Butterflies

Track Listings

1. Dancing in the Moonlight

2. Musicbox

3. Butterflies

4. Nostalgia

5. Thinking of You

6. Sunflowers

7. Reflections

8. Stormy Night

9. The Mermaid's Spell

10. To my Parents

11. Fall Colors

12. Tribute

Editorial Reviews
About the Artist
Snorri was born in Reykjavik, Iceland, October 28th 1963, the youngest of five siblings. His real name is Snorri Gudmundsson. He claims that growing up in Iceland was a great experience and the closeness to the country's unspoiled wilderness truly impacted his upbringing.

Snorri lived in Reykjavik from birth until 1988, when he left for Florida, to study Aerospace Engineering, his childhood dream. He graduated Magna Cum Laude in 1991 with B.Sc. and in 1993 with M.Sc. in Aerospace Engineering from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Currently, he is a practicing Aerospace Engineer with Cirrus Design Corporation in Duluth, Minnesota, where he resides.

Snorri has been involved in music since an early age and was initially taught to play the piano by his mother. However, for the most part he is self-taught. Being exposed to the work of the geniuses of classical music at an early age shaped Snorri's musical aspirations. Among his favorite artists are Rachmaninoff, Tchaikovsky, Chopin, and Debussy.

Less demanding and relaxing melodic music has always appealed to Snorri. Besides Classical Music, his favorite music is contemporary instrumental music, which he claims allows the composer to express deep emotions in a very special way. Among artists that have influenced him are Vangelis, Yanni, Giovanni, and Himekami.

Product Description
Butterflies is Snorri's second CD. It contains 12 original compositions written between 1996 and 2000, most were composed in 1999 and 2000. The music is considered by many to have a lighter flavor than Aurora Borealis and contains more tracks blended with authentic nature sounds.

The theme composition on the CD (track 3) is inspired by Snorri's favorite insect - The Monarch butterfly. The slow first part of the piece represents the Monarch larva prior to transforming into chrysalis. The percussion supported main piece representes the final stage of this incredible metamorphosis - the emerging of a beautiful Monarch butterfly, taking flight for the first time to enjoy the freedom of flying.

Butterflies,Snorri

Butterflies

Tracks:

Symphony No. 3 In E-flat Major, Op. 97: 'Rhenish' - Lebhaft
Andante And Variations In B-Flat Major
Symphonic Etudes, Op. 13
Toccata In C Major, Op. 7
Kreisleriana, Op. 16
Piano Concerto In A Minor, Op. 54: Allegro Vivace
Carnaval, Op. 9
'Dedication', Op. 25/1
Symphony No. 4 in D Minor, Op. 120: Introduction - Vivace
Papilons, Op. 2
Op. 25-3: 'The Nut Tree'
Symphony No. 3 In E-flat Major, Op. 97: 'Rhenish' - Lebhaft-Schneller
Piano Quintet In E-flat Major, Op. 44: Allegro ma non troppo
Piano Concerto In A Minor, Op. 54: Allegro affettuoso
Carnaval, Op. 9: Waltz
Album For The Young, Op. 68: The Merry Farmer
Scenes From Childhood, Op. 15: Dreams
Cello Concerto In A Minor, Op. 129: Nicht au schnell
Symphony No. 3 In E-flat Major, Op. 97: 'Rhenish' - Feierlich
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46, No 1
Lyric Suite, Op. 54-2: Norwegian Rustic Dance
Op. 12 No. 4: Elf Dance
Op. 35, No. 1: Norwegian Dances
Elegiac Melodies
Op. 64, No. 4: Symphonic Dances
Op. 35, No. 2: Norwegian Dances
Op. 5-3: 'I Love Thee'
Op. 43, No. 1: Butterfly
Op. 65, No. 6: Wedding Day At Troldhaugen
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46, No. 3: Anitra's Dance
Peer Gynt Suite No. 2, Op. 55, No. 4: Solveig's Song
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46, No. 4: In The Hall Of The Mountain King
Piano Concerto In A Minor, Op. 16: Allegro moderato; Allegro marcato
Holberg Suite, Op. 40: Prelude: Allegro vivace
Lyric Suite, Op. 54, No. 3: Dance Of The Dwarfs
Homage To Chopin
Sigurd Jorsalfar Suite, Op. 56, No. 3: Homage March
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46: Morning Mood
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46: The Death Of Aase
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46: Anitra's Dance
Peer Gynt Suite No. 1, Op. 46: In The Hall Of The Mountain King
Peer Gynt Suite No. 2, Op. 55: III The Return Of Peer Gynt
Peer Gynt Suite No. 2, Op. 55: IV Solveig's Song

Average customer rating:

Wonderful music, great playing, even better price
This is well worth the price
Not Ashkenazy's forte (pun on forte intended)
beautifully played, wonderful and overlooked pieces

Works for Solo Piano
Schumann , and Ashkenazy
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00006IU8T
Release Date: 2003-03-11

Tracks:

Arabeske In C, Op.18
Papillons, Op.2
Symphonic Studies, Op.13
Carnaval, Op.9
Humoreske, Op.20
Noveletten, Op.21
Waldszenen, Op.82
Kinderszenen, Op.15
Piano Sonata No.1 In F Sharp Minor, Op.11
8 Fantasiestke, Op.12
Blumenstk, Op.19
Davidsbdlertze, Op.6
Kreisleriana, Op.16
Noveletten, Op.21
Piano Sonata No.2 In G Minor, Op.22
Abegg Variations, Op.1
Fantasie In C, Op.17
Faschingsschwank Aus Wien, Op.26
Bunte Blter, Op.99
Nachtstke, Op.23
3 Romanzen, Op.28

Amazon.com

For less than $60, this seven-CD set brings the buyer almost all of Schumann's important works for solo piano performed by one of the great pianists of the last 50 years. Ashkenazy is nearly as insightful an interpreter of Schumann as he is of Chopin and the quality of these performances, which were recorded between 1984 and 1995, is generally high. The gnarled F-sharp Minor Sonata is beautifully organized, as well as emotionally compelling; "Papillons" has style, color, and flexibility; "Waldszenen" displays poetry, strength, and simplicity; the G-Minor Sonata is clearly outlined and impeccably delivered; "Kinderszenen" is played with fluidity and nuance; and "Carnaval" is delivered with bigness of conception, virility, and authority that make it among the finest ever recorded. Even on those occasions when Ashkenazy fails to reach such heights--as he does, for example, in a "Davidsbundlertanze" that is a mite too solemn and deliberate for the music's helter-skelter whimsy--his performances still achieve a distinguished standard. Nevertheless, it is Ashkenazy's misfortune that he must compete against his younger self. The readings in this set of the Symphonic Etudes, the Fantasy in C Major, "Kreisleriana," and the "Humoresque" fall short compared to those Ashkenazy recorded in the 1960s and early 1970s. In those earlier performance--reissued on a Double Decca set--the notes roll off the pianist's fingers in a dazzling and melting manner, with a singing tone and a sense of rapture, that he was unable to match 20 years later. --Stephen Wigler

Album Details

Few Pianists have Explored and Recorded Such a Wealth of Keyboard Literature as Vladimir Ashkenazy. During an Association with Decca which Stretches Back Almost 40 Years Now, Ashkenazy Has Completed Cycles of Some of the Most Important Concertos (Mozart, Beethoven, Prokofiev, Bartók and Rachmaninov), as Well as an Extensive Amount of Solo Literature.two Of the Greatest Figures in 19th-century Piano Music Are Chopin and Schumann, and Music by Both Composers Has Featured, and Continues to Feature, in Ashkenazy's Recitals. He Has Recorded Almost all of Chopin Solo Works and During the Years 1984-95 Undertook a Major Survey of Schumann's Solo Literature (Some Works Including the Sinfonische Etüden, Fantasie, Kreisleriana and Humoreske) Ashkenazy Had Recorded Earlier in his Career). These Digital Recordings Are Now Presented as a Box Set for the First Time and Are an Invaluable Collection of the Composer's Most Important Keyboard Works, Performed by One of the Greatest Pianists of his Ge

Customer Reviews:

Wonderful music, great playing, even better price.......2007-07-03

I keep reading reviews that say things like: "Well others have played this piece better than Ashkenazy..." or "If you want a complete set of Schumann piano works then Ashkenazy is adequate and a good bargain..."

I may not have heard every version of these Schumann pieces played by every pianist in the 20th century, but I can say that Ashkenazy plays these pieces absolutely wonderfully- with both technical virtuosity and emotional depth. If you really want to cobble together a collection of the "absolute best" Schumann pieces, and spend a couple hundred dollars in the process, that's certainly your prerogative.

I just can't see how anyone can fault Ashkenazy's playing of these pieces as being lesser than others. To my ears, he plays them faultlessly. There are times during the recording where I want to stand up and applaud, others when I want to weep.

For about $5-$8 per disc (depending on who you purchase it from) you can have this wonderful music. Buy it now, and listen often!

This is well worth the price.......2005-12-03

On the whole, this set is very good. true, ash's doesnt quite match up to pollini's recent dg david or kreis, but few do. There are still many gems here, some of which i rank as the top of the list in terms of interpretation. Firstly, waldszenen is giving an account here which in a word, is simply miraculous. Listen to how well he shapes the theme in the second piece, while most are struggling just to pull off the ferociously difficult chord jumps, yet ash does it with civility. Not even richter's fifities account is as well played or shaped. The kinderszenen is also marvelous, though not the best ever, or the second best or third(or fourth).....
But what every piece does give you, what ash himself seems to offer now, is a high standard of playing, though little over the top. But dont take that the wrong way, this set is a perfect way for anyone, even those pianophiles, to imburse or reimburse themselves in Schumann's wonderful world.
1.Wald-ash,haskil, richter, kempff
2.Kinder-moise, cortot, horsz, kempff
3.Davids-Giese, Pollini
4.Carnaval-Rach, Arrau
5.Sonata 1-Gilels, Ash
6. Symph Etudes- Richter, Richter, Richter, anda
7. Fant in C-Moise, Backhaus, Cohen, Richter
8. Humoreske-Richter-56 moscow, kempf. F

Not Ashkenazy's forte (pun on forte intended).......2004-11-21

On the whole, Ashkenazy just does not seem to be a gifted interpreter of Schumann. These readings, to my ear, are heavy handed, pedantic, burdensome, and lacking in the mysterious joy that pervades so much of the work of the Romantic master. Some performances are OK. The Sinfonische Etuden would probably the best of the lot. But in works like Carnaval, the Novelletten, Faschingschwank aus Wien, and the Kinderszenen Ashkenazy to my liking totally misses the target.

I much prefer the more introspective approach of Arrau, or the wild and intriguing Pollini. Even Barenboim comes closer to the heart of Schumann than Ashkenazy.

The recorded sound is often disappointing also. The sound on some pieces is so muddy I thought the microphone was behind a wall.

beautifully played, wonderful and overlooked pieces.......2003-04-29

This set is a remarkable value. Yes, you could choose some individual performances of certain works that are better, but for the price, this is a remarkable set. Ashkenazy is sympathetic to these wonderful and often overlooked solo piano compositions. Highly recommended.

OHM: The Early Gurus of Electronic Music

Average customer rating:

excellent but uncomplete
To call it music may be a bit limiting.
A worthwhile collection
OhMyGodHowDreadful
Kid Stockhausen

OHM: The Early Gurus of Electronic Music
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Ellipsis Arts
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Release Date: 2000-04-25

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Six Fants On A Poem By Thomas Campion: Her Song - Paul Lansky
Appalachian Grove - Laurie Spiegel
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Amazon.com

Opening with Clara Rockmore's reworking of Tchaikovsky with the theremin, and finishing with one of Brian Eno's ambient soundscapes, OHM artfully succeeds in its goal of giving a representative (as opposed to the impossible, comprehensive) overview of the first several decades of electronic music. Over 3 discs, 42 compositions, and 96 pages of notes and photos, OHM clearly illustrates the producers' and contributing writers' point that early electronic music is much of the foundation of contemporary music. Herein lies the connective tissue bridging musique concrète, 20th-century classical, electronic experimentation, and the theoretical avant-garde to psychedelia, ambient, dub, techno, electro, and synthpop and the globalization of sound. The groundbreaking uses of loops, sampling, drones, remixes, and cut-and-paste technology are put fully into context. The diversity of music included makes any sort of summation impossible, but that is also the point: electronic music is not really a genre, but an open field of endless possibility. From John Cage's famous "William's Mix" of tape snippets to Karkheinz Stockhausen's electronic orchestral compositions, from David Tudor and Holger Czukay's experiments in unrelated blendings of audio elements to David Behrman's supremely peaceful duet between computers and musicians, the aural renegades on OHM tread where none (save a few of their contemporaries) had gone before. The liner notes convey the incredible amount of hard work and experimentation it took to stitch together many of these pieces in the predigital era. Putting aside the inevitable quibbles about what's missing (much of it due to legal and/or logistical issues), a more complete collection of musical eggheads, eccentrics, and visionaries is hard to imagine. --Carl Hanni

Customer Reviews:

excellent but uncomplete.......2006-11-12

Althought most of the music here is an excellent collection of electronic music history, this 3 CDs lack of the important contribution given by the RAI phonology studios of Milan, Italy in the 50s
(which was bigger than Koln's WDR studios) with Bruno Maderna, Luciano Berio and Luigi Nono.
This is a big mistake. Milans studios were the biggest of europe and produced many important electroacoustic pieces.
If the collection aim to describe faithfully electronic music history, it should include this artists too.

To call it music may be a bit limiting. .......2006-10-24

Some of the tracks on here are "music". That is that they contain all the bits we're trained to experience as music -- melody, etc. Some are not, and the composers would be the first people to tell you that. A lot of these works are reactions to ingrained rules, so they're bound to be jarring.

A more successful way to approach such a broad and varied collection of audio experimentation is to think of it as curated sound. This isn't something to wash the dishes to, or to seduce someone to (although if you did manage to seduce someone with the recordings on this anthology, HOLD ON TO THAT PERSON, because they've got to be a keeper). These are unique sound textures that deserve a close, probably solitary listen, and I think if you're in the right frame of mind, it can be a very rewarding listen.

My main complaint is sequencing: each dicrete piece follows it's own internal logic, so there are more than a couple rough gear changes. However, since each piece is so different, and the collection is so varied, I'm not sure that you could totally escape that.

A worthwhile collection.......2006-01-11

The OHM collection contains some of those ground breaking electronic compositions that have shaped today's styles, from the early electronic instruments of Theremin and Martenot, through Pierre Schaeffer's Music Concrete tape music and the electronic music of Stockhausen and Subotnick, to the mainframe computer output of Risset and Chowning.

It is unfair to mark this collection down due to the production quality and 'musicality' of its contents, to do so would be to staggeringly miss the point of the development of electronic music through the 20th Century. What this collection shows is the ideas behind those at the cutting edge of the genre before many could even conceive of such output. That said it is hard going at points, as experimental music can be.

Highlights for me are no doubt Olivier Messiaen's 'Oraison' on CD 1, David Tudor's 'Rainforest Version 1' on CD 2 and on CD 3 David Behrman's 'On the Other Ocean' and Maryanne Amacher's 'Living sound Patent Pending'.

OhMyGodHowDreadful.......2005-08-15

Ok, this collection is supposed to be early works and, thus not expected to be very sophisticated or polished. But the OHM collection sounds like the first attempt of a spastic cat turned-loose on a Moog keyboard. When it is not boreing, this collection of random and dissonant sounds (I can't call it music) is without any redeeming qualities to make it worth while. Don't get me wrong, I am a long-time fan of Wendy (nie Walter) Carlos and some other real pioneers of electronic music. However, I find that the Ohm collection has no similar qualities and is a major disappointment.

Kid Stockhausen.......2003-01-17

This is required listening for anybody interested in the history of electronic music. Although implicitly aiming for the techno music audience, this audio history is overwhelmingly focused on the classical avant-garde of electro-acoustic composers. The closest you'll get to pop electronica is the Brian Eno track at the end of the third disc. No Kraftwerk, no Moroder, etc. Instead "OHM" manages to point to the continuities between, say, John Cage and artists currently working at the experimental edges of electronica (so-called IDM). It seems to be saying, "You think Kid 606 is visionary? Well check out this Stockhausen track from '59!"

Admittedly, some of the songs are much more interesting to think about than they are to listen to. Some of the early pieces that were made through thosuands of hours of pains-taking tape-splicing could be made today in an afternoon with a digital audio editor and a few effects plug-ins.

It is a beautiful package, containing a 90 page booklet of essays, quotations from the featured artists, and photographs. What all music should be: an education in daring.

Bullfrogs and Butterflies
Average customer rating:
Bullfrogs and Butterflies
Various Artists
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ProductGroup: Music
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The facets of the lyricism!
Divine
To be avoided
aristocratic and heartfelt schumann
aristocratic and heartfelt schumann

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Tracks:

Papillons Op. 2, Introduction. Moderato...
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 1. Lebhaft
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 2. Innig
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Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 4. Ungeduldig
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 5. Einfach
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 6. Sehr rasch (Sehr rasch und in sich hinein)
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 7. Nicht schnell (Mit ausserst starker Empfindung)
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 8. Frisch
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 9. Lebhaft
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 10. Balladenmassig. Sehr rasch
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 11. Einfach
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 12. Mit Humor
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 13. Wild und lustig
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 14. Zart und singen
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 15. Frisch
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 16. Mit gutem Humor
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 17. Wie aus der Ferne
Davidsbundlertanze Op. 6, (18 Charakterstucke) - 18. Nicht schnell
Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 1. Preambule. Quasi maestoso - Piu moto - Animato - Vivo - Presto
Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 2. Pierrot. Moderato
Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 3. Arlequin. Vivo
Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 4. Valso noble. Un poco maestoso
Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 5. Eusebius. Adagio
Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 6. Florestan. Passionato
Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 7. Coquette. Vivo
Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 8. Replique. L'istesso tempo - (Sphinxes)
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Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 13. Estrella. Con affetto
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Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 15. Pantalon et Colombine. Presto
Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 16. Valse allemande. Molto vivace
Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 17. Paganini. Intermezzo. Presto
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Carnaval Op. 9, Scenes mignonnes sur quatre notes - 21. Marche des (Davidsbundler) contre les Philistins. Non Allegro - Molto piu vivo - Animato - Vivo - Animato molto - Vivo - Piu stretto

Tracks:

Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Thema. Andante
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude I. Un poco piu vivo
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude II.
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude III. Vivace
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude IV.
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude V. Vivacissimo
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude VI. Agitato
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude VII. Allegro molto
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude VIII. Andante
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude IX. Presto possibile
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude X. Allegro
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude XI. Con espressione
Symphonische Etuden, Op. 13 - Etude XII. Finale. Allegro brillante
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 1. Von fremden Landern und Menschen
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 2. Kuriose Geschichte
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 3. Hasche-Mann
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 4. Bittendes Kind
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 5. Gluckes genug
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 6. Wichtige Begebenheit
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 7. Traumerei
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 8. Am Kamin
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 9. Ritter vom Steckenpferd
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 10. Fast zu ernst
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 11. Furchtenmachen
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 12. Kind im Einschlummern
Kinderszenen, Op. 15 - 13. Der Dichter spricht
Kreisleriana, Op. 16 - Fantasien - 1. Ausserst bewegt
Kreisleriana, Op. 16 - Fantasien - 2. Sehr innig und nicht zu rasch - Intermezzo, Sehr lebhaft - Intermezzo II. Etwas bewegter - Lngsamer (erstes Tempo)
Kreisleriana, Op. 16 - Fantasien - 3. Sehr aufgeregt
Kreisleriana, Op. 16 - Fantasien - 4. Sehr langsam
Kreisleriana, Op. 16 - Fantasien - 5. Sehr lebhaft
Kreisleriana, Op. 16 - Fantasien - 6. Sehr langsam
Kreisleriana, Op. 16 - Fantasien - 7. Sehr rasch
Kreisleriana, Op. 16 - Fantasien - 8. Schnell und spielend

Tracks:

Fantasie C-dur, Op. 17 - 1. Durchaus phantastisch und leidenschaftlich vorzutragen - Im Legendenton - Tempo Primo
Fantasie C-dur, Op. 17 - 2. Massig. Durchaus energisch - Etwas langsamer - Viel bewegter
Fantasie C-dur, Op. 17 - 3. Langsam getragen. Durchweg leise zu halten - Etwas bewegter
Arabeske, Op. 18 - Leicht und zart - Minore I. Etwas langsamer - Minore II. Etwas langsamer - Zum Schluss (Coda). Langsamer
Humoreske, Op. 20 - Einfach - Sehr rasch und leicht - Noch rascher - Erstes Tempo - Wie im Anfang
Humoreske, Op. 20 - Hastig - Nach und nach immer lebhafter und starker - Wie vorher - Adagio
Humoreske, Op. 20 - Einfach und zart - Intermezzo - (Wie vorher -) Innig
Humoreske, Op. 20 - Sehr lebhaft - Mit einigem Pomp - Zum Beschluss - Allegro
Novelette No. 9 - aus: Bunte Blatter, Op. 99 - Lebhaft

Tracks:

Sonate Nr. 2 g-moll Op. 22 - 1. So rasch wie moglich
Sonate Nr. 2 g-moll Op. 22 - 2. Andantino. Getragen
Sonate Nr. 2 g-moll Op. 22 - 3. Scherzo. Sehr rasch und markiert - attacca:
Sonate Nr. 2 g-moll Op. 22 - 4. Rondo. Presto - Prestissimo. Quasi Cadenza
Nachtstucke, Op. 23 - 1. Mehr langsam, oft zuruckhaltend
Nachtstucke, Op. 23 - 2. Markiert und lebhaft
Nachtstucke, Op. 23 - 3. Mit grosser Lebhaftigkeit
Nachtstucke, Op. 23 - 4. Ad libitum - Einfach
Drei Romanzen, Op. 28 - 1. Sehr markiert
Drei Romanzen, Op. 28 - 2. Einfach
Drei Romanzen, Op. 28 - 3. Sehr markiert - Intermezzo I. Presto - Intermezzo II. Etwas langsamer - Wie vorherPresto - Inter
Waldszenen, Op. 82 - Neun Klavierstucke - 1. Eintritt. Nicht zu schnell
Waldszenen, Op. 82 - Neun Klavierstucke - 2. Jager auf der Lauer. Hochst lebhaft
Waldszenen, Op. 82 - Neun Klavierstucke - 3. Einsame Blumen. Einfach
Waldszenen, Op. 82 - Neun Klavierstucke - 4. Verrufene Stelle. Ziemlich langsam
Waldszenen, Op. 82 - Neun Klavierstucke - 5. Freundliche Landschaft. Schnell
Waldszenen, Op. 82 - Neun Klavierstucke - 6. Herberge. Massig
Waldszenen, Op. 82 - Neun Klavierstucke - 7. Vogel als Prophet. Langsam, sehr zart
Waldszenen, Op. 82 - Neun Klavierstucke - 8. Jagdlied. Rasch, kraftig
Waldszenen, Op. 82 - Neun Klavierstucke - 9. Abschied. Nicht zu schnell

Customer Reviews:

The facets of the lyricism!.......2006-05-30

Wilhelm Kempff made sing the piano as any other pianist ever born. But besides, his profound domain of the thematic material as well as his tune produced a Schumann so original, expressive and eloquent with sentiment but no sentimentality.

This album is a formidable and fundamental set of the most remarkable Schumann piano works. To create such atmosphere and interpretative freshness in this composer is not easy, but in Kempff hands we are talking about another dimension of pianism.

In this age, pitifully, you cannot count with many thinkers pianists; ones due the very adjusted schedule and the rest by unknown reasons seem to consider a matter of second priority to play with a determined conception. The technique seems to prevail under any other aspect. And that's not a good symptom.

That is why among other arguments you should acquire as soon as possible this extraordinary set.

Absorbing and rewarding in summon grade.

Divine.......2005-07-18

When I first read the reviews here on Amazon, I was a bit concerned about buying this set. I truely love Kempff and elegant performing style, but after having almost around 150 of his collections and cd's, I know that he can be dreadful when he is not on form. So I was worried about this set, but it was useless.

This 4-cd set contains some of the best performances that Kempff could offer considering his age. There are numerous highlights here: Papillons, Davidsbündlertänze, fantasy,..... All of them find him on top form. Although one might argue that there are studio recordings and who knows how many takes one recording must have to become perfect, but let me tell you, even in his live and extremely nerve breaking situations and venues such as the Salzburg festival, he was always on top form.

So Kempff's fan, buy this. It's worth it. In here you won't quite find the excitement that Richter put into his Schumann, but you will find the poetry, emotions and sensitivity that many others lack in their recordings.

To be avoided.......2003-11-22

Despite his reputation as one of the towering exponents of the 19th Germanic repetoire, Kempff acquits himself poorly in these recordings, made at the end of his life. Whether these weak performances are due to his advanced age or to more basic flaws in his training and capabilities is purely academic. They are among the poorest choices in the catalogue, perhaps the very worst. But please - don't take my word for it. Listen to the Etde IX in the op. 13, on disc 2. Kempff's attempt to pull this off is embarrassingly amateurish; he cannot even cover all the notes at "presto possibile", much less raise his playing to something approaching an interpretation. Elsewhere, you can expect the same. The op. 17 is played with little poetry, no finesse and palpable frustration in following Schumann's basic roadmap. You cannot run away from this mess fast enough.

aristocratic and heartfelt schumann.......2003-08-28

this compilation has the benefit of including most of schumann's important keyboard works (among excluded works are the toccata, first sonata, bunte blatter and fantasiestucke), under the hands of an extraordinary schumann interpreter.

recorded in the 1970's, when kempff was nearing 80, this is genuinely classic schumann. the virtuosic extremes of the symphonische etuden and kriesleriana are not quite fully exploited, but there is no flubbing, stumbling or cutting corners: kempff has things always under control. look to argerich, pollini or pogorelich for white hot schumann, kempff delivers him as a human being.

for the sheer poetry of schumann, kempff has never been bettered. his davidsbundlertanze, especially the last 5 movements, is without peer. the kinderszenen is delightful. the poetry of the fantasie in C is magnificent. there is a lifetime of musical experience and temperament in this playing.

aristocratic and heartfelt schumann.......2003-08-28

kempff's approach stands apart for his remarkable ability to turn the mood and momentum of the music from one measure to the next, never in a random or willful manner, but with an alert insight and organic flow. other players tend to caricature schumann by emphasizing the contrasts, swinging from bombast to bathos: kempff emphasizes the transitions and continuities. if his fortissimo chords clang a little, the pianissimos are breathtakingly transparent. and no one, simply no one, captures schumann's nobility of heart and aching yearning for the beyond -- in the fantasie, in "zart und singend" -- better than kempff. a benchmark for any schumann collection.

Bullfrogs & Butterflies 4-CD Set
Average customer rating:

Excellent

It was worth it!

Fun, Fun

Kids Fun Music

Bullfrogs & Butterflies 4-CD Set
Agapeland (Author)
Manufacturer: Alpha Omega
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
Educational | Children's Music | Styles | Music
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Music Machine Complete 3-CD Set

Antshillvania

Music Machine: The Fruit of the Spirit

ASIN: B000C1F8EK
Release Date: 2006-05-24

Tracks:

Floydd Frogg Theme
An Empty Place
Your Conscience
Jesus Was A Little Kid, Too
Jesus Is Never Too Busy
Your Heart
Come To The Light
Something I Have Missed
Into My Heart, Thank You Lord
I've Been Born Again
My Best Friend
An Empty Place (Reprise)

Tracks:

Oh Me, Oh My
My Favorite Things
God's Wonderful Love
Knock, Knock, Knock
I Know Somebody Who Knows
I Love To Say Your Name
Floydd Frogg
There's Been A Metamorphosis
Jesus Gave Me Wings
It's Time To Let My People Go
I Will Praise You, O Lord
My Favorite Things (Reprise)

Tracks:

Welcome To Agapeland
Good Morning
This Is The Day
Rainy Day Song
Kid Talk
I Like Knowing God The Best
My Hands Belong To You
Friends
Practice Makes Perfect
Bullfrogs And Butterflies
Noah
You're So Good To Me

Tracks:

Oh Me, Oh My
A Great Big God
God Likes Fun
Diamond In the Rough
Gifts In My Heart
Make A Noise
King of My Heart
Today Is My Favorite Day
I Love You, Lord
Everything I See
Shout Hallelujah
Lions Weren't Hungry Last Night
Friends Forever

Product Description

These highly entertaining and cleverly written recordings come from the talented producers of the best-selling Christian music series, Music Machine. The characters are endearing and the wisdom they convey is enduring! A great way to entertain your children... catchy songs and stories that build positive character traits! Includes four (4) CDs: 1. I've Been Born Again 2. God Is Great 3. God Is My Friend 4. God Loves Fun

Customer Reviews:

Excellent.......2007-05-09

I listened to Bullfrog & Butterflies growing up, and now my kids get to do the same.

It was worth it!.......2007-04-04

As a child back in the early 80's, my very first cassette tape was Bullfrogs and Butterflies. I listened to it incessantly (just ask my folks!) I was delighted to discover that it was available on CD, as my treasured cassette now sounded as if I were listening underwater. Now I just pop that CD in so my little 5 month old son can enjoy the upbeat songs with an awesome message.

Fun, Fun.......2006-11-15

I saved up my money to buy these tapes when they first came out and they were my favorite!!! I just recently found them in storage and my kids are now having the pleasure of listening to them. Even the older ones like it. Catchy, upbeat songs that make any day brighter. I'm so glad to see it's now available on CD.

Kids Fun Music.......2006-11-04

All kids love this album. I have raised six of them and they have all loved it.

Average customer rating:

Blonde Redhead: The Secret Society of Butterflies (4AD)

Secret Society of Butterflies
Blonde Redhead
Manufacturer: Junketboy
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Blonde Redhead
La Mia Vita Violenta
With The Lights Out

ASIN: B0007Q3D8I
Release Date: 2006-07-25

Tracks:

Messenger (With David Sylvian)
Tons Confession
Melody
Misery
Melody (Video)
Equus (Video)

Product Description

4 tracks-Messenger(featuring David Sylvian); Tons Confession; Melody(french version); Misely(wicked version).

Customer Reviews:

Blonde Redhead: The Secret Society of Butterflies (4AD).......2005-09-02

Everyone knows that sometimes in order to create a masterpiece, you have to leave a mess of debris to either throw away or work with all over again. And the more the mess, the better. Blonde Redhead's music from this album came staright from the Misery Is A Butterfly session. Misery Is A Butterfly is Blonde Redhead's next take on negativity, confusion, imagination, anger, and the need to rectify it all on Misery Is A Buterfly. The title would have said it all better. There is actually a collection of B-Sides on two of the bands singles: "Elephant Woman" and "Equus". OK. Really, a collection is more of an exaggeration, but it is a shortlist to behold. The one song from Misery Is A Butterfly, called "Messenger" is reworked including David Sylvian. Instead of sticking along with the regular working of the song, David Sylvian adds more of a dark Nick Cave feel to the music, changing the formula by adding in a drop of new direction. In fact, even if I were to skip that song, it would have done just as well, since every song sets itsef up like a certain opera on its own. "Melody" (French Version), may sound elegant alone and once you try translating the lyrics. Otherwise, the music kind of becomes the type of debris we don't understand. Personally, I don't really mind it much. Language adds art and character. Plus, you can kind of hear her sing in English "These are the things you can do for me." And sometimes you just wonder what the heck that was. The next b-side which is the last of them is "Misery" (Wicked Version). I say this music would fit as well, mostly because I couldn't really tell the difference between the two, besides time to subside, whereas, the Wicked version fades at the near end. Either way, the imagery of the lyrics "Remember we watch misery spread her wings?"; "Misery Is A Butterfly". They are kind of living up to their view of life different than ours.

The only true B-Side is "Tons Confession", which can be found on the "Elephant Woman" Single. I didn't really see why this song was left of of the album, because the music fits kind of well. Also, it fits the theme of the album. Now it is not in my nature to judge an EP or an album full of throwaways and used casts, but if you were to listen to the music, you would know exactly why this music shouldn't even be B-Sides as much as being on an album. But it turns out the music is kind of a masterpiece on its own. Rarely, any album can create a collection of B-Sides and accidentally create another masterpiece. Buy this is you are either a fan of the band or Misery Is A Butterfly.
Rating: 6.75/10

Grieg: Piano Concerto; Schumann: Piano Concerto

Average customer rating:

Scrappy orchestra (ditto sound) but Richter is magisterial
Richter Revisits Schumann

Grieg: Piano Concerto; Schumann: Piano Concerto

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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

Ravel/Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos
Schumann: Piano Concerto / Sviatoslav Richter
Schumann: Carnaval; Brahms: "Paganini" Variations; Bach-Busoni: Chaconne
Liszt: The Two Piano Concertos; The Piano Sonata
Dvorak: Piano Concerto; Schubert: 'Wanderer' Fantasy / Richter, Kleiber

ASIN: B00008RGZK
Release Date: 2003-04-08

Tracks:

I. Allegro Molto Moderato
II. Adagio
III. Allegro Moderato Molto E Marcato
I. Allegro Affettuoso - Andante Espressivo - Allegro Molto
II. Intermezzo (Andantino Grazioso)
III. Allegro Vivace
Papillons, Op. 2

Customer Reviews:

Scrappy orchestra (ditto sound) but Richter is magisterial.......2006-02-25

By 1974 Sviatoslav Richter was about to turn 60 and entering his eccentric late phase, in which he made fewer studio recordings, appeared randomly at small towns anywhere from Siberia to the south of France, generally without advance announcment, to play off the cuff, and fell into the habit of playing in dark halls with a reading lamp beside the keybooard to light up the score he insisted on using.

But this 1974 pairing of the Grieg and Schumann piano concertos reveals that the titan wasn't sleeping. In every bar Richter is so oriignal that instead of being a warhorse among warhorses, you feel you've never heard the Grieg concerto before. His approach is plain and rather slow, with no attempt at virtuoso flash. The magic is all in the phrasing, where Richter was peerless, and of course in his lion-like command of tone.

Von Matacic and the Monte Carlo orchestra follow Richter's lead; their part is fairly scrapy, and even in this remastering the EMI sonics are quasi-Soviet, showing a clangy, unpleasant edge in loud passages. Richter is the whole show (unlike the superb pairing of Fleisher and Szell in these concertos), making it hard for me to hear anyone else's Grieg A minor.

Richter competes with his own classic DG recording of the Schuman concerto with Rowicki from 1959, but since he was probably the greatest Schumann pianist of the century, there's no reason to compare the two, only to apreciate both. The timings are nearly identical in all three movements, the orchestras and sound are less than ideal, yet the two conductors are sympathetic. The filler on this generous (73 min.) CD is the same 1962 Papillons recorded live in Italy that EMI has reissued many times. Who cares--it's great.

Richter Revisits Schumann.......2005-01-21

Pianist Sviatoslav Richter was one of the world's greatest interpreters of Schumann, and his 1958 Deutsche Grammophon recording of the Piano Concerto with Witold Rowicki and the Warsaw National Philharmonic Orchestra (currently available on CD in the "DG Originals" series) is most people's first choice recommendation, mine included. This CD in EMI's "Great Recordings of the Century" series offers Richter's 1974 remake with conductor Lovro von Matacic and Monte Carlo National Opera Orchestra. It is one of the very best performances available but it would be a lot to ask of any performer to outshine the initial greatness captured on the DG disc. Still, this title is very much worth purchasing, for Richter's Grieg is magical as well and it is a delight to once again hear Matacic in the EMI fold, who after numerous recordings for Walter Legge in the late 1950s and early 60s, seemed to disappear, undeservedly, from international prominence. In fact, for anyone looking for a Grieg/Schumann coupling, I would recommend this title over the Sony Essential Classics disc (where Entremont gives a good Grieg, paired with a brilliant performance by Serkin in the Schumann -- see my review) and the Radu Lupu on Decca Legends. The only coupling I personally prefer to this title is the recent Leon Fleisher/George Szell reissue in Sony's retooled "Great Performances" series, but alas those CDs are being sold exclusively through Tower. So in all, enjoy Richter on a great, but not the greatest, Schumann Piano Concerto of the century.

Schumann:Symphoniques, Op.13/Posthumous Etudes/Papillons, Op.2

Average customer rating:

Schumann:Symphoniques, Op.13/Posthumous Etudes/Papillons, Op.2

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
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Davidsbundlertanze/Fantasiestucke (RMST)
Schubert/Schuman: Piano Sonatas
The Aldeburgh Recital
Schumann: Fantasie, Op. 17; Schubert: "Wanderer" Fantasie
Schumann: Kreisleriana; Sonata No. 1, Op. 11

ASIN: B00000258X
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Theme
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 1
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 2
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 3
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 4
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 5
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 6
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 7
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 8
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 9
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 10
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 11
Symphonic Etudes Op. 13: Etude No 12
Posthumous Etudes: Posthumous Variation No 1
Posthumous Etudes: Pothumous Variation No 2
Posthumous Etudes: Posthumous Variation No 3
Posthumous Etudes: Posthumous Variation No 4
Posthumous Etudes: Posthumous Variation No 5
Papillons, Op. 2: Introduzione
Papillons, Op. 2: No 1
Papillons, Op. 2: No 2
Papillons, Op. 2: No 3
Papillons, Op. 2: No 4
Papillons, Op. 2: No 5
Papillons, Op. 2: No 6
Papillons, Op. 2: No 7
No 8
Papillons, Op. 2: No 9
Papillons, Op. 2: No 10
Papillons, Op. 2: No 11
Papillons, Op. 2: No 12 (Finale)

Average customer rating:

drew a winner with this one
Excellence
Feast for the ears
A jazz masterpiece that demands more listenings...
A major advance for one of the finest younger jazz bassists

7 Black Butterflies
Drew Gress
Manufacturer: Koch Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Avant Garde & Free Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
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Reimagining
Sound Unity
What Now?
Thelonious Monk Quartet with John Coltrane at Carnegie Hall
Time Lines

ASIN: B0008191G0
Release Date: 2005-05-24

Tracks:

Rhinoceros
Bright Idea
New Leaf
Zaftig
Bas Relief
Blue On One Side
Wing & Prayer
Low Slung / High Strung
Like It Never Was

Amazon.com

New York bassist Drew Gress proves on 7 Black Butterflies that he is an exciting force to be reckoned with in today's avant garde jazz scene. Not only are his talents as a musician showcased here, but the fact that all tracks on 7 Black Butterflies are composed and arranged by Gress himself is testament to his writing strengths and ability as a successful band leader. Gress's quintet is comprised of some of the most talented avant garde musicians around who clearly enjoy playing off one another. The quintet includes trumpeter Ralph Alessi, fellow New Yorker Tim Berne on alto sax, Tom Rainey on drums and Craig Taborn on piano. Once those first notes are unleashed you'll know you stumbled onto something special. From the gradual 'buzz', 'pluck' and 'screeching' introduction of the opener "Rhinoceros," to the hard bop drive of "Bright Idea," to the bass centered "Bas Relief," to the free flowing highlight "Low Slung/ High Strung," 7 Black Butterflies is a worthwhile flight into the void, a sonic journey not to be missed. --Rob Bracco

Customer Reviews:

drew a winner with this one.......2007-07-27

if you play bass and you want to be a leader you better have an over the top personality or really good compositional skills or utilize gimmicks, because the sound of even the best jazz bassist, that's, by the way, ron carter, is softer in volume than horns and piano. charles mingus had both personality and compositional skills, in addition to being a top jazz bassist.

drew gress, as a leader, falls under the heading of compositionist. he has remarkable timing, so much so that it took me a few listenings to appreciate this recording. rhinocereros begins with a plodding, limping staccato before gaining momentum, craig taborn the highlight on the piece as well as on other numbers. the horns play together on some pieces and against each other on other pieces. quite a few interesting influences add to gress' originality, miles davis' quintet from the miles in the sky period, for one.

and like mingus' music, gress' music provokes. if beyond the provocation you feel compelled to take the time and listen, the rewards are many and unfold with repeated listenings.

Excellence.......2006-12-23

This is a tremendous record. The musicians play with a thrilling intensity from start to finish, and the compositions are brilliant.

Feast for the ears.......2006-11-10

I purchased this CD based on Recommendations on Amazon, and the existing reviews on Amazon and am very glad I did. Interesting, enjoyable music, great musicians, and outstanding sound quality ! An excellent modern jazz album that has enhanced my collection. Clearly not for smooth jazz fans.

A jazz masterpiece that demands more listenings... .......2006-05-01

I first listened to this cd last year when it came out. When I finished listening to the entire CD back then, I found it too difficult for repeated listenings. Then I left it aside for some months... untill today. I don't regret to listen to it again. Gosh ! What a thrill ! This is avant garde jazz, full of surprises, a record that is to be a classic within a few years' time. I find no lacking moment of interest. Tim Berne on alto sax is great, inventive, Tom Rainey's drumming is one of the finest : he makes a continuous rhythmic comment on what is being played in the front line (Ralph Alessi on trumpet is smart). If you hate nostalgic music or that tendency to reproduce a kind of jazz without being creative, then try this all acoustic quintet. You shall be surprised because there's something out of this world going on here... It's complex, creative and exciting for neurons. This is one of those rare CDs that will continue to reveal its beauty and depth with repeated listenings. I know I'll spend more time with it. Again, let time accomplish miracles...

A major advance for one of the finest younger jazz bassists.......2005-06-12

I'm pretty much completely on board with Troy Collins's excellent review of Drew Gress's third solo recording. My only questions are why he doesn't give it that fifth star, and why he disparages his previous recordings. I agree that this is certainly the best thing Gress has recorded, but my own view is that it merits the highest accolades that a reviewer can give it.

Let's take a closer look. First off, Gress has assembled the quintessential downtown jazz ensemble: Ralph Alessi (trumpet); Tim Berne (alto sax); Tom Rainey (drums); and Craig Taborn (piano). These guys move with fluid grace between post-bop, free-bop, and modernistic no-bop as anyone on the planet. They consistently nail whatever musical soundscape is called for.

Second, the compositions have both a melodic appeal and post-modern smartness often lacking in these downtownish sessions. Really, there's not a loser in the nine selections--entirely admirable for the avant-garde. I'm thinking nearly any savvy jazz enthusiast could get on board with the esthetic going down here.

Third, Tim Berne plays as attractively and assertively as I've ever heard him. There's a warmth and burnished quality to his delivery that I've never heard from him before.

Fourth, Craig Taborn proves once again that he is simply a monster on his instrument. It seems that no matter what the context, Taborn has the concept and chops to deliver just what's needed. Check out his solo on "Bright Idea" for a sample of what I mean.

Fifth, I believe I can say without contradiction that this is the finest playing Tom Raney has ever committed to disc. Besides his trademark polyrhythmic attack, there's such deep swing and rhythmic propulsion to his playing that one simply cannot imagine anyone else adequately filling the drum chair.

Bottom line, this is brilliant contemporary jazz of the absolute highest accomplishment.

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