A Dead Poem [Box set]

A Dead Poem [Box set]

Editorial Reviews
Product Description
Contains a free bonus CD which samples some of the finest dark, black, & gotic metal artists.

Tracks:

Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: I. Grave - Allegro ma non troppo
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: II. Allegro animato
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: III. Larghetto
Symphony No. 1 In D Minor, Op.13: IV. Allegro con fuoco
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: I. Non allegro
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: II. Andante con moto (Tempo di valse)
Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: III. Lento assai - Allegro vivace

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: I. Largo - Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: II. Allegro molto
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: III. Adagio
Symphony No. 2 in E minor, Op.27: IV. Allegro vivace
The Isle of the Dead, Op.29

Tracks:

Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: I. Lento - Allegro Moderato
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: II. Adagio ma non troppo - Allegro vivace
Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44: III. Allegro
The Bells, Op.35: I. Allegro ma non tanto
The Bells, Op.35: II. Lento
The Bells, Op.35: III. Presto
The Bells, Op.35: IV. Lento Lugubre

Customer Reviews:

Excellent recordings, all worth getting at any price!!!.......2005-04-01

Different people have different tastes. Without wishing to malign those who don't care as much (or at all) for this set, I'll dare say that this set is an absolute classic. [Why go only for the 2-disc set of just the symphonies instead of getting also Ostróva Mjórtvïkh (The Isle of the Dead), the Symphonic Dances and Kolokóla (The Bells) that come automatically as part of this 3-disc set?]

It was the Ashkenazy recording of Ostróva Mjórtvïkh that introduced me to what has since become my favourite symphonic poem ever (roll over Richard Strauss - this one together with Schönberg's "Pelléas et Mélisande" take the cake!) as well as the Symphonic Dances - and also Kolokóla as well as the 1st & 3rd Symphonies. [Prévin did as much for the 2nd Symphony in my case and his recording is a more than worthy competitor - his and this one are as good as tied for top spot in my honest opinion - get them BOTH if possible!!!!] At all times, these interpretations proved Sjergjéy Vassíljevich Rakhmáñinov as one of the greatest composers of the 1850-1950 period, even if he wasn't the most prolific (my biggest regret is that death stopped him from benefitting us organists with an Organ Concerto meant for Charles Courboin). [He was the type that could only concentrate on one thing at a time - be it composition, piano concertising, or conducting, at all of which he was outstanding; however, when he went into exile after the Russian Revolutions, he found himself mainly working as one of the greatest pianists of all time in order to secure his future and feed his family.] Obviously his mentor Pjótr Iljích Chaykóvskiy was a powerful influence on him; however, Rakhmáñinov never loses his individuality at any point!

Certainly his symphonic output is uniformly high: his 1st Symphony, while not always the most cohesive at times, still deserved a heck of a lot better fate than it received at the hands of Glazunóv - it's extremely inspired and there's no question that it deserves a high place in the repertoire. The 3rd Symphony - and the Symphonic Dances - not only proved that Rakhmáñinov had lost none of his mastery or inspiration in exile; they're both absolute masterpieces in their own right! [As to the 2nd, it would be my 2nd-favourite symphony, period, right behind Chaykóvskiy's 6th (Pathétique). The 3rd movement, if a question of falling in love for some, is for me a point of grieving for a lost love (which is very much still in my life after many years - I still cry bitterly on hearing this and the 1st movement!) and letting gradually go, though with greatest pain...] Finally, Kolokóla: another great masterpiece (the 2nd movement is especially moving and wonderful!).

Most definitely, Ashkenazy does full justice to all of these works. Of course, one can disagree with this or that aspect or instant in this or that work (e.g., I could have wished a slower accelerando in the 2nd movement of the Symphonic Dances from the waltz tempo - that way one misses the otherwise obvious allusion to Chaykóvskiy's "Flowers' Waltz" from Shchjeljkúnchik {Nutcracker}); however, the overall merits of these recordings truly deserve the fullest 5 stars possible - I'd myself go for 6! Go get it in all events!!!!

Outstanding Set, But Get Temirkanov for The Symphonic Dances.......2004-08-07

This is an outstanding set, with the exception of the Symphonic Dances, where Ashkenazy conveys some of the passion in this work but doesn't attain nearly the same level of emotional intensity as Kondrashin's or Temirkanov's versions.

A fantastically passionate performance of The Symphonic Dances is the 1963 recording by the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra, with Kiril Kondrashin as conductor (RCA; Catalog # 32046; ASIN: B000003ETI). With Kondrashin, the power and passion of The Symphonic Dances sweeps the listener away and takes him to an inspirational level. The performance is so burning hot that it throws off sparks. However, this CD may be out-of-print.

Another excellent and passionate interpretation of The Symphonic Dances is the 1992 recording by Yuri Temirkanov and the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra (RCA; Catalog Number 62710; ASIN: B000003FRT). The Temirkanov CD also has a beautiful performance of the Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, with the pianist Dmitri Alexeev.

The rest of this 3-CD set, consisting of the three symphonies and the Isle of the Dead, is outstanding. In the symphonies, the balance and the dynamic interplay between the strings, horns, and winds are brought out beautifully and the sound quality is crystal clear. The Isle of the Dead is very movingly performed, from the opening passage, where Ashkenazy establishes a somber ominous mood, to the sweeping majesty of the most powerful moments.

The CD booklet has a well-written, detailed, and informative essay on all of the compositions. The full text of The Bells, based on a reinterpretation of Edgar Allan Poe's verses by the Russian symbolist poet Konstantin Balmont (1867 - 1943), is also included in Russian, English, French, and German.

Highly recommended, with the additional recommendation of supplementing this set with Kondrashin's or Temirkanov's recording of The Symphonic Dances.

A noteworthy Rachmaninov set.......2004-07-30

These were outstanding recordings when they were released individually in the 1980's, and as a complete set they make quite a bargain. Ashkenazy finds just the right tempi in most cases, particularly in the spectacular Symphonic Dances, one of the best versions of this piece ever recorded. Somehow he manages to combine his no-nonsense approach while still letting Rachmaninov's long melodic lines glow.

The dark Concertgebouw tone suits this program perfectly. If the First and Third Symphonies aren't exactly the composer at his most inspired (don't get me wrong -- not bad, just not his best), you are not likely to hear either one performed as dazzlingly as they are here. Many listeners will already have a recording of the Second Symphony, probably the composer's most popular work, and I'm not convinced that Ashkenazy's is the one and only, but you may want it just for the quality of the playing from the orchestra. And there is no shortage of good recordings of the Isle of the Dead, either, but again, the mood conjured up here is considerable.

In short, this is an excellent set -- gorgeously played, and spectacularly recorded. And now it's at a price that makes it hard to beat.

BRILLIANT!!!.......2003-09-22

I cannot believe what great quality this package is for such a great price!

The music itself is divine. The mixing is spot on (A very rare compliment to hear from my mouth). What more could I want? More works by Rachmaninov like this please!

Oh, Rachy, what beautiful music!.......2003-04-24

This is a lovely set of Rachmaninoff's three symphonies. As with his other works, these pieces are melodic and full of passion. Rachmaninoff may get a little moody at times, but he will never leave you in the doldrums. These are exciting works, and Ashkenazy brings them to life. The orchestra responds well. As a real bonus, this set includes other orchestral works. Of these, the Symphonic Dances have been performed more frequently lately. Ashkenazy handles these Dances admirably.

The sound quality of these digital Decca releases is excellent. The upper range of the brass has a little bite to it, but it does not detract from the deep, rich sound of the Concertgebouw Orchestra. The dynamic range is extensive. Don't be afraid to turn up the volume and give your speakers a workout.

Tracks:

Sin City
One Hour To Go
Goldie's Dead
Marv
Bury The Hatchet
Old Town Girls
The Hard Goodbye
Cardinal Sin
Her Name Is Goldie
Dwight
Old Town
Deadly Little Miho
Warrior Woman
Tar Pit
Jackie Boy's Head
The Big Fat Kill
Nancy
Prison Cell
Absurd - Fluke
Kiss Of Death
That Yellow Bastard
Hartigan
Sensemaya - Eduardo Mata
Sin City End Titles

Amazon.com

Set in dark, slickened streets and populated by a stellar ensemble cast, this adaptation of Frank Miller's hard-edged, film noir inspired graphic novels plays like comic-book-come-to-life—not surprising, as Miller is credited as Robert Rodriguez's co-director (with a bit of help from Quentin Tarantino). The soundtrack to this bleak, compelling exercise in pure noir stylism is provided mostly by director Rodriguez, with an occasional assist from past collaborators John Debney (Spy Kids and its sequel) and Graeme Revell (From Dusk Til Dawn). While their largely synth-driven cues tend naturally towards brooding atmospheric soundscapes, their tense electro-rhythms are seasoned with bracing doses of sinewy, sensual sax and dotted with the occasional bongo flourish, details that musically evoke both a shadowy humanity and the film's genre-savvy roots. Also featuring disparate, yet wholly integrated contributions from techno-house savants Fluke (the hypnotic "Absurd") and 20th century Mexican classicist Silvestre Revueltas, it's the sinister flipside to the future-jazz sheen of Vangelis' classic Blade Runner.--Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

trailer music.......2006-08-06

i listened to the servant song and i know everyone said its pretty well known that that is the song they used in the trailer, but if you listen to "broken chairs" by built to spill it really sounds like parts of the trailer music too. and its also a good song. so i would recommend trying that as well!

Great!.......2006-01-17

Now, i loved the movie, but the soundtrack blew me away! all the songs fit the movie perfectly. However, it is missing the instrumental version of "Cells" by the Servants, which plays on the DVD title menu
so, here you go:
http://epical.bobdeveaux.com/TM/cells-sincity.mp3
Instrumental Version!
Have Fun

sin city.......2005-09-30

Is a very good soundtrack because i think that Robert Rodriguez has made a great choice with the composers and his own musical composition

Go Here if you want Cells download.......2005-09-27

While the previous reviwer was correct that Cells the trailer song is not on the soundtrack, Servant did indeed create an instrumental version and you can obtain it at this link follow the instructions it is at the Servant website so its legal and its for a limited time only!

http://www.bdarules.com/2005/05/servant-release-instrumental-of-cells.html

Your Welcome ;)

An addendum to "FangsFirst" comment.......2005-09-16

FangsFirst is absoluty correct -- trailer music is almost never on the movie's soundtrack. An interesting additional bit of trivia, however; almost all trailer themes ARE from a movie soundtrack, just from a DIFFERENT movie than the one the trailer is for!

So if you're looking for "Cells" by The Servant (the song from the Sin City trailer), take a look at the soundtrack to Transporter 2. You'll find it along with another song by The Servant. "Cells" does have lyrics to it (which aren't on the Sin City trailer), but it's still a damned good song.

Just thought I'd share that with everybody.

Sergei Rachmaninoff: Symphony No.2/Isle Of The Dead

Average customer rating:

Beautiful music, beautifully performed
Ormandy and Reiner Show How It's Done
Absolutely superb performances!
RCA frustrates

Sergei Rachmaninoff: Symphony No.2/Isle Of The Dead

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000003FT3
Release Date: 1994-11-08

Tracks:

Symphony No. 2: Largo; Allegro moderato
Symphony No. 2: Allegro molto
Symphony No. 2: Adagio
Symphony No. 2: Allegro vivace
Isle Of The Dead

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful music, beautifully performed.......2006-05-09

I admit to a bias in favor of the Philadelphia Orchestra in this music. One reason is simply that I became exposed to classical orchestral music as a kid in Philadelphia and the recordings were often the Philadelphia Orchestra-because my father was a loyal fan of the local team! I remember a recording of this work he bought on an Columbia LP; I think this must have been the 1959 recording another reviewer mentioned- but as a Sony recording. Sony bought out Columbia somewhere along the line. I am pretty sure, though, that the recording I heard back then did not have the Isle of the Dead. (Could it have been the pre-1969 recording I heard?)

Anyway, the expressive Ormandy treatment suits this music perfectly, in my opinion. Ormandy was not right for Bach for sure, maybe not quite right for Beethoven. Szell/Cleveland was great for Beethoven. I once had a Szell/Cleveland recording of Beeethoven's 8th Symphony that had astonishingly precise orchestral playing. But for Rachmaninoff, the Szell precision does not fit. It is hard to imagine any more beautiful interpretation and orchestra playing for this romantic work than Ormandy's and the Phila. Orchestra.

I would like to know which recording venue was used for this recording. The Academy of Music (just replaced a year or two ago as the home of the Philadelphia Orchestra by the Kimmel Center) was not a good recording venue and the Orchestra tried various places. One was the ballroom of a downtown hotel, name forgotten.

Ormandy and Reiner Show How It's Done.......2002-07-08

Sergei Rachmaninoff was tormented by many demons. Following the failure of his First Symphony (1897), he plunged into a harrowing depression, from which he never fully recovered. Its practical manifestation was a ruthless second-guessing of his own abilities as a composer, editing out lengthy and repetitive passages. The two compositions which fell prey most to his red pen were his Second Symphony and Die Toteninsel (Isle of the Dead). Although Eugene Ormandy recorded the Second Symphony three other times - once with the Minneapolis Symphony in 1934 and twice with Philadelphia for Columbia (1951, 1959) - only in 1973 did he return to the work to record the complete score after the huge commercial success of Andre Previn's 1973 recording of the complete version.

The 1973 Ormandy version is my favorite, even more than the Previn, which itself is very passionate and energetic. One false charge critics level against Ormandy was that his famed "Philadelphia Sound" was a uniformly applied formula of warm, lush string tonality. This simplistic contention ignores the peerless contributions of the brass, winds and percussion as well as Ormandy's complete and subtle understanding of the music he conducted. Like Arturo Toscanini, Ormandy comprehended the score on an intuitive, emotional, level.

What drives this performance are the nuances between and beneath the notes. A cursory listening could lead one to dismiss this performance as "formulaic," especially given the more "animated" performances out there. Given an understanding of Rachmaninoff's music, of his friendship with, and tutelage of, Ormandy -- one realises that the "Philadelphia Sound" was hardly an end in itself.

The first movement, Largo; Allegro moderato, opens in a state of dark melancholy. The strings are sumptuous and full-toned. The development of the first theme is gradual; Hints of what is to come are given, but the Philadelphians hold something back. The Rachmaninovian device of building up to the climax is very aptly employed here. One thing I most enjoy about the performance of this movement in particular is that when solo instrumentalists play in the foreground, they do not overshadow the playing of other sections and other soloists, since there's so much going on. Weaving a tapestry of sound, all the threads remain integral, yet brilliantly audible. The introduction to the second theme by the violas is very delicate, punctuated acutely by the lower strings. It is a very solid, yet gentle, rendering, as the winds wander in and out. The bittersweet theme introduced by the solo clarinet leads to the most sensual exposition of this movement I've heard. The movement's end is rousing, jolting the listener with the unexpected: Instead of finishing on a single note played ff on the double-bass, Ormandy substitutes the same note played staccato on the timpani!

The second movement, Allegro molto, is the most Russian of all. Like a festive winter's sleigh ride, this panoply of jubilant sound brings to mind Rimsky-Korsakov. There is a concerted buildup of tension to an explosive main theme, which is reintroduced in the symphony's finale. As lighthearted, however, as this movement is, feelings of ecstasy are offset by the ever-present suggestion of mortality. What most impresses me is the sense of contrasts Ormandy and the Philadelphians present: Most striking are the basses' aggressiveness; the false expectation produced by them is spirited away in a deftly-executed and understated ending in mezzo-piano. It is a case of the fall of sledge-hammer as the prelude to the proverbial feather, as in the denouement of the Paganini Rhapsody.

The third movement, Adagio, is the most memorable. It begins as a simple liebeslied, through a lucid and evocative solo on clarinet. The emotional theme of the movement is unmistakeable to anyone who has ever loved and lost, a paean to unrequited love. Yet, the movement as communicated by Ormandy and the Philadelphians tells not of morose defeat, but reminiscing of the joy of love, before the loss. With unadorned simplicity, the main theme is imparted by gentle turns of phrasing on a four-note figure for oboe. Strings and brass turn over the theme, seemingly returning the passion to the present time, if only fleetingly. The restatement of the second theme, a six-note figure handed over by the solo French horn in turn to the viola, oboe, flute and clarinet suggest the passage of time since, of seasons changed and events beginning to fade from memory. The adagio ends with the flutes and clarinet. What was once a flame becomes a flicker, slowly dying out. To those who know the movement, this version is the most natural and unforced playing I've ever heard.

The finale (Allegro vivace) is an impassioned hymn of deliverance. With brass and percussion in the forefront, much of the opening theme hearkens back to the first two movements. However, those movements' tension and conflict has been resolved. The introduction of the second theme, primarily by strings - and echoed by the flutes and trumpets - gives reassurance that while love may not have triumphed, that life nonetheless does. After a quite dolce interlude - a refrain of the adagio - the triumphal finish kicks in. A celebration affirming life itself, the finale recalls the powerful ending of the Third Concerto.

While the 1958 Reiner performance lacks the intensity of Mitropoulos' and the sonority of the Koussevitzky's 1945 recordings, Reiner's still gets under your skin. It flows beautifully, dreamily, other-worldly, impressionistically. This version has the most sonorous brass of any I've heard (which is to be expected, since Reiner was a champion of Wagner and Richard Strauss). The statement of the Dies Irae theme on the horns is the most ominous - I get goose bumps every time! The only disappointment is from the timpanist, who never comes to the forefront, as is required in the penultimate and final climaxes. The ending, on the other hand, shows Reiner's master touch: It is softly and subtly inevitable. Death is triumphant not with a bang, but a whisper.

Absolutely superb performances!.......2001-03-23

This CD is an absolute dream: an ideal introduction to Rachmaninov's orchestral work.

Eugene Ormandy had recorded the Second Symphony three times before this final 1973 taping. I have heard his 1959 recording on Sony, which is magnificent but heavily cut. Here, Ormandy wisely opens out all the cuts (with the exception of the first-movement repeat) and achieves an interpretation which I believe surpasses his earlier effort. Part of this is because, with the cuts gone, the music makes so much more sense. But I also hear slightly faster tempi and greater flexibility which help to make this vast masterpiece cohere. Sound and playing are both good -- although both were sligtly better on the 1959 Sony account, caught when the Philadelphia Orchestra was truly at the peak of its powers. But there is a new roughness to the sound which I almost prefer, as too much smoothness can, in the wrong hands, turn Rachmaninov's lengthy sequential passages into snoozefests. As always, the Philadelphia Orchestra's strings play Rachmaninov's melodies in a way to make any other orchestra weep with envy.

Fritz Reiner's Chicago recording of The Isle of the Dead is similarly superb, and fills out the CD to a generous 76 minutes. Reiner was unsurpassed in this kind of music, and this is my favorite interpretation of Rachmaninov's beautiful tone-poem, along with Svetlanov's more frenetic version, which you will be lucky to be find on Multisonic.

There really is nothing wrong with this midpriced CD (well - apart from the packaging and notes which seem to assume that you have the reading age of a 5-year-old). Go ahead and buy it, and enjoy a date with Rachmaninov and his favorite orchestra!

RCA frustrates.......2000-07-18

There really is nothing wrong with Ormandy's reading of this well-known symphony. His experience with it was second only to that of Stokowski in Philadelphia. But the fact remains what's wrong with it is that there's nothing wrong. We have string melismae, lush bowings, a burnishing of brass, all the trademarks of Ormandy's view and school. Which is fine, but...

Ormandy himself recorded it better earlier on for Columbia, now CBS Sony. It's even better played, the sound is better, the involvement is strikingly better, so if you like Ormandy performance paradigms, go for that one.

The larger issue, though, is other readings out there are far more rewarding. Try Paul Paray on Mercury whose Detroit Symphony gives you spit, shine AND a thrillingly propulsive experience and the sound is wonderful! Willaim Steinberg on Capitol with the Pittsburgh out-Ormandys Ormandy for the flexible, deeply-felt old Romantic School, with beautiful sound. Alfred Wallentein and the LA Philharmonic, also on Capitol, give a joyous and loving reading that stays with you always, a sense of occasion that's hard to capture on a recording. Paray, Steinberg and Wallenstein are just a start. Check out fine contributions by Previn, Slatkin, DeWaart, Kletzki (for a unique orchestral sound) and more. . .

The reason to listen to this disk is Reiner's astonishing reading of Isle of the Dead, a performance that has had no peer, before or since. It's a gripping work that leaves you in deep thought, and that's how Reiner impresses it on you, forever.

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No.2 In C Minor, Op.18: 1. Moderato
Piano Concerto No.2 In C Minor, Op.18: 2. Adagio sostenuto
Piano Concerto No.2 In C Minor, Op.18: 3. Allegro scherzando
Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini, Op. 43
Vocalise, Op. 34 No.14
Liebesleid
Prelude in C sharp minor, Op.3 No.2
Prelude in G minor, Op. 23 No.5

Tracks:

Symphony No.2, Op.27: 1. Largo - Allegro moderato
Symphony No.2, Op.27: 2. Allegro molto
Symphony No.2, Op.27: 3. Adagio
Symphony No.2, Op.27: 4. Allegro vivace
The Isle of the Dead, Op. 29

Customer Reviews:

Rachmaninoff's Masterpieces.......2005-11-13

Sergei Rachmaninoff remains the most celebrated of the modern Russian composers who retained the spirit of Romantics like Tchaikovsky. In this fabulous recording from the Phillips Label, we are treated to his most cherished piano/orchestral masterpieces. They include the incomparable Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor, as performed by the Royal Philharmonic with Spanish pianist Rafael Orozco and conducted by Edo De Waart. This piano concerto is grand in scale and at times borders on Beethovenesque melody. It's dark and brooding and supremely romantic. It was prominently featured in the David Lean 1940'ish film "Brief Encounter" about a romance that is forged on a train ride. The most famous piece associated with the great Rachmaninoff is his Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini for Piano and Orchestra. Lush, sweeping romantic melodies sigh and stir on the piano and escalate into voluminous beauty in the orchestra. Upon hearing it, you will recognize it for sure. The Vocalise was originally a piano piece, at times resembling a sort of modern Moonlight Sonata, with a long haunting melodic line, but has become famous as a concert aria and sopranos like Renee Fleming still sing the aria today. As most piano composers tend to do, Rachmaninov transcribed works from other composers for piano and here we hear his lovely piano version of Kreisler's violin work "Liebeslied" or "Love Song". Beautiful! The Preludes are works of tonal beauty and nocturnal moods. Orozco is truly gifted on the piano. Years of training sharpened his musical talents so that he mastered the piano and Rachmaninoff especially. He knows Rachmaninoff's music intimately. He uses flowing rubato and handles the music with a sacred spirit. He breathes life into the works and never succumbs to mechanical playing. Instead, we get colorful musical portraits, complete with evocative imagery, such as in the Isle of the Dead, a symphonic poem that is also terrific in orchestral form. The Symphony No. 2 is another brilliant piece on here. Overall, a fine album and the quality of sound is excellent. At an affordable price, this is a treasure.

superb.......2005-09-17

Out of my huge collection of classical music, I find these disks being played more often than almost all the rest!

Great Piano Fireworks.......2004-02-05

This is my favorite recording of Rachmaninov's 2nd! Orozco and de Waart are thrilling right from the very first note. I keep flipping back to Track 1 just to hear the passionate opening movement! I have Ashkenzy, Vasary, and Entremont's recordings of this piece. The spacious engineering and Orozco's riveting performance keep me coming back to this one! The reading of the Rhapsody is also one of my favorites. I have a special attachment to this work, and these performances do not disappoint my picky taste. I hate to say it, but Orozco's technique and interpretation of the Rhapsody rival the performance with Rachmaninov as soloist with the Phila. Orch.
The other pieces in this "two-fer" are exceptional performances as well. I especially love Orozco's brilliance and technique in the G minor prelude--why couldn't I play it like that in piano lessons??? The Vocalise and Liebeslied are lovely arrangments.
For this price, this set is absolutely essential to anyone interested in Classical music! This is THE recording to have!

Rhapsody is best.......2004-01-19

This performance of the Rhapsody is absolutely amazing! The Concerto 2 is pretty intense as well, but get it for the Rhapsody -- it is worth it!

No. of concerto is wrong.......2004-01-04

I thing you made a mistake on your homepage.
The correct title is "Piano Concerto No.2" on "Listen to Sample" as below.

Tracks:

The Isle Of The Dead
Symphonic Dances - Non allegro
Symphonic Dances - Andante Con Moto. Tempo Di Valse
Symphonic Dances - Lento Assai - Allegro Vivace

Amazon.com

Sergei Rachmaninoff (1873-1943) produced in 1909 one of this century's most enduring tone poems in The Isle of the Dead. Based on a gloomy painting by Arnold Bocklin (reproduced on the cover of this London CD), it manages to incorporate many of the musical fads of the day without sounding at all faddish. You can hear bits of Wagner and Mahler; but you can also get a whiff of Debussy's Impressionism and a dollop of Scriabin. At the opposite end of the spectrum is Symphonic Dances (1940), a thoroughly joyous orchestral work. Get this for the clarity of the music and the Bocklin cover. --Paul Cook

Amazon.com

Vovka Ashkenazy's series of Rachmaninoff recordings with the Concergebouw Orchestra in some way represented his coming of age as a conductor. Although he had made many fine recordings from the podium--notably of Tchaikovsky symphonies--his performances of Rachmaninoff's symphonies and other orchestra works were his first recordings that really challenged the great versions of the past. He conducts these two splendid works with real urgency and personality, and he's aided in no small measure by orchestral playing that is extremely brilliant and fiery. At mid-price, this disc will find a welcome place in your Rachmaninoff collection. -- David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

Terrific Performances.......2007-06-13

The performance of The Isle of the Dead on this disc is arguably among the very best. Vladamir Ashkenazy's account is a powerful reading bringing to bear a scene of desolation and despair. The build up to the climax of the music is taken at an even, inexorable pace that gives the music an explosive impact. The gradual fading of the music, as if the isle is disappearing into a distant fog, is nicely played. The Symphonic Dances is a vibrant and dynamic reading and was actually criticized by some reviewers for adopting a faster tempo for the first dance in the first movement than should have been taken. The second movement is beautifully phrases and elegantly played by the Concertgebouw while the final movement moves at a good steady tempo with attention to the details of the score, and the music is brought to a fiery conclusion.

The famous recording by Kiril Kondrashin of Symphonic Dances, made in 1963, is equally driven and marvelously played (certainly a must hear performance) but this 1984 performance by Ashkenazy and the Concertgebouw can stand beside that seminal performance, and does have better sound.

The recordings are beautifully engineered with truly excellent sound.

Too much gloom.......2006-02-17

I figured this CD is cheap enough that I could buy it for the Dances alone, which I'd heard before and wanted for my collection. The reviews seemed to indicate this is the best CD of this music.

I'm glad I had no expectations from The Isle of the Dead, which is at best an outstanding expression of morbid dreariness, gloomy and chill throughout, and amply lengthy for its point to sink in. But unfortunately, the commonalities between the Isle and the Dances are emphasized, not just in the CD booklet but in the way Ashkenazy conducts the Dances. Somewhere, you can buy an account of the Dances with more propulsion and less focus on the grave. Buy it instead, unless you are seeking a therapeutic cure for euphoria, in which case this disk gets my highest recommendation. It is well recorded.

die toteninsel und mehr ..........2005-12-24

Yes, here is offered to you the isle of the dead and some symphonic dances. The pace, tension, timbre ...everything about the isle is great. The other pieces, I do not know but they fill up the cd. The sound quality is great, but the four stars are caused by those dances. The cover -picture is very nice and well, i do not know why on the item here this painiting is niot shown. I hold a version from 1984 where DECCA was still called LONDON.

The Supreme Isle of the Dead Recording.......2005-12-02

Rachmaninov was really on to something when he strayed from composing his usual piano pieces and created the symphonic tone poem Isle of the Dead and the Symphonic Dances. Though there are plenty of fine recordings, this one stands out because world class pianist Vladimir Ashkenazy, who understood the music of Rachmaninov, is its conductor. I had no idea that Ashkenazy, aside from being a pianist, was also a conductor. Now I will check out other recordings in which he is the conductor. Here, he puts on another hat that suits him just as well. He brings out the many layers of the music. Isle of the Dead was based on the surreal, abstract and symbolic modern painting by Brocklin. The painting still baffles me. What is the Isle of the Dead ? Let the music tell you. It has a distinct Wagnerian and Mahlerian feel to it, as musicologists have noted. But this is not an homage to these late Romantic Germans, it is only natural that a dream-like and symbolic tone poem should evoke the music of composers whose work had dream-like qualities and symbolic strength. Because this music is a tad minimalist and slightly twelve-tone, music scholars also note a hint of the Impressionistic music of Debussy, with fleeting melodies that are slow and quick and not heavy at all. In contrast, the Symphonic Dances are jovial, thunderous and lively pieces, evoking Russian dances and an orgiastic, frenzied bacchanal. Rachmaninov pulled out all the stops and Ashkenzay does as well in his conducting. The Concertgebuow Orchestra of Amsterdam was a fine orchestra, one of the leading ones in Europe, but sadly it's underrated. It is at the same level of the Gewandhaus of Leipzig and Berlin Phil. This is a terrific, terrific recording.

Very stingy, but very good.......2005-10-08

The star of this CD is an exciting and beautifully recorded Symphonic Dances, the last orchestral work Rachmaninov wrote (1940) before he died. The other work on this CD, the Isle of the Dead, dates from 1909 and only appeals to me when I want to hear Rachmaninov at his most morbid.

Usually one can get the Symphonic Dances coupled with an entire symphony (Temirkanov on RCA, Jansons on EMI), so it's stingy of Decca to limit this CD to 55 min. But if you want a highly charged technicolor reading of this work, Ashkenazy remains the best choice (it is also included in his budget box of the symphonies.)

Symphonies 1-3 / Piano Concerto 1-4 / Isle of Dead

Average customer rating:

An excellent set now as a compilation.

Symphonies 1-3 / Piano Concerto 1-4 / Isle of Dead

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00006HM8V
Release Date: 2002-11-05

Tracks:

I: Grave - Allegro Ma Non Troppo
II: Scherzo: Allegro Animato
III: Larghetto
IV: Allegro Con Fuoco
The Isle Of The Dead, Op.29

Tracks:

I: Largo
I: Allegro Moderato
II: Allegro Molto
III: Adagio
IV: Allegro Vivace
Scherzo In D Minor
Vocalise, Op.34 No.14

Tracks:

I: Lento - Allegro Moderato
II: Adagio Ma Non Troppo
III: Allegro
I: Non Allegro
II: Andante Con Moto (Tempo Di Valse)
III: Lento Assai - Allegro Vivace

Tracks:

I: Allegro Vivace (Alla Breve)
II: Largo
III: Allegro Vivace (1941 Version)
III: Allegro Vivace (1926 Version)
I: Vivace - Moderato - Vivace
II: Andante
III: Allegro Vivace

Tracks:

I: Allegro Non Troppo E Molto Maestoso
II: Andante Semplice - Prestissimo - Tempo Primo
III: Allegro Con Fuoco
I: Moderato
II: Adagio Sostenuto
III: Allegro Scherzando

Tracks:

I: Allegro Ma Non Tanto
II: Intermezzo: Adagio
III: Finale: Alla Breve
Introduction: Allegro Vivace
Variation 1: (Precedente)
Thema: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 2: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 3: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 4: Piu Vivo
Variation 5: Tempo Precedente
Variation 6: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 7: Meno Mosso, A Tempo Moderato
Variation 8: Tempo 1
Variation 9: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 10
Variation 11: Moderato
Variation 12: Tempo Di Minuetto
Variation 13: Allegro
Variation 14: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 15: Piu Vivo. Scherzando
Variation 16: Allegretto
Variation 17
Variation 18: Andante Cantabile
Variation 19: A Tempo Vivace
Variation 20: Un Poco Piu Vivo
Variation 21: Un Poco Piu Vivo
Variation 22: Un Poco Piu Vivo (Alla Breve)
Variation 23: L'istesso Tempo
Variation 24: A Tempo Un Poco Mosso

Customer Reviews:

An excellent set now as a compilation........2003-07-11

This is a great set of Rachmaninov recordings, which until recently could only be bought in pieces. EMI deserves praise for making these worthy performances, under direction of Mariss Jansons, available in a box set.

Not only as a recording accomplishment but on artistic grounds as well does this set deserve to be offered as a compilation. The piano concertos are all distinguished and really have not received the exposure that they deserve. Mikhail Rudy offers a fine performance throughout. This set, if it is a straight reissue of the previous Piano Concertos, should also include the original, and very interesting, conclusion to the 4th Piano Concerto. The recording of the Tchaikovsky Piano Concerto No. 1 is also a fine work that has been put into this Rachmaninov box set.

In the symphonies Mariss Jansons makes his own unique stamp on these works and the result is very satisfactory throughout. While one may disagree with some elements of his interpretations, such as his election to do the 2nd and 3rd Symphonies without the exposition repeats, one cannot fault his overall approach and vitality.

In addition to the well-known Vocalise, the listener gets the mysterious and rarely-recorded Scherzo as an additional filler piece.

Tracks:

Symphony No.3 In A Minor, Op.44
The Rock, Op.7
Isle Of The Dead, Op.29
Prelude In C Sharp Minor, Op.3 No.2
Preludes, Op.23 No.1-10
Preludes, Op.32 No.1-13

Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 1; The Isle of the Dead

Average customer rating:

Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 1; The Isle of the Dead

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 3; Symphonic Dances
Shostakovich: Concerto for Cello in E flat; Symphony No. 1 in F Major

ASIN: B0000DIGJK
Release Date: 2005-06-21

Tracks:

I. Grave - Allegro Ma Non Troppo
II. Allegro Animato
III. Larghetto
IV. Allegro Con Fuoco
The Isle Of The Dead, Op. 29

Average customer rating:

Five lesser works from Sergei Rachmaninov
Excellent recording of hard-to-find Rachmaninov gems

Rachmaninov: The Rock

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Rachmaninov: Symphony 2 / Russian Songs

ASIN: B0000AW0XL
Release Date: 2003-09-23

Tracks:

The Rock, Op. 7
Prince Rostislav
Scherzo In D Minor
Caprice Bohemien, Op. 12
The Isle Of The Dead, Op. 29

Customer Reviews:

Five lesser works from Sergei Rachmaninov.......2006-04-15

I'm not really a fan of Rachmaninov's symphonies and piano concertos, but I am a fan of his less well-known works. Having known about this CD a few months back makes me so darn proud of myself. These five symphonic poems are dazzling, pure, and mystical. The Scherzo in D minor, a 5-minute piece, is very catchy. Prince Rostislav sounds otherworldly and unique. The Rock & Isle of the Dead are proof that young Rachmaninov was a genius when he was a beginner in the composing world. Having heard Capriccio Bohemien before, I find this rendition by the Russian State Symphony Orchestra rather dull and bland. Conductor Neeme Jarvi has given the piece more precision and more enthusiasm than Valery Polyansky. But it's not a total loss. I recommend this CD for those who are searching for Rachmaninov's earlier works, the ones before the Piano Concertos and the four Symphonies.

Excellent recording of hard-to-find Rachmaninov gems.......2004-05-18

Until now, those seeking to find well performed and recorded versions of of Rachmaninov's Prince Rostislav, Scherzo In D Minor, and Caprice Bohemien were forced to search for the older Melodiya recordings. This Chandos release delivers on all counts, providing musically and acoustically compelling renditions of these early and overlooked masterpieces in his repertoire, as well as the much more accessible The Rock and The Isle of the Dead. Prince Rostislav is the brooding piece of a young but confident composer, building slowly in intensity and filled with wonderful harmonies and counterpoints. The Scherzo is a short yet lively work, very Russian and quite reminiscent of Tchaikovsky. The Caprice Bohemien represents Rachmaninov's only published piece with a latin (Italian) setting, and it confirms that one need not be Italian or Spanish to successfully compose music that captures the flavor of those countries. All in all, a very successful and appreciated effort by conductor Valery Polyansky and the Russian State Symphony Orchestra.

Sergei Rachmaninoff: The Complete Recordings

Average customer rating:

Save some $ money! Get the newer January 2006 reissue set instead.
6, or Even 7 Stars!
A must have for Piano and classical music lovers
Ah, Rachmaninoff, brilliant star of music, how we adore you
Review from a spoiled modern listener

Sergei Rachmaninoff: The Complete Recordings

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000003FB7
Release Date: 1992-09-15

Tracks:

Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 In C Minor: Moderato; Allegro
Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 In C Minor: Adagio sostenuto
Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 In C Minor: Allegro scherzando
Concerto No. 3, Op. 30 In D Minor: Allegro ma non tanto
Concerto No. 3, Op. 30 In D Minor: Intermezzo: Adagio
Concerto No. 3, Op. 30 In D Minor: Finale: Alla breve

Tracks:

Concerto No. 1, Op, 1 In F Sharp Minor: Vivace
Concerto No. 1, Op, 1 In F Sharp Minor: Andante
Concerto No. 1, Op, 1 In F Sharp Minor: Allegro vivace
Concerto No. 4, Op. 40 In G Minor: Allegro vivace
Concerto No. 4, Op. 40 In G Minor: Largo
Concerto No. 4, Op. 40 In G Minor: Allegro vivace
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Introduction: Allegro vivace
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation I: (Precedente)
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Tema: L'istesso tempo
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation II: L'istesso tempo
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation III: L'istesso tempo
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation IV: Piu vivo
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation V: Tempo precedente
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation VI: L'istesso tempo
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation VII: Meno mosso, a tempo moderato
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation VIII: Tempo I
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation IX: L'istesso tempo
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation X: Poco marcato
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XI: Moderato
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XII: Tempo di minuetto
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XIII: Allegro
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XIV: L'istesso tempo
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XV: Piu vivo scherzando
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XVI: Allegretto
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XVII: (Allegretto)
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XVIII: Andante cantabile
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XIX: A tempo vivace
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XX: Un poco piu vivo
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XXI: Un poco piu vivo
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XXII: Un poco piu vivo (Alla breve)
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XXIII: L'istesso tempo
Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: Variation XXIV: A tempo un poco meno mosso

Tracks:

Isle Of The Dead, Op. 29
Vocalise, Op. 34, No. 14
Symphony No.3, Op. 44 In A Minor: Lento; Allegro moderato
Symphony No.3, Op. 44 In A Minor: Adagio ma non troppo
Symphony No.3, Op. 44 In A Minor: Allegro

Tracks:

Sonata, Op. 30, No. 3 In G: Allegro assai
Sonata, Op. 30, No. 3 In G: Tempo di minuetto, ma molto moderato e grazioso
Sonata, Op. 30, No. 3 In G: Allegro vivace
Sonata D. 574 In A: Allegro moderato
Sonata D. 574 In A: Scherzo: Presto; Trio
Sonata D. 574 In A: Andantino
Sonata D. 574 In A: Allegro vivace
Sonata, Op. 45 In C Minor: Allegro molto ed appassionato
Sonata, Op. 45 In C Minor: Allegretto espressivo alla Romanza
Sonata, Op. 45 In C Minor: Allegro animato

Tracks:

Partita No. 4, BWV 828: Sarabande
Harpsichord Suite No. 5: Air And Variations - 'Harmonious Blacksmith'
Sonata, K. 331: III: Turkish March
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Thema: Allegretto
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation I
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation II
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation III
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation IV
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation V
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation VI
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation VII
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation VIII
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation IX
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation X
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XI
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XII
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XIII
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XIV
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XIX
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XXII
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XXIII
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XXIV
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XXV
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XXVI
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XXVII
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XXVIII
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XXXI
32 Variations, WoO 80 In C Minor: Variation XXXII
Return Home
Polish Songs: The Maiden's Wish
Die schone Mullerin: Das Wandern
Schwanengesang: Serenade
Polonaise No. 2 In E
Songs Without Words, Op. 67: Spinning Song
Impromptu, Op. 90, No. 4 In A Flat
Concert Etude No. 2: Gnomenreigen
Orfeo ed Euridice: Melodie
Etude, Op. 104b, No. 2 In F
Etude, Op. 104b, No. 3 In A Minor
Spanisches Liederspeil: The Smuggler
Minuet, Op. 14, No. 1 In G
Liebesfreud

Tracks:

Sonata No. 2, Op. 35 'Funeral March': Grave; Doppio movimento
Sonata No. 2, Op. 35 'Funeral March': Scherzo
Sonata No. 2, Op. 35 'Funeral March': Marche funebre
Sonata No. 2, Op. 35 'Funeral March': Presto
Carnaval, Op. 9: Preambule
Carnaval, Op. 9: Pierrot
Carnaval, Op. 9: Arlequin
Carnaval, Op. 9: Valse noble
Carnaval, Op. 9: Eusebius
Carnaval, Op. 9: Florestan
Carnaval, Op. 9: Coquette
Carnaval, Op. 9: Replique
Carnaval, Op. 9: Sphinxes
Carnaval, Op. 9: Papillons
Carnaval, Op. 9: A. S. C. H. - S. C. H. A. (Letteres dansantes)
Carnaval, Op. 9: Chiarina
Carnaval, Op. 9: Chopin
Carnaval, Op. 9: Estrella
Carnaval, Op. 9: Reconnaissance
Carnaval, Op. 9: Pantalon et Colombine
Carnaval, Op. 9: Valse allemande
Carnaval, Op. 9: Pganini (Intermezzo)
Carnaval, Op. 9: Aveu
Carnaval, Op. 9: Promenade
Carnaval, Op. 9: Pause
Carnaval, Op. 9: Marche des 'Davidsbundler' contre les Philistins
Nocturne, Op. 9, No. 2 In E Flat
Waltz, Op. 64, No. 2 In C Sharp
Waltz, Op. 64, No. 3
Ballade No. 3, Op. 47 In A Flat
Mazurka, Op. 68, No. 2
Waltz, Op. Posth. In E Minor

Tracks:

Partita No. 3, BWV 1006: Preludio
Partita No. 3, BWV 1006: Gavotte
Partita No. 3, BWV 1006: Gigue
A Midsummer Night's Dream: Scherzo
Liebersfreud
Die schone Mullerin: The Brooklet
Polka de V.R.
Etude-tableau, Op. 39, No. 6 In A Minor
Prelude, Op. 3, No. 2 In C Sharp Minor
Sorochintsy Fair: Hopac
Lullaby, Op. 16, No.1
Tsar Saltan: Flight of the Bumblebee
The Ruins Of Athens: Turkish March
Scherzo In A Flat
The Seasons: November: Troika
Prelude No. 8, Op. 11, No. 8 In F Sharp
One Lives But Once
Powder and Paint
Polka italienne (Piano 4 Hands)

Tracks:

Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 In C Minor: Maderato; Allegro
Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 In C Minor: Adagio sostenuto
Concerto No. 2, Op. 18 In C Minor: Allegro scherzando
Prelude, Op. 23, No. 10 In G Flat
Prelude, Op. 32, No. 3 In E Major
Prelude, Op. 32, No. 7 In F Major
Prelude, Op. 32, No. 6 In F Minor
Etude-tableau, Op. 33, No. 2 in C Major
Etude-tableau, Op. 33, No. 7 In E Flat
Daisies, Op. 38, No. 3
Oriental Sketch
Melodie, Op. 3, No. 3 in E
Serenade, Op. 3, No. 5 In B Flat
Humoresque, Op. 10, No. 5 In G
Lilacs, Op. 21, No. 5
Moment Musical, Op. 16, No. 2 In E Flat

Tracks:

Mazurka, Op. 63, No. 3 In C Sharp Minor
Nocturne, Op. 15, No. 2 In F Sharp
Waltz, Op. 18 'Grande valse brilliante' In E Flat
Waltz, Op. 34, No. 3 'Valse brilliante' In F
Waltz, Op. 64, No. 1 'Minute'
Waltz, Op. 69, No. 2 In B Minor
Waltz, Op. 70, No. 1 In G Flat
Scherzo No. 3, Op. 39 In C Sharp Minor
Waltz, Op. 64, No. 1 'Minute' In D Flat
Le coucou
L'Arlesienne Suite No. 1: Minuet
Carnival Of The Animals: The Swan
Songs Without Words, Op. 67: Spinning Song
Waltz
Lyric Pieces, Op. 12: Elfin Dance
Etude, Op. 28, No. 6 In F Minor
If I Were a Bird
La jongleuse
Dr. Gradus ad Parnassum
Children's Corner: Golliwogg's Cakewalk
The Seasons: November: Troika
Humoresque, Op. 10, No. 2 In G
Waltz, Op. 40, No. 8 In A Flat

Tracks:

Prelude, Op. 23, No. 5 In G Minor
Prelude, Op. 32, No. 12 In G Sharp Minor
Prelude, Op. 3, No. 2 In C Sharp Minor
Prelude, Op. 32, No. 5 In G
Serenade, Op. 3, No. 5 In B Flat
Lilacs, Op. 21, No. 5
Polichinelle, Op. 3, No. 4 In F Sharp Minor
Polka de V.R.
Liebesleid
Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2
Pastorale In E Minor
Theme and Variations
Waltz, Op. 42 'Two - Four' In A Flat
Waltz, Op. 64, No. 3 In A Flat
Polka de V.R.
Bacarolle, Op. 10, No. 3 In G Minor
Prelude, Op. 3, No. 2 In C Sharp Minor

Amazon.com

We remember Rachmaninov today mostly for the music he wrote. But as this set quickly reveals, he was one of the greatest pianists of the 20th century, able to play his own music and a great variety of others with tremendous personality and a technique that is still astonishing. There's no point picking highlights from this set, since they are everywhere. But if you've never heard Rachmaninov play Schumann's Carnaval, try starting there for one of the most imaginative recreations of a piece of music ever recorded. The set also includes Rachmaninov's only recordings as a conductor in two of his own major works. --Leslie Gerber

Customer Reviews:

Save some $ money! Get the newer January 2006 reissue set instead........2006-05-17

At the time of this review, whenever you search for a phrase such as "Rachmaninoff Complete", amazon's search engine always lands on this out-of-print recording (ASIN: B000003FB7) . It's also no fun to see that it costs more than a hundred bucks! But if you type "B000A2AD2S" in the search box, you'll see the new reissued set for half the price. It's the exact same 10 CDs. Just the cover art is different.

Unfortunately, this situation is a common pattern with amazon's listing of classical music: when you use your intuition and type in common-sense search phrases for Bach, Mozart, etc, you often get the ultra-expensive out-of-print ships-in-4-weeks items as the default item. It takes a lot of detective work to find the newer reissue recordings. For example, to find the new reissue without knowing the ASIN, I had to enter just "Rachmaninoff" in the search text (deliberately left the word "Complete" out of the search) so it would no longer lock me into this item page that you're looking at and give me a full listing instead. I then sorted the listing by "Original Release Date" and found it on the 2nd page. There's no picture on the new item which doesn't give you any confidence that you found the right one. Don't worry, B000A2AD2S is what you want.

For product research, it's good to have both ASIN product listings because the older out-of-print B000003FB7 has the sound samples (and also all the helpful customer reviews) while the new B000A2AD2S has the better price and availability.

To make things even more confusing, the amazon staff sometimes copies entire customer reviews to the new item which would then make THIS review seem strangely out of place. If that happens and I notice it, I will delete this review for B000003FB7.

(In another strange twist, amazon searches in rock/pop usually points you to the newer cheaper remastered/repackaged/reissued/whatever of a particular recording. I don't know why it works the opposite way in classical music?!?!)

6, or Even 7 Stars!.......2005-06-04

Hofmann hit the nail on the head when he said Rachmaninov had "arms of steel and heart of gold". From this album, we can have a clear picture of Rachmaninov's vison of music, of his musical mind and thoughts and moreover his own playing.

While Kempff's playing would often remind of the protestant church music, Rachmaninov bring to our mind the chanting of the Orthodox church, which is much thicker and darker. On top of that, his playing is orchestral which is so powerful and full colours. Yet, it is nothing like Richter, where often the whole piece is just one phrase.

Here each piece has it's own life and identity each with a focal point. It is water tight compact and yet very much natural and alive, never as hair-raising as Horowitz. But, it is not natural in Arrau's way. It is somewhere in between, closer to Argerich but with more consistency and depth. And like Casals' playing, it keeps our attention from the first note up to its focal point until its very end. But unlike Casals, he touches our hearts. It is very emotional but never to the point of being sentimental-- the performance of his own concertos, for example, can tell you that.

Sure, he did have fingers of steel that helped him to bring out whatever colour or atmostphere as appropriate. And despite that fact that there are some minor alterations on the scores like his Chopin, he is one of the few pianists who could really show you every note on the score counts and, above all, how it counts...

His Chopin may not be as neurotic as Cortot. Nonetheless, he sheds light on the dark and nervous side of Chopin so well: a very throbbing interpretation that is so unique. We also have him accompanying Kreisler on some violin sonatas, something that one could turn to time and again, year after year. What a great chamber musician and accompanist he was...!

The recorded sound of the CDs do vary, and some are more acceptable than the others. But for genuine music lovers, they should be able to get over this very soon: how else would they benefit from one of the greatest legacies of a genuinely great musician!

A must have for Piano and classical music lovers.......2005-04-04

To respond to a review about the sound quality-for those people who have no experience with historical performances i.e cortot-hofmann-etc these discs are for the most part much better recorded. There are the inevitable pops and hisses but if these things disturb you, or you cant get past them, then you shouldnt be listening to this kind of thing anyway. the importance here is in the playing, and the playing is extra ordinary. I you want to buy a disc for the reperatoire then i can think of hundreds of performances that will satisfy, but only people with a true interest to hear and study these pieces will be beyond satisfied. I know that may not sound like a lot of fun, but these discs are fun, great, and for me, almost too good to be true. Again, if sound disturbs you, then you may be listening to the music for the wrong reasons. Take from it the playing, the revelations that Rach provides to his pieces, and how fortunate we are that it sounds as good as it does.

Ah, Rachmaninoff, brilliant star of music, how we adore you.......2003-09-14

The music of Rachmaninoff is beyond words, furthermore, beyond imagination. He was a genius, no doubt, and nobody will ever understand how incredibly lucky we are to be blessed with his compositions. Furthermore, it is truly astonishing to hear Rachmaninoff play his own work. There is nothing so beautiful on this earth and there never will be.

Review from a spoiled modern listener.......2003-07-13

I'll admit that I'm a spoiled modern listener, accustomed to having the bang and hiss edited out of a recording, and it took me a while to warm to these. Rachmaninoff's performances are splendid, but if you can hardly hear them over the cacophony of background noise, what's the use? His performance of his own, often overlooked Concerto No. 4 finally made me sit up and listen, even though I've owned two versions of this piece for a number of years (Ashkenazy & Wild).

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