C'È Di Più [Enhanced] [Import]

Product Description
Selection of Previously Unreleased Songs from Late Italian Artist.

C'È Di Più,Alex Baroni,Bmg Int'l,Int'l & World Music,Italian Pop,Italy,Pop,Pop/Rock,World Music

Average customer rating: A Man and His Art - Magnificently Captured What can you say - it's Segovia! EVERYBODY KNOWS Immortal guitar WOW

Art of Segovia Andres Segovia Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Segovia, Andrés | ( S ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Segovia, Andrés | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Segovia, Andrés | ( S ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Essential Guitar: 33 Guitar Masterpieces The Segovia Collection Baroque Guitar 300 Years of Guitar Masterpieces The Best of Andrés Segovia: The Millennium Collection ASIN: B00006B66L Release Date: 2002-10-08

Tracks:

1. Andante
2. Andantino
3. Lento
4. Romance De Los Pinos
5. Madronos
6. Serenata Burlesca
7. Variations On A Theme From Mozart's 'The Magic Flute'
8. Mesto E Calmo
9. Theme, Variations & Finale
10. Cancion Mexicana No.X
11. Sevillana, Op.29
12. Sarabanda
13. Capriccio Diabolico, Op.85
14. Tonadilla For Guitar On The Name Of Andres Segovia
15. No.1 In E Minor
16. No.3 In A Minor
17. Guitarreo
18. Segovia, Op.29

Tracks:

1. If My Complaints
2. Now, O Now I Need Must Part
3. Sarabande
4. 1. Prelude (Transposed In D Major)
5. 4. Tempo Di Bourree
6. Courante
7. 3. Gavotte En Rondeau
8. Aria E Corrente
9. Moderato
10. Menuet In G Major
11. Andantino Variato
12. No.7 In A Major
13. 2. Canzonetta
14. 2. Quasi Lento (Preludio)
15. 1. Andantino Poco Allegretto (Allegretto)
16. 2. Il Vecchio Castello
17. Allegretto
18. Tres Calme Et Doucement Expressif
19. No.4 In E Flat Minor
20. 5. Asturias. Leyenda - Preludio
21. 7. Zambra Granadina
22. Estudio Sin Luz
23. Allegro Con Brio

Amazon.com

DG has put together a fascinating compilation of Segovia's art that reminds us what a protean figure he was. Segovia single-handedly put the instrument on the map by making classical guitar concerts popular events, broadening the instrument's repertory through commissions and transcriptions, and convincing even doubters that it could be a vehicle for serious music. He's heard here in brief pieces recorded between 1952 and 1969. Even in those made when he was well into his 70s, his fingers remain nimble and interpretations lively. Listening straight through, one hears many all-time Segovia favorites as Turina's Sevillana and Albeniz's Asturias and Zambra Granadina and renews appreciation for path-breaking composers like Castelnuovo-Tedesco. He wrote extensively for Segovia and his Capriccio diabolico and Tonadilla are pieces of real substance. Disc two is largely made up transcriptions and it's amazing how well so many of them work on the guitar, at least under Segovia's magic fingers. Thus the transformations of Bach's violin music and even a Chopin Prelude sound idiomatic, and the gorgeous melodies of the Canzonetta from Mendelssohn's Op. 12 String Quartet are irresistible here. An entrancing set. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

A Man and His Art - Magnificently Captured.......2007-04-06

This 2-CD set produced by Deutche Grammmophon and first released in 2002 is one set of the hundreds that could have been or the dozens that actually have been made and sold successfully all over the world. The exceptional feature of this particular collection is not, of course, the performer. Quite to the contrary, the miraculous consistency of stylings and performance are amongst the most remarkable aspects of the man who was, arguably, the 20th Centry's virtuoso supreme of the classical guitar, Andres Segovia (1893-1987.) Rather, it is the collection itself - the pieces chosen to be produced on this one set - this, to steal a German word, gestalt. While his style did not remain constant throughout his long life and career, by the time he had developed his most masterful skills that included doing his own arrangements - the era represented on this particular set (1951-1960) - his playing had become completely his own - unchallenged and unmatched by even other clearly great guitarists with whom he shared this era.

There are a total of 31 pieces played on these CDs and while a playlist would be an unnecessary use of space here, a list of the composers represented is not. More than the specific pieces Segovia gives us here, the range of composers chosen by the compilers and editors - with each piece rearranged by Segovia himself, tells us a great deal about his interests, talents and musical range. These composers include:
Isaac Albeniz, Johann Sebastian Bach, Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco, Frederic Chopin, Claude Debussy, John Dowland, Manuel de Falla, Cesar Franke, Girolamo Frescobaldi, Edvard Grieg, George Frederic Handel, Felix Mendelsohn, Frederico Moreno Torroba, Modest Mussorgsky, Nicolo Paganini, Felipe Pedrell, Manuel Ponce, Jean-Philippe Rameau, Joaquin Rodrigo, Albert Roussel, Domenico Scarlatti, Alexander Scriabin, Segovia's own composition of Estudio sin luz, Fernando Sor, Francisco Tarrega, Joaquin Turina and Heitor Villa-Lobos. A truly magnificent and broad ranging collection held together by Segovia's unique personal style, approach and sound.

Largely self-taught, Andres Segovia did things with a guitar that others only imagined. He didn't just play Bach, for example - music written for an entirely different type of instrument (keyboards.) He went a step further, and recorder Bach's keyboard lessons written for his students (the Two and Three Part Inventions) and made them sound as if they had been written for the guitar! His artistry is evident to even the casual listener and in this collection, any devote of classical guitar and/or of Segovia as an individual artist, will not be disappointed.
Perfect listening for anytime. Hypnotic and, simply, unsurpassed. A necessary addition to any serious classical guitar collection.

What can you say - it's Segovia!.......2007-02-10

I saw Segovia perform live in my youth. What a treat! Anyone who loves Classical Guitar should love this collection.

EVERYBODY KNOWS.......2007-01-13

EVERYBODY KNOWS THAT ANDRES SEGOVIA WAS/IS THE WORLD'S GREATEST CLASSICAL GUITAR PLAYER. THIS CD IS A COMPILATION OF HIS RECORDINGS FROM THE THE EARLY 50'S TO THE LATE 60'S. HIS GUITAR MASTERY IS UNQUESTIONED AND HE IS AN INSPIRATION. I WISH I COULD PLAY GUITAR LIKE ANDRES SEGOVIA (BUT I CAN'T AND I NEVER WILL!).

Immortal guitar.......2006-08-02

Two CD's with Segovia's immortal music - an incredible treat at a great price!

WOW.......2006-02-23

Even though there is hiss from the original analog recordings this one is a must. Segovia! What more can you say. Anyone who likes classical guitar will love this.

Average customer rating: Barenboim's Beethvoen One of the very best ever dead in the water Sublime expression nourished by a colossal vision! Performed with great enthusiasm

Beethoven: Complete Piano Sonatas / Daniel Barenboim Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Barenboim, Daniel | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Bargain Box Sets | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Similar Items: Mozart:The Complete Piano Sonatas and Variations Beethoven - The Complete String Quartets / Alban Berg Quartet Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos Chopin: The Piano Works Schubert: The Piano Sonatas ASIN: B00000C2KP Release Date: 1998-10-20

Tracks:

1. Sonata No.1 In F Minor, Op.2 No.1: Allegro
2. Sonata No.1 In F Minor, Op.2 No.1: Adagio
3. Sonata No.1 In F Minor, Op.2 No.1: Menuetto: Allegretto
4. Sonata No.1 In F Minor, Op.2 No.1: Prestissimo
5. Sonata No.2 In A Major, Op.2 No.2: Allegro vivace
6. Sonata No.2 In A Major, Op.2 No.2: Largo appassionato
7. Sonata No.2 In A Major, Op.2 No.2: Scherzo: Allegretto
8. Sonata No.2 In A Major, Op.2 No.2: Rondo: Grazioso
9. Sonata No.3 In C Major, Op.2 No.3: Allegro con brio
10. Sonata No.3 In C Major, Op.2 No.3: Adagio
11. Sonata No.3 In C Major, Op.2 No.3: Scherzo: Allegro
12. Sonata No.3 In C Major, Op.2 No.3: Allegro assai

Tracks:

1. Sonata No.5 In C Minor, Op.10 No.1: Allegro molto e con brio
2. Sonata No.5 In C Minor, Op.10 No.1: Adagio molto
3. Sonata No.5 In C Minor, Op.10 No.1: Finale: Prestissimo
4. Sonata No.6 In F Major, Op.10 No.2: Allegro
5. Sonata No.6 In F Major, Op.10 No.2: Allegretto
6. Sonata No.6 In F Major, Op.10 No.2: Presto
7. Sonata No.7 In D Major, Op.10 No.3: Presto
8. Sonata No.7 In D Major, Op.10 No.3: Largo e mesto
9. Sonata No.7 In D Major, Op.10 No.3: Menuetto: Allegro
10. Sonata No.7 In D Major, Op.10 No.3: Rondo: Allegro
11. Sonata No.22 In F Major, Op.54: In tempo di Menuetto
12. Sonata No.22 In F Major, Op.54: Allegretto - Piu allegro

Tracks:

1. Sonata No.4 In E Flat Major, Op7: Allegro molto e con brio
2. Sonata No.4 In E Flat Major, Op7: Largo con gran espressione
3. Sonata No.4 In E Flat Major, Op7: Allegro
4. Sonata No.4 In E Flat Major, Op7: Rondo: Poco allegretto e grazioso
5. Sonata No.9 In E Major, Op.14 No.1: Allegro
6. Sonata No.9 In E Major, Op.14 No.1: Allegretto
7. Sonata No.9 In E Major, Op.14 No.1: Rondo: Allegro comodo
8. Sonata No.10 In G Major, Op.14 No.2: Allegro
9. Sonata No.10 In G Major, Op.14 No.2: Andante
10. Sonata No.10 In G Major, Op.14 No.2: Scherzo: Allegro assai

Tracks:

1. Sonata No.11 In B Flat Major, Op.22: Allegro con brio
2. Sonata No.11 In B Flat Major, Op.22: Adagio con molta espressione
3. Sonata No.11 In B Flat Major, Op.22: Menuetto
4. Sonata No.11 In B Flat Major, Op.22: Rondo: Allegretto
5. Sonata No.12 In A Flat Major, Op.26: Andante von variazioni
6. Sonata No.12 In A Flat Major, Op.26: Scherzo: Allegro molto
7. Sonata No.12 In A Flat Major, Op.26: Marcia funebre sulla morte d'un Eroe: Maestoso andante
8. Sonata No.12 In A Flat Major, Op.26: Allegro
9. Sonata No.13 In E Flat Major, Op.27 No.1: Andante - Allegro
10. Sonata No.13 In E Flat Major, Op.27 No.1: Allegro molto e vivace
11. Sonata No.13 In E Flat Major, Op.27 No.1: Adagio con espressione - Allegro vivace

Tracks:

1. SONATA NO.8 IN C MINOR, OP.13 'PATHETIQUE': Grave - Allegro molto e con brio
2. SONATA NO.8 IN C MINOR, OP.13 'PATHETIQUE': Adagio cantabile
3. SONATA NO.8 IN C MINOR, OP.13 'PATHETIQUE': Rondo: Allegro
4. Sonata No.14 InC Sharp Minor, Op.27 No.2 'Moonlight': Adagio sostenuto
5. Sonata No.14 InC Sharp Minor, Op.27 No.2 'Moonlight': Allegretto
6. Sonata No.14 InC Sharp Minor, Op.27 No.2 'Moonlight': Presto agitato - Adagio - Presto agitato
7. SONATA NO.23 IN F MINOR, OP.57 'APPASSIONATA': Allegro assai - Piu allegro
8. SONATA NO.23 IN F MINOR, OP.57 'APPASSIONATA': Andante con moto
9. SONATA NO.23 IN F MINOR, OP.57 'APPASSIONATA': Allegro ma non troppo - Presto

Tracks:

1. Sonata No.15 In D Major, Op.28 'Pastoral': Allegro
2. Sonata No.15 In D Major, Op.28 'Pastoral': Andante
3. Sonata No.15 In D Major, Op.28 'Pastoral': Scherzo: Allegro vivace
4. Sonata No.15 In D Major, Op.28 'Pastoral': Rondo: Allegro ma non troppo
5. Sonata No.21 In C Major, Op.53 'Waldstein': Allegro con brio
6. Sonata No.21 In C Major, Op.53 'Waldstein': Introduzione (Adagio molto) - Rondo (Allegretto moderato - Prestissimo)
7. Sonata No.19 In G Minor, Op.49 No.1: Andante
8. Sonata No.19 In G Minor, Op.49 No.1: Rondo: Allegro
9. Sonata No.20 In G Major, Op.49 No.2: Allegro ma non troppo
10. Sonata No.20 In G Major, Op.49 No.2: Tempo di menuetto

Tracks:

1. Sonata No. 16 In G Major, Op. 31 No. 1: Allegro vivace
2. Sonata No. 16 In G Major, Op. 31 No. 1: Adagio grazioso
3. Sonata No. 16 In G Major, Op. 31 No. 1: Rondo: Allegretto - Adagio - Presto
4. Sonata No. 17 In D Minor, Op. 31 No. 2 'The Tempest': Largo - Allegro
5. Sonata No. 17 In D Minor, Op. 31 No. 2 'The Tempest': Adagio
6. Sonata No. 17 In D Minor, Op. 31 No. 2 'The Tempest': Allegretto
7. Sonata No.18 In E Flat Major, Op.31 No.3: Allegro
8. Sonata No.18 In E Flat Major, Op.31 No.3: Scherzo: Allegretto vivace
9. Sonata No.18 In E Flat Major, Op.31 No.3: Menuetto: Moderato grazioso
10. Sonata No.18 In E Flat Major, Op.31 No.3: Presto con fuoco

Tracks:

1. Sonata No.24 In F Sharp Major, Op.78: Adagio cantabile - Allegro ma non troppo
2. Sonata No.24 In F Sharp Major, Op.78: Allegro vivace
3. Sonata No.25 in G major, Op.79: Presto alla tedesca
4. Sonata No.25 in G major, Op.79: Andante
5. Sonata No.25 in G major, Op.79: Vivace
6. Sonata No.26 In E Flat Major, Op.81a 'Les Adieux': Das Lebewohl (Les Adieux): Adagio - Allegro
7. Sonata No.26 In E Flat Major, Op.81a 'Les Adieux': Abwesenheit (L'Absence): Andante espressivo
8. Sonata No.26 In E Flat Major, Op.81a 'Les Adieux': Wiedersehn (Le Retour): Vivacissimamente - Poco andante - Tempo 1
9. Sonata No.27 In E Minor, Op.90: Mit Lebhaftigkeit und durchaus mit Empfindung und Ausdruck
10. Sonata No.27 In E Minor, Op.90: Nicht zu geschwind und sehr singbar vorzutragen

Tracks:

1. Sonata No.28 In A Major, Op.101: Allegretto ma non troppo
2. Sonata No.28 In A Major, Op.101: Vivace alla Marcia
3. Sonata No.28 In A Major, Op.101: Adagio, ma non troppo, con affetto - Tempo del primo pezzo - Allegro
4. Sonata No.29 In B Flat Major, Op.106 'Hammerklavier': Allegro
5. Sonata No.29 In B Flat Major, Op.106 'Hammerklavier': Scherzo: Assai vivace - Presto - Tempo 1
6. Sonata No.29 In B Flat Major, Op.106 'Hammerklavier': Adagio sostenuto
7. Sonata No.29 In B Flat Major, Op.106 'Hammerklavier': Largo - Allegro - Prestissimo - Allegro risoluto (Fuga a tre voci, con alcune licenze)

Tracks:

1. Sonata No.30 In E Major, Op.109: Vivace, ma non troppo - Adagio espressivo - Tempo 1
2. Sonata No.30 In E Major, Op.109: Prestissimo
3. Sonata No.30 In E Major, Op.109: Tema: Andante molto cantabile e espressivo - Variazioni 1-6
4. Sonata No.31 In A Flat Major, Op.110: Moderato cantabile, molto espressivo
5. Sonata No.31 In A Flat Major, Op.110: Allegro molto
6. Sonata No.31 In A Flat Major, Op.110: Adagio ma non troppo
7. Sonata No.31 In A Flat Major, Op.110: Fuga: Allegro ma non troppo - L'istesso tempo di arioso - L'istesso tempo della Fuga - Meno allegro
8. Sonata No.32 in C minor, op.111: Maestoso - Allegro con brio ed appassionato
9. Sonata No.32 in C minor, op.111: Arietta: Adagio molto semplice e cantabile - Variazioni

Customer Reviews:

Barenboim's Beethvoen.......2007-06-27

I heard Bachaus play all Beethoven recitals at Carnegie Hall, in NYC. At that time he was the acknowledged master of the Beethvoen Sonata. With Barenboim, the old order changeth, yielding place to new. These recordings have fire, tempestuousness and passion, all emotions that belong in Beethoven.

One of the very best ever.......2007-02-15

This set has to be experienced. The clarity of these performances is beyond belief. If it's not the best set of Beethoven Sonatas, it is certainly among the very best. Take for example the first movement of Sonata number 21. It is so easy to have a performer play all the notes just as Beethoven wrote them and yet leave the listener in a morass of confusion without the slightest idea of what he had in mind. Not here. The ideas pour forth in a white light that has to be experienced. It really has to be experienced!! I love these performances. I will play them until I die. Oh...and the recordings are technically excellent. At least when played through Levinson electronics and Maggies....superb!

dead in the water.......2007-01-12

Sorry, I just don't like Barenboim's renditions. Beethoven is my favourite composer, depending on my mood that is, and nothing moves me as his music can. But I just don't get Barenboim's renditions... doesn't do a thing for me. Something of Beethoven's depth and richness gets totally "lost in translation".

Better off finding a better performance of these if you really want to be "blown away". My favorite "Beethoven" conductor would have to be Herbert von Karajan; and as for individual pianists my all time favorite is Maurizio Pollini, whose performances are exquisite, in both technique and expression! If you are a music lover you should really check his work out if you haven't already. My favorite Beethoven CD by him is "Die Spaten Klaviersonaten" (Beethoven) by Deutsche Grammophon in their "legendary recordings" series. It is a real gem! (the sound quality is excellent also)

Sublime expression nourished by a colossal vision!.......2006-03-23

Thanks to this immense and untiring activity in the field of the orchestral direction, his vision as pianist has enriched himself quite a lot: Barenboim performs these well known Sonatas with a splendid architectural construction; according Schnabel `s tradition.

And that is a very remarkable good point in this musical moment where the pianist technique is eclipsing and even annulling the personal approach in the most of pianists all over the world. Honesty, conviction, vision and commitment dress those interpretations loaded of expression and personality.

In the great tradition of the great Beethovenian keyboard giants of the past, Daniel explores and plays every little bar with that well felt intensity of someone who in Beethoven `s there is much more than simple music. In Beethoven the music is not a goal by itself; but a revelation superior to any philosophy; all his musical legacy possess values that are placed of the standards. There is not art without second intention and that is precisely what Barenboim has made with this fabulous cycle of Beethoven Sonatas.

If you really want to listen remarkable performances far beyond of the trivial conventionalisms, go for this record.

Performed with great enthusiasm.......2004-05-16

This is classic early Barenboim (he was just 24 when he started recording this set in 1966). He is very enthusiastic and expressive (if you don't like him, he "takes liberties" and "shows off"). The slow movements are veerrry slow, and the fast ones really rip. Pianissimo is extremely soft, and fortissimo rattles the windows! [My wife insists that I wear headphones for late-night listening.]

Personally, I think his style is just right for Beethoven (but perhaps just a bit much when he plays Mozart). I'm very glad that I bought this set, but some might prefer Brendell's (Phillips) or Kempff's (DG) more sedate versions.

Average customer rating: Just what the title promises. Real Relaxation The gentle side of Beethoven Relaxing and soothing a great way to appreciate beethoven's music

Beethoven for Book Lovers: An Intimate Companion for Reading Manufacturer: Philips ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Similar Items: Brahms for Book Lovers: A Cozy Companion for Reading Tchaikovsky At Tea Time: A Refreshing Blend For Body And Spirit Mozart for Meditation Bach for Breakfast Mozart for Morning Coffee: Freshly Brewed to Perk Up Your Day ASIN: B0000041FA Release Date: 1996-06-11

Tracks:

1. Sonata No.5 In F (Spring): Adagio molto espessivo
2. Sonata #10 In G: Adagio espressivo
3. Sonata #2 In A: Andante piu tosto allegretto
4. String Quartet No.16 In F: Lentp assai, cantante e tranquillo
5. Sonata #7 In C Minor: Adagio cantabile
6. Sonata #8 In G: Tempo di minuetto
7. Sonata #3 In E- Flat: Adagio con molt' espressione
8. String Quartet No 6 In B-Flat: Adagio ma non troppo
9. 'Archduke' Trio In B-Flat: Andante cantabile, ma pero con moto

Customer Reviews:

Just what the title promises........2007-03-29

Just received this CD today, and it's definitely wonderful background for reading; however, don't limit it to that. If you just need some time to close your eyes and unwind, this is also the perfect companion. Love it!

Real Relaxation.......2007-02-19

If you're a fan of Philips's Set Your Life to Music series, you'll want to get this CD. It will be especially good for string and piano music lovers. I have several of the series, and it has quickly become my favorite. It's perfect for reading, studying, or just "kicking back." If you know of someone who needs to relax and would like this type of CD, get it for him/her. You'll get major points for it.

The gentle side of Beethoven.......2005-08-10

If you know anything about the composer Beethoven, what often comes to mind is music that is highly dramatic and often loud, whether it be his hard-driving piano music banging on the keyboard or a full-blown orchestra (like Beethoven's Fifth Symphony with its famous, ominous opening, "dunt-dunt-dunt-da.") The point is that typically most of Beethoven's music demands to be heard, contemplated and emotionally processed.

But this is not the case for the Beethoven music on this CD. There was another side of this fiery composer - one that revealed a tender-hearted composer capable of very calm, lovely and song-like instrumental music. And it is this side of Beethoven that is captured in the nine very serene and lyrical selections on this CD. What is great about this compliation of Beethoven music is that many of Beethoven's most sentimental and beautiful slower movements have been "cherry picked" and grouped into one CD that is MUCH more condusive for leisurely listening (no loud banging on the piano or surges from the huge symphony). The music is pure Beethoven talent, but these selections do not demand to be heard and serve well to create a wonderful backdrop for relaxing, reading or late-night entertaining. Sometimes the music is so calm in one or two movements it seems to lack forward movement but - given its purpose for background music - this should not be objectionable.

The music on this CD features mostly piano and violin duets (termed violin sonatas) along with two inspiring string quartet selections and one famous piano/violin/cello song. By the way, this kind of music with a small number of instruments is called "chamber music." The violin/piano selections are very well chosen from the legendary recordings of violinist David Oistrakh and partner Orbinin - musicians known for their more relaxed playing of Beethoven and beautiful tone - all of which is perfect for such a "book reading" CD. (Other performers of the same music tend to put more "edge" and drama into these songs which can be more distracting for leisurely pursuits). All the music is touching and beautiful - with only a few of those typical loud Beethoven "surprizes" amist the quiet bliss - although there are some brief shifts to minor-key anguished tones at times that might disrupt some readers concentration.

Perhaps the highlight of the CD is one of the very last string quartets Beethoven wrote before his death - years into his total deafness and ill health (track 4). In this slow and sublime movement can be heard the most personal and spiritual aspects of this great composer. It is played by one of the greatest string quartets in history (Quartetto Italiano) with a deeply touching sentimentality. Listening to it, you can sense a man who has suffered much but who has come into a final rest and new depth of spiritual awareness at the end of his life. It was his final "swan song" and is surely one of the greatest and most poinant compositions he wrote. All-in-all, this CD is a very high-quality set of inspiring recordings that make not only for calm background music, but also for moments of introspection and growing musical appreciation. The non-techical music notes included give a helpful and interesting background on the music and composer. The sound quality is fine and not distracting in any way. A beautiful introduction to Beethoven's chamber music (for 2-5 instruments) and one you can listen to often and most any time.

Relaxing and soothing.......2001-11-29

When you can't recognize a Bach from Beethoven composition like me, this works perfectly. Once again Phillips as assembled a wonderful group of sonatas, trios and quartets to soothe the spirit. These songs are all slow and tranquil, perfect for those quiet moments when music is not to be intrusive but inclusive. Phillips has a whole line of classical music composers brought together with various themes such as this one. I've found them to be extremely convenient. Highly recommended for those that like their music softly at times, gently caressing the grey matter between ones ears. This music can tame even the most combustible moments. It recently was playing while discussing an issue that my teenage son and I were miles apart on. It seemed to help keep cool heads. I think I'll suggest a title like Tchaikovsky for Teen and Parents Issues since Phillips is open for themes for future discs!

a great way to appreciate beethoven's music.......2001-08-13

Some of Beethoven's most relaxing and tranquil music is included in this wonderful cd. Whether you're reading your favorite novel, doing homework or simply relaxing, this cd provides soothing background music, helping to enhance your concentration. There are no loud trumpets and such blasting, since it is basically peaceful music.

Average customer rating: The greatest songs ever? A musical treasure-box a beautiful journey into melancholy

Dowland - The Collected Works / The Consort of Musicke, Rooley John Dowland , Anthony Rooley , Emma Kirkby , Christopher Wilson , The Consort of Musicke , Colin Tilney , Anthony Bailes , Jakob Lindberg , Nigel North , Glenda Simpson , Peter Holman , and John Donne Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Pavanes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Byrd, William | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Dowland | Dowland, John | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Holborne, Anthony | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by White | White, Robert | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Sacred & Religious | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music | Requiems Ballets & Dances | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Renaissance (c.1450-1600) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Recorder | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Solo Instrumental | New Age | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Byrd, William | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Dowland, John | ( D ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Holborne, Anthony | ( H ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music White, Robert | ( W ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Bargain Box Sets | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Bargain Box Sets | Opera & Vocal General | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Opera & Vocal General | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Dowland: Complete Lute Works, Vol.1-5 William Byrd: Consort Songs Bach: The Landowska Recordings Britten Conducts Britten Janácek: Operas ASIN: B000004CYV Release Date: 2007-03-13

Tracks:

1. First Booke Of Songes: I. Unquiet Thoughts
2. First Booke Of Songes: II. Who Ever Thinks Or Hopes Of Love
3. First Booke Of Songes: III. My Thoughts Are Wing'd With Hopes
4. First Booke Of Songes: IV. If My Complaints Could Passions Move
5. First Booke Of Songes: V. Can She Excuse My Wrongs
6. First Booke Of Songes: VI. Now, O Now, I Needs Must Part
7. First Booke Of Songes: VII. Dear, If You Change
8. First Booke Of Songes: VIII. Burst Fourth My Tears
9. First Booke Of Songes: IX. Go Crystal Tears
10. First Booke Of Songes: X. Think'st Thou Then By Thy Feigning
11. First Booke Of Songes: XI. Come Away, Come Sweet Love
12. First Booke Of Songes: XII. Rest Awhile, You Cruel Cares
13. First Booke Of Songes: XIII. Sleep, Wayward Thoughts
14. First Booke Of Songes: XIV. All Ye, Whom Love Or Fortune Hath Betray'd
15. First Booke Of Songes: XV. Wilt Thou Unkind Thus Reave Me
16. First Booke Of Songes: XVI. Would My Conceit
17. First Booke Of Songes: XVII. Come Again: Sweet Love Doth Now Invite
18. First Booke Of Songes: XVIII. His Golden Locks
19. First Booke Of Songes: XIX. Awake, Sweet Love
20. First Booke Of Songes: XX. Come, Heavy Sleep
21. First Booke Of Songes: XXI. Away With These Self-Loving Lads

Tracks:

1. Second Booke Of Songs: I. I Saw My Lady Weep
2. Second Booke Of Songs: II. Flow My Tears
3. Second Booke Of Songs: III. Sorrow, Stay
4. Second Booke Of Songs: IV. Die Not Before Thy Day
5. Second Booke Of Songs: V. Mourn, Mourn, Day Is With Darkness Fled
6. Second Booke Of Songs: VI. Time's Eldest Son
7. Second Booke Of Songs: VII. Then Sit Thee Down
8. Second Booke Of Songs: VIII. When Others Sing Venite
9. Second Booke Of Songs: IX. Praise Blindness Eyes
10. Second Booke Of Songs: X. O Sweet Woods
11. Second Booke Of Songs: XI. If Floods Of Tears
12. Second Booke Of Songs: XII. Fine Knacks For Ladies
13. Second Booke Of Songs: XIII. Now Cease My Wand'ring Eyes
14. Second Booke Of Songs: XIV. Come Ye Heavy States Of Night
15. Second Booke Of Songs: XV. White As Lilies Was Her Face
16. Second Booke Of Songs: XVI. Woeful Heart
17. Second Booke Of Songs: XVII. A Shepherd In A Shade
18. Second Booke Of Songs: XVIII. Faction That Ever Dwells
19. Second Booke Of Songs: XIX. Shall I Sue
20. Second Booke Of Songs: XX. Toss Not My Soul
21. Second Booke Of Songs: XXI. Clear Or Cloudy
22. Second Booke Of Songs: XXII. Humour Say What Mak'st Thou Here

Tracks:

1. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: I. Farewell, Too Fair
2. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: II. Time Stands Still
3. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: III. Behold A Wonder Here
4. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: IV. Daphne Was Not So Chaste
5. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: V. Me, Me, And None But Me
6. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: VI. When Phoebus First Did Daphne Love
7. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: VII. Say, Love, If Ever Thou Didst Find
8. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: VIII. Flow Not So Fast, Ye Fountains
9. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: IX. What If I Never Speed?
10. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: X. Love Stood Amazed
11. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XI. Lend Your Ears To My Sorrow
12. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XII. By A Fountain Where I Lay
13. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XIII. O What Hath Overwrought
14. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XIV. Farewell, Unkind
15. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XV. Weep You No More, Sad Fountains
16. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XVI. Fie On This Feigning!
17. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XVII. I Must Complain
18. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XVIII. It Was A Time When Silly Bees
19. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XIX. The Lowest Trees Have Tops
20. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XX. What Poor Astronomers Are They
21. Third Booke Of Songs 1603: XXI. Come When I Call

Tracks:

1. A Pilgrimes Solace: I. Disdain Me Still
2. A Pilgrimes Solace: II. Sweet Stay Awhile
3. A Pilgrimes Solace: III. To Ask For All Thy Love
4. A Pilgrimes Solace: IV. Love, Those Beams That Breed
5. A Pilgrimes Solace: V. Shall I Strive Wih Words To Move?
6. A Pilgrimes Solace: VI. Were Every Thought An Eye
7. A Pilgrimes Solace: VII. Stay, Time, Awhile Thy Flying
8. A Pilgrimes Solace: VIII. Tell Me, True Love
9. A Pilgrimes Solace: IX. Go Nightly Cares
10. A Pilgrimes Solace: X. From Silent Night
11. A Pilgrimes Solace: XI. Lasso vita mia
12. A Pilgrimes Solace: XII. In This Trembling Shadow Cast
13. A Pilgrimes Solace: XIII. If That A Sinner's Sights
14. A Pilgrimes Solace: XIV. Thou Mighty God
15. A Pilgrimes Solace: XV. When David's Life
16. A Pilgrimes Solace: XVI. When The Poor Cripple

Tracks:

1. A Pilgrimes Solace: XVII. Where Sin Sore Wounding
2. A Pilgrimes Solace: XVIII. My Heart And Tongue Were Twins
3. A Pilgrimes Solace: XIX. Up Merry Mates
4. A Pilgrimes Solace: XX. Welcome Black Night
5. A Pilgrimes Solace: XXI. Cease, Cease These False Sports
6. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Lachrimae Pavane
7. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Can Shee
8. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Paduana
9. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: The Frogge
10. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Frog's Galliard
11. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Pavana And Galiarda
12. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Paduana Lachrymae
13. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Can She Excuse
14. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Pavion Solus cum sola
15. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Dowland's Almayne
16. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Piper's Paven And Galliard
17. Keyboard Transcriptions Of Dowland's Music By Other Musicians: Pavan Lachrymae

Tracks:

1. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: I. The Lamentation Of A Sinner
2. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: II. Domine ne in furore
3. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: III. Miserere mei Deus
4. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: IV. The Humble Suit Of A Sinner
5. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: V. The Humble Complaint Of A Sinner
6. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: VI. De profundis
7. Mr. Henry Noell Lamentations: VII. Domine exaudi
8. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Antiquae
9. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Antiquae Novae
10. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Gementes
11. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Tristes
12. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Coactae
13. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Amantis
14. Lachrimae: Lachrimae Verae
15. Lachrimae: Mr. John Langton's Pavan
16. Lachrimae: Mr. Nicholas Gryffith His Galiard
17. Lachrimae: Sir John Souch His Galiard
18. Lachrimae: Semper Dowland Semper Dolens
19. Lachrimae: Mr. Giles Hobies Galiard
20. Lachrimae: The King Of Denmark's Galiard
21. Lachrimae: Sir Henry Umpton's Funerall
22. Lachrimae: Mr. Henry Noell His Galiard
23. Lachrimae: The Earl Of Essex Galiard
24. Lachrimae: Mr. Bucton His Galiard
25. Lachrimae: Mr. George Whitehead His Almand
26. Lachrimae: Captain Digorie Piper His Galiard
27. Lachrimae: Mr. Thomas Collier His Galiard
28. Lachrimae: Mrs. Nichols Almand

Tracks:

1. Sacred Songs: Sorrow, Come!
2. Sacred Songs: I Shame At Mine Unworthiness
3. Sacred Songs: An Heart That's Broken And Contrite
4. Psalms: Psalm 100: All People That On Earth Do Dwell
5. Psalms: Psalm 38: Put Me Not To Rebuke O Lord
6. Psalms: Psalm 130: Lord To Thee I Make My Moan
7. Psalms: Psalm 104: My Soul Praise The Lord
8. Psalms: Psalm 100: All People That On Earth Do Dwell
9. Psalms: Psalm 134: Behold And Have Regard
10. A Prayer For The Queen's Most Excellent Majesty
11. Instrumental Music: Solus cum sola pavan
12. Instrumental Music: Lachrimae
13. Instrumental Music: Galliard
14. Instrumental Music: Pipers Pavan
15. Instrumental Music: Lachrimae
16. Instrumental Music: Lady Rich Galliard
17. Instrumental Music: Earl Of Essex Galliard
18. Instrumental Music: If My Complaints
19. Instrumental Music: Lachrimae Doolande
20. Instrumental Music: Lord Willoughbie's Welcome Home
21. Instrumental Music: My Lord Chamberlaine His Galliard
22. Instrumental Music: Comagain
23. Instrumental Music: Pavan Lachrymae
24. Instrumental Music: Sorrow Stay

Tracks:

1. Lute Music: Preludium
2. Lute Music: Lachrimae
3. Lute Music: Can She Excuse
4. Lute Music: Dr. Case's Pavan
5. Lute Music: Melancholy Galliard
6. Lute Music: Sir John Smith, His Almain
7. Lute Music: Fantasia
8. Lute Music: A Dream
9. Lute Music: Almain
10. Lute Music: The Queen's Galliard
11. Lute Music: Coranto
12. Lute Music: Resolution
13. Lute Music: Mrs. Vaux Galliard
14. Lute Music: Almain
15. Lute Music: Mr. Dowland's MIdnight
16. Lute Music: Fantasia
17. Lute Music: Loth To Depart
18. Lute Music: The Most Sacred Queen Elizabeth, Her Galliard
19. Lute Music: The Earl Of Essex, His Galliard
20. Lute Music: Pavan
21. Lute Music: John Dowland's Galliard
22. Lute Music: Aloe
23. Lute Music: The Lady Clifton's Spirit
24. Lute Music: What If A Day
25. Lute Music: Mr. Giles Hobie's Galliard
26. Lute Music: Come Away (Song arrangement)
27. Lute Music: Galliard
28. Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)

Tracks:

1. Lute Music: Lachrimae (Basic Version)
2. Lute Music: Galliard To Lachrimae
3. Lute Music: [Jig]
4. Lute Music: Galliard On 'Wasingham'
5. Lute Music: Complaint (Ballad Setting)
6. Lute Music: Mignarda (Galliard)
7. Lute Music: Semper Dowland Semper Dolens (Pavan)
8. Lute Music: The Frog Galliard
9. Lute Music: A Fancy (Fantasia)
10. Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)
11. Lute Music: Piper's Pavan
12. Lute Music: Captain Digorie Piper's Galliard
13. Lute Music: Lady Laiton's Almain
14. Lute Music: Dowland's Galliard
15. Lute Music: Dowland's First Galliard
16. Lute Music: Tarleton's Jig
17. Lute Music: Walsingham (ballad Setting)
18. Lute Music: Lord Willoughbie's Welcome Home (Ballad Setting)
19. Lute Music: Sir Henry Guilforde, His Almain
20. Lute Music: Pavan (Related To 'Lachrimae')
21. Lute Music: Mr. Langton's Galliard
22. Lute Music: Mrs. Clifton's Almain
23. Lute Music: Galliard
24. Lute Music: Lady Hunsdon's Puffe (Almain)
25. Lute Music: Galliard
26. Lute Music: Go From My Window (Ballad Setting)
27. Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)

Tracks:

1. Lute Music: Pavana Johan Douland
2. Lute Music: Mrs. Brigide Fleetwood's Pavan (Solus sine sola)
3. Lute Music: La mia Barbara
4. Lute Music: Sir Henry Umpton's Funeral (Pavan)
5. Lute Music: Lachrimae
6. Lute Music: Farewell Fancy (Chromatic Fantasia)
7. Lute Music: Farewell (On The 'In Nomine' Theme)
8. Lute Music: The King of Denmark's Galliard
9. Lute Music: Mrs. Vaux's Jig
10. Lute Music: Mrs. Nichol's Almain
11. Lute Music: Galliard
12. Lute Music: Lord Strang's March
13. Lute Music: Mrs. Winter's Jump
14. Lute Music: Can She Excuse (Galliard)
15. Lute Music: The Shoemaker's Wife, A Toy
16. Lute Music: Mrs. Norrish's Delight
17. Lute Music: Galliard
18. Lute Music: Mrs. White's Thing (Almain)
19. Lute Music: Mrs. White's Nothing
20. Lute Music: The Frog Galliard
21. Lute Music: Solus cum sola
22. Lute Music: The Lord Viscount Lisle, His Galliard
23. Lute Music: Orlando Sleepeth (Ballad Setting)
24. Lute Music: Robin (Ballad Setting)
25. Lute Music: Galliard (On A Galliard By Daniel Bacheler)
26. Lute Music: Forlorn Hope Fancy (Chromatic Fantasia)

Tracks:

1. Lute Music: The Lady Russell's Pavan
2. Lute Music: Fancy (Fantasia)
3. Lute Music: Sir John Langton's Pavan
4. Lute Music: Earl Of Derby, His Galliard
5. Lute Music: A Coy Toy
6. Lute Music: Fortune My Foe
7. Lute Music: [Almain]
8. Lute Music: Mr. Knight's Galliard
9. Lute Music: Sir John Souch His Galliard
10. Lute Music: Tarletone's Riserrectione
11. Lute Music: The Lady Rich, Her Galliard
12. Consort Music: Lachrimae Pavan
13. Consort Music: Can She Excuse Galliard
14. Consort Music: Captain Piper's Pavan And Galliard
15. Consort Music: The Frog Galliard
16. Consort Music: Round Battell Galliard
17. Consort Music: Fortune My Foe
18. Consort Music: Dowland's First Galliard
19. Consort Music: Katherine Darcie's Galliard
20. Consort Music: Tarleton's Jigge
21. Consort Music: Almain a 2
22. Consort Music: Mistress Nichols Almain a 2
23. Fullsack And Hildebrandt: Auserlesener Paduanen und Galliarden: Susanna Fair (Galliard)
24. Haussmann: Rest von polnischen und andern Tanzen: Mistress Nichols Alman a 5
25. Opusculum: Mr. John Langton Pavan And Galliard
26. Opusculum: La mia Barbara Pavan and Galliard
27. Opusculum: Lachrimae Antiquae Novae Pavan and Galliard

Tracks:

1. Consort Music: Mistress NIchols Almain
2. Consort Music: Volta a 4 ('Ioh. Douland')
3. Consort Music: Were Every Thought an Eye
4. Consort Music: Lady If You So Spite Me
5. Consort Music: Pavan a 4
6. A Musicall Banquet: I. My Heavy Sprite (Anthony Holborne)
7. A Musicall Banquet: II. Change Thy Mind Since She Doth Change (Richard Martin)
8. A Musicall Banquet: III. O Eyes, Leave Off Your Weeping (Robert Hales)
9. A Musicall Banquet: IV. Go, My Flock, Go Get You Hence (Anon.)
10. A Musicall Banquet: V. O Dear Life, When Shall It Be? (Anon.)
11. A Musicall Banquet: VI. To Plead My Faith (Daniel Bacheler)
12. A Musicall Banquet: VII. In A Grove Most Rich Of Shade (Guillaume Tessier)
13. A Musicall Banquet: VIII. Far From Triumphing Court
14. A Musicall Banquet: IX. Lady, If You So Spite Me
15. A Musicall Banquet: X. In Darkness Let Me Dwell
16. A Musicall Banquet: XI. Si le parler et le silence (Pierre Guedron)
17. A Musicall Banquet: XII. Ce penser qui sans fin tirannise ma vie (Pierre Guedron)
18. A Musicall Banquet: XIII. Vous que le Bonheur rappelle (Pierre Guedron)
19. A Musicall Banquet: XIV. Passava Amor su arco desarmado (Anon. Spanish)
20. A Musicall Banquet: XV. Sta notte mi sognava (Anon. Italian)
21. A Musicall Banquet: XVI. Vuestros ojos tienen d'Amor (Anon. Spanish)
22. A Musicall Banquet: XVII. Se di farmi morire (Domenico Maria Megli)
23. A Musicall Banquet: XVIII. Dovro dunque morire? (Giulio Caccini)
24. A Musicall Banquet: XIX. Amarilli mia bella (Giulio Caccini)
25. A Musicall Banquet: XX. O bella piu (Anon, Italian)

Customer Reviews:

The greatest songs ever?.......2007-07-26

I heard 'clear or cloudy', from this recording, on the radio recently and had to purchase it. It is strange but it is the sort of song that makes life prior to listening to it different from life after. I find it sad that so many people haven't heard it. There are also many other wonderful works in this collection. Given you get twelve well recorded CDs with top quality performances, this has to be one of the bargains of the age.

Please buy it.

A musical treasure-box.......2006-09-10

Both the music and this actual product are masterpieces. John Dowland's collected works here - covering 12 compact discs - exhibit the depth and power of this composer, a composer who many now regard as suffering from clinical depression. I doubt that the issue of the diagnosis of Dowland's depression can ever be settled, however, it is certainly obvious from his music, so completely on display here, that he was a man with very dark depths and corners in his mind. Dowland's various manifestations and "takes" on his own tune, "Flow my tears"/"Lachrimae" are here. This tune has haunted me ever since I first heard it when I was a child. It seems to sum up Dowland's feelings - at least Dowland seems to have thought so.

The First, Second, Third and Fourth Bookes of Songes, A Musicall Banquet, the keyboard transcriptions, all the lute music, consort music are here and virtually everything else written or supposedly written by John Dowland. Anthony Rooley and The Consort of Musicke perform this music with style and feeling throughout. This 12 CD set is something of a monument to the ensemble - I only wish they'd finished their collection of Monteverdi madrigals, which was equally good (La Venexiana are currently doing a magnificent job of recording all Monteverdi's books of madrigals for the GLOSSA label).

This is an expensive set, however, you will probably never need to buy another John Dowland CD again after buying and listening to this collection.

I bought this CD set on a mild Summer evening of 1998 and listened to it while sitting in my sun room - which a glorious orange sunset in progress, and a glass of wine. It brought back so many memories.

a beautiful journey into melancholy.......2001-06-15

I'm amazed at how many people tend to associate John Dowland's music with a tragic sense of drama. While no doubt this is art highly based on sadness, the "tragic" sense of it is more a legacy from the Romantic period. During the Renaissance, however, sadness was undestood as a very aesthetic way of approaching life. That is also the reason why Shakespeare's tragedies appear more sophisticated than his comedies.

Dowland, a contemporary of Shakespeare, discovered that meditating on a sad theme is, at the same time, a way of discovering a special beauty that we tend to avoid (maybe because of the "tragic" heritage of the Romantics). So, in the end, meditating on sadness is an uplifting experience! This box set is a journey into melancholy that includes songs, chamber music, pieces for lute, some rare sacred music and -as a highlight- Dowland's beautiful collection of seven pieces for viola which he called "Lachrimae" (Tears).

Average customer rating: Hampson: One of the sexiest voices in opera today. radiant Beautiful. Two fine singers create a special CD Simply Stunning!! Hadley/Hampson are among the best ever. Hadley & Hampson blend beautifully.

Jerry Hadley and Thomas Hampson - Famous Opera Duets (Tenor/Bass) Manufacturer: Elektra / Wea ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Meyerbeer | Meyerbeer, Giacomo | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Strauss Jr., Johann | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Hadley, Jerry | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Jerry Hadley - Golden Days - Tenor hits from the Golden Age of Operetta Standing Room Only Show Boat (1988 Studio Cast Highlights) A Song of Naples - Neapolitan Songs No Tenors Allowed: Famous Duets for Baritone and Bass ASIN: B000000SEV Release Date: 1993-10-05

Tracks:

1. La Boheme: 'O Mimi, Tu Piu Non Torni'
2. Belisario: 'Leberi Siete, Addio!'
3. Les Vepres siciliennes: 'Quel Est Ton Nom?'...'Henri'
4. Don Carlos: 'Le Voila! C'est l'Infant!'
5. Les Pecheurs De Perles: 'Au Fond Du Temple Saint'
6. L'Elisir D' Amore: 'Venti Scudi'
7. Lucia Di Lammermoor: 'Orrida E Questa Notte'
8. Dinorah: 'Quand L'heure Sonnera'
9. Die Fledermaus: 'Komm Mit Mir Zum Souper'

Customer Reviews:

Hampson: One of the sexiest voices in opera today........2006-02-06

This is a wonderfully varied album, one which I've given to several opera neophytes among my friends, as well as to my mother who has been an opera fan since the 1930s. The excerpt from Bizet's Pearl Fishers is gorgeous, everything the other reviewers say, but my personal favorite is the one from Don Carlo for its rollercoaster emotional dramatics (be sure and read the notes to this one so you know what's going on!), a showcase for the versatility of the performers. Hampson's performances here are subtly nuanced, self-assured, and sophisticated without losing a sense of fun, while Hadley's lovely tenor contains an irresistible ebullience. They are great foils for each other, and I'll bet they had a fine time making this album.

radiant.......2001-02-01

Although Jerry Hadley may not have the reputation of some of the world's other great tenors, his voice is truly beautiful and his straightforward, unegotistical style is refreshing. Everything about this disc is perfect, it is superbly recorded, the orchestration is just right, and the two singers (Hampson is, as he always is, masterful) blend flawlessly. The Pearl Fishers Duet, taken at a relatively leisurely pace, is absolutely riveting for its sheer beauty and probably ranks with the great recordings ever of this masterpiece.

Beautiful. Two fine singers create a special CD.......2000-07-26

I had never heard of Jerry Hadley prior to seeing an ad in one of the auctions. I bought the CD and became an instant lover of Hadley's voice. I am a Michael Crawford fan and also admire Michael Feinstein. Carreras and other greats have their places. Why didn't I hear about Hadley earlier?

I acquired this CD also on auction. Listening to it one thought came to mind. Sometimes two = better than one. The interplay and synergy displayed by tenor Hadley and baritone Hampson is marvelous. This CD represents a case where two voices = a four-power recording. The works should all be savoured.

Which of the nine tracks do I enjoy the most? All nine is not an acceptable answer. I admire the opening Puccini excerpt from La Boheme. Bizet's selection from Les Pecheurs de peries can stand with any. My favorite has to be the Strauss selection from Die Fledermous. Hadley and Hampson are more Broadway-type opera singers. Their duet in Die Fledermous may only be 3.36. You might put this track alone on repeat.

I highly recommend the CD. Maybe you will find other tracks more desirable than #1 (Pucinni), #5 (Bizet) and #9 (Johann Strauss). Try this. Maybe I will have to re-listen. That would be such sweet joy. It is going to be my next CD played (again and again). Enjoy.

Simply Stunning!! Hadley/Hampson are among the best ever........1998-11-07

These two, individually masters at solo expression, set a new standard for absolutely superb ensemble. Puccini's "Au fond du temple saint" from LES PECHEURS DE PERLES elicits strong emotions and tears every time I hear it in concert. And it does every time I listen to these two exceptional master interpreters.

Hadley & Hampson blend beautifully........1998-09-11

Hadley & Hampson blend as beautifully as it is possible for two voices to blend. Each wonderful voice is complimented by the other. Never has there been such a gorgeous recording of duets.

Average customer rating: Enjoyable Classical Music Beautiful Collection of Classical Music Build baby's brain with Classics Vol 2

Build your baby's brain through the power of Mozart: Brain 2 Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Divertimentos | Serenades & Divertimentos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Variations | Variations | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music French Horn | Brass | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Cleveland Orchestra | ( C ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Children's Music | Styles | Music Compilations | Children's Music | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Children's Music | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Children's Music | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Cleveland Orchestra | ( C ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Build Your Baby's Brain Beethoven: Build Your Baby's Brain 3 Bach:Build Your Baby's Brain 4 Build Your Baby's Brain 5 Beethoven for Babies ASIN: B00000IPZA Release Date: 1999-05-04

Tracks:

1. Overture To The Marriage Of Figaro
2. Piano Sonata No. 15, K .545
3. The Sleigh Ride (From Three German Dances, K. 605)
4. Horn Concerto No.4, K.495
5. Variations On Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, K. 265
6. Violin Concerto No.4, K. 218
7. Piano Sonata No.10, K. 331- (Rondo Alla Turca)
8. Piano Concerto No.21, K.467
9. Eine Kleine Nachtmusik - (Romance)
10. Serenade For Winds, K.3 75 - (Adagio)
11. Selections From The 'Marriage Of Figaro': Cavatina - ('Se Vuol Ballare, Signor Contino')
12. Selections From The 'Marriage Of Figaro': Aria - ('Non Piu Andrai')
13. Selections From The 'Marriage Of Figaro': Terzetto - ('Susanna Or Via Sortite')
14. Symphony No. 38, 'Prague' - (Andante)
15. Ave Vernum Corpus, K. 618

Customer Reviews:

Enjoyable Classical Music.......2006-10-26

This cd is great because unlike other classical music cds made for babies, this one even adults can enjoy. Sometimes they change the song so that it sounds more like something a baby will appeal too, but this one just keeps the original song format which means even people without babies would be able to enjoy some of Mozart's classics.

Beautiful Collection of Classical Music.......2006-08-07

This is a fantastic CD of beautiful music. It is uplifting and soothing at the same time. I have several good classic music compilations CDs, but this is my favorite and the one that gets played daily! When the littlest one is napping, it goes on. When I'm cooking, it goes on. When we have the TV off and the kids are playing games or making puzzles, it is on! It stays in my kitchen CD player so at a touch of a button, lovely music can fill the house.

Check out the samples above (my [...] especially likes #5, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star). It is not "children's music," a disc of lullabies, or something to reserve for baby shower gifts. I cannot say enough good things about this disc! This is great music that makes you feel good - if it is building our brains too, all the better! Try it and enjoy :)

Build baby's brain with Classics Vol 2.......2006-07-25

I am a true fan of Classical music and this was purchased as a gift for a co-worker who is adopting a child from China. Therefore I did not open it nor listen to it. The recipient is now overseas picking up their daughter so I know they haven't had the opportunity to listen to it. I think it's a great idea, though.

Average customer rating: Love it! Accardo Is As Great As The Greats! A True Virtuoso of Paganini! Epic Performances! What a man! What a Violin! What an Artist! Definitive Recordings of Paganini's Violin Music Magnificent for collectors

Accardo Plays Paganini: Complete Recordings Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Paganini, Niccolò | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music General Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music Similar Items: Debussy, Ravel: Orchestral Works Paganini for Two / Gil Shaham, Goran Sollscher The Best of Paganini Paganini: 24 Caprices Mozart: The Violin Sonatas ASIN: B00004SA88 Release Date: 2000-10-10

Tracks:

1. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No.1 In D major, Op.6: 1. Allegro maestoso
2. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No.1 In D major, Op.6: 2. Adagio
3. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No.1 In D major, Op.6: 3. Rondo. Allegro spirituoso
4. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No.2 In B Minor, Op.7 'La Campanella': 1. Allegro maestoso
5. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No.2 In B Minor, Op.7 'La Campanella': 2. Adagio
6. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No.2 In B Minor, Op.7 'La Campanella': 3. Rondo

Tracks:

1. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No. 3 In E Major: 1. Introduzione. Andantino - Allegro marziale
2. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No. 3 In E Major: 2. Adagio. Cantabile spianato
3. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No. 3 In E Major: 3. Polacca. Andantino vivace
4. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No. 4 In D Minor: 1. Allegro maestoso
5. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No. 4 In D Minor: 2. Adagio flebile con sentimento - attacca
6. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No. 4 In D Minor: 3. Rondo galante. Andantino gaio

Tracks:

1. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No. 5 In A Minor: 1. Allegro maestoso
2. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No. 5 In A Minor: 2. Andante, un poco sostenuto
3. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra No. 5 In A Minor: 3. Finale: Rondo. Andantino quasi Allegretto
4. La primavera. Sonata For Violin And Orchestra In A Major: Andante sostenuto - Larghetto - Variazione - Allegro moderato - Tema - Variazioni I-IV - Finale
5. Maestosa sonata sentimentale: Introduzione. Maestoso - Recitativo - Allegro agitato - Tema. Larghetto cantabile - Variazioni I-IV - Coda

Tracks:

1. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra In E Minor, Op. post. (No. 6): 1. Risoluto
2. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra In E Minor, Op. post. (No. 6): 2. Adagio
3. Concerto For Violin And Orchestra In E Minor, Op. post. (No. 6): 3. Rondo ossia Polonese
4. Sonata con variazioni: Introduzione (Adagio) - Tema (Andante moderato) - Variazioni I & II (L'istesso tempo) - Variazioni III & IV (Piu mosso) - Variazione V (Tempo I) - Coda (Presto)
5. Non piu mesta accanto al fuoco: Introduzione (Adagio cantabile) - Tema (Moderato) - Variazioni I-IV - Finale (Allegro - Tempo del Tema - Piu presto)
6. Le streghe, Op. 8: Introduzione (Maestoso - Larghetto) - Tema (Andante) - Variazioni I-III - Finale (Allegretto)

Tracks:

1. 24 Capricci per violino solo, Op. 1: Introduzione. Adagio - Larghetto - Andantino Variato - Variazioni I-III - Finale
2. 24 Capricci per violino solo, Op. 1: Larghetto Cantabile - Recitativo (Con Grande Espressione) - Tema. Andantino - Variazioni I-III - Coda
3. 24 Capricci per violino solo, Op. 1: Allegro Vivace
4. 24 Capricci per violino solo, Op. 1: Introduzione (Cappricio) - Tema. Variazioni I-VII
5. 24 Capricci per violino solo, Op. 1: Adagio - Allegro Molto
6. 24 Capricci per violino solo, Op. 1: Tema. Andante Sostenuto. Variazioni I-VI

Tracks:

1. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Andante In E Major
2. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Moderato In B Minor
3. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Sostenuto - Presto - Sostenuto In E Minor
4. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Maestoso In C Minor
5. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Agitato In A Minor
6. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Lento In G Minor
7. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Posato In A Minor
8. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Maestoso In E Flat Major
9. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Allegretto In E Major
10. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Vivace In G Minor
11. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Andante - Presto - Tempo I In C Major
12. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Allegro In A Flat Major
13. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Allegro In B Flat Major
14. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Moderato In E Flat Major
15. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Posato In E Minor
16. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Presto In G Minor
17. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Sostenuto - Andante In E Flat Major
18. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Corrente - Allegro In C Major
19. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Lento - Allegro Assai In E Flat Major
20. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Allegretto In D Major
21. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Amoroso - Presto In A Major
22. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Marcato In F Major
23. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Posato In E Flat Major
24. 24 Capricci Per Violino Solo Op. 1: Tema. Quasi Presto - Variazioni - Finale In A Minor

Customer Reviews:

Love it!.......2007-05-12

I really enjoy this CD set very much. Accardo is phenomenal in playing violin. I listen to thisevery morning and sometimes while I am cooking.

Accardo Is As Great As The Greats! A True Virtuoso of Paganini! Epic Performances!.......2005-10-13

Nicolo Paganini is primarily a virtuoso composer who did not compose anything other than for the violin in the early 19th century. He was a true prodigy of the instrument whose ferocious and innovative style of playing frightened many of the credulent folk into thinking he was the devil. With the increasing popularity of the waltz, he along with other romantics such as Beethoven completely revolutionized the concept of violin concertos that were still then mostly in the antiquated Roccoco menuet formulas of Mozart and Haydn. The caprices are more technical excercises for this new revolutionary style and are the cornerstones of all Romantic traditions of violin including the Romantic German and, to a much lesser extent, the Polish/Klezmer tradition of Joseph Joachim.

Salvatore Accardo is an accomplished violinist who performed many times with the most reputable groups such as I Musici di Roma and the English Chamber Orchestra. He was a long-time mentor of Anne-Sofie Mutter who performed with Karajan. Despite working often with various Baroque styles, Salvatore Accardo is primarily a specialist at Paganini and the Italian Romantic period and this is the main reason this recording is one of the best you can obtain for Paganini. Charles Dutoit is also an accomplished orchestral conductor and generally works very well with Rossini whose light romantic style in his operatic overtures have overlaps with the style in Paganini's contemporary symphonic arrangements for his violin concerti. Accardo and Dutoit were therefore a perfect match in performing Paganini and this ablum is a great example along with their other collaborations for the composer available on single CD. The music is light and joyful in its interpretation while many others tend to be heavy and sluggish. Accardo's performance is filled with vitality as he has complete mastery over the instrument and feels at ease in his performance without ever faltering. His performance brings out the fluidity and full range of Paganini's style very well. Salvatore Accardo's performance of the caprices is also legendary in which he performs all of the most difficult pieces briliantly without effort: they are truly divine in every respect!

Although it's extremely difficult to make a judgment call between these three undisputed virtuosos of the violin and Paganini, Perlman and Heifetz would not be my first choices because they are not really masters of the Italian Romantic style as that of the German/Polish/Klezmer traditions. However technical the differences might be, they do make a significant difference and so I prefer Accardo for Paganini as he is simply the foremost expert with this composer and the Italian Romantic style which Heifetz and Perlman are not. This album is a great buy where you can get all of Paganini's passionate violin concerti and caprices at a good price. There are really few if any performances equal to this one on the market other than those of Perlman and Heifetz. Such other performances, even by child prodigies, are simply beneath them in every respect to the point that they actually sound amateurish in comparison. No matter which of the three you choose, you can't really go wrong with any of them but I would really look no further than them as everything else is far beneath their legendary talents. Enjoy!

What a man! What a Violin! What an Artist!.......2002-04-06

Salvatore Accardo has played magnificently! I am not a classical music critic; I don't know what it really means to be a great violinist, but I certainly enjoy listening to every song in this 6 cd set. I am fifteen years old, but Paganini's music has a great impact on me. My mother bought me this album for Christmas, and I couldn't have received a more wonderful collection of music. I tend to have a preference for the first recording I ever hear of certain songs, and I have heard several of these songs performed by different artists. Let me tell you, these recordings are fantastic. My favorites are the 21st Caprice, the second movement of the 6th concerto, and the entire 4th concerto. Accardo's tone is rich and robust, and the orchestra behind him compliments him perfectly.
Utterly Satisfied,
Bobby

P.S. The title for my review was what Franz Liszt (classical pianist and composer) exclaimed when he heard Paganini perform.:)

Definitive Recordings of Paganini's Violin Music.......2001-10-16

Salvatore Accardo performs Paganini's scores with much elegant grace and warmth. Deutsche Grammophon has successfully assembled all of Accardo's recordings of Paganini's music. Undoubtedly, the highlights are Accardo's riveting accounts of Paganini's violin concerti. Charles Dutoit and the London Philharmonic Orchestra give splendid, warm performances of their own, without overwhelming Accardo's playing. Yet Accardo also shines in Paganini's solo works, such as the Caprices. This is absolutely an essential set of CDs for those who are unfamiliar with Paganini's music. Is it a surprise that these performances are still regarded as definitive in classical CD guides issued by Grammophone and Penguin?

Magnificent for collectors.......2001-02-01

This is a really masterpiece for collector. For the people that love the "virtuoso-violin", this is yours. If you are a fanatic of Paganini's music like me, this is your collection, because you will find the Maestosa sonata sentimentale, the Duo Merveille, "God save the King", in a perfect interpretation, only by Accardo, that are very difficult to find. The 6 Concertos, are amazing, if it is your first time hearing Paganini, you will find absolutely incredible, and remember, is only one violin performing those sounds. Double-Stops, Harmonics, Double-Harmonics, and the most colorful bowing performance. Paganini is very romantic and sentimental, the six, second movements are a jewel in your collection. I recomend you that adquire this for your personal collection, the case is beautiful, and the sound is powerful, like the recorders of the Deutsche Grammophon, Accardo plays Paganini transmiting to the listener the feeling of his performance. The 24 Caprices are interesting, and Accardo plays very clear, if you are playing the caprices, this is a good guide, please try to listen the sound of Accardo, you could find many tips in his performance. If you like the music in general, these concertos will give you a different vision and nature of the power of a violin with the London Philarmonic Orchesta. PROs - Excelent Violinist (Accardo), Excelent Presentation (CDs, book and case),Excelent Recorder, each CD has a number, the people take your time making this CD - Each Piece has a good explanation CONs - No are biography of Salvadore Accardo.

Average customer rating: Sometimes pleasing well performance by the young musicians great to see, okay to hear Enjoyable when viewed live WHOOPS........!

Baz Luhrmann's La Boheme (Highlights from the 2002 Original Broadway Cast) Giacomo Puccini , Ekaterina Solovyeva , Wei Huang , and Lisa Hopkins Manufacturer: Dreamworks ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Musicals | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Similar Items: Puccini - La Bohème / Australian Opera, Cheryl Barker, David Hobson Romancing the World: A Biography of Il Divo Martín Y Soler: La Capricciosa Corretta The Wild Party (LaChiusa) (2000 Original Broadway Cast) Il Divo - Live at the Greek ASIN: B00006LLQ1 Release Date: 2002-12-10

Tracks:

1. Non sono in vena
2. Che gelida manina
3. Si, mi chiamano Mimi
4. O, soave fanciulla
5. E via I pensier!
6. Quando me'n vo'
7. Chi l'ha richiesto?
8. Mimi?! Speravo di trovarvi qui
9. Marcello, finalmente!
10. Addio! Che! Vai?
11. Dunque: e proprio finita!
12. O Mimi tu piu non torni
13. Gavotta! Minuetto
14. C'e Mimi...
15. Sono andati?
16. Oh! Dio Mimi!

Amazon.com

With the visually dazzling efforts of his "Red Curtain" film trilogy behind him (Strictly Ballroom, Romeo + Juliet, Moulin Rouge), director Baz Luhrmann set his sights on Broadway and a reworking of his triumphant, career-forging 1990 Australian Opera production of Giacomo Puccini's evergreen tearjerker, La Boheme. With it now set in 1957, six young voices alternate in bringing the tale of the doomed love affair between the seamstress Mimi (Lisa Hopkins, Wei Huang, Ekaterina Solovyeva) and the writer Rodolfo (Alfred Boe, Jesus Garcia, David Miller) to life in its original Italian on this cast album. Other than using the vocal dream-team gambit, Luhrmann has played Puccini's music surprisingly straight in this production, a sharp contrast to the dizzying musical cut-and-paste of Moulin or his tellingly titled pop album, Something for Everybody. It's a wise tack, and wholly in step with the director's stated goal of emphasizing the story's timeless drama while keeping the operatic masterpiece true to itself for a new audience. The staging may showcase Luhrmann's dazzling production, but the music here is still pure Puccini. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

Sometimes pleasing.......2007-01-16

This CD is a bit awkward. It's difficult to get a feel for any of the singers, as the music is divided up between all 6 of them.

There's some good singing on here, notably Jesus Garcia as Rodolfo. Others have compared him to a young Pavarotti, & I tend to agree. I watched & heard him all through college, & he has the effortless style & pure tone.

I'm not too fond of the other tenors, but I thought all 3 women did good jobs.

well performance by the young musicians.......2006-08-31

I am not going to talk about who's review is fair and who's isn't. Everyone has the rights to comment on the performance base on their own interpretation . However, please keep in mind that, 1, this is a Broadway show/production, not an opera!!! 2, everyone in the show is classically trained, some of them are well trained.

Just a FYI.

great to see, okay to hear .......2005-03-22

Of course this recording of La Boheme will not come near, let alone surpass, the likes of Callas or Pavarotti. But that's not a fair comparison anyway, because we must remind ourselves that this recording is a modern(ish) day take, a'la Baz Luhrmann musical panache. To have seen the live performance I must say it was quite a treat. But as for listening to this recording, I am impressed upon only with the youth and novelty. If you are interested in La Boheme in the traditional tried and true Puccini way, then look elsewhere at the deluge of excellent recordings of this great classic. (My favorite is the one by Berlin Philharmonic, Pavarotti and Frenni.) If you are looking for a different take, something different, something of the musical genre--remember operatic singing is very different from musical singing--then I would heartily recommend giving this one a try, but keep in mind that seeing it is the true delight with this production, in all its vivacious splendor. (Hint: Baz Lurhmann's Moulin Rouge was also either a hit or miss.)

Enjoyable when viewed live.......2005-01-15

I saw the show a week after its Broadway opening, and I have to admit, it is visually rather stunning, especially the L'Amour sign on stage. The cast is refreshingly young, and rather good looking... which hence may explain the rawness of their voices in the recording versus Pavarotti's. Still remember Pavarotti played the role later in his life than some of the cast members in this recording.

Enjoy it for what it's worth but don't take it too seriously. Opera is an art, not a science.

WHOOPS........!.......2003-07-28

More than five stars for the CD cover and the tiny, tiny, tiny libretto with dy-no-mite photos circa 1957 ..... but in all fairness to the Young, Young Young cast ... this one's quite terrible.

One has to in all fairness {or unfairness} compare this version to the original 1993 Australian version WITH SINGERS, and there really is no comparision. David Hobson set the bar way, way high for any future Rodolfo as did Cheryl Barker's unforgettable Mimi. This present version just does not work on CD due to the confusion of the mixed cast - especially the highly 'indicated' theatricality of one of the Mimis - great in the looks department - but the emoting .....!

The original version tends to be a 'Method' Puccini - AND it works.

Try to get that [imported] CD instead - besides the original was recorded 'live' so the stakes were higher .....

Average customer rating: Focus on the Recordings This is a fantastic deal! Excellent, Broad Selection $70....when was this??? $70/40... you do the math.

Vivaldi: The Masterworks (Box Set) Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Concertinos | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Trio Sonatas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Bassoon | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Flute | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Oboe | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piccolo | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Recorder | Reeds & Winds | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Cello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Magnificats | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Brilliant Classics | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Complete Works (170 CD Box Set) Bach: Complete Works - 155 CD Box Set Beethoven: The Masterworks (Box Set) Handel: The Masterworks (Box Set) Mendelssohn: The Masterworks [Box Set] ASIN: B00062FLHY Release Date: 2004-11-30

Customer Reviews:

Focus on the Recordings.......2007-07-23

I've made this small review of the Vivaldi Masterworks set because it is SO difficult to find a review of such a big collection.

The price is killer and you HAVE to buy it, but be warned: these are not the best recordings, you get what you pay for.

First of all, I'm not a Vivaldi expert, but I've heard his compositions throughout my life in so many different places and recordings and have a vague idea of how some have to be played. Secondly, I'm not a classical music connoisseur, but I love it and have over 300 discs of various composers and styles. Third, I know what a good audio recording should sound like and this will influence my critique of some discs in the collection. Finally, it's easy to get lost among all the tracks contained, so in some cases I will give you my favorite tracks in a disc.

I'm sorry, but I've only reached disc 20 of the box-set, as I listen to more this review will be expanded.


DISC 1:
Why would you use an AAD recording as a first impression for a 40 disc box-set and for the "Four Seasons", which is probably Vivaldi's best know work. The concertos are played enthusiastically, but lack any additional virtuosity to put it ahead of other much better recordings out there.

DISC 2:
Same as DISC 1, played and recorded by the same people.

DISC 3:
The pieces in this disc are VERY well played, nonetheless, you can hear heavy breathing from the soloist which can be a bit annoying.

DISC 4:
Very well performed as well, heavy breathing is less present.

DISC 5:
A very good recording, excellent execution by the hapsichord and good by the recorder.
Tracks 4, 6, 7 and the whole "La Notte" are extraordinary.

DISC 6:
Exquisitely recorded and performed by the Budapest Strings.

DISC 7:
Marvelous performance on the whole disc.
Tracks 22 & 24 are non-plus-ultra.

DISC 8:
Great performance too.
Suggested tracks: 7, 12, 15, 24

DISC 9:
To have an original baroque organ playing is a plus.
Solo strings are lacking in quality (for example: tracks 6 & 7).
Suggested tracks: 1, 4, 8, 15

DISC 10:
Despite being and ADD recording, the quality is fairly good. The cello is very well played.
Suggested tracks: 3, 4, 12
Excellent track: 13

DISC 11:
Same musical group and soloist as DISC 10. The contrabass is extremely distorted sometimes, and if you take into consideration that this is an ADD recording, it can get pretty bad. Some background noise is perceived.
Suggested tracks: 3, 6, 9

DISC 12:
The compositions are somewhat boring, either way the performance is plain decent.
Suggested tracks: 10, 12

DISC 13:
Good performance and sound quality.
Suggested tracks: 1, 4, 6, 7
Excellent track: 12

DISC 14:
Good performance and sound quality too.
Suggested tracks: 10, 14, 16
Excellent track: 5

DISC 15:
Badly mixed, the basoon is blocking the whole ensamble by being in the foreground.
The playing precision is lacking.
An AWEFUL thing about this recording is that you can hear the basson key-sticking with the instrument and the saliva. It's horrible.
Such a pity, the sound of the basson with other instruments can be pretty interesting.

DISC 16:
Violins sound a bit off tempo.
Suggested tracks: 4, 8

DISC 17:
Good sound quality and performance.
Suggested tracks: 1, 7, 9

DISC 18:
Despite being an old recording, it is a very welcome one.
The performance is very well above par. Tempo is fantastic.
The quality of the recording could have been better due to some string plucking that is heard and which can become bothersome.
These are some of Vivaldi's best know tunes.
Suggested tracks: 4, 6, 13
Excellent tracks: 1, 3

DISC 19:
Lively recording.
Track 6 is the same piece found in another disc in the collection, but with a better performance.

DISC 20:
By now you've heard all of this pieces before in the other discs. Nothing new here, nor better.

This is a fantastic deal!.......2007-02-25

If you are a fan at all of the Four Seasons you should love this music. I will admit right now that I am a classical music fan. I don't write or perform it. I am a novice listener. I have never taken any music lessons(though I am leaning in that direction) and certainly have not gone through any university music training. I started out in rock and roll but found classical as I got older and fell in love with it a few years ago.

With that context in mind I do hope I am able to recognize quality and this work is of the highest. It helps when you are starting with good ingredients in the first place. You can't bake great bread without great ingredients and Vivaldi's music library has some of the greatest musical ingredients of the last 300 years. They are very much the foundation for modern western culture and music. His talent is woven through what we are

The first 26 CDs are instrumental starting with the four seasons and working through many of the Master's many popular works. I will admit the four seasons are not the best interpretation I have heard but it is definitely acceptable. The rest of the music shows us many facets of the Baroque style and you can see themes emerging through some of the pieces that give us a 'fingerprint' of Vivaldi's style and the parameters of the stylistic leanings of the genre at the time. If you want to immerse yourself in 18th century music this is your chance

This music would be ideal for someone who owns a store and is looking for background music. With over 26 CDs of instrumental music alone you could have those constantly looping and you'd probably never get bored of them(OK I may be stretching it a little there). The reason is that the music does not leave a bad 'aftertaste' in your mind. It fits into the background as easily and naturally as it is to listen to it consciously in the foreground. If you are a fan of classical Baroque you don't usually need to be in the mood for this, it will adjust your mood to itself and Vivaldi's music is almost always of an uplifting sort if this collection is any indication. If you want something to listen to at your job 8 hours per day this is good for the mind and it would take you over a week to get through it if you listened to it every minute of every work day. You will also work without the worry of the music distracting your concentration. I find it enhances it when I'm working. I don't know how well this would work on school kids but teachers might want to try playing this during school time. You may create a few geniuses, we certainly could use more!

If you are looking for something to ease your sleep and oil your dreams I have put these CD's on in the background. Not only can I easily fall asleep when they are playing quietly in the background but it helps you sleep and you wake up in a very pleasant atmosphere if the music is still playing quietly when you wake(you probably would need to rip them to your MP3 player to do that). It's like napping at a classical music concert without the worry of being nudged by your spouse or offending the other concert goers with your snoring. That will be quite a unique experience for you and possibly give you some real sweet dreams. It has for me

So to wrap it up this is very intelligent, uplifting music that is great for your mind and your soul. It is definitely worth the purchase if you are a fan of the Four Seasons and the Baroque genre in my novice classical music fan's opinion

Excellent, Broad Selection.......2007-01-25

This 40-cd collection affords me a rare pleasure almost daily: the thrill of hearing something new by Vivaldi. Despite my best efforts over the years, I've managed to miss hearing a lot of great works by the master. Listening to a single CD now and then, catching tunes on the radio... you can't possibly get a comprehensive understanding of Vivaldi's output that way.

But when you work your way systematically from CD 1 through 40, you're sure to find many pleasant surprises. I've been skipping through everything I already know -- in some cases, it has only taken me about a minute to get through a whole CD (first 3 seconds of each track is usually enough). But then I stop and listen carefully three or four times to anything that's new.

Ah, what a pleasure. I've already acquired some new favorites. And some old standbys have proved even more rewarding, e.g. at first I thought RV 127 (CD 7, tracks 10-12) was performed too slowly (Naxos No: 8.553742 is much faster), but now I'm not sure; maybe it's BETTER that way! I can't recommend this set highly enough.

$70....when was this???.......2006-11-25

Wish the cost was $70 now. Guess the record producer (or Amazon) got tired of making less than $2 per CD.

$70/40... you do the math........2006-04-07

No, I don't own this collection...yet. However, the price of the collection compels me to review it beforehand. Never have I seen such a complete collection of Vivaldi compositions at such an incredibly low price. At $1.75 dollars a CD, the record producer (Brilliant Classics) isn't making much of a profit. The compilation pulls some of its works from DG Achiv Produktion's vault (see Standage), such as the violin concertos, as well as from unknown producers (the Poland Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra is heavily featured). The collection is so complete that it is academic, and I would not be surprised if music libraries quickly emptied it from Amazon's shelves. The collection is simply worth it for the incredible price (English Concert's recording of the violin concertos cost nearly 30 bucks, and is exactly featured here). Overall, the price alone makes this collection exceptionally attractive, and the ensembles featured aren't bad either.

Average customer rating: Superlative collection Great value for the money Great for the money and a good starter on opera.... Amazing Value

100 Best Opera Classics Manufacturer: EMI Int'l ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Beethoven | Beethoven, Ludwig van | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Bellini, Vincenzo | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Berlioz | Berlioz, Hector | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Delibes, Léo | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gluck | Gluck, Christoph W. | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Lalo, Edouard | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mascagni | Mascagni, Pietro | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mussorgsky | Mussorgsky, Modest | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Offenbach | Offenbach, Jacques | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Strauss | Strauss, Richard | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Thomas | Thomas, Ambroise | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Weber | Weber, Carl Maria von | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Allen, Thomas | ( A ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music National Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Paris Symphony Orchestra | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Most Famous Opera Arias Best Classics 100 The Best of Italian Opera The Most Famous Opera Duets The #1 Opera Album ASIN: B0007QOERC Release Date: 2007-05-14

Tracks:

1. Voi Che Sepate - Teresa Berganza
2. Porgi Amor - Heather Harper
3. Deh, Vieni Alla Finestra - Thomas Allen
4. Batti, Batti, O Bel Masetto - Elizabeth Gale
5. Der Holle Rache - Edda Moser
6. O Isis Und Osiris - Cornelius Hauptmann
7. Temerari...Come Scoglio - Elisabeth Schwarzkopf
8. La Calunnia E Un Venticello - Ruggero Raimondi
9. Nei Giardin Del Bello - Ambrosian Opera Chorus
10. Casta Diva - Maria Callas
11. Se Quel Guerrier...Celeste Aida - Franco Corelli
12. Tenesta La Promessa...Addio Del Passato - Beverly Sills
13. Niun Mi Tema - Jon Vickers
14. Un Bel Di Vedremo - Renata Scotto
15. E Lucevan Le Stelle - Placido Domingo
16. Si, Mi Chiamano Mimi - Mirella Freni
17. In Quelle Trine Morbide - Montserrat Caballe
18. Signore, Ascolta - Kiri Te Kanawa
19. Recitar...Vesti La Giubba - Jose Carreras
20. Amor Ti Vieta Di Non Amor - Roberto Alagna

Tracks:

1. Le Veau D'Or Est Toujours Debout - Boris Christoff
2. Ou Va La Jeune Hindoue? - Mady Mesple
3. L'Amour, L'Amour...Ah! Leve-Toi, Soleil - Alfredo Kraus
4. Allons! Le Faut...Adieu Notre Petite Table - Ileana Cotrubas
5. Toute Mon Ame Est La Pourquoi Me Reveiller - Nicolai Gedda
6. Quand La Flamme De L'Amour - Jose Van Dam
7. L'Amour Est Un Oiseau Rebelle - Victoria De Los Angeles
8. A Cette Voix...Je Crois Entendre Encore - Alain Vanzo
9. Une Puce Gentille - Gabriel Bacquier
10. Je Vais Mourir...Adieu, Fiere Cite - Regine Crespin
11. Mon Coeur S'Ouvre A Ta Voix - Rita Gorr
12. Wie Todesahnung...O Du Mein Holder Abenstern - Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau
13. Johohoe! Traft Ihr Das Schiff Im Meere An? - Anja Silja
14. In Fernem Land - Chor Der Wiener Staatsoper
15. Heil Dir, Sonne! - Siegfried Jerusalem
16. Mild Und Leise - Helga Dernesch

Tracks:

1. Che Faro Senza Euridice? - Agnes Baltsa
2. Der Vogelfanger Bin Ich Ja - Walter Berry
3. Finch'Han Dal Vino - Nicolai Ghiaurov
4. E Susanna Non Vien!...Dove Sono - Barbara Hendricks
5. Abscheulicher! - Christa Ludwig
6. Ne M'Abandonne Pas, Espoir De La Vengeance...Asile Hereditaire - Nicolai Gedda
7. Largo Al Factotum - Tito Gobbi
8. Ella Giammai M'Amo! - Ruggero Raimondi
9. La Donna E Mobile - Alfredo Kraus
10. Di Quella Pira - Franco Corelli
11. Esultate! - James McCracken
12. Dio! Mi Potevi Scagliar - Placido Domingo
13. Vissi D'Arte, Vissi D'Amore - Maria Callas
14. In Questa Reggia - Ghena Dimitrova
15. Tanto Amore - Janine Micheau
16. O Mio Babbino Caro - Montserrat Caballe
17. Ed Anche Beppe Amo - Luciano Pavarotti
18. Poveri Fiori - Maria Callas
19. Come Un Bel Di Di Maggio - Roberto Alagna

Tracks:

1. Les Grands Seigneurs...Ah! Je Ris De Me Voir Si Belle - Victoria De Los Angeles
2. Marie, Avec L'Enfant Jesus - Jules Bastin
3. Heureux Petit Berger - Janine Micheau
4. Connais-Tu Le Pays - Jane Rhodes
5. Elle Ne Croyait Pas Dans Sa Candeur - Nicolai Gedda
6. Votre Toast, Je Peux Vous Le Rendre...Toreador - Victoria De Los Angeles
7. Les Oiseaux Dans La Charmille - Mady Mesple
8. Maintenant, Chantons...Devant La Maison De Celui Qui D'Adore - Gerard Souzay
9. Depuis Le Jour - Beverly Sills
10. Da Geht Er Hin - Elisabeth Schwarzkopf
11. Einsam In Truben Tagen - Regine Crespin
12. Dich, Teure Halle - Hildegard Behrens
13. Leb Wohl, Du Kuhnes, Herrliches Kind - Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau
14. Hojotoho! Hojotoho! - Ute Walther

Tracks:

1. Non Piu Andrai - Thomas Allen
2. La Ci Darem La Mano - Graziella Sciutti
3. Duo: Pa-Pa-Pa - Andreas Schmidt
4. Soave Sia Il Vento - Delores Ziegler
5. Mira, O Norma - Maria Callas
6. Il Dolce Suono - Edita Gruberova
7. Com'e Gentil - Alfredo Kraus
8. Una Voce Poco Fa - Maria Callas
9. Libiamo Ne' Lieti Calici - Alfredo Kraus
10. Gualtier Malde!...Caro Nome - Michele Pertusi
11. Ritorna Vincitor - Birgit Nilsson
12. Ave Maria - Katia Ricciarelli
13. Nessun Dorma - Franco Corelli
14. Che Gelida Manina - Nicolai Gedda
15. Ebben? Ne Andro Lontana - Barbara Hendricks

Tracks:

1. Mes Amis, Ecoutez L'Histoire - Nicolai Gedda
2. Mieux Vaut Mourir...Amour Sacre De La Patrie - Alfredo Kraus
3. Ah! Je Veux Vivre Dans Ce Reve - Mady Mesple
4. Puisqu'on Ne Peut Flechir...Vainement, Ma Bien-Aimee - Henry Legay
5. Suis-Je Gentille Ainsi?...Je Marche Sur Tous Les Chemins - June Anderson
6. Belle Nuit, O Nuit D'Amour - Jessye Norman
7. La Fleur Que Tu M'Avais Jetee - Jose Carreras
8. C'est Toi!...Au Fond Du Temple Saint - John Aler
9. Werther, Werther, Qui M'Aurait Dit...Ces Lettres! - Tatiana Troyanos
10. Viens, Mallika - Mady Mesple
11. Ah! Je Suis Seule Enfin...Dis-Moi Que Je Suis Belle - Beverly Sills
12. Alerte, Alerte!...Anges Purs, Anges Radieux - Nicolai Ghiaurov
13. Boris's Farewell - Boris Christoff
14. Schreckensschwur! - Gary Lakes
15. Die 'Selige Morgentraum-Deutweise'...Selig, Wie Die Sonne - Peter Schreier
16. Was Am Besten er Kann...Nothung! Nothung! - Siegfried Jerusalem

Customer Reviews:

Superlative collection.......2006-10-11

A collection of 100 individual arias and ensembles from the EMI catalogue of complete works recorded between 1955 and 2003. It includes selections from operas by Italian, Austrian, German, Russian and French composers. The French composers are especially well represented unlike most such anthologies. And there are several more obscure contributions, such as an aria from Catalani's La Wally. A well-judged balance of musical periods and styles, and the very best singers of the last half of the last century. And remarkably, the whole collection of 6 CDS, over 7 hours of music, is being sold for the cost of only 1 CD !

Great value for the money.......2006-04-23

This is simply the best collection of opera arias that I have seen. It's not 100% in that there are a few well-known arias that are not here, but what is here is simply a treasure. The organization is a bit strange, but there's some logic. For example, Disk 6 is mostly from French operas. A seemingly endless amount of glorious music. Just fabulous. You won't be disappointed.

Great for the money and a good starter on opera...........2006-01-07

This cd is a splendid collection of songs, and the price is unbeatable; I have but a few minor complaints about the overall product. The cd would have been much more enjoyable if they had put the music in some sort of order, rather than jumping around from artist to artist sporatically. My only other complaint would be that they could have chosen some better vocalists to play some of the songs. For example, in CD 6, track 3: Romeo et Juliette, the singer was not nearly as strong and definative as she should have been and I've definately heard in various other versions that were way better than this. This disappointed me greatly. But even with these few small complaints, this collection is still great and the price is amazing. It includes MOST of the famous opera pieces, as well some great songs that are often overlooked such as the beautiful song from Wagner's Die Meistersinger von Nurnberg (CD 6, track 16) along with others.

Amazing Value.......2005-08-23

I am so impressed by this collection that I must share my joy at getting so many beautiful arias, duets, et al in one collection. It captures many of the great operatic voices in stellar performances spanning the last 50 years. If you are enchanted by beautiful operatic highlights, removed from their operatