the recordings are wonderful with well-judged tempos. The string section of the orchestra distinguish themselves. Philips has warm sound and good liner notes. The Serenata Notturna and Posthorn serenades were love at first hearing for me, and these recordings are the perfect place to look. I don't like all of the Haffner serenade, but some of the movements are gorgeous. For the ambitious collectors, Marriner's earlier Eine Kleine Nachtmusik on EMI is even better than this one.

Average customer rating:

5 stars for the Strings Serenade & 4 stars for the Winds
Not all excellent
Sensitive Serenades
Delightful!

Dvorak: Serenades Op. 22 & 44

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Dvorák: Legends
String Serenades
Dvorák: Cello Concerto; Tchaikovsky / Karajan, Rostropovich,
Dvorák: The String Quartets
Haydn: String Quartets, Op. 33 "Russian", No. 1, No. 2 "The Joke", No. 5 "How do you do?"

ASIN: B0000040VK
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Serenade In E Major, Op. 22: 1. Moderato
Serenade In E Major, Op. 22: 2. Tempo di valse
Serenade In E Major, Op. 22: 3. Scherzo (Vivace)
Serenade In E Major, Op. 22: 4. Larghetto
Serenade In E Major, Op. 22: 5. Finale (Allegro vivace)
Serenade In D Minor, Op. 44: 1. Moderato, quasi marcia
Serenade In D Minor, Op. 44: 2. Minuetto (Tempo di minuetto)
Serenade In D Minor, Op. 44: 3. Andante con moto
Serenade In D Minor, Op. 44: 4. Finale (Allegro molto)

Amazon.com

Dvořák's two splendidly tuneful serenades are so attractive that you will find the tunes stuck in your head for days afterwards. If this makes you crazy, then you might want to exercise caution before playing them! Each is written for different forces: one for strings, the other for winds (with a single double bass to reinforce the bottom end). The Serenade for Winds is particularly special, being the ultimate example of a form that Czech composers really did better than anyone else. The wind writing has that essential "outdoors" quality, but it's also completely smooth and euphonious. Sir Neville Marriner's band does the music proud. This is one of their best recordings. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

5 stars for the Strings Serenade & 4 stars for the Winds.......2005-05-30

Dvorak is one of my favorite composers and his Serenade for Strings in E is one of my all-time favorites. It is superbly played on this CD. The Wind Serenade is played pretty well too...

Not all excellent.......2004-05-16

While I agree with the previous reviewers' comments that the Senerade in E is exquisitely played here, the Serendade in D Minor is, unfortunately, not.

Owning recordings by the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, I can safely say that both of those recordings are far superior in terms of sound quality and musicianship. The cello and bass are scarcely heard on this disc (especially in crucial moments), the horns lack power and technical finesse, and the oboes, which carry the melodies almost exclusively through the work, are tinny and often out of tune (as can also be said for the second clarinet). The interpretations are also quite conservative, particularly in the third movement, where more expansive tempi and dynamics are appropriate.

I would recommend either of the other recordings mentioned, at least for the D Minor serenade.

Sensitive Serenades.......2002-04-21

Like the previous reviewer, I too had heard this recording first on the radio and was captivated by it. The string Serenade in E is an exquisite study in sensitivity. The music evokes a bygone era of carriages & manners & innocence. Marriner conducts the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields superbly. Compared to the Karajan version on DG which is about flash and bounce, Marriner allows the music to flow naturally and to peak appropriately but never obtrusively. As a romantic serenade, this music is probably without equal. It is as light as the evening breeze but has all the deep colorations of the sunset. The best surprise on this disc, though, is the wind Serenade in D which will stop you in your tracks. The tunes are familiar. They are darkly enticing and sometimes melt-in-your-ears like aural buttermints. The possible band camp sound pitfalls are smartly avoided and the wind serenade plays as smoothly and gracefully as the strings did. Excellent programming, excellent sound, excellent music - what more could you want?

Delightful!.......2000-08-14

I first heard this recording on my car radio and felt compelled to hear it to the end, though it meant a long wait in a parking lot 250 miles from home. I was smitten. This is a beautiful performance of delightful, charming and uplifting music with a sense of humor. It has became one of my all-time favorites and has been equally well received by those to whom I've given it as a gift. Absolutley wonderful.

Reneé Fleming & Jean-Yves Thibaudet - Night Songs (Fauré, Debussy, Marx, Strauss, Rachmaninov)

Average customer rating:

A lovely compilation of songs from wonderful composers
Masterful
Night Songs, Day Songs, whatever...this album is a must have!!
Musical Collaboration: Night Songs/Fleming/Thibaudet
What in the world...????

Reneé Fleming & Jean-Yves Thibaudet - Night Songs (Fauré, Debussy, Marx, Strauss, Rachmaninov)
Gabriel Fauré , and Claude Debussy
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Renée Fleming - The Schubert Album
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Renée Fleming: Bel Canto

ASIN: B00005AWIA
Release Date: 2001-04-03

Tracks:

Clair De Lune, Op. 42 No. 2
Mandoline, Op. 46 No. 2
Apres Un Reve , Op.58 No.1
Soir, Op. 83 No. 2
Nell, Op. 18 No. 1
Beau Soir
Mandoline
Apparition
Chansons De Bilitis: I - La Flute De Pan
Chansons De Bilitis: II - La Chevelure
Chansons De Bilitis: III - Le Tombeau Des Naiades
Nocturne
Nachtgebet
Selige Nacht
Pierrot Dandy
Ruhe, Meine Seele!, Op. 27 No. 1
Schlechtes Wetter, Op. 69 No. 5
Leises Lied, Op. 39 No. 1
Leise Lieder, Op. 41a No. 5
Cacilie, Op. 27 No. 2
Zdes Khorosho, Op. 21 No. 7
V Molchani Nochi Taynoy, Op. 4 No. 3
Rechnaya Liliya, Op. 8 No. 1
Son, Op. 38 No. 5
Eti Letniye Nochi, Op. 14 No. 5
Ne Poy, Krasavitsa, Op. 4 No. 4

Amazon.com's Best of 2001

Soprano Renée Fleming's mastery of a wide repertory extends to the more rarefied world of song on this disc. A French group opens the disc--11 songs by Fauré and Debussy that are often elusive, wedded to a style of intimacy not always comfortable for non-French opera singers. Fleming's not completely at home in them, often overinterpreting songs whose style is too fragile and understated for such an approach. Still, she offers many moments of rapturous singing, such as the way she floats the last word, "mystérieuse," of Fauré's "Après un rëve," tingeing it with eroticism.

"Mandolin" appears in two versions, Fauré's gently swinging one balanced by Debussy's bouncier take. The Rachmaninoff set also fascinates, her sensuous voice bringing its own rewards. Best of all are the German lieder by Joseph Marx and Richard Strauss. This is closer to home for Fleming, and one senses an ease in her singing that digs behind the words to the meaning of the poems. The Marx set is the highlight, perhaps because his songs are the least familiar here. They're also things of great beauty, and Fleming makes the most of the dreamily sensuous "Selige Nacht" and the twisted, nightmarish waltz of "Pierrot Dandy." The Strauss songs are as good: to cite one highlight, Fleming's rapt inwardness makes "Ruhe meine Seele" compelling. Her voice is never less than drop-dead gorgeous, and she's neatly accompanied by pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet. A feast for Fleming fans. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

A lovely compilation of songs from wonderful composers.......2007-06-08

It was thrilling to hear songs from Rachmaninov on this album. And the Strauss and Marx pieces give almost a contemporary feel (considering they ARE almost contemporary composers).

Thibaudet plays with a sensitive, emotional touch and was a wonderful choice as a pianist on this album.

My reason for a less than perfect scoring was due to the almost harsh edges of Renee Fleming's singing due to her unyielding control. For a voice so full of warmth and depth to be so forcefully held back, the result is a tension that the ear pushes to resolve, but never does. I wonder how she would sound if she would allow more freedom in her voice.

Masterful.......2007-03-22

Apart from an occasional very slight diction problem this is a masterful recital disc that belongs in the very highest echelon.

Fleming combines an highly imaginative approach with an equally appropriate chameleon like adaptation of the coloration of her voice to each of the individual composers. Thibaudet, who performs all of the featured composers in his piano repertoire is an ideal accompanist.
The recording is colorful and provides a flawless balance between voice and piano.

In all, a masterful must.

Night Songs, Day Songs, whatever...this album is a must have!!.......2005-10-30

This is a CD that every household should have. Masterful piano playing and even more masterful singing make this CD exquisite. Yes, I'm quite partial to Diva Fleming, but let's face it, America hasn't had a soprano with such skill in an awfully long time. Listen to her breath control on track 8 - OY! The closing number "Ne Poy, Krasavitsa" gets me every time. Here she starts to wail pretty heavily, ending the climactic powerful phrase with a wallop of a high A and then proceeds to float, pretty effortlessly, a string of beautiful pianissimo notes. If you can sit and listen to that one piece (itself, worth the price of the album) and not be moved, then you, my friend, have no soul.

Musical Collaboration: Night Songs/Fleming/Thibaudet.......2004-07-12

A perfect disc for a midsummer's evening - or for any season of the year for that matter - NIGHT SONGS is one of those too rare recitals that is based on a theme, executed by musicians who not only are able to stand on their own but who are also able to commit to each other in a true collaboration. This is an intelligent, eloquent selection of songs by varied composers all of whom wrote languorously about the night and its mystery. From Faure's 'Apres un reve' to Debussy's 'Beau soir' through some newly discovered treasures by Joseph Marx like 'Nocturne' and 'Selige Nacht' to the better known repertoire of Strauss and Rachmaninov which gives us newly rethought versions of 'Ruhe, meine Seele!' and 'Cacille' as well as the indescribably beautiful Rachmaninov songs. Fleming and Thibaudet are in fine form and the communication in the various languages is strong. Only one quibble of significance here: the miking is so close to the singer that it often covers what usually is a perfect blend of piano and voice. Bit perhaps that is the fault of my system....

What in the world...????.......2002-08-08

For two reasons.

First, may I ask, why was this CD given anything other then 5 stars? What does a person have to do to become liked these days? Bye their hair purple and sing through their noses? (Like Brittney Spears?)

This is an amazing CD!

Reneé's french singing is beautiful, and amazing. She really has the correct tone for french songs!

The german was also lovely. However, it is nothing Reneé did wrong, I just like french songs better then the german.

Buy this CD and be amazed.

Music Info: