Christmas Piano Collection

Track Listings

1. Angels We Have Heard on High

2. O Come All Ye Faithful

3. Carol of the Bells

4. Silent Night

5. O Holy Night

6. Joy to the World

7. O Little Town of Bethlehem

8. Avé Maria

9. Away in a Manger

10. O Come, O Come Emanuel

11. First Noel

12. What Child Is This

13. Good Christian Men Rejoice

14. Sheep May Safely Graze

Christmas Piano Collection,Tim Janis,Tim Janis Ensemble,Christmas,Christmas / Chanukkah,Contemporary Instrumental,Holiday,Neo-Classical,Pop,Xmas Vocal

Tracks:

Concerto In E, Op. 8 No. 1, RV 269 - Spring: Allegro
Concerto In E, Op. 8 No. 1, RV 269 - Spring: Largo e pianissimo
Concerto In E, Op. 8 No. 1, RV 269 - Spring: Allegro - Danza pastorale
Gymnopedie No. 1
Op. 55 No. 4: Solveig's Song
Op. 46 No. 3: Anitra's Dance
Sonata In G Minor, Op. No. 2, HWV 360: Larghetto
Sonata In G Minor, Op. No. 2, HWV 360: Andante
Sonata In G Minor, Op. No. 2, HWV 360: Adagio
Sonata In G Minor, Op. No. 2, HWV 360: Presto
Moonchild's Dream (Conlusion)
Sonata No. 3 In F Minor: Triste
Sonata No. 3 In F Minor: Allegro
Sonata No. 3 In F Minor: Andante
Sonata No. 3 In F Minor: Vivace
Conerto Grosso Op. 6 No. 8 - 4th Movement: Vivace - Allegro - Pastorale ad libitum
Melody And Dance Of The Blessed Spirits
Op. 43, No. 4: Little Bird
Op. 43 No. 1: Butterfly
Sonata No. 5 In D Minor - For Treble Recorders: Largo
Sonata No. 5 In D Minor - For Treble Recorders: Vivace
Sonata No. 5 In D Minor - For Treble Recorders: Grazioso
Sonata No. 5 In D Minor - For Treble Recorders: Allegro
Concerto For Recorder And Orchestra, Op. 133: Lento
Concerto Op. 10 No. 3 In D: II Gardellino - III. Allegro

Tracks:

Two Norwegian Dances, Op. 35: No. 1
Two Norwegian Dances, Op. 35: No. 2
Air From Suite In D
Concerto In F For Soprano Recorder: Allegro
Concerto In F For Soprano Recorder: Andante
Concerto In F For Soprano Recorder: Allegro assai
Variations
Sonata In E Flat, BWV 1031: Allegro moderato
Sonata In E Flat, BWV 1031: Siciliano
Sonata In E Flat, BWV 1031: Allegro
Nele's Dances: No. 15
Nele's Dances: No. 16
Nele's Dances: No. 17
Nele's Dances: No. 18
Dance Suite, Op. 29 - V -: Molto Vivace
Sonata In G Minor - Devil's Trill: II. Allegro
Zion Hears The Watchmen's Voices
Concerto No. 2 In G Minor: Largo
Concerto No. 2 In G Minor: Presto 'Fantasmi'
Concerto No. 2 In G Minor: Largo
Concerto No. 2 In G Minor: Presto
Concerto No. 2 In G Minor: Largo 'Il sonno'
Concerto No. 2 In G Minor: Allegro
Op. 54, No. 3: March Of The Trolls
Op. 71, No. 1: Once Upon A Time
Souvenir: An Encore For Michala

Customer Reviews:

More than the sum of the parts........2001-02-04

I bought this as wallpaper music - and got a very pleasant surprise!

Several of the pieces stopped me in my tracks, made me sit down and forced me to listen.

Michala Petri demonstrates a masterly control of her instrument and a high level of musicianship in a wide ranging selection of material - from reconstituted Bach to specially composed 20th Century pieces.

Outstanding for me was the Sammartini Concerto: Ms Petri shows a lightness of touch combined with serious enthusiasm and an obvious delight that literally stopped me from working and made me listen. The support given by the Moscow Virtuosi also deserves mention.

Koppel's pieces are fun, as are the arrangements from Grieg and Satie.

Overall, although this could be taken as a glorified sampler... it is much more - there are complete works played intelligently and lighter, throw away pieces you'll want to chase after and listen to again.

A Great First CD.......2000-06-22

After falling in love with the recorder, I started searching for CDs and this was the first I bought. It quickly became a favorite CD. I like the fact that it ranges over a wide period--Baroque to Modern, and showcases the instrument in different settings. The liner notes are quite comprehensive as well. In a word--enchanting.

The sublime collection.......2000-06-18

I must confess up front to being a Michala Petri fanatic. I also play the recorder, although after listening to this album, I feel like throwing my instruments into the nearest dumpster.

Michala Petri is a national hero in Denmark, and a recognized name among classical music fans in Europe, Asia, and Canada. If you listen to this album, you will ask yourself how the music business in the USA can frantically promote "The Three Tenors" while mostly ignoring the genius of this amazing young woman.

This is not your kid's recorder. Ms Petri's complete technical and musical mastery of her instrument transforms the recorder into the equal of other familiar solo instruments, but with its own peculiar sound, penetrating but sweet, that sets it apart.

This album is made up mostly of tracks from her many earlier recordings. Some are transcriptions of well-loved piano miniatures (the Grieg numbers are perhaps more charming here than on the piano, if that is possible); of baroque works for flute, recorder, or strings; of modern recorder music written for Ms Petri by contemporary masters. Some are accompanied by small orchestra and others by Ms Petri's husband, the excellent guitarist and lutist Lars Hannibal. The combination of recorder and guitar is an intimate match made in heaven, and I recommend also this duo's complete album, 'Air'.

Ultimate Collection is Gross Understatement.......2000-03-28

This is by far the best "sampler" I have ever heard. The playing is so superb and the recorder so perfect a vehicle that I found myself listing to too often played pieces like Satie's Gymopedie No.1 as if for the first time. Same for the Grieg. It is very hard to believe these renderings aren't the original intention of the composers. This is a guaranteed winner.

Wolcum Yule: Celtic and British Songs and Carols - Anonymous 4 with Andrew Lawrence-King

Average customer rating:

Wolcum Yule
lovely and unusual Yule album
Goose Flesh!

Wolcum Yule: Celtic and British Songs and Carols - Anonymous 4 with Andrew Lawrence-King
John Tavener , Richard Rodney Bennett , Peter Maxwell Davies , Geoffrey Burgon , Henry VIII , Benjamin Britten , Anonymous 4 , and Andrew Lawrence-King
Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Noels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

American Angels
On Yoolis Night: Medieval Carols & Motets - Anonymous 4
Gloryland
Legends of St. Nicholas: Medieval Chant & Polyphony
The Origin of Fire: Music and Visions of Hildegard von Bingen

ASIN: B0000AZKK4
Release Date: 2003-10-14

Tracks:

Awake, And Join The Cheerful Choir
Good People All
The Seven Rejoices Of Mary
The Lamb
A Scots Lilt
Balulalow
Balulalow
The Holly And The Ivy
The Reel Of Tullochgorum
I Saw Three Ships
A Calendar Of Kings
Air: La Fuar Geimhreadh
An Teicheadh Go Heigipt
A God, And Yet A Man?
Grene Growith The Holy
Wel, Dyma'r Borau Gorau
The Cherry Tree Carol
Can Wassel
A New Year Carol

Amazon.com

This offbeat disc of seasonal songs and carols by the Anonymous 4 will delight their fans and please everyone else. The 19 selections include traditional folk melodies and texts, some of which date back to the Middle Ages, interspersed with fitting selections by contemporary composers including John Taverner, Benjamin Britten, and Peter Maxwell Davies, whose ethereal a cappella A Calender of Kings gets its first recording. Andrew Lawrence-King, playing Irish harp, Baroque harp, and psaltery with his accustomed finesse, is a major reason for the disc's success, accompanying most of the vocals and contributing three lovely solos. The disc is crammed with highlight tracks, like the lilting Cornish Wassail song and the Irish Good people all, and haunting numbers like "Flight into Egypt," sung in Gaelic, and "Behold, here is the best morning," sung in Welsh. Excellent sonics and Harmonia Mundi's typically fine production values also help make this a Christmas disc that will give joy in July. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Wolcum Yule.......2006-01-17

The recording is fine . . . it just didn't appeal to me personally

lovely and unusual Yule album.......2004-01-06

Anonymous 4 has brought us a beautiful selection of 19 traditional songs from England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland. These include a lesser known work by Henry VIII as well as more contemporary songs by John Tavener, Richard Bennett, Geoffrey Burgon and Benjamin Britten, and a piece commissioned for the group from Peter Davies. Andrew Lawrence-King accompanies on Irish harp, Baroque harp and psaltery. There is a short essay on the traditions and legacy of the concept of Yule, a Cetic midwinter celebration, and this and the informative liner notes are given in English, French and German, accompanied by Celtic drawings.

The songs are pure, simple and very beautiful -- a welcome addition to your holiday listening.

Goose Flesh!.......2003-12-09

This is a remarkable quartet, singing with purity and style, from the haunting to the merry, medieval chant to modern settings of Celtic religious texts. Where there are arrangements, they are lovely and the instrumental pieces are simple and beautiful. This is the first time I have heard this group of women, and I am enchanted. It's a cappella at its very best: look to your laurels, King's Singers and Chanticleer, here come the ladies!

Christopher Parkening - A Tribute to Segovia

Average customer rating:

Awesome guitar work
Have been loving this for over ten years!!
sonic rapture...
Not just a tribute
Wonderful, relaxing music

Christopher Parkening - A Tribute to Segovia

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Folk | Styles | Music

In the Spanish Style / Christopher Parkening
Christopher Parkening plays Bach
Christopher Parkening Plays Vivaldi Guitar Concertos & Warlock Capriol Suite
Artistry of Christopher Parkening
Christopher Parkening - The Great Recordings ~ By America's Preeminent Guitar Virtuoso

ASIN: B000002RQ8
Release Date: 1991-11-08

Tracks:

Castles Of Spain: Rumor de copla
Castles Of Spain: Siguenza
Castles Of Spain: Manzanares del real
Castles Of Spain: Romance de los pinos
Castles Of Spain: Turegano
Variations On A Theme Of Mozart
Tonadilla
Suite espanola: Espanoletas
Suite espanola: Rujero y paradetas
Suite espanola: La Minona de Cataluna
Suite espanola: Folias
Suite espanola: Passacalle de la cavalleria de Napoles
Suite espanola: Canarios
Villanesca
Torre bermeja
Estudio sin luz
Remembranza
Suite In D Minor: Preludio
Suite In D Minor: Allegro
Suite In D Minor: Zarabanda
Suite In D Minor: Gabota
Suite In D Minor: Despacio
Suite In D Minor: Giga
Suite catalan: La Filadora
Suite catalan: La Filla del marxant
Suite catalan: La Nit de nadal
Suite catalan: El Noi de la mare

Customer Reviews:

Awesome guitar work.......2007-01-12

Parkening sets the standard for others to compare to. Enjoyable tribute to Segovia. The type of guitar mastery that one can relax to after a hard days work. Enough said.

Have been loving this for over ten years!!.......2003-09-26

I bought this cassette over ten years ago (1992) when I started taking classical guitar lessons. Would listen to it on the way home from work, then had a baby nine years ago and have used it for lullaby music (works like a charm) for afternoon naps and nighttime. Still listen to it in the car when the kids fight and they mellow out instantly.

Finally buying it on CD because I think I wore a spot out on the cassette! I have listened to this masterpiece at least a thousand times and have never, ever tired of this most excellent work of art.

If you are a classical guitar fan, you will absolutely adore every single note played on this album/CD. I promise!! :)

sonic rapture..........2003-06-03

If anyone knows of a better sonically intoxicating cd than this please let me know. Possibly only Julian Bream's unreal 1982 Granados and Albeniz cd would top this one for me. Anyway just thought I would pass this thought along to anyone who may visit here. The tone is absolutely magical on this cd. This is the cd to listen to at night to chill out and get mellow while being enchanted to the max. Peace. I must go on... the tone, the tone. My god the tone.

Not just a tribute.......2001-07-31

Parkening shows how much he learned from Segovia. I have many of these pieces played by the Master. Parkening plays with a similar timbre, simlar dynamics and with a musicality just as deep as Segovia's. IF you like classical guitar you should own this one.

Wonderful, relaxing music.......2001-01-27

This cd will spend much time on my player. It is so lively, yet comforting music to listen to.

Parkening provides wonderful tribute to Segovia with Spanish compositions especially loved by the master, even some of them performed on one his Segovia's guitars.

Tracks:

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
Nos Galan (Deck the Halls)
Lullay, Thou Tiny Little Child
Ther Is No Rose of Swych Vertu
I Sing of a Maiden
There Is No Rose from "A Ceremony of Carols"
O Magnum Mysterium (Responsory at Matins for Christmas Day)
Song of the Nuns of Chester, Verses 1-3: "Qui Creavit Celum"
Fader of Heven (Ca. 1450 Mystery Play)
Song of the Nuns of Chester, Verses 4-6: Lactat Mater Domini
O Magnum Mysterium (Responsory at Matins for Christmas Day)
Lullay, Lullow: I Saw a Swete Semly Syght
I Wonder as I Wander
Staines Morris (Blessed Be That Maid Marie)
Hayl, Mary, Ful of Grace
Seven Joys of Mary
Illuminare, Jerusalem
Good People All
Sing We the Virgin Mary
In Bethlehem City
Christmas Eve
Hodie Christus Natus Est (Antiphon from Chester Processional)
Jesu, Thou the Virgin-Born
As Dew in Aprille from " a Ceremony of Carols"
Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending

Amazon.com

No one has recorded more innovative Christmas anthologies than Andrew Parrott--and this disc is no exception. The Promise of Ages presents a collection of wonderful seasonal music arranged for women's voices (all arrangements were either made or sanctioned by the composers). The selection includes 15th-century English works such as "There is no rose of swych vertu"; traditional tunes both genuine ("Deck the Halls" in an 18th-century Welsh arrangement for harp) and fake (J. J. Niles's "I Wonder as I Wander" and "Lullay, thou little tiny child"); rollicking Irish dance tunes; and 20th-century works by such composers as Britten, Holst, and Judith Weir on traditional Christmas texts. One ingenious and effective suite combines Peter Maxwell Davies's "O magnum mysterium" and "The Fader of Heven" with the 14th-century "Song of the Nuns of Chester." All of the performances are exemplary, but Emily van Evera deserves special praise for her beautifully simple rendition of the Niles tunes. This collection can stand alongside Parrott's The Carol Album as the thinking person's Christmas albums. --Matthew Westphal

Customer Reviews:

Superb Choral Christmas Music.......2007-01-20

Andrew Parrott, and the Taverner Concert and Choir have done it again !

This is a superb collection of traditional music from the past, some of it familiar, some not so well known, all performed so very well.

Unique and special.......2007-01-09

Loved this album the entire thing. An English flavour.
Especially loved the Lo He Comes With Clouds Descending..
heart stirring. A great way to get into the Christmas
spirit and lift your heart.

Beautiful Harmonies and Vocalizations.......2000-12-13

Like another reviewer, I am thrilled at Lo! He Comes, as well as with the unfamiliar setting for Hark the Herald Angels Sing and the beautiful Sing We the Virgin Mary.

If you love beautiful vocalizations, especially rare soprano-alto harmonizations, this is the album for you.

A "top ten" Christmas album.......2000-11-13

If this album contained nothing but it's splendid rendition of Madan's Lo! He Comes, with Clouds Descending, the album would be worth owning. Fortunately, the entire album is a brillant mix of voices, instrumentals and performance styles; the resulting album can be played several times in successiion without becoming repetative - no small feat for a Christmas album.

The album ranges from the 13th century Nuns of Chester to contemporary composers - Judith Weir - or nearly comtemporary - Britten, Holst ... with excellent sequencing so that no piece seems out of place.

The instrumentation varies from the traditional organ with SATB choir to fiddle, flute, concertina and cello. This provides the variety that makes the album so listenable.

For traditional Christmas music this album is a must.

A "top ten" Christmas album.......2000-11-13

The instrumentation varies from the traditional organ with SATB choir to fiddle, flute, concertina and cello. This provides the variety that makes the album so listenable.

Tracks:

Guastavino: Cantilena, No. 4
Rachmaninoff: Etude-Tableau in D Major, Op. 39, No. 9
Rameau: Le Rappel des Oiseaux
Rachmaninoff: Daisies, Op. 38, No. 3
Delibes-ORiley: "Viens, Mallika!" from Lakme
Rachmaninoff: Etude-Tableau in f#-minor, Op. 39, No. 3
Chopin: Prelude in F# Major, Op. 28, No. 13
Debussy: La Fille Aux Cheveux De Lin
Rameau: La Villageoise
Davies: Farewell to Stromness
Severac Ou L'on Entend Une Vielle Boite A Musique
Rachmaninoff: Prelude in G Major, Op. 32, No. 5
Milhaud: Corcovado
Rachmaninoff: Prelude in c minor, Op. 23, No. 7
Rachmaninoff: Lilacs Op. 21, No. 5
Rachmaninoff: Prelude in g# minor, Op. 32, No. 12
Rachmaninoff: Prelude in D Major, Op. 23, No. 4
Rameau: Musette En Rondeau
Mozart: Gigue in G Major, K. 574
Rameau: Rigaudons 1 & 2
Rameau: Tambourin
Guastavino: Mariana
Prokofiev Masquers
Schumann: Zart Und Singend from "Davidsbundlertanze" Op. 6
Chopin: Mazurka in e-flat minor, Op. 6, No. 4
Bartok: Finale, Fifteen Hungarian Peasant Dances
Chopin: Prelude in d minor, Op. 28, No. 24
Poulenc: Babar et Celeste
Guaraldi: Christmastime is Here

Album Description

"Christopher O'Riley At the Break" is the new compact disc by the renowned concert pianist and host of "From the Top," the hit public radio showcase for America's best pre-collegiate classical musicians.

This collection of 29 works for solo piano is a compilation of pieces O'Riley played on "From the Top," which is heard on more than 200 radio stations nationwide. These pieces were performed at the mid-point of the broadcasts, a required break of approximately 2 minutes during which many stations insert locally generated announcements.

According to Chris O'Riley, "It depends on one's local station, and its own use of `the breaks.' This collection serves as a fondly renewed acquaintance with some favorites of mine as well as some pieces a bit further off the beaten path. For other listeners, this is a great group of exquisite miniatures - a premiere entree into many new worlds."

From the Top is a creation of Concert Productions, Inc. in association with WGBH Radio Boston and New England Conservatory, its home and educational partner. Public Radio International distributes the program. From the Top receives support from the U.S. Department of Education, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Massachusetts Cultural Council, as well as individuals, foundations and corporations.

Customer Reviews:

WOW.......2002-09-01

As a fan of From the Top, and a young classical singer myself...I adore Chris O'Riley and his fabulous piano playing. Each work is played with emotion and meticulous care, creating a truly wonderful listening experience!

I highly recommend this sparkling disk to any fan of From the Top, or those who just enjoy classical music! Purchase today!~Bravo

From the Keyboard.......2002-03-09

Fans of NPR's popular show "From the Top," a showcase for young classical musicians, will recognize Chris O'Riley as the show's fun loving host. Thanks in no small part to O'Riley's easygoing way with kids and his fine accompaniments, the show not only presents good music, but manages to be playful and funny as well. This collection of 29 piano pieces are taken from those O'Riley plays during the mid-program break on the show, and demonstrate the depth and range of his talent. Included with the CD information are short notes by O'Riley in which he describes his connection to each piece and what he is trying to accomplish when he plays it. Particular favorites of mine include Guastavino's Cantilena, No. 4, Rachmanioff's Lilacs, Op. 21, No. 5 and Rameau's Tambourin. However, fans of Chopin, Debussy, Prokfiev and Mozart will also find something to satisfy. This is a CD that I will be returning to again and again

From the Top, and from the heart........2002-01-26

Gorgeous music beautifully played. This is a wonderfully eclectic set of pieces, some familiar, many rare, all of them played with warmth and personality. I love Christopher's eclectic tastes. The Guastavino pieces were new to me, and they're gems. The Rameau is exquisitely played. The Rachmaninoff is familiar, but it's awfully nice to hear it played with a fresh personal feeling. Pieces like the Milhaud, or Poulenc's "Babar and Celeste", or O'Riley's own transcription of the Delibes, or Maxwell-Davies' "Stromness" -- all of them are wonderfully evocative. The program notes are every bit as thoughtful and engaging as you'd expect given such a marvellous selection and such stylish playing.

There are some real treasures here. And you might also enjoy "From the Top," the public radio show O'Riley hosts. Best thing to happen to music since Bernstein's Young Person's concerts.

MJH

Michael Hawley.......2002-01-26

This truly is a collection of gems, both in the selection and in the playing. Christopher O'Riley has wonderful eclectic taste, a beautifully lyric style, and a knack for finding out of the way and not-yet-known treasures (and putting new luster on the regular old treasures!). The pianism is exquisite: beautiful touches in the Rameau, and especially in the delicate Rachmaninoff pieces. Several of the pieces, like the Guastavino (which are fabulous) and Davies' "Farewell to Stromness" (wonderfully evocative of those tough, remote Scottish isles), and his own arrangement of that beautiful Delibes -- these were very happy discoveries for me.

All of these little pieces (though some are not so little!) are full of love and life. The thoughtful program notes were appreciated and enjoyed as well. The sound is great.

It's a wonderful CD. Buy it. And listen to the radio show, too: FROM THE TOP. Best thing to happen to music since Bernstein's Young People's concerts.

Tracks:

Rejoice Greatly - Handel
Schlafendes Jesuskind
Laudate Dominum - Mozart
O Had I Jubal's Lyre - Handel
Seufzer, Tranen, Kummer, Not - Bach
Schafe Konnen - Bach
Ave Maria
Laudamus Te - Rossini
Bist Du Bei Mir
Mein Glaubiges Herze - Bach
Pie Jesu
Were You There When They Crucified My Lord?
Flobt, Mein Heiland
Ave Maria

Customer Reviews:

My favourite collection of sacred music.......2006-03-31

For anyone who loves Kathleen Battle's voice, this is a real treasure, she never sounded better and more radiant.
This is a selection of well known sacred songs but they sound fresh and lovely when sung by Kathleen. She performs two Ave Marias, one very famous, by Bach, and another which is rarely performed, written by Mascagni, and this one is really stunning. Mozart's Laudate Dominum and Pie Jesu from Faure's Requiem are also oustanding. The spiritual "Were you there when they crucified my Lord?" is another highlight. There are several movements from Bach cantatas, including the famous Bist du bei mir, and Handel's "O Had I Jubal's Lyre" and "Rejoice greatly", they will remind you of how incredible Battle is when she sings virtuosic Baroque music.
And isn't the cover just beautiful? But get this album for the music, and you will rejoice greatly.

Battle at her glorious best.......2005-03-14

While I agree with an earlier reviewer who recommends her Levine disk, I must disagree with the claim that this "Rejoice Greatly" is inferior to her two other recordings of it. Her conception is identical in all three performances, but to my ear this is by far the best. In her full Messiah with Andrew Davis, the recording has her so recessed there is no feeling of intimacy. In her Handel recital disk, she is better placed and in better voice, but her rhythm is insecure in the sixteenth-notes; she seems to be nervously pushing ahead of the beat. But on "Grace" she gets it just right. For whatever it may be worth, a fellow fan once had the chance to ask Battle herself about this, and as I understand it her response was, "Yeah, I don't know why, but I haven't been able to do Rejoice before or since as well as it went on Grace."

The music soars.......2004-07-23

Kathleen Battle's voice is exquisite and is suited for most of the pieces on the CD. Her rendition of Mascagni's Ave Maria is perhaps the best track, with the Schafe Konnen from Bach's Cantata No. 208 coming in a close second. Another highlight is the Laudate Dominum, delivered with so much skill and feeling.

Less successful was Rossini's Laudamus Te. Battle has a flexible, clear and delicate voice, but not one that's full-bodied enough to accommodate the style of music found in a piece as grand and strident as the Laudamus Te. There is a sense of strain when she sings it, though it is by no means entirely unsuccessful.

Heavenly.......2004-07-13

Kathleen Battle is one of the people whose lovely voice first turned me on to opera, a rather unaccessible art to the common American. It is true that you can hear her breathe, and that she tempers her notes so they are sometimes gentle, sometimes strong, but that is not a weakness. The racks are rife with stereotypical fat ladies with fat voices, bellowing with nothing but technique, but there records languish while Kathleen's sell.

The songs are all fairly main stream and include a dramatic range from happy to sad. Nothing outlandish here.

Ms. Battle has been called the most beautiful soprano voice and I would heartily agree. The clarity, the roundness, the beauty of her sound is pure femininity and grace. I studied opera and no one in school or anywhere else, has ever been on her level. Some are close, but she is magnificent. I recommend this to anyone, opera snob or first timer. You will be moved!

Goddess in decline.......2004-01-24

In her late forties when this CD was recorded, Kathleen Battle can't be expected to emit the meltingly beautiful sounds she made during her rise to international stardom in the 1980s. Yet, she still sometimes does. Her final ringing note in Mascagni's "Ave Maria" is nothing short of sublime, and her "Were You There..." is emotionally sung, particularly the repeat of the phrase, "Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?"

But several of the tracks on this CD have been recorded by Kathleen Battle before, and to much better effect. The opening track, "Rejoice Greatly," is impressive, but not compared to Battle's performance on her Handel album with John Nelson in which she sounds much fresher, or to her performance on the complete Messiah recording with Andrew Davis. On Grace, Battle uses the exact same ornamentation she's used on every other one of her renditions of "Rejoice," but without the accuracy and jubilation of past performances. I wonder what the point of recording a third version was, when it has nothing new to offer. The tempo feels rushed, yet the singer drags the ends of phrases ("O daughter of Zion." There's also an "h" in the first occurance of the word "Zion" - it comes out "Zi-huh-yon"). And there are some splat notes that could have been easily fixed with a bit of editing: the word "and" is dreadfully flat in the phrase, "And shout, shout!"

"Jubal's Lyre" was stunning on Kathleen's 1985 recording, "Saltzburg Recital." Grace's rendition again sounds too fast, too thin, and, dare I say, too cutesy (the ornamentation is a bit much). And the word "tuneful" is incomprehensible. Is she saying "Shhteeyoonful" or "tuneful?"

"Bist du bei mir" begins under pitch.

Battle races through Mozart's "Laudate Dominum" and annoyingly scoops many phrases. I wish you would linger, Kathleen! Let us hear you caress that ascending "Amen" instead of carelessly flitting up the scale.

There's also the issue of her gaspy, nearly shrieking breaths, which other reviewers have mentioned. Oddly, it sounds as though the microphone is pressed to her mouth when she breathes, yet that it is miles away when she sings: there is an oddly distant quality to the recording.

Tracks:

Merry, Merry Christmas - Koko Taylor
Christmas Time In The Country - Kenny Neal
I'm Your Santa - Lil' Ed & The Blues Imperials
Deck The Halls With Boogie Woogie - Katie Webster
Please Let Me Be Your Santa Claus - William Clarke
Santa Claus Wants Some Lovin' - Tinsley Ellis
Boogie Woogie Santa Claus - Charles Brown
Lonesome Christmas - Son Seals
Christmas On The Bayou - Lonnie Brooks
Santa Claus - Little Charlie & The Nightcats
The Little Drummer Boy - Elvin Bishop
One Parent Christmas - Saffire-The Uppity Blues Women
Christmas - Clarence 'Gatemouth' Brown
Silent Night - Charlie Musselwhite

Customer Reviews:

Oh Wow!.......2007-01-24

This collection will completely surprise the casual listener or Christmas music fan. Hey, even hardcore blues fans will appreciate music that wasn't "forced" to sound like Christmas music and at the same time not lose that seasonal flare. Yeah, the melody of "Jingle Bells" was used a few times as a "riff" in some songs, but it was done well and with great variety of style and choice of instruments.
Overall, this is a very cool CD to have and listen to.... even at Christmas time.........

Great X-Mas Album, Great Blues.......2006-10-21

I love this album and look forward to breaking it out each year around teh holiday season. This is not your typical Christmas album with the same old tried classics. These songs are fun, original, and get you in the mood for the holidays. As one other reviewer noted: buy it, share it, give it - couldn't agree more.

Should be 1000 x better.......2003-11-26

So many talented artists & songs to pick from, so why doesn't this, Alligator's major Christmas showcase, blow me away? I don't like over produced tunes, but much of this is way under produced. If you're looking for a CD that you'll grow more fond of through each passing season, as I was, look elsewhere. Mind you, some of it might grow on you, as it has on me, and granted mine is just one opinion, but I sure don't hear any future classics on here... even though I should be able to, and from a mile away!

OUTSTANDING!.......2002-12-25

If you truly enjoy Christmas music, especially Jazz or Blues, this one will definitely be a keeper for your collection for years to come. Truly a Godsend.

com"YULE"ation cleric : my two cents too.......2001-04-01

This is the best 'BLUES' com"YULE"ation I have purchased to date. Originality though out the whole disc as the cup overflows with a variety of blues and roots rock.My preferences do include axemas guitar leads and harmonica awailing , certianly a fix here for those with similar need. Kudos to Lonnie Brooks and his original"Christmas On The Bayou" I've used it on many a mix. Glad to read others share my opinion *buyit\giveit\shareit*

Average customer rating:

Fulfilling Overview of the Baroque Era in Music and Words
An Excellent Introduction to the Music of the Baroque Era

Discover Music of the Baroque Era

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Anthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Passions | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Instructional | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

$7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
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Discover Early Music
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ASIN: B0007ORDYK
Release Date: 2005-03-22

Customer Reviews:

Fulfilling Overview of the Baroque Era in Music and Words.......2005-05-09

Yet another great bargain-priced package from Naxos effectively provides an overview of the rich Baroque period with two discs containing more than 2 ½ hours of music and a comprehensive, 140-page primer booklet. Compiled by music historian Clive Unger-Hamilton, the collection is well-chosen to represent the many different facets of the era without recycling the more obvious candidates like Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons". The quality of the playing and singing is top-notch throughout, and the program contains quite a smorgasbord of pieces from dramatic opera arias to harpsichord pieces (sometimes played on authentic instruments, other times on modern grands) to full-blown choruses. Standout tracks include Allegri's "Miserere mei" with an ethereal boy treble soloist; two arias sung by soprano Ingrid Kertesi, in particular, Almirena's lament, "Lascia ch'io pianga" from Handel's "Rinaldo"; and a lovely "When I am laid in earth" from Purcell's "Dido and Aeneas" performed by soprano Kym Amps. The choral pieces can be astounding from Bach's "St Matthew Passion (BWV 244)" performed by the large Hungarian Festival Chorus and full symphony orchestra to the eight voices that wrap themselves around "For unto us a child is born" from Handel's "Messiah".

The booklet itself provides great value as you listen to the selections. There is a well written 85-page essay by Unger-Hamilton, who manages to encapsulate an enormous amount of information about this period which leaves a novice like me with a more solid basis of understanding the music of the Baroque era. In fact, what is quite valuable is that Unger-Hamilton provides a specific historical reference for each piece on the recording in his essay. There is also a very helpful glossary and an intriguing timeline which covers musical milestones relative to similar milestones in history, arts and architecture and literature. Moreover, there is an alphabetical list of the key Baroque composers and an accompanying map of Europe with important music centers and the composers associated with these cities. The thoughtful presentation of this package really makes the $8.98 price tag one of the great bargains here.

An Excellent Introduction to the Music of the Baroque Era.......2005-04-04

This is one of a series of the 'Discover ...' 2 CD sets -- at super-budget price -- from Naxos that makes use of complete movements of music from the era in question. It is accompanied by an excellent booklet - a thick one! - with an explanatory essay that gives background on the music as well as blow-by-blow descriptions of the music being presented. All the selections (from such composers as Monteverdi, Handel, Bach, Scarlatti, Schütz, Purcell, Corelli, Pachelbel, Charpentier, et al.) are from Naxos's extensive library of recorded music and as far as I can tell all the performances are top-notch.

In addition there is a Timeline of the Baroque Era that includes material about the music, history, art, architecture and literature of the times. There is a map of Europe that shows where various composers lived and worked. There is a list of composers (more than just those whose music provides the audio examples) with their dates and locations. There is a glossary of common musical terms. There is also an extensive list of music suggested for further listening. I can easily imagine this set being the springboard for a newcomer to baroque music to begin a lifetime of enjoyment of these and similar works.

The presentation is thoughtfully done and the whole thing is in a slipcase that will preserve the CDs as well as the booklet for years to come.

Scott Morrison

Lutoslawski: Twenty Polish Christmas Carols; Lacrimosa; Five Songs

Average customer rating:

Polish or Opera ?????
Marvelous!

Lutoslawski: Twenty Polish Christmas Carols; Lacrimosa; Five Songs
Olga Pasichnyk , Witold Lutoslawski , Antoni Wit , and Jadwica Rappe
Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music

4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music

4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music
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ASIN: B000B6N66S
Release Date: 2005-10-18

Tracks:

Angels To The Shepards Came
Hey! Rejoice Now
When Christ To Us Is Born
Just After Midnight
God Is Born
Our Lovely Lady
Hurrying To Bethlehem
In A Manger
Jesus There Is Lying
We Are Shepards
Lullaby, Jesus
Hey, On This Day
Jesus Lovely Flower
Hey La, Hey La, Shepherds There You Are
What To Do With This Child
Hey, Hey Lovely Lady Mary
This Is Our Lord's Birthday
Shepherds, Can You Tell
Infant So Tiny
Holy Lady Mary (Wandered Through The World Wide)
Lacrimosa
The Sea
The Wind
Winter
Knights
Church Bells

Customer Reviews:

Polish or Opera ?????.......2006-12-01

Quite frankly, I was very disappointed in this selection. I read the reviews on how easy it was to follow, etc... I did not understand a word of it. This really sounds like a soprano opera. I had my grandparents and parents listen and no one had any idea. If you are expecting any song that you may recognize, think again.

Marvelous!.......2005-12-10

Marvelous production on all fronts. The carols themselves are the heart and soul of the Polish religous and Christmas spirit. The arrangements recast traditional and beloved kolendy in modern adaptations, reflecting Lutoslawski's ample skills as vocal and orchestral arranger. The notes give the background a newcomer to the genre needs, and those already familiar with the songs will learn more. The cover art is wonderful. The singing and orchestral accompaniment are beyond reproach. Downloading the lyrics, in Polish and English, will take 23 pages, but that's a small price to play to appreciate this examplary release. Wspaniale to all concerned. Buy it!

Average customer rating:

"It was a lover and his lass.."

English Song Anthology

Manufacturer: Regis Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Noels | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music

General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
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Great Handel

ASIN: B000M4RF5W
Release Date: 2007-01-30

Customer Reviews:

"It was a lover and his lass..".......2007-04-14

I was sifting through the dregs of a mound of vinyl records at a thrift store a few months ago, when I came across an old library discard, with a photograph of some old English buildings on the cover. It had a big tan pocket for the library card firmly affixed to the front, and the name of the library was printed in several places. I debated whether this record was worth a dollar. Not being an opera officianado, I wasn't familiar with Janet Baker, other than the name. I didn't know what to expect, but figured it was worth the gamble.

When at last I listened to it, I was transfixed. The album, "English Song Anthology", is a collection of English songs primarily from the early 20th century, as sung by Janet Baker, with piano accompaniment by Martin Isepp. Baker's singing is remarkable; apparently she was in her early 30's when this album was recorded, and the songs showcase her remarkable artistry and vocal range. Overall, Baker conveys great feeling and emotion in each song, and Isepp's performance is a perfect match.

The quality of the recording itself is not ideal; however, the performances more than make up for any technical shortcomings, and the album does capture the intimacy and warmth of the original performance, which is no small feat. When I first heard this record, and every time since, I have been impressed with the intimacy of it, as if these two performers had settled into my living room to sing a few songs they loved. I suppose that is why I've become so attached to it, and it's nice to see that it's available on c.d. now- I am glad that this performance has not been relegated to the world's dusty thrift store vinyl bins. In fact, the digital transfer is well done, and I would recommend this recording to anyone. You may not realize it yet, but if you're reading this, you should have this c.d. in your collection.

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