Nature Spirit

Nature Spirit

Track Listings

1. Dreams

2. The March

3. Blame

4. Earthen

5. Wildflower

6. River

7. Luna

8. Love is a Dance

9. Present Moment

10. Butterfly

Editorial Reviews
About the Artist
The powerful and upbeat sounds of Katrin have drawn attention from audiences and musicians alike. The acoustic rock-style music is driven by Katrin's dynamic acoustic guitar and soulful voice, which are evident on her most recent release "Nature Spirit".

Katrin has recieved recognition from various songwriting competitions including 2003 "Mountain Stage New Song Festival in WV, where she placed second out of 400 entries.

Katrin Roush is originally from Newton MA. She has been crafting her melodic, passionate songwriting style since 1992. After graduating highschool, Katrin learned how to play guitar and discovered song writing as her mode of self expression. Since then she has been writing and performing in area clubs, coffeehouses and festivals around New England and beyond.

Katrin uses many different guitar tunings that weave her voice into a lush tapestry. Her powerful stage presence and spiritual nature bring a unique quality to her performances.

Product Description
"Nature Spirit" is singer/songwriter Katrin's second independant release. It is a beautiful and diverse recording of original folk-rock. Many of the tracks showcase Katrin's solo acoustic guitar and strong,soulful voice. Katrin also keeps things fresh and upbeat with her rhythmic style and backing bass and drums. This CD has an honest delivery with catchy hooks and lyrics that will make it a favorite in your collection.

Tracks:

Enter The Sacred
Empowered
Eagle Dance
Ancient Way
Thunder Dreamer
Reverence
Four Direction Wind
Spirit Walk
Enter The Sacred, Part II

Album Description

Shaman drums from around the globe, soaring native flutes, guitars, Lakota chants, and natural environments awaken you to the dance of life. David & Steve Gordon, take you on this award-winning musical journey. With their world instruments and studio artistry, the Gordons have the power to en-trance and summon the sacred rhythms. The healing power of the drum moves you…to dance, to dream, to live!

Triple Award Winner

• Winner Visionary Record of the Year
• Winner Visionary Best World Record
• Winner New Age Voice Native Heart Award
• Charted on Billboard's New Age Top 20

Customer Reviews:

Very calming and relaxing drumming.......2007-05-08

This is a very nice CD when I put it in to play my whole house relaxed and clamed down and just listened very nice. The drumming is fantatsic, but if you do not like native american flutes not a CD for you in some parts of the CD the flutes are very loud. But I really enjoy this CD.

Drum Medicine.......2007-01-12

I really enjoy both CD's Sacred Spirit Drums and Drum Medicine. I live in an area of very little resource for this type of purchase- I was very happy to find what I wanted online- also very glad to be able to listen before I purchased- would not have bought them without that. Service was the best- shipping was also very good.. I will consider this type of purchase again when needed.

Awesome Drum CD.......2006-07-13

This CD is awesome I have it in my car now and that is all I play.

Drum Medicine rocks........2006-03-11

This is the best cd for playing along with drums or dancing up a storm.

Incredible - can this be the work of two white men?????.......2005-09-01

You have to listen to this CD to believe it. I hear the Native American flute, drums .... it's one incredible CD. I bought it to learn to drum but enjoy listening to it just for relaxation, trance states, etc. This is superb!

Average customer rating:

Soothing
Very good new age-native fusion
EARTH CENTERED MUSIC
Indian Welk
Sacred Spirit Drums

Sacred Spirit Drums
David and Steve Gordon
Manufacturer: Sequoia Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Sacred Earth Drums
Drum Medicine
Sacred Spirit: Chants and Dances of the Native Americans
Sacred Spirit, Vol. 2: More Chants and Dances of the Native Americans
Sacred Drum Visions: 20th Anniversary Collection

ASIN: B000008QVX
Release Date: 1998-10-06

Tracks:

Sunrise Ritual
Calling The Sacred Beat
Shaman's Dance
Path With A Heart
Within The Cloud Lodge
Spirit Vision
Mother Earth, Father Sky
Gift Of The Eagle
Flowering Tree
Rainbow Hoop

Album Description

Native-American Flute and Incan Pan Pipe melodies soar over Tribal Drums from around the world, Guitars, Keyboards and Nature Sounds (with wolf, eagle, coyote and humpback whale). Following up their best seller, Sacred Earth Drums, the Gordons take you deeper into their healing Shamanic journey to the heart of rhythm. Feel the compelling beat of Mother Earth - move your body and join the dance for the reverence of life!

Customer Reviews:

Soothing.......2007-07-12

I used various tracks from this CD for a Cub Scout ceremony and it really set the mood..I searched on Amazon for 3 hours trying to find the right drum music and this is certainly it !

Very good new age-native fusion.......2005-06-10

Discount the self-important blather from "professional" drummers and First Nation/Capitolized Ethnic Group people you see here and buy this CD if you enjoy better quality new age music in a native vein. This CD and its highly successful predecessor was NEVER meant to be a hard-core exploration of genuine Native American drumming, flute or chanting, though it masterfully incorporates such music alongside other simple nativist percussion. Yes, persons looking outside the world music (or new age) genres for actual Native chanting and drumming may be disappointed, but it never hurts to open your ears to new things. But if that's too hard and you crave the "real thing," may I suggest Tokeya Inajin, Dik Darnell or Carlos Nakai.

EARTH CENTERED MUSIC.......2005-04-28

I HEARD THIS CD IN A SPIRITUAL SERVICE. I ENJOYED IT! I SEARCH IN THE WEB AND I BOUGHT IT! I LISTEN IT IN THE CAR OR WHEN I WANT TO FEEL MY SELF "EARTH CENTERED". REALLY IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR "DRUMS" LIKE IN LATIN MUSIC, MODERN MUSIC, IT ISNT.
IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A SOFT/ACTIVE RELAXING MUSIC, SO THAT YOU CAN FEEL ONE WITH THE EARTH, AND YOU GET FLASH BACK OF OTHER PRIMITIVES TIMES, THIS IS FOR YOU. THAT'S MY EXPERIENCE.

