Vocalise

On this CD: 1. Rondo (after Beethoven)
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Mary Carewe, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

2. The Protector, for voice & orchestra
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Mervi Hiltunen-Multamaki, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

3. Allegrettango (after Beethoven)
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Jody K. Jenkins, Nina Tapio, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

4. Dona Nobis Pacem
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Mary Carewe, Pamela Thorby, Belinda Sykes, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

5. Akruzam (after Chopin)
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

6. Schwanda the Bagpiper, opera Overture
Composed by Jaromir Weinberger
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

7. Exit Schwanda
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

8. Bendigedig
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Gavin Horsley, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

9. Schubert's Dance (after Schubert)
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Martin Taylor, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

10. Berceuse pour un enfant solitaire
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Kenny Wheeler, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

11. Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5, for voice & 8 cellos, A. 389 Aria (Cantilena)
Composed by Heitor Villa-Lobos
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Richard Harwood, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

12. Mysterious Are Your Ways
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Martin Taylor, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

13. Mi Contra Fa, Diabolus in Musica
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Mary Carewe, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

14. Vocalise, transcriptions for various instruments, Op. 34/14
Composed by Sergey Rachmaninov
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Gavin Horsley, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

15. Boogie Woogie Llanoogie
Composed by Karl Jenkins
Performed by Pieter Schoeman, London Philharmonic Orchestra with Pamela Thorby, Jody K. Jenkins, Adiemus Singers, Nigel Hitchcock, Paul Clarvis
Conducted by Karl Jenkins

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
On Vocalise, the fifth installment in his Adiemus series, composer Karl Jenkins presents his first discernable lyrics (an invocation sung in English on "The Protector") and his first arrangements, quite eclectic, of classical repertoire (imagine a movement of Beethoven's 7th symphony recast as a tango). We also experience brief encounters with jazz guitar (from Martin Taylor), improvisational saxophone (Nigel Hitchcock), Middle East incantations, even backwater harmonica. It is indeed a jumble, and at times Vocalise (i.e., "wordless song") evokes impressions of intermingled jigsaw puzzles where an abundance of pieces never quite coalesce into a whole. Jenkins' most distinctive audio element, his exuberant Munchkins-from-Africa choir singing in a nonliteral phonetic language, is again on display and is best appreciated in small doses (vocalist Miriam Stockley, a centerpiece of early Adiemus works, does not take part). Jenkins' most affecting pieces on this CD are among its quietest: the slow-building "Bendigedig" ("blessed" in Welsh, Jenkins' native tongue) and the title track, a reverent reworking of a Rachmaninov composition of the same name. Even with all its stylistic side trips, at 68 minutes fans should be able to cherry-pick enough highlights (such as the breezy frolic of "Schubert's Dance") to find contentment with this disc. --Terry Wood

Vocalise,Adiemus,Karl Jenkins,Mary Carewe,Belinda Sykes,Martin Taylor,Kenny Wheeler,Pamela Thorby,Mark Feltham,Nigel Hitchcock,Richard Harwood,Terrance Barber,Unspecified,Higher Octave,Choral,Choral Music,Czech 20th/21st Century Opera,Miscellaneous,Miscellaneous Music,New Age,New Age / Meditation,Opera,Orchestral,Orchestral Music,Pop,Solo Voice(s) and Small Ensemble,Vocal,Vocal Music

Vocalise

Vocalise
25 Classical Favorites
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • classic music CD
  • Good for beginners
  • Great mix
  • Good for first-timer
  • 25 Classical Favorites cd
 25 Classical Favorites

Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. 25 Romantic Classics
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ASIN: B0000058HT
Release Date: 1996-01-23

Tracks:

  1. Eine Klein Nachtmusik: (I. Allegro)
  2. Nutcracker Suite: (Russian Dance)
  3. The Four Seasons, Op. 8: (Spring: I. Allegro)
  4. Hungarian Dance No. 5 In G Minor
  5. Symphony in D, K. 161 - 163: (III. Presto)
  6. Waltz In D-Flat Major, Op. 64, No. 1
  7. Tritsch-Tratsch Polka, Op. 214
  8. Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 In G, S. 1048: (III. Allegro)
  9. Swan Lake: (Dance Of The Swans)
  10. Carmen Suite No. 2: (Habanera)
  11. Messiah: (Overture)
  12. Wind Serenade 'The Marriage Of Figaro': Overture
  13. Violin Concerto No. 1 In G Minor, Op. 12: (III. Allegro)
  14. Water Music: (Overture)
  15. Sleeping Beauty Ballet Suite, Op. 66: (Panorama)
  16. Symphony No. 26 In E-flat Major, K. 184: (III. Allegro)
  17. Waltz No. 10 In B Minor, Op. 69 No. 2
  18. Violin Concerto No. 1 In A Minor, S. 1041: (III. Allegro)
  19. Water Music: (Lentement)
  20. Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 In G Major, S. 1049: (II. Andante)
  21. Habanera
  22. Horn Concerto No. 3 In E-Flat Major, K. 447: (II. Romanza)
  23. Rhapsody On A Theme By Paganini, Op. 43: (Variation No. 18)
  24. Thunder And Lightning Polka, Op. 324
  25. Stars And Stripes Forever

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars classic music CD.......2007-06-27

The CD was well represented by the clips on the Amazon website and came in time for our event. We did have a problem with the charge but that was taken care of promptly. Great service.

4 out of 5 stars Good for beginners.......2007-02-15

It is an excellent collection of classical music. I would recommend this CD if you have a friend who don't like classical music, since it has the most beautiful overtures and portions of famous artists. If you are a Classic Music Savvy you probably will not be impressed by it, unless you want to play the CD as background music in a friends gathering.

4 out of 5 stars Great mix.......2007-02-14

All the best composers! Over an hour of music. A samble of the greatest pieces.

5 out of 5 stars Good for first-timer.......2007-01-22

This is the first time I have ever bought a classical music CD and I was very pleased with this one. It has a good variety of selections. I would buy it again.

5 out of 5 stars 25 Classical Favorites cd.......2007-01-06

This CD has so many of my favorite, lively classical music -- love it!!
The Essential Yo-Yo Ma
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • pure genius
  • Another great Yo-Yo Disc
  • first disc great- second a flop
  • Encore
  • The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma
 The Essential Yo-Yo Ma

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
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ASIN: B000A7Q29G
Release Date: 2005-08-16

Tracks:

  1. Prde from Suite No. 1 in G Major for Cello, BWV 1007
  2. II. Largo from "Winter", Op. 8, No. 4, RV 297 from the Four Seasons
  3. Jesus, bleibet meine Freude (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring), BWV 147
  4. Schafe kn sicher weiden (Sheep May Safely Graze), BWV 208
  5. Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (Sleepers Awake), BWV 645
  6. The Swan from Carnival of the Animals (Chamber Version)
  7. Havanaise, Op. 83
  8. Mtation from Tha
  9. Liebesfreud Instrumental
  10. Allegro ben ritmato e deciso from Three Preludes
  11. Vocalise Vocal
  12. IV. Allegro from Sonata in D minor for Cello and Piano, Op. 40
  13. Andante Cantabile for Cello Solo and String Orchestra, Op. posth.
  14. IV. Rondo alla Zingarese. Presto from Quartet No. 1 in G minor for Piano and Strings, Op. 25
  15. III. Finale. Allegro moderato from Concerto in B minor for Cello and Orchestra, Op. 104

Tracks:

  1. Cristal
  2. A lenda do caboclo
  3. Chega de Saudade Live
  4. Wapango Live
  5. Libertango
  6. Appalachia Waltz Solo Cello Version
  7. Butterfly's Day Out
  8. 1B
  9. Pickin' from Three Pieces for Solo Cello
  10. Simple Gifts
  11. The Mission
  12. Gabriel's Oboe
  13. The Falls Album Version
  14. The Eternal Vow from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
  15. The Cellist of Sarajevo - A Lament in Rondo Form for Solo 'Cello, Op. 12
  16. Chi passa per'sta strada
  17. Mido Mountain (Chinese Traditional)
  18. Mohini (Enchantment)
  19. Baroque in Rhythm from Suite for Cello and Jazz Piano Trio
  20. Anything Goes Instrumental
  21. I Could Have Danced All Night Extended version

Amazon.com

Here are three dozen pieces of music, all played by Yo-Yo Ma, culled from his extensive discography. Aside from the technical mastery and beautiful tone that are absolutes in all of his playing, one is dazzled by his curiosity and ability to adapt to so many forms and types of music. His Bach and Vivaldi are pellucid and played with non-sentimental crispness, his tango music gritty and rhythmically pungent, his jazz seemingly spontaneous, the "Meditation" from Thais simply ravishing, "Anything Goes" a romp, and the Appalachian music performed with both respect and a great twang, while the traditional Chinese music is fascinating. It's really a matter of how much Ma loves whatever he plays here, how entirely he becomes involved in it, and what a fine partner he invariably is to other musicians. This collection is a doozy--it is truly "essential." --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars pure genius.......2007-05-21

No instrument asks more from the soul of an artist as the cello does.
Yo Yo Ma shows to be master of the instrument and his interpretations en technique are pure genius. Everyone should have this album in his (or hers of course) basic classical collection

4 out of 5 stars Another great Yo-Yo Disc.......2007-05-15

The set-up with the classical pieces on the first disc and the other on the second is excellent.

3 out of 5 stars first disc great- second a flop.......2007-04-12

the first disc is awesome. the second disc is weird and boring.

5 out of 5 stars Encore.......2007-03-31

Incredible. My young cellist (son) loves it. Beautiful music. The album is well organized and each song transitions nicely.

5 out of 5 stars The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma.......2007-03-29

I've found this collection to be extremely delightful! It gives you a sense of the versatility of Yo-Yo Ma like no other, with one disc being dedicated more to his classical side, while the other explores jazz and world music venues. Not your typical "greatest hits" collection.
Sergei Rachmaninoff: Greatest Hits
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Yes
  • A decent introduction to the music of Rachmaninoff
  • Great Collection of "Hits"
  • One of the best CD I own
 Sergei Rachmaninoff: Greatest Hits

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002A1L
Release Date: 1994-08-09

Tracks:

  1. Vocalise, Op. 34, No. 14
  2. Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: III. Allegro scherzando
  3. Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini, Op. 43: 18th Variation
  4. Symphony No. 2 In E Minor, Op. 27: III. Adagio
  5. Prelude In G Minor, Op. 23, No. 5
  6. Prelude In G-Sharp Minor, Op. 32, No. 12
  7. Prelude in C-sharp minor, Op. 3, No. 2
  8. Cello Sonata In G Minor, Op. 19: II. Allegro scherzando
  9. Etude-tableau In D Major, Op. 39, No. 9
  10. Six Pieces, Op. 11: Scherzo
  11. Six Pieces, Op. 11: Slava
  12. Symphonic Dances, Op. 45: III. Lento assai

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Yes.......2003-04-03

This is a marvelous collection. There were a few pieces I wish that it would include, such as the rest of his Piano Concerto No.2, or perhaps The Rock, but the fact that the performances are generally great and the recording quality is near-perfect makes up for that.

I would recommend this to anyone who is just starting to become interested in the works of Sergei Rachmaninov.

4 out of 5 stars A decent introduction to the music of Rachmaninoff.......2001-08-12

Sergi Rachmaninoff was the last of the great Romantic composers, especially since the Romantic period had ended for European artists when he was at his height. Although a composer and a conductor, Rachmaninoff was also a virtuoso pianist, which explains why his best compositions feature the piano, either in solo work or with an orchestra. His "Prelude in C-Sharp Minor," which he wrote when he was 20, made him famous throughout the world. This collection also includes several other preludes, "Vocalise," and the famous 18th Variation (Andnate cantible) from Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini. My only serious complaint about this collection as an introduction to Rachmaninoff is that it only has one movement from his Second Piano Concerto and I have other CDs that include the entire work, which I thing is a good idea.

4 out of 5 stars Great Collection of "Hits".......2000-06-22

This is actually not a bad collection of Greatest Hits. Usually the problem with collections like these is that they have bad recordings and not very good performances but some of these ones are actually okay, and it features performances by Yo-Yo Ma and Emanuel Ax among others. In general these are the works of art you think of when you think of Rachmaninoff and so these pieces are a perfect representation of his style.

5 out of 5 stars One of the best CD I own.......1999-12-30

This is one of the best I own. The music is so great, hard to explain...so moving, especially the first track. It reminds me of Russia a lot. I listen to it everyday while driving to work. I highly recommend it.
Rostropovich, Master Cellist
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Rostropovich stands out like a dazzling star
  • The flight of no return!
  • Rostropovich at 75 - A Look Back
 Rostropovich, Master Cellist

Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Schubert, Debussy / Rostropovich, Britten
  2. Bach: Cello Suites Nos. 1-6
  3. Brahms: The Cello Sonatas
  4. Dvorak & Saint-Saens: Cello Concertos
  5. Great Recordings Of The Century - Beethoven: Triple Concerto; Brahms: Double Concerto / Oistrakh, Rostropovich, Richter

ASIN: B000062R5A
Release Date: 2002-04-02

Tracks:

  1. Concerto For Cello And Orchestra In B Minor Op. 104: Allegro
  2. Concerto For Cello And Orchestra In B Minor Op. 104: Adagio Ma Non Troppo
  3. Concerto For Cello And Orchestra In B Minor Op. 104: Finale. Allegro Moderato
  4. Concerto For Cello And Orchestra In A Minor: Nicht Zu Schnell
  5. Concerto For Cello And Orchestra In A Minor: Langsam
  6. Concerto For Cello And Orchestra In A Minor: Sehr Lebhaft
  7. Andante Cantabile Op. Posth. For Cello And String Orchestra: Andante Cantabile Op. Posth.
  8. Chand Du Menstrel Op. 71 For Cello And Orchestra: Chant Du Menestrel

Tracks:

  1. Sonata For Piano And Cello In G Minor Op.19: Lento - Allegro Moderato
  2. Sonata For Piano And Cello In G Minor Op.19: Allegro Scherzando
  3. Sonata For Piano And Cello In G Minor Op.19: Andante
  4. Sonata For Piano And Cello In G Minor Op.19: Allegro Mosso
  5. Introduction And Polonaise Brillante For Cello And Piano In C Major Op.3: Introduction And Polonaise Brillante For Cello And Piano In C Major
  6. Vocalise Op.34 No.14: Vocalise
  7. Impromptu In G Flat Major D 899 No.3: Impromptu In G Flat Major
  8. Kinderszenen Op.5 No.7 Scenes From Childhood: Traumerei - Dreaming

Amazon.com

Mstislav Rostropovich's 75th birthday is the occasion for this two-disc set of prime recordings by the protean artist. The Dvorák Concerto with Karajan's overrefined conducting, one of the better of the cellist's five recordings of this masterpiece, is not as lively as his version with Ozawa or as idiomatic as his early recording with Talich and the Czech Philharmonic in monophonic sound. The Schumann Concerto, here with Rozhdestvensky and the Leningrad Philharmonic, is incisively Romantic, but disciplined and done with a ravishing tone, vividly recorded. It's superior to his later, indulgent version with Bernstein. The charming short pieces by Tchaikovsky and Glazunov are also irresistible for Rostropovich's gorgeous playing. Disc two partners him in solo pieces with pianist Alexander Dedyukhin, the centerpiece being Rachmaninov's Sonata, overflowing with lovely melodies played to the hilt by the cellist. The shorter works include transcriptions, perfect encore fare perfectly played. This set is a feast for Rostropovich's fans. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Rostropovich stands out like a dazzling star.......2007-05-20

As difficult a period as the 20th century was ... and all the more so in the soviet union -- Rostropovich stands out like a dazzling star. He represented some the finest levels of musical art that man can achieve -- a triumph of the human spirit.

In the 21st century in the western world, we are witness to the decline of the art form known as "classical music"... with nothing comparable or better on the horizon to replace it. As the 6 billion people of the earth, soon to be 9 billion, struggle for light and space ... there are ominous reverberations in the arts.

Thank God the few of us left who love this music have recordings of men like Rostopovitch ... always with the hope that the fire will be passed on to new generations of performers and composers who will catch the spirit and breath new life into the world.

5 out of 5 stars The flight of no return!.......2007-05-02


This genius of the cello left us April 27th. For the recent music newcomers this name is synonymous of a talented musician, but Rostropovich meant for the music much more than a privileged and sheer artist. His multiple activities as soloist performer and conductor ranked such historical achievements that hardly could be resumed in this little note.

His loss is extremely significant, due he embodied the goal of a total artist. Reader, thinker, and always worried by his country, he knew about so many unsaid details of the missed U.R.S.S, and his narrow collaboration with Dimitri Shostakovich make of him a essential part of the musical History of the last Century With his departure a cycle ends. Fortunately his enormous musical bequeath stand out through the years to come, as striking evidence of his egregious talent.

Hail and farewell!

5 out of 5 stars Rostropovich at 75 - A Look Back.......2003-09-19

To celebrate the 75th year of the birth of cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, the various labels he recorded with over his illustrious career have issued several excellent collections. EMI outdid themselves by issuing, among other sets, the breathtaking 13-CD box set "The Russian Years," featuring rare recordings and numerous premieres made by Rostropovich during his tenure behind the Iron Curtain. That set's a hard one to match, but the two-disc "Master Cellist: Legendary Recordings 1956-78" comes close. What it lacks in quantity, "Master Cellist" makes up for in quality. It contains arguably the single best recording ever made of the Dvorak Cello Concerto (with von Karajan), an excellent Schumann Concerto, and stunning shorter works for cello and orchestra by Tchaikovsky and Glazunov. These are legendary accounts for sure, but no big deal to most serious collectors because they are, or have been, previously available on CD. But what made me trade in my DG Originals disc of the Dvorak Concerto, and get "Master Cellist" was disc two of this set. It features four glorious works for cello and piano, never before released on CD, with Slava's long-time collaborator, pianist Alexander Dedyukhin. They are all, along with the Rach Sonata, quite simply sublime. Rostropovich will sadly not live another 75 years, but his legacy will live on for at least that long thanks to magical recordings like these.
Hush
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Hush ... you don't want to miss a single note!
  • Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin
  • Yo-Yo keeps on experimental
  • This is no "Don't Worry, Be Happy"
  • Excellent CD!
 Hush

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. The Mozart Sessions
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ASIN: B0000027VR
Release Date: 1992-01-28

Tracks:

  1. Grace
  2. Concerto In D Minor For 2 Mandolins: Andante
  3. The Legend Of Tsar Saltan: Flight Of The Bumblebee
  4. Stars
  5. Hush Little Baby
  6. Vocalise
  7. Notebook For Anna Magdalena Bach: Musette
  8. Coyote
  9. Sonata For 2 Cellos: Allegro prestissimo
  10. Ave Maria
  11. Hoedown!
  12. Orchestral Suite No. 3: Air
  13. Good-Bye

Amazon.com

The idea here was to put two masters together--one classical cellist, one improvisational singer/sound-effects performer--and voilà! instant amazing, unique, hip--and, hopefully, hit--record. The intriguing setup was to see what would happen when each led the other through the unfamiliar territory of his own specialty. The success of this recording lies not so much in the music or even in the overall performances, but in the fascinating and fun opportunity to sit in on the musicians' good-natured, respectful give-and-take, to witness an uncommon form of artistic chemistry that allows each performer to expand his vision and even his technique. On one hand we get Bobby McFerrin's impressionistic, improvisatory jazz/pop; on the other we enjoy Yo-Yo Ma's highly refined, formalized musicianship. Originally planned as a disc for children, Hush goes far beyond its initial premise, with each of the 13 tracks demonstrating these musicians' unique gifts and showing that, whether it's Vivaldi or jazz, it's all music and it's all a lot of fun. --David Vernier

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Hush ... you don't want to miss a single note!.......2007-07-28

It is July 27, 2007 and Bobby McFerrin is performing solo here in Vancouver, Canada tonight. I almost went to see him, but decided against it at the last minute, owing to a lack of good seats that remained. I may regret it for a long, long time...

In my CD collection are good works by Yo-Yo Ma and very fine ones by Bobby McFerrin, separately. But it was a stroke of great luck that the local library had this incredible CD available when I dropped by tonight, in lieu of the concert, for having these two virtuosos perform together on the same recording is like photosynthesis, the bringing together of powerful forces to trigger a miracle. The miracle is life, the vitality of the artists and their uniquely creative musical expression. Every music lover and musician should give this CD a close listen!!! I can think of no better gauge of the carefree and wide-eyed youth that hopefully still thrives inside, whatever may be your biological age, than this soulfull expose.

5 out of 5 stars Yo-Yo Ma and Bobby McFerrin.......2007-05-12

This CD is one of my favorites. I give it away and buy another. Playful and fun as well as great music. It never fails to make me laugh. A joy. If you aren't a little silly, don't bother. Kids love it, too.

5 out of 5 stars Yo-Yo keeps on experimental.......2006-03-04

One of the best parts of a genius is to try out of his layers. In this case Yo-Yo tried to go out from the classic, and with a very good singer, in a easy say, as Bobby. They make a very special music between classic and jazz, with some elements of pop.
It's an incredible fusion of strings and vocal strings, in some moments it is not possible to separate them, some times is like a big keyboard directed by a single musician. In a word, they experiment, and the result was incredible.

5 out of 5 stars This is no "Don't Worry, Be Happy".......2005-10-23

Have never been a big Bobby McFerrin fan, probably due to that god-awful, "Don't Worry, Be Happy." But I am a classical music junkie and one day listening to our local classical station I heard a selection that I thought was the most beautiful thing I had ever heard. What a shock when I learned that it was McFerrin and Yo-Yo Ma doing Vivaldi's Andante!

Honestly, I could do without the non-classical pieces on this CD...although I enjoy them.

But the classical interpretations are some of the most heavenly, wonderful, beautiful, awe-inspiring things that I have ever heard, on any CD, in any genre! Yes, that good!

McFerrin uses his voice as the perfect instrument and accompanient to Ma's cello. They were made for each other.

Listen to the samples of the classical pieces if you're a doubter...

5 out of 5 stars Excellent CD!.......2005-09-22

While I admit to being a newbie in my connoisseurship of the classical music genre, not only do I think that this disc is a good collection of some of the best classical music ever written, it is actually FUN sometimes, with silly bits thrown in by Bobby and Yo-Yo Ma every now and then! These guys make great music and have a great time making it.

Bobby uses his voice as a fantastic sounding 'instrument' to sing notes much like an instrument playing a duet with Yo-Yo; sometimes his voice sounds so much like a real instrument that you even forget that you are hearing vocals--I don't even know what other vocalist could pull this off. It is a fascinating experiment. I recommend it highly!
Classic Yo-Yo
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • New Yo-Yo Fan
  • Simply wonderful!
  • Awesome
  • What is this?
  • Great if you're not familiar with Yo-Yo Ma
 Classic Yo-Yo

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Vivaldi's Cello
  2. The Essential Yo-Yo Ma
  3. Obrigado Brazil
  4. Simply Baroque
  5. Soul of the Tango: The Music of Astor Piazzolla

ASIN: B00005OAY5
Release Date: 2001-09-18

Tracks:

  1. Unaccompanied Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major
  2. Prelude
  3. Fear Tango
  4. Butterfly's Day Out
  5. Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan
  6. Slavonic Dance No. 2 in E minor, Op.72
  7. Three Preludes
  8. Allegro ben ritmato e deciso
  9. American Collection Theme
  10. Sonata for Cello and Piano in F Major, Op. 99
  11. IV. Allegro molto
  12. The Eternal Vow from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
  13. Erbarme dich (Matthdus-Passion)
  14. Quartet for Piano & Strings No. 2 in G minor, Op. 45
  15. IV. Allegro molto
  16. Vocalise
  17. Libertango
  18. Simple Gifts
  19. Appalachia Waltz

Amazon.com

Except for one "previously unreleased" recording and two new ones, this is a compilation of segments taken from older Yo-Yo Ma CDs, perhaps to whet listeners' appetite to hear the entire records. The disc represents a triumph of performance over material. The program consists of short pieces and single movements of long ones and serves to display Yo-Yo Ma's extraordinary versatility, his spectacular instrumental and musical gifts, and his remarkable ability to invest everything he plays with the same commitment and emotional concentration. There is no logic to the sequence, except that it begins and ends with solo cello. Bach, whom Ma plays tuned normally when unaccompanied and tuned low with the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, may justify the CD's title but seems out of place. Moreover, juxtaposing him with O'Connor and Piazzolla is jarring, though the Tangos are beautiful. The transcription of Dvorák's lovely E-minor Slavonic Dance, despite the participation of violinist Itzhak Perlman and his golden tone, sounds like a movie soundtrack: all bravura and cheap effects. The playing's the thing, and it is stunning, not only Yo-Yo Ma's, but that of all his collaborators, from vocalists Bobby McFerrin and Alison Krauss to pianist Emanuel Ax, Ma's duo partner of 25 years. Ax joins Ma for the Finale of Brahms's second cello sonata; that is what you may find yourself humming at the end. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars New Yo-Yo Fan.......2006-07-09

I had never listened to Yo-Yo Ma before (that I knew of) and then I was at a dance recital a few months ago. Two little ballerinas danced to "Simple Gifts" with Alison Kraus, and I had to have that song. I really enjoy playing this album when my family is just hanging out reading or playing with the baby in the living room. Each piece is unique and beautiful in its own way. Simple Gifts is still my favorite piece on the album, I only wish it were longer!

5 out of 5 stars Simply wonderful!.......2006-06-04

I recently got this CD as a birthday gift. I've been wanting this CD for a while. The first track is a wonderful song in all reality the entire CD is a wonderful experience. The prelude by Gershwin is unique sounding with the cello. The jazz quality is still there and has a bit of classical influence intertwined among it. Yo-Yo Ma's recording of Simple Gifts is a good song and when they had the lyrics sung by Alison Krauss it was a wonderful choice. Her vocals matched the cello incredibly well. Track 8 is a wonderful song that I love to hear being played on the cello. For any person who loves classical music or cello music this CD is a good choice to buy. It will be well worth your money.

5 out of 5 stars Awesome.......2004-08-20

While most people on this site see the "classic" in the title of the album as referring to classical music only, they are mistaken. Classic Yo-Yo refers to his style, not the genre into which his music choices fall. The list of tracks alone should have been a big enough clue that the music isn't all classical. Judging this album, or any album for that matter, on just its title is simply foolish. And while this is technically a solo album, the way Yo-Yo brings in guest artists to perform with him shows his flexibility as an artist. His version of Simple Gifts is so much more than a school chorus; it is an amazing cellist playing the accompaniment on a song that is meant to be sung.

On a more positive note, I found every track beautiful, from the elegant solo cello in the Bach cello suite to the haunting vocal line in the Bobby McFerrin piece. Yo-Yo Ma gathered a wide range of intriguing pieces to make this fantastic album.

2 out of 5 stars What is this?.......2004-02-10

This is a compilation of many different styles; look Yo-Yo can play bluegrass! Not really "Classic" Yo-Yo.

3 out of 5 stars Great if you're not familiar with Yo-Yo Ma.......2002-12-27

This CD is a good sample of what yo-yo ma has acheived in his musical career, if you want a more in depth listening of his talents than I suggest getting the simply baroque CD. The only thing that I didn't like about this cd was that the compositions were to mixed up in the genres. There was a bit of classical, some movie works, a great song by John Williams, and some of The Tango series music. If you would rather listen to one genre, get a CD that just has Classical or Contemerary, don't get a jack of all trades cd.
Gabriela Montero plays Chopin, Falla, Ginestera, etc. [Includes Bonus CD]
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Gabriela Montero CDs
  • Non-professional Review
  • Absolutely Magnificent!
  • Improvisations Unbelievable!
  • A beautiful breath of fresh air!
 Gabriela Montero plays Chopin, Falla, Ginestera, etc. [Includes Bonus CD]

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0009VK0LO
Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

  1. Moment Musical In E Mino Op. 12 No. 4
  2. Prelude In G Op.32 No.5
  3. Etude-Tableau In D Op.39 No.9
  4. Prelude in D Flat Op.17 No.3
  5. Prelude In E Flat Minor Op.16 No.4
  6. Prelude In G Op.13 No.3
  7. Etude in C Sharp Minor Op.42 No.5
  8. La Vida Breve: First Spanish Dance - Manuel De Falla
  9. Goyescas: Quejas O La Maya Y El Ruisenor
  10. Danza Del Viejo Boyero
  11. Danza De La Moza Donosa
  12. Danza Del Gaucho Matrero
  13. Nocturne In D Flat Op.27 No.2
  14. Fantaisie-Impromptu In C Sharp Minor Op.66
  15. Mephisto Waltz No.1

Tracks:

  1. On Rachmaniov: Vocalise
  2. On The Theme From Bach 'Goldberg Variations'
  3. On Chopin: Nocturne In D Flat
  4. On Rachmaninov: Piano Concerto No.2
  5. Inspired By Scriabin
  6. On Duermete Mi Nino
  7. In The Style Of Tango
  8. On Granados: 'Quejas O La Maya El Ruisenor'
  9. In The Style Of Bach
  10. On Chopin: Prelude In A
  11. 'Improvisation in Blue (Gabriela Montero)'
  12. 'Song for Natalia and Isabella (Gabriela Montero)'

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Gabriela Montero CDs.......2007-06-12

Excellent service -- speedy, just as described, well-packaged. I'd definitely buy from this seller again.

5 out of 5 stars Non-professional Review.......2007-03-27

Okay, I listen almost exclusively to classical music, but I do so simply for the pleasure and nothing more. I cannot tell you about Gabriela Montero's technique, and, when she improvises, I have no ability to judge the music's intrinsic value, authenticity, or whatever. I can only tell you this: while I own many dozens of albums, running the full spectrum of the classical genre, I value none of them above Montero's Bach and Beyond and her Piano Recital. Pure listening joy!

5 out of 5 stars Absolutely Magnificent!.......2007-03-09

I first saw Gabriela Montero on 60 Minutes a few months ago and was taken by her playing ability as well as her ability to improvise on the classics. Ms. Montero's fingers fly over the keyboard, playing Rachmaninoff more dramatically and key-perfect than I've heard in a long time. I decided to purchase this CD and have not been disappointed.

5 out of 5 stars Improvisations Unbelievable!.......2007-01-26

Gabriela Montero is a tremendous talent, both in standard classical repertoire, and improvisation. I have know her since she was a young girl, and she was by far the best pianist around, even then. She is an undersung pianist of our age, and should rise to the top very soon!

5 out of 5 stars A beautiful breath of fresh air!.......2007-01-20

What a sheer delight hearing her play. I've never heard anyone quite like her. A phenomenally gifted player, and it's a rare treat to hear someone who defies pigeonholing. I had heard her on the radio, and knew I was onto something when her improvisation on a very simple theme gave me the chills. I love both CD's in this collection.

It's interesting hearing the negative response coming from some classical musicians and fans. At times it can seem to roughly follow the stages of grief as proposed by Kubler-Ross. I'm a professional guitarist, and it's funny because it's almost identical to how guitarists react to hearing another guitarist, but with an big class-conscious overlay (all very civilized, of course). Think of the "guitarist screwing in a lightbulb" joke. To paraphrase and extrapolate on what someone might say upon hearing her improvisation:

1. Shock: Wow, he's good. Oh, and it's a woman!? And you say it's improvisation??

2. Denial: That can't possibly be improvisation. Classical musicians don't engage in that untidy process. What she's playing must be written out, and I can tell! Don't ask, I just know it.

3. Anger: This stuff is no good. Only permanent music is of value through the ages, and that's why classical music (and only the European kind) is better than any other music. Besides, I can't improvise, so I reject it - and only THOSE people engage in improvisation.

4. Depression: She can play all the classical music, and seemingly can improvise, or at least pass her stuff off as such. Not only that, she's getting attention and money, and we're not. Why is the world unfair?

5. Acceptance: (sort of) Well, I guess she's selling CD's, and is becoming successful. She is, I hate to admit it, a great player. Even if she is a faker. Of course, they're begging my Muffy to become artist-in-residence in Spoleto....

The other reviewer has a point when he says that she may be viewed as a curiosity. Because she's crossing genres, people may not know what to make of it, and this often causes reflexive hostility. As an improvisor, I would agree that it's hard to say that something is 100% improvised - players tend to have pet phrases and favorite general ideas they return to. But to me, Gabriela's playing is at the highest level of skill, beauty, and feeling, whether improvising or playing written pieces.
Ravel: Greatest Hits
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Ravels Greatest hits
 Ravel: Greatest Hits

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002A27
Release Date: 1994-08-09

Tracks:

  1. Bolero
  2. Pavane For A Dead Princess
  3. Alborada Del Gracioso
  4. Rapsodie espagnole: Feria
  5. Le tombeau de Couperin: Rigaudon
  6. La Valse
  7. Piece In The Form Of A Habanera
  8. Mother Goose Suite: The Fairy Garden
  9. Daphnis et Chloe, Suite No. 2: Daybreak
  10. Daphnis et Chloe, Suite No. 2: Pantomime
  11. Daphnis et Chloe, Suite No. 2: General Dance

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Ravels Greatest hits.......2007-07-20

Listen to the genuis of Ravel on a clean sounding recording that you can enjoy time and time again without deterioration.Be advised the recording levels are not dampened so dinner guests and headset wearers will certainly be awokened especially at the end of Bolero.If you listen closely the music pages can be heard turning ,nice sense of being there ,get the cd they dont make em like this anymore.
Itzhak Perlman's Greatest Hits
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Selection of Songs?
  • If you are a violin lover, buy it
  • This is "THE" Greatest Hits alum by Perlman
  • This is a relaxing, however, somewhat disjointed collection.
 Itzhak Perlman's Greatest Hits

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002RZO
Release Date: 1998-02-17

Tracks:

  1. Salut D'amour, Op.12
  2. Songs Without Words, Op.19: Sweet Remembrance
  3. Humoresque
  4. Berceuse, Op.16
  5. Flight Of The Bumble-Bee
  6. The Girl With The Flaxen Hair
  7. The Swan
  8. Cavatina, Op.85, No.3
  9. The Old Folks At Home
  10. Liebesfreud
  11. Moto perpetuo, Op.11
  12. Vocalise, Op.34, No.14
  13. String Quartet Op.11, No.1: Andante cantabile
  14. Songs My Mother Taught Me, Op.55, No.4
  15. Guitarre, Op.45, No.2
  16. Romance In A Major, Op.94, No.2
  17. Nocturne In E Flat, Op.55, No.2
  18. Zapateado, Op.23

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Selection of Songs?.......2006-07-02

Perlman is a man of extraordinary clarity and tonality also one of my favorite violinists. After I finish practicing a piece I usually find a recording to listen to different interpretations. Most of them are by Perlman and Heifetz. Unfortunately this album has some obscure songs and the songs itself do not do justice to Perlman what some other songs may have done. Still it is important to broaden the scope, so I would recommend this to all music connoisseurs :). btw i'm only 16 so...don't take this review too literal huh?

5 out of 5 stars If you are a violin lover, buy it.......2003-01-19

It's beautiful. Simply put.

5 out of 5 stars This is "THE" Greatest Hits alum by Perlman.......2000-12-03

Perlam is already a great player like the whole world knows. But the music selection couldn't better! I espacily like the piano accomplimant. Perlman pays the pieces with true style. The working realtionship between Perlman and the Pianist is truly incredible. Before geting any of Perlman's other greatest hits albums, get this one!

3 out of 5 stars This is a relaxing, however, somewhat disjointed collection........1998-11-12

This collection of familiar tunes will provide a relaxing hour with one of the world's premier violinists. However, the combination of "The Old Folks at Home" and "Motto perpetuo" is somewhat difficult to assimilate. At any rate, Perlman is a listener's joy!
Renee Fleming: By Request
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Not all the arias were her best
  • DIDN'T QUITE FULFIL MY REQUEST
  • Fair Enough
  • Fleming's High Points Well Covered in Compilation CD
  • Beautiful indeed!
 Renee Fleming: By Request
Vincenzo Bellini , Alfredo Catalani , Antonin Dvorak , George Gershwin , Erich Wolfgang Korngold , Jules Massenet , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Giacomo Puccini , Sergey Rachmaninov , Richard Rodgers , Richard Strauss , Giuseppe Verdi , Heitor Villa-Lobos , Georg Solti , James Levine , Jeffrey Tate , Patrick Summers , Sir Charles Mackerras , Lee Ritenour , Chamber Orchestra of Europe , and Renee Fleming
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000C3ICO
Release Date: 2003-09-16

Tracks:

  1. O Mio Babbino Caro
  2. Ebben? ... Ne Andro Lontana
  3. Porgi, Amor
  4. Come Scoglio
  5. Casta Diva
  6. E Strano...Ah Fors E Lui...Sempre Libera
  7. Un Bel Di Vedremo
  8. Je Marche Sur Tous Les Chemins...Gavotte
  9. Mesicku Na Nebi Hlubokem (O Silver Moon)
  10. Vocalise
  11. Cacilie
  12. Marietta's Lied
  13. Summertime
  14. Bachianas Brasileiras No.5: Aria (Cantilena)
  15. You'll Never Walk Alone

Amazon.com

This is a compilation--plus three previously unreleased selections--of some of the glorious Renée Fleming's finest work, 15 selections covering 13 composers. The rose-in-full-bloom quality of the voice is staggeringly beautiful: Her rendition of Rusalka's "Song to the Moon" is justly famous and is, alone, worth the price of this CD. Other highlights are Marietta's Lied from Korngold's Die tote stadt, an odd arrangement of the aria from Villa-Lobos's Bachianas Brasilerias No. 5, Manon's Gavotte, and a knock-down-gorgeous reading of Gershwin's "Summertime." The three new recordings are of Violetta's big first-act scene from La traviata, which features one of the most perfect trills heard since Joan Sutherland, a thrilling Cäcilie (R. Strauss), and a version of "You'll Never Walk Alone" which is so over the-top that it might make you look away in embarrassment. On the basis of this CD, one would have to acknowledge that Fleming is more interested in--and more successful at--pure singing than she is at character delineation (Butterfly sounds oddly like Wally who sounds too much like Norma), but it's not hard to tell why she's a superstar. Her voice and technique are one in a million. --Robert Levine

Album Details

"by Request" is a Collection of Fleming's Greatest and Most Popular Recordings Including Works by Mozart, Bellini, Pucchini, Verdi and Dvorak. Featuring Recordings from Renee Fleming's Outstanding Decca Discography Together with Two Glorious Tracks Strauss "Cacilie" and Verdi's "la Traviata" a Role Fleming Performed to Critical Aclaim Earlier in 2003.

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Not all the arias were her best.......2005-01-15

There is something lacking. Although most of these are indeed her "Best" releases, some things could have been left out. Her O Mio Babbino Caro and her Casta Diva weren't her best efforts at all. Casta Diva, sung to perfection by other revered artists, sounded too breathy and fearful here. It has good chest notes, and it is definitely better than Joan Sutherland's Norma though. Her O Mio Babbino Caro is the usual aria sung in its usual way, without leaving any trace of awe at an ability of a singer to interpret the aria. Rachmaninov's Vocalise was good, and it was great of Decca to release her Song to the Moon on this disc. However, some new additions weren't all that good as well. For example, if you listen to her excerpt from La Traviata, you will find that she sounds like she was singing jazz when uttering out "Gioir!". I think Decca should have issued the live performance version of this instead. That was so much better. Also, they should have showcased more of the bel canto repertoire she had specialized in. That would have made this CD a gem!

4 out of 5 stars DIDN'T QUITE FULFIL MY REQUEST.......2004-11-22

THIS CD DEFINITELY BRINGS OUT THE BEST IN HER REPERTOIRE. SHE IS SOLID, WARM, AND BRILLIANT ON MOST OF THE SONGS. SINCE I OWN MANY OF HER CDS MOST OF THE TRACKS I HAVE IN DUPLICATE. EVEN SO EACH VERSION HAS A DIFFERENT FEEL TO IT. HER "O MIO" IS GREAT BUT GENERALLY I FEEL THAT KIRI TE KAWANA IS A LITTLE CLEARER THAN RENEE. HER "Ebben?...Ne Andrò Lontana" IS ALWAYS BRILLIANT FROM HER HIGH ENDS TO THE NECESSARY LOW NOTES TO FINISH THIS GLORIOUS TRACK. HER COUNTESS HAS ALWAYS BEEN A STRONG AND POWERFUL CHARACTERIZATION AND HER BUTTERFLY TEETERS ON HAPPINESS AND PAIN. THESE RICH LYRIC ROLES DESERVE A SOPRANO LIKE RENEE. I WAS HOWEVER, VERY DISAPPOINTED THAT SHE ADDED "SEMPRE LIBERA" TO THIS CD AS SHE'S NEVER BEEN A COMPELLING VIOLETTA AND CAN'T EVEN MUSTER THE HIGH "C" WE ALL EXPECT NOW A DAYS. HER RUSALKA IS ALWAYS MESMERIZING AND HER SIMPLICITY ON GLUCK'S "Das Mir Verblieb" WAS AN INCREDIBLE SURPRISE. I FOUND THE OTHER SONGS BORING DUE TO THE FACT THAT I DON'T LIKE THEM AND I KIND OF WISHED SHE WOULD HAVE REPLACED THEM WITH SOME BETTER WORKS. I MISSED HER SOFT AND DEFEATED "AVE MARIA" FROM OTHELLO OR HER FULL BODIED SPOILED MUSETTA IN "QUANDO MEN VO" OR HER RICH SADNESS IN "DOVE SONO"

4 out of 5 stars Fair Enough .......2004-10-01

This is a compilation. I can't say love them I think thatpeople want to be surprised by new things, instead of um things they already own.On the other hand a die hard fan wouldn't mind having an extra cd by their favorite artist.Fair Enough.There was one aria that was new to me"Cantilena Brasileras"by Villa Lobos that was very striking.Her voice flows like an unimpeded stream with a lush vibrato.Like I read in one kid's review "Renee has a silky,creamy, instrument that is very beautiful and caresses the ear",couldn't have said it better myself. I agree. One smart kid!!! One thing that I have to comment on that will not escape is the dull cover picture. Renee get a better photographer;you're far more beautiful than that. I'm sounding like her mother,dear lord! She is a fox!

4 out of 5 stars Fleming's High Points Well Covered in Compilation CD.......2004-09-06

Just one listen to the high points of this disc will make you realize why Renée Fleming is an opera superstar. Covering a ten-year period, this compilation disc covers a most fertile period for Fleming, absolutely one of the world's leading lyric and dramatic sopranos. What is particularly impressive is how many different styles she has covered, ranging from Italian bel canto to French Romanticism to Rodgers & Hammerstein. She effortlessly sings in six different languages, including what sounds like flawless Czech on Dvorak's "Měsíčku na nebi hlubokén" (which goes back to her family roots). Her powerful voice is expressive, almost buttery, which allows the listener to enjoy the coloratura agility she has mastered over the years and the tonal qualities she specifically defines for each aria. This is most evident on my two personal favorites - "Ebben?...Ne scoglio" from Catalani's "La Wally" (which will sound familiar to fans of the French eighties noir film, "Diva") where her crystalline voice complements the increasing power of the melody, and the haunting "Mariettas Lied" from Korngold's "Die tote Stadt".

Fleming also has a good sense of the characters she is portraying, for instance, on the "La traviata" aria, "È stano...Ah, fors'è lui...Sempre libera", one gets a strong sense of Violetta's conflict between the attractions of true love versus the free life of a courtesan. She also gets some sturdy help from tenor Joseph Calleja as Alfredo in this piece. But even in this number, the effect of her daunting runs and trills can be a bit overwhelming. She does keep this in check with the slower-paced tracks like "Casta diva" from Bellini's "Norma", which uses a choir in the background to great effect, and Rachmaninov's lovely "Vocalise". The well-worn "Summertime" from Gershwin's "Porgy and Bess" is nicely covered here, and it certainly invites comparisons to even Leontyne Price's definitive version. Fleming ends the disc with a rousing version of Rodgers & Hammerstein's "You'll Never Walk Alone" from "Carousel" that grows a bit too bombastic for listening comfort. Regardless, this disc provides a nice sampling of what this truly great singer has done over the past decade. A treat for her fans and highly recommended for anyone who wants an ideal introduction to her range of talent.

5 out of 5 stars Beautiful indeed!.......2004-07-19

I'm very happy with this CD. She has a lovely voice! And what a fox! ;)

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