Indian Welk.......2004-10-18

Although this may sound pleasant to some people I would imagine it's an insult to others. Just another example of the exploitation of the true Americans. It's like there was a Lawrance Welk of native American music only worse. An equivelant might be buying a Metallica cd and hearing Madonna music coming from the speakers. You expected something with some real spirit but you got watered down syrupy bubblegum music instead. It's not the real thing. Besides that I'm a professional drummer, and I'm definitly not impressed with the drumming. But having said that, if you just want some pop music to listen to and delude yourself that your listening to real native American music then this is for you.

It would probably be better to rename it and put a different picture on the cover that would be less insulting to the people it's making a mockery of and more suitable to the disco minded crowd it's apparently trying to foster.

Sacred Spirit Drums.......2004-04-28

My husband is First Nation and has played on traditional Pow Wow drums. The music on this CD seems very contrived. I think it is better to get real First Nation drum music rather than to turn it into this unrecognizable, synthesized and distorted electronic sound. It is being "passed off" as Native. To me it it is not Native. It sounded, well, sorry, but, it sounded tacky. I don't know if Mr. Gordon is First Nation. Some of it even seems to be somewhat African, which would be appropriate if it where meant to be African in nature. But, all in all, it's far to "Hollywood" for me. And we all know how "Hollywood" has mis-informed the world about our First Nation's history. But, I guess the bottom line for the producers of this type of CD is - this stuff sells.
The drum is the heartbeat of Mother Earth. Her heart is not heard with this rendition.

Average customer rating:

best complete sibelius symphonies
Amazing Sibelius Symphonies!!
A sincere tribute!

Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies

Manufacturer: Sbme Import
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Tchaikovsky: The Complete Symphonies
Haydn: The 12 London Symphonies
Schumann: The 4 Symphonies
Brahms: Symphony 1 / Serenade 2 / Bernstein
CARL SCHURICHT Decca Recordings 1949-1956

ASIN: B00008PW43
Release Date: 2003-05-12

Tracks:

Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39
Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39
Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39
Symphony No.1 In E Minor, Op.39
Symphony No.3 In C Major, Op.52
Symphony No.3 In C Major, Op.52
Symphony No.3 In C Major, Op.52
Symphony No.2 In D Major, Op.43
Symphony No.2 In D Major, Op.43
Symphony No.2 In D Major, Op.43
Symphony No.2 In D Major, Op.43
Luonnatar, Op.70
Pohjola's Daughter, Op.49
Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63
Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63
Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63
Symphony No.4 In A Minor, Op.63
Symphony No.5 In E-Flat Major, Op.82
Symphony No.5 In E-Flat Major, Op.82
Symphony No.5 In E-Flat Major, Op.82
Symphony No.5 In E-Flat Major, Op.82
Symphony No.6 In D Minor, Op.104
Symphony No.6 In D Minor, Op.104
Symphony No.6 In D Minor, Op.104
Symphony No.6 In D Minor, Op.104
Symphony No.7 In C Major, Op.105

Album Details

4CD Box set. Columbia Legends series.

Customer Reviews:

best complete sibelius symphonies.......2006-01-30

I bought this set on a hunch that if all Bernstein's Sibelius performances were as good as his Pohjola's Daughter on a compilation disc which I've owned for some time, then the risk of a few pounds was worth it. Well I certainly wasn't disappointed! I listened to all four discs in one session through the night and found that LBs is the best complete Sibelius symphonies set I've ever encountered. Individual symphonies can be equalled by other conductors but as a complete survey this has to be the one, and I'm comparing LB to Karajan (who incidentally never recorded the Third Symphony), Ashkenazy, Maazel, Barbirolli, Paavo Berglund's 3 (!) sets, Colin Davis's RCA set, Rattle and Neeme Jarvi plus individual recordings by several others; altogether I'm comparing LBs 4 discs to about 40 'others'. I would be happy to part with most of the 40 in favour of LB. I won't try to describe any particular performance in detail because I think that any attempt to describe music in words is usually pointless. The one thing I would say though is that like all really successful Sibelius interpretations, LB's take you out of the concert hall and land you straight into the open air and the very nature that inspired this wonderful composer. Symphony No. 1 is as good as any. No. 2 I would prefer Barbirolli on Chesky, but LB is as good as any of the rest. No.3 I slightly prefer Jarvi on BIS, but LB is better in the important slow movement. No. 4 Karajan from the 1960s on DG is my preference but LB is pretty close. LB's No. 5 is fabulous, I can't think of a better version. No. 6 Karajan 1960's DG again, with Sakari on Naxos closely behind, but LB's is still a fine version. No. 7 was a revelation; I can think of no other work which has caused me more problems in trying to find a truly satisfying version in all my 35 years of classical music collecting. You wouldn't believe the number of versions I've heard (and got rid of) of this truly unique work of art! Frankly, in my search I really can't say what I was looking for, like with any music you just know when it's 'right'. Most versions fall completely flat and it seems that very few conductors can turn the printed notes into the magnificent paean to nature that is Sibelius's Seventh. That Sibelius wasn't able to successfully write another symphony after this has never surprised me (thank God that his muse lingered long enough for him to write Tapiola).There is only one Sibelius Seven to place alongside LBs - Paavo Berglund with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, recorded by EMI in the early 70s and never, to my knowledge reissued, except in a Royal Classics full set of the symphonies. The Berglund complete set is very good indeed and it's one I wouldn't want to be without. There's a fresh straightforward unfussy honesty about Berglund's earlier versions which I like very much; his later efforts were not in the same league. As an aside, Berglund's BSO recordings of shorter Sibelius works on EMI are true bargains, as is his unsurpassed world premiere recording of Kullervo (with the BSO) on the same label. As for the Seventh though, I would give a joint 'first prize' to Bernstein NYPO and Berglund BSO; Bernstein for the slightly more rugged, dramatic route; Berglund taking the more serene but with eyes-wide-open-in-wonder approach, but both indispensable. The old CBS recordings have cleaned up nicely under Sony's reissue (thanks Sony)and although not up to 'modern digital standards' that's not necessarily a bad thing! The best recording is of the Fifth - better than any other version, and of the Seventh. Of the others, all are excellent for their age- bold and clear, rather warm and with very little harshness or tape-hiss. In any case I wouldn't for a moment let this put you off buying what is an incredible bargain. One final point,; Phylis Curtin, a soprano I've never encountered before is extremely good in Luonnotar; she really characterizes the narrative like no other soloist I've heard before in this work. It's just a pity that LB forces the music along at a pace which is just too fast. But if you like Sibelius what are you waiting for? Buy this set today.

Amazing Sibelius Symphonies!!.......2005-01-02

"The Complete Symphonies" captures definitive interpretations of the seven symphonies by the great Finnish composer Jean Sibelius conducted by the late maestro Leonard Bernstein.
Each symphony in this 4-disc set is presented in amazing remastered sound quality displaying full dynamic range and sharpness. The beauty of this music is definitely readily apparent from the opening notes through the very end.
In addition, the CD booklet includes a brief but highly informative essay in which the history behind each symphony is explained in just enough detail to understand its genesis.
All in all, this is a fantastic set of Sibelius's masterful symphonies wonderfully executed by the baton of Mr. Bernstein. Applause also must be given to Sony Music for compiling these symphonies into one complete set. Bravo.
It doesn't get much better than this.
Highly recommended!!

A sincere tribute!.......2004-07-08

This set has peak and lows. The second symphony has a hyper romantic approach ; that's its weak point. The third symphony is well built, besides it lacks the nature blow with its wildful force. The first symphony has always been a hazardous for many conductors. It has too much influence from Tchaikovsky ; and Bernstein knows it ; he avoids it , even the reading is warmth.
The best achievements in the set are the four and the sixth . I've never heard a sixth so well made ; the woodwinds , the strings give that atmosphere that demands this complex work. The fourth is unforgettable , but there's a performance of Beecham in the fifties with the Royal Philarmonic literally unique. The seventh is OK, but there are other options.
The fifth is weak , and my favorite versiona are two: Segerstam and Koussevitzki.
Anyway I bought this set eight years ago under The Royal Edition. I recommend you this set , Maazel Vienna , Segerstam and all you can get from Koussevitski.
If you request me by Anthony Collins - London Symphony (out of stock in the most of stores) I must confess, Collins has no equals in the Second .
The best first to me is Victor de Sabata (New York Philarmonic)(See my review about De Sabata)

Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies & Tone Poems

Average customer rating:

5 stars for the syms
Beautiful and comprehensive compilation of Sibelius works
excellent collection
A must for Sibelius lovers
A terrific and near-perfect set

Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies & Tone Poems

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:

Bruckner: The Complete Symphonies
Strauss: Orchestral Works
Debussy, Ravel: Orchestral Works
Liszt: Works for Piano and Orchestra
Symphonies 1-3 / Piano Concerto 1-4 / Isle of Dead

ASIN: B00005MIZT
Release Date: 2001-11-20

Tracks:

I: Andante, Ma Non Troppo - Allegro Energico
II: Andante (Ma Non Troppo Lento)
III: Scherzo: Allegro
IV: Finale (Quasi Una Fantasia): Andante - Allegro Molto
I: Allegretto
II: Tempo Andante, Ma Rubato
III: Vivacissimo - Lento E Suave - Tempo Primo - Largamente -
IV: Finale: Allegro Moderato

Tracks:

I: Allegro Moderato
II: Andantino Con Moto, Quasi Allegretto
III: Moderato - Allegro (Ma Non Tanto)
I: Tempo Molto Moderato, Quasi Adagio
II: Allegro Molto Vivace - Doppio Piu Lento
III: Il Tempo Largo
IV: Allegro

Tracks:

I: Tempo Molto Moderato - Largamente - Allegro Moderato
II: Andante Mosso, Quasi Allegretto
III: Allegretto Molto - Un Pochettino Largamente
I: Allegro Molto Moderato
II: Allegretto Moderato - Poco Con Moto
III: Poco Vivace
IV: Allegro Molto - Allegro Assai - Doppio Piu Lento

Tracks:

Adagio -
Un Pochettino Meno Adagio - Vivacissimo -
Poco Rallentando Al Adagio - Allegro Molto Moderato - Allegro Moderato - Vivace -
Presto - Adagio - Largamente Molto - Affettuoso
Cantata: Oma Maa, Op.92: 'Our Own Land'
Tulen Synty, Op.32: The Origin Of Fire

Tracks:

I: Introductione: Allegro Moderato
II: Kullervo's Youth: Grave
III: Kullervo And His Sister: Allegro Vivace
IV: Kullervo Goes To Battle: Alla Marcia
V: Kullervo's Death: Andante

Tracks:

The Oceanides, Op.73
I: Intermezzo
III: Alla Marcia
I: All'overtura: Grave - Allegro/II: Scena: Tempo Di Menuetto - Allegro Moderato/III: Festivo: Tempo Di Bolero
Tapiola, Op.112
Finlandia, Op.26
Serenade No.1 in D, Op.69a
Serenade No.2 in g, Op.69b (Lento Assai)

Tracks:

Luonnotar, Op.70
Pohjola's Daughter, Op.49
En Saga, Op.9
I. Nocturne
II. Elegie
III. Musette
IV. Serenade
V. Ballade
The Bard, Op.64

Tracks:

Spring Song, Op.16
III. The Swan Of Tuonela
IV. Lemminkainen's Return
I. At The Castle Gate
II. Melisande
IIa. By The Seashore
III. A Spring In The Park
IV. The Three Blind Sisters
V. Pastorale
VI. Melisande At The Spinning-wheel
VII. Entr'acte
VIII. The Death Of Of Melisande
Valse Triste
Scene With Cranes
II. The Harp
III. The Maidens With Roses
IV. Listen, The Robin Sings
VI. Swanwhite And The Prince

Customer Reviews:

5 stars for the syms.......2006-03-18

with the Helsinki
3 Stars for the Bourgemouth on the poems.
But truth be told, no matter how EMPHATIC statements that his syms are not programmatic, that is fall into a logical step by step order, they are just that, very predictible.
I've given these syms 30 yrs, and lately I've lost interest.
While Schonberg, Berg, Webern, Varese were scoring creative new atonal/poloytonal works of new genius, here was Sibelius struggling with old forms, that fail to deliver anything really new. And he knew it, and bothered him to no end.
I feel there is way too much Beethoven/Bruckner(I like neither) influence in the syms for me to become a fan of the syms. I like the 1st sym "somewhat" that is I never listen to it, and small parts of the 4-7 syms. But I'm afraid I only like Sibelius pre 1905, the Kullervo, VC, tone poems. Here is where the genius of Sibelius truly lies.
The syms long ago held some interest, but lately i've moved on to Schnittke and Pettersson.
I also much prefer Vaughan Wialliams syms to all of Sibelius.
Sibelius was a genius in his element, that of representing the folk ideas of his land. His syms are like a string of ideas that lack the connective passages. IOW the whole is less than the few interesting parts.

Beautiful and comprehensive compilation of Sibelius works.......2005-09-29

For me, this has been the year of Sibelius. Previously, I had listened to (and enjoyed) Finlandia. I also had a couple of the symphonies but hadn't listened too them but once or twice. After listening to Finlandia again, I decided to seek out more SIbelius to sample. After some searching through reviews, I settled upon this compilation of works because it offered a large variety of Sibelius and seemed to be well-received. I have been very happy with this purchase! Not only have I spent countless hours listening to each of the 8 disks in this set, the enjoyment of the music has led me to many other wonderful performances of Sibelius by other worthy conductors such as Ashkenazy and Vanska. Still, this boxed set will always be fondly remembered as the one that introduced me to the wonders of so many of these pieces.

I was immediately captured by the haunting clarinet solo that begins the first symphony. All of the symphonies, performed by the Helsinki Orchestra, are recorded in very clear digital sound -- so the solo and the pecussion accompanyment were perfectly captured. I was hooked by the first symphony, but all of the symphonies are presented clearly and with outstanding interpretations. The Helsinki Philharmonic has always had a strong affiliation with Sibelius's music, and Paavo Berglund is a renowned Sibelius conductor who has recorded three separate symphony cycles (once with the Bournemouth Symphony orchestra, the 2nd time with these recordings, and a third time with the Chamber Orchestra of Europe). The commitment felt by the conductor and orchestra comes through in these performances.

In addition to the complete symphony cycle, there are a number of other treasures. A fine version of Finlandia is accompanied by a number of truly delightful tone poems such as Tapiola, the haunting Swan of Tuonela and Lemminkainen's Return (from the Lemminkainen Suite). These tone poems were inspired by the Finnish Kalevala. Other tone poems such as the Oceanides and Spring Song were inspired by Sibelius's love of nature. All receive strong performances by Berglund conducting the Bournemouth Symphony (in analog sound that is still quite good). The violin serenades (especially no. 2) were unexpected delights. The version of Kullervo is magnificent, as is the singing in Luonnotar and Oma maa. This set is a treasure trove of Sibelius treats!

excellent collection.......2004-06-28

This box set includes Sibelius' all symphonies, with Kullervo and his almost complete tone poems. The Symphonies are performed by Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, Kullervo and tone poems with Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. All of them conducted by Paavo Berglund, who always a champion on performer of Sibelius.

Even so there are his incidental musics: Pelleas et Melisande, Swanwhite, Kuolema and King Christian II.
Especially Pelleas and Kuolema (which includes ever famous Valse triste) are the most beautifuls. Pelleas et Melisande is a very impressive music, and the best "Pelleas" music with Debussy's Pelleas (opera).

Kullervo is symphony-cantata for two soloists, men-chorus and orchestra, which be constitued in 5 movements, comparable in artistically with Mahler's 2nd Symphony "Resurrection". Especially the last movement "Kullervo's Death" is very effective, pathetique.

And one more a vocal work, a tone poem for soprano and orchestra: Lounnutar. This is based on Kalevala again, and Luonnotar is creator of nature in this poem. It is a very radical work, like his darkful 4th Symphony and The Bard. I think, The Bard is one of the best works of the composer, with it's harmonis, dark colours, contemplative mood. Still, this was written in tragic E-flat minor. It is based on a mythologic creature which plays an harp, like lyre in Greek mythology. And in the last minutes there is a dramatic climax and then music slowly fades out.

And there is the best Tapiola recording, I've ever heard (with Petri Sakari's version at Naxos). This is based on Kalevala, again. Tapio is the name of the forest god, according story. There are very impressive contrasts between hypnotic, a little hesitated, light colours and dramatic darkful colours. The orchestration is marvellous again. Especially, in last minutes there is a terrific storm scene and it's very spine chilling. Climaxes (which played by brass) are very powerful...

This is a very good addition to collectors of Sibelius fans and any classical music lovers. Highly recommended.

A must for Sibelius lovers.......2003-01-07

Jean Sibelius is one of those composers who I feel that even on his off days he did well. While I certainly can't say I enjoy all of his music enough to buy (Sacaramouche for instance), most of his music is highly pleasureful. All of the pieces on this set, conducted by Paavo Berglund, save maybe one or two, are part of the later catagory.

This set consists of most of Sibelius's major orchestral music, with the notible exceptions of Night Ride and Subrise, the first two sections of the Lemmenkainen Suite, and the Violin Concerto. It also contains such rarities as Origin of Fire, Our Own Land, and excepts from Swan White.

Berglund, I believe, was the first to fully record a complete cycle of Sibelius symphonies. The recordings here are not from his first set (which I have not heard), but the second cycle recorded in the mid-80s. The symphonies and two canatas mentioned above are recorded in digital, while the rest is analog. It's all in very good sound, though not perfect. That they wanted to keep the D and A recodings on seperate discs is the only possible reason I can see for why they left out the Violin Concerto (there's plenty of room on disc 4).

Now of course, contents are one thing, but what really matters is performance. And suffice it to say, they for the most part shine. This has easily the finest Symphony 1 I've heard, and the finale of Symphony 5 (truly one of the greatest works of the 20th century) shines with brillance. Symphony 3 makes its mark nicely, and Symphony 2, while perhaps a bit on the fast side, is certainly up to par. The only disappointment is Symphony 7, which falls totally flat compared to Davis/BSO.

The two cantatas are wonderful rarities, but its disc 5 where the choral aspect is full played out -- Kullervo. If you've never heard this piece, it's a 75 minute long programatic symphony (to use to term losely) with many ups and downs. This was the first ever recording, and most say it hasn't been topped.

The final three discs contain shorter works. Especially noteable are the absolutely beautiful Serenade #2 for Violin and Orchestra, the hauntingly lovely Luonnotar, a very rousing version of Lemminkainen's Return, and a passionate Pelleas and Mellsande.

Of course, it's almost impossible to have this big a set without some disapointments. Beyond the aformentioned Symphony 7, there's also not overly convincing Finlandia, and a WAY too slow Karelia Intermezzo. Thankfully, the rest of the set makes up for it. It's a great deal at only about $7 a disc retail, and if you're like me, on you'll keep coming back to.

A terrific and near-perfect set.......2002-04-05

This release couples Berglund's classic Bournemouth recordings of the Kullervo Symphony and a host of tone poems with his most recent cycle of the Symphonies.

The Bournemouth recordings are legendary, especially the Kullervo, which belongs in every classical music library. There is a real warmth to these readings, which charms me into letting the minor flaws in playing pass. The sound is pretty good, though slightly muddy at times (particularly in Tapiola), and the selections have been excellently remastered.

The Symphonies, recorded with the Helsinki Philharmonic in superb digital sound, are a real peak in the discography. Berglund doesn't play his Sibelius lukewarm; his readings are sharp, neo-classical and very powerful. You won't confuse these recordings with those of Colin Davis to be sure. Very comparable to Maazel's earlier readings with the Vienna Philharmonic, but with less over-dramatization. His First, Second, Third, Sixth and Seventh are as good as any, and his reading of the Fourth, while rather bleak for my taste (I like the idea of some kind of softening at the end) is a coherent vision, almost harsh in it's execution.

I really like Maazel's Pittsburgh Fifth, and Berglund's recording in no way comes close to Maazel's splendor or power as a total conception. But, Berglund's middle movement is the best I've heard by far; the obsessively repeated melody seems to weave in and out of the orchestral fabric very seductively. Berglund's knack for architecture is spot on here.

Tracks:

I. Intermezzo. Moderato
II. Ballade. Tempo Di Menuetto-Un Poco Piu Lento
III. Alla Marcia. Moderato
Tempo Moderato - Soile Isokoski
Andante Festivo For String Orchestra
Sostenuto Assai
Nocturne. Molto Moderato
I. Elegie. Andante Sostenuto
II. Musette. Allegretto
Serenade. Moderato Assai (Quasi Menuetto)
Ballade. Allegro Molto-Vivace
Andante Sostenuto-Allegro Moderato-Allegro

Tracks:

Largo-Allegro
Allegro-Tempo Del Commincio-Moderato Assai-Largamente-Largo
Allegro Molto Moderato
Andante Molto Sostenuto
Il Tempo Largamente
Allegro Con Fuoco

Tracks:

Moderato Assai-Allegro
Tempo Moderato E Sostenuto
Lento
Scene With Cranes Op.44 No.2
Andantino
Commodo
Lento Assai
Largamente-Allegro Moderato

Customer Reviews:

More Great Sibelius from GSO/Jarvi.......2006-06-02

I recently purchased this 3-disc set new for about 18 bucks, including shipping and handling. Each disc has over 70 mins of music. More importantly, the performances are evocative and highly emotional. The Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra (of Sweden, for those of you who might not know this) and Neeme Jarvi did a terrific job on the Sibelius Symphonies for the BIS label in the 80s. I have 'em all, and they are my favorite cycle.

These are more recent recordings done by Deutche Grammaphon, with somewhat different engineering, but equally satisfying sound (to me, at least). Purchasing this "Trio" was almost a no-brainer, given the price. Now that I have the set in hand (and in CD-player), I know that it was a good decision.

Whether you know nothing about Sibelius but want to hear terrific classical music-making, or you have some Sibelius and would like to hear some arguably definitive performance of the tone poems, this set is for you.

Enjoy, Adam.

Tons of Great Sibelius, All Very Well Done.......2006-05-23

I may be in a minority, but I think Sibelius is a far more successful composer of program music than of so-called absolute music. In fact, his most successful symphony, No. 2, has a definite program, and his most successful symphonic movement, the marvelous finale of Symphony No. 5, is also pictorial, supposedly inspired by a flight of geese and the bell-like music that their calls made as they passed overhead. So I believe these generously filled discs in the Trio Series present some of the best of orchestral Sibelius, including "Pohjola's Daughter," "En Saga," "The Oceanides," and "Tapiola." There are other favorites as well, of course, including "Finlandia," "Valse Triste," and "The Swan of Tuonela" (part of the spacious "Four Legends"), as well as some lesser-known (to non-Sibelians, anyway) masterworks such as "Luonnotar" and "Night Ride and Sunrise," a quirky, more interesting incarnation of the binary form that Sibelius tried out in the finale of his Third Symphony.

There's still more and more, including some music (such as "King Christian" and "The Bard") that is rarely heard but well worth hearing. In fact, if there are any clunkers here, I don't know of them. Sibelius emerges as a composer who rarely failed when inspired by literature, especially his beloved Kalevala, or the purely pictorial. Neemi Jarvi, whose baton is sometimes too fleet and whose interpretations sometimes skate along the surface of the music, is here inspired to give some of his finest interpretations (and there are many, many on CD). The Goteborg Orchestra has this music in its blood and proves the perfect medium for the dark vision of "The Four Legends," for the shimmer and sheen of "The Oceanides," or for the easy folksiness of "Karelia" and "King Christian." Fine, wide-ranging sound from DG as well. It's up-front but not oppressive, allowing woodwind and percussion detail to emerge with real clarity. Try "Night Ride and Sunrise" as an example; it's rarely sounded this alive in recording.

a perfect introduction to sibelius.......2006-02-18

this is a great set of Sibelius's work. There are some of unknown as as well known pieces. I recommend this work to introduce people to Sibelius and Sibelian's as well. neeme jarvi is a master interpreter of Sibelius work and the orchestra is brillent.

Average customer rating:

Been searching for another favorite besides 500 Nations...
YESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Very pleasant.
As Heard On Art Bell
Another Masterpiece!

Apurimac III: Nature / Spirit / Pride
Cusco
Manufacturer: Higher Octave
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Apurimac, Vol. 2: Return to Ancient America
Apurimac
Ancient Journeys: A Vision of the New World
Mystic Island
Inner Journeys: Myths and Legends

ASIN: B000003YXL
Release Date: 1997-08-26

Tracks:

Ghost Dance
Kokopelli's Dream
Geronimo's Laughter
Medicine Man
Little Pigeon And Crazy Horse
Pahrump-Big Water
Dream Catcher
Legend In The Redwoods
The Hunt
White Buffalo

Album Description

An electrifying vision of spiritual mystery, sacred legends and proud heros, Cusco's mesmerizing flutes and tribal rhythms weave a powerful, contemporary tribute to Native American culture as their renowned Apurimac journey continues to North America. The first two in the series, Apurimac and Apurimac II, have sold over 1 million copies worldwide and remain on the best seller list.

Customer Reviews:

Been searching for another favorite besides 500 Nations..........2007-05-28

Since hearing "500 Nations" and the songs on a Native American radio station, I'd been looking for another album that appeals to me. A brother introduced Cusco to me, and I liked them. So, when I saw this album, I had to try it. Now, it is my favorite Cusco album. It is more polished than hearing live music at pow-wows, but the rhythm and "feel" of the music is still the same.

YESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2006-06-08

This album makes my spirit soar!!!!!!!!!

(Ghost Dance is my favorite one.)

Very pleasant........2004-04-18

This cd starts off with Ghost Dance and then mellows from there. It is very pleasant and takes a few listenings to really appreciate the depth of this group's music. I found it very enjoyable and this is one group whose music can be listened to many times without becoming tiresome. I've not found any artists like that since Enya (Carribean Blue) and Loreena Mckennit (Book of Secrets).

As Heard On Art Bell.......2003-05-01

This album can be a little grating as the songs have a lot of similarity in some respects, but the rhythms and flute tones are fantastic. It goes better in small doses than in playing it for a long time, but it's an enjoyable album to listen to while driving. There are a couple of songs that really bring out the feral side of the band!

Another Masterpiece!.......2002-01-14

Again, Cusco shows the New Age world what they're made out of! This Cd is the best Native American music out there! Before you buy this CD you must know that this isn't your typical Native American music, Cusco adds their flavors to it and twists it making it all their own sound. Please be open-minded and give this album a chance! You'll love it!

Sibelius: The Symphonies; Tone Poems; Violin Concerto

Average customer rating:

The performances aren't first rate, but the recordings are
Fire and ice ...
Great Sibelius among much great Sibelius

Sibelius: The Symphonies; Tone Poems; Violin Concerto

Manufacturer: Umvd Labels
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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Sibelius: The 7 Symphonies; Finlandia; Kullervo; etc.
Sibelius: The Symphonies / Blomstedt
Rachmaninov: The Symphonies
Shostakovich: Cello Concerto Nos. 1 & 2
Great Recordings Of The Century - Brahms: Violin Sonatas nos 1 - 3 / Perlman, Ashkenazy

ASIN: B00008CLIG
Release Date: 2003-10-14

Tracks:

(Cd 1) Symphony No.1 Symphony No4
(Cd 2) Symphony No.2 Finlandia . Karelia Suite
(Cd 3) Symphony No.3 Symphony No.6 . Tapiola
(Cd 4) Symphony No.5. Symphony No.7. En Saga
(Cd 5) Violin Concerto* 2 Serious Melodies*

Customer Reviews:

The performances aren't first rate, but the recordings are.......2006-09-27

As these recordings appeared from 1979 to 1984, it became apparent that Ashkenazy was making a major bid to shift his career from pianist to conductor. As a star on the Decca label, he was given free rein, the company's engineers supplying him with spectacular sonics that sitll hold up for detail, impact, and wide dynamics. Every movement leaps out of the speakers. But the underlying interpretations, to my ear, are haphazard. Like Rostropovich, another great Russian instrumentalist who couldn't quite translate his mastery to the podium, Ashkenazy's Sibelius works by fits and starts. Sometimes he plunges in vigorously, at other times backs away and loses the rhythmic line. There's a lot of indulgent shaping of melodies--in all he's no cometiiton for great Sibelians like Karajan, Beecham, and Bernstein. Boris Belkin, the soloist in the Violin Concerto, is precise and extroverted but no match for the illustrious soloist--Heifetz, Shaham, Kremer, Oistrakh, etc.--who preceded and followed him.

Even so, the general thrust of Ashkenazy's readings is vigorously energetic, so I prefer hi to latter-day Colin Davis, and the Philharmonia plays much better than the various Scandinavian orchestras that produce most Sibelius recordings today. If you want to be thrilled by sheer sound, this bargain set--all the cheaper on the used market--can't be beat.

Fire and ice ..........2006-01-31

The glorious First Symphony in this Sibelius Cycle for this particular listener immediately sets the scene: bold and full-bodied playing, truly opening up all the warmer and darker sentiments of Sibelius' music, which to my ears has always, underneath a certain 'cool reserve', been deeply emotional and deeply 'human': how very 'Northern' in its sensibilities. Fire and ice. How intensely sweet and sad at the same time the main theme of the andante is played here! Ashkenazy and the Philharmonia Orchestra to my feeling dig deeply into all the emotions, really making the heart-strings of this particular listener resonate. The orchestral playing is both powerful/'muscled' and flowing, with nice legato. The same can also be said for the performances of the other symphonies. I will mince no words: just buy this if you love Sibelius' symphonies recorded in full, wide and directly recorded sound (typically Decca/London?), played in an unabashedly bold (romantic) way, letting bloom to the full all of the emotions.
But if you love this, I urge you to sample the (recent) Sibelius cycle by the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Leif Segerstam (on Ondine). These lively, fresh but sturdy and full-bodied, romantic interpretations by Segerstam and the orchestra that premiered many of Sibelius' works under the composer's own direction, are simply revelatory (well, certainly to the ears of this particular amateur listener) and at least as well played - helped by a typical (for Ondine) crystal clear, perfectly balanced soundpicture.

Great Sibelius among much great Sibelius.......2005-11-11

There is no dearth of great Sibelius cycles - many are very good and all are less controversially regarded as good than most cycles of other symphonists. Small countries have gone to war over which Mahler cycle is the best, families have separated over Bruckner questions along Wand vs. Celibidache vs. Jochum lines... and small arms fire must on occasion decide which LvB cycle is primatur.

No such emotions when it comes to the cool Sibelius symphonies. Wouldn't be prudent. Too much good stuff is out there... and even if it were not the necessary top choice, few lovers of Siblius would claim not to be able to live with any of the three Colin Davis cycles or Osmo Vanska's or the almost-complete Karajan cycle on DG or Berglund's EMI traversal. Some English people might even accept the Rattle cycle as sufficient - and only a few people would sneer at the Barbirolli set of Sibelius' 7... although that's already one step out of the mainstream.

I personally hold Vanska in the highest regards - but Vladimiar Ashkenazy makes a good point in his recordings for those who claim he's a better conductor than a pianist. Indeed, if price is to play an issue, too, I'd place his cycle at the very top of my list. He's improved as a conductor over the years, but in this one he was already ahead of himself. It is solidly played throughout all the symphonies and then some. Not as 'safe' as Jaervi in either of his two cycles, not quite as all-out as Vanska. Cool but with northern fire. Excellent attacks and a lyrical side. In the reissue Decca threw in the tone poems and the violin concerto - all at a great price. These performances might be supplemented in individual symphonies according to ones own taste and preference - but they leave little to desire and I can only wish that I would have had them as my first and basic Sibelius set instead of Maazel. (No offense, Lorin!)

Very much recommended.

Average customer rating:

Techno music.
Wow!

Didgeridoo Trance Dance

Manufacturer: Music Mosaic
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Didgeridoo Groove
Shaman's Breath
Tribe Vibe
Shaman Drums
Feet in the Soil

ASIN: B000063J69
Release Date: 2002-01-01

Tracks:

Gurrupurung (Gondwana)
Anyway I Tell Ya (Ganga Giri)
Awowedas (Lost At Last)
Night Owl (the capitali$ts)
Blue Labyrinth (Axis)
Another Land (Sounds of the Outback)
Thunder (Andy Graham)
Factory Farm (Didjworks)
Kemetic Song (Hayan)
Entrance (Si)

Album Description

Driving World-Beat Ethno-Fusion! - Pumping rhythms of the wild... droning, eternal voices of an ancient future… exotic nature sounds and rapid-fire percussion create an inter-dimensional journey into mindless spirit. Earthy didgeridoo with Australian aboriginal voices blend with UK techno-shamanic, traditional Native American Peyote chant, NYC trip-hop and Afro-Caribbean tribal rhythms... all fused into a thrilling dance compilation.

Customer Reviews:

Techno music. .......2005-11-11

This CD features a compilation of Techno-music supported by a little didjeridoo here and there. As such it is really not bad. However, both the title and the album description state or imply that the music has something to do with meditation and/or spiritual practices. This is not true: it's Techno-music in its purest tradition. The synthesizer-generated music is very flat with little or no harmonics.

Wow!.......2003-11-27

I was looking for a CD full of high-energy music. Wow! This one is awesome.

I'm constantly looking for great high-energy music for use when I'm working. This CD is almost too perfect in that regard as it is the type of music I can put on, go to work, and POOF -- 4 hours vanish.

My feet are dancing, my fingers are drumming, and my mind is in the zone. Great beat, nice didgeridoo, and awesome percussion throughout.

This sound reminds me of the high energy music that would emerge if you could somehow mix the music from the Afro Celts, Nomad (say ASIN: B000001ZBG), and Deep Forest. Delicious :)

I'm no trance expert so can't comment on its "trance purity", etc.

I'm no dancer so I can't comment on the type of dance genre this music best fits. Apparently I'm thinking of becoming a dancer, though, as I seem to have this urge to go dancing through the house like a wild man whenever this CD is playing :)

Summary: I agree with the summary on the back of the CD, "Pumping rhythms of the wild ... droning, eternal voices of an ancient-future ... exotic nature sounds and rapid-fire percussion create an inter-dimensional journey into mindless spirit". I wish I would have said that :) ***Highly Recommended***

Sibelius: Tone Poems
Average customer rating:
Sibelius: Tone Poems

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by Sibelius | Sibelius, Jean | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
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Sibelius: The Complete Symphonies [Box Set]

Sibelius: Complete Symphonies

ASIN: B0006AZQ0I
Release Date: 2005-01-25

Tracks:

En Sag, Op. 9
Luonnotar, Op. 70 - Phyllis Bryn-Julson
Finlandia, Op. 70
Spring Song, Op. 16
The Bard, Op. 64
The Dryad, Op. 45 No. 1

Tracks:

Pohjola's Daughter, Op. 49
Night Ride And Sunrise, Op. 55
The Oceanides, Op. 73
Tapiola, Op. 112

Sibelius: Finlandia Op26/7; Karelia Op11

Average customer rating:

An admirable collection of musical treasures!
Great Sibelius from Ashkenazy with Philharmonia
very good recordings
Great Music, Sturdy Performances

Sibelius: Finlandia Op26/7; Karelia Op11

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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Mozart: The Great Serenades
Sibelius: Finlandia/Karelia Suite/The Symphonies Nos. 1, 2 & 4

ASIN: B0000041L7
Release Date: 1997-08-26

Tracks:

Finlandia, Op. 26 No. 7 - Jean Sibelius
Karelia Suite, Op. 11: I. Intermezzo - Jean Sibelius
Karelia Suite, Op. 11: II. Ballade - Jean Sibelius
Karelia Suite, Op. 11: III. Alla marcia - Jean Sibelius
Luonnotar, Op. 70 - Jean Sibelius
Tapiola, Op. 112 - Jean Sibelius
En saga, Op. 9 - Jean Sibelius

Tracks:

Night-Ride And Sunrise, Op. 55 - J. Sibelius
Pohjola's Daughter, Op. 49 - J. Sibelius
Four Legends From The Kalevala, Op. 22: I. Lemminkainen And The Maidens Of Saari - J. Sibelius
Four Legends From The Kalevala, Op. 22: II. The Swan Of Tuonela - J. Sibelius
Four Legends From The Kalevala, Op. 22: III. Lemminkainen In Tuonela - J. Sibelius
Four Legends From The Kalevala, Op. 22: IV. Lemminkainen's Return - J. Sibelius

Customer Reviews:

An admirable collection of musical treasures!.......2005-12-03

Sibelius Finlandia must signify to his citizens the same meaning that Elgar `s Pomp and circumstance for the British people, the final expression of fervent, passionate and fevered feeling of brotherhood and national fervor. Vladmir Ashkenazy achieved an incisive and towering performance with the members of one of my beloved orchestras ever: The Philharmonia Orchestra. He extracted the musical vein in its whole expression and exultant boiling.

Karelia was also another artistic achievement, having in Colllins the maximum peak until this date. This version could be my second choice.

Tapiola Op. 112 ha a winner: Hans Rosbaud and Berlin Philharmonic in 1957 but Ashkenazy transmits us the essential and reminiscent echoes of Debussy 's La mer and obviously his Fourth Symphony through his intense performance. En Saga, in the glorious baton of Collins is simply unsurpassed, but this version is mercurial and very propulsive. Luonotar, Op. 70 is an exquisite version.

But what it is really worthy to remark is this sense of full aristocratic and committed approach; the horns, woods and strings of this Orchestra are pure gold. A colossal artistic triumph, and perhaps the major musical achievement of Ashkenazy as conductor, until this date.

Horst Stein conducted a very heartfelt performance of this superb musical treasure of Sibelius: The Four Legends are performed in just few opportunities. However, Erik Tuxen made a historical register in the early Fifties with the Royal Danish that still belong to the most prominent achievement ever made of this mythical work.

Pohjola 's Daughter has serious rivals: Koussevitzky and Toscanini and the night-Ride and Sunrise found in Essa Pekka Salonen a distinguished interpreter

In sum, an album to be collected, because in just two CD's for Sibelius newcomers constitutes a notable contribution and a very complete approach to the work of this noted composer: the most conspicuous and beloved musical son of Finland: Jean Sibelius.

Great Sibelius from Ashkenazy with Philharmonia.......2005-05-05

Before I launch into my review, I would like to make it clear that I do not actually have this album. I do, however, have two other albums of Ashkenazy/Philharmonia that are not listed on Amazon, which include the works Symphony No. 4, Luonuotar, Finlandia (twice), Karelia Suite, Tapiola, and En Saga.

Ashkenazy conducts Sibelius better than anyone else I have heard. Under his baton, the music is more exciting, more colorful, and far more alive than I have heard it elsewhere. His interpretation of Finlandia is the only one that I will listen to; nothing else even compares. These are recordings that I would trust to the ends of the earth.

Ashkenazy's instrument for the recordings I refer to is the incredible Philharmonia Orchestra of London. They are well up to the task, technically, musically, and sonically. Every section is filled with color. The strings are beautiful and lush (with VERY powerful bassi), winds have a very dark sound with much more presence than I often hear elsewhere, and brass are more alive, have more blend, and are more together than virtually anyone else I have heard - certainly more so than anyone else I've heard play Sibelius.

I highly recommend all recordings of Sibelius by Ashkenazy with the Philharmonia Orchestra, without reservation.

very good recordings.......2003-09-22

This box set contains, all famous symphonic poems of Sibelius...

i think, especially, The Night-Ride and Sunrise and Leminkainen in Tuonela (No. 3 of suite) is best tracks in CD 2, perhaps these are among in Horst Stein's all recordings...L'Orchestre de la Suisse Romande (the orchestra of E. Ansermet) is very good...

In CD 1, all works recorded by Ashkenazy and his PO. Already, his all Sibelius recording are very good, and especially the performances of Finlandia and Karelia are best.

And Elisabeth Sodeström is very good on Luonottar. This is a lied-symphonic poem and not too known, but very interesting music. And based on famous Kalevala epic...

However, the tempos of "En saga" is very slow (aproxx. 20 min.)
But not bad. This symphonic poem is Sibelius' first succesful work and hasn't a programme.

In other words: this box set (at this price) very good and highly recommended for all Sibelius fans.

Great Music, Sturdy Performances.......2002-01-10

With some composers, it seems that when it is a matter of writing symphonies, the music is a little graver, a little rhetorical, perhaps even a little long-winded and heavy-footed; but when such a composer turns to symphonic poems, or dances/ballet, the music is more imaginative, lighter in spirit and surer of foot, or even in some cases, just plain more inspired.

While Sibelius managed to write brilliant and engaging music in both "spheres," there are times when I feel [parts of] the symphonies are a little ruminative, a shade too self-absorbed ... and it is then that I find the tone-poems - in which he often, simply, sang, and sang for the sheer joy of singing - especially welcome.

This recording is one of those re-issues, which were originally two separate releases; so we have two different conductors, and two different orchestras, to discuss.

In general, I am not mad about Ashkenazy as a conductor; and in a sense, this recording is no exception ... I don't walk away thinking, "Wow, what a great conductor." But he is certainly a competent musician, and he does a creditable job here; the Philharmonia sounds fine for the most part. The brass are a little edgier in "Finlandia" than I quite like; and towards the end, the timpani are a little too wild. But on the whole, neither "Finlandia" nor the Karelia Suite is done any great hurt on the Ashkenazy half of this set.

The bright gem on this disc is "Luonnotar," a restless folk-ballad for soprano and orchestra. Elisabeth Söderström is splendid here. "Tapiola" and "En Saga" come across well, too.

Not a disc that you walk away saying, "Wow, what a great conductor"; but, "Wow, what great music."

The other disc is Horst Stein leading L'Orchestre de la Suisse Romande. Any composer might design to follow Sibelius' example here: the program is "Night-Ride and Sunrise," "Pohjola's Daughter," and the four "Legends from the Kalevala" (including the well-loved, and often separately-peformed, "Swan of Tuonela"). Seventy-one minutes of music, and not a dull moment from start to finish.

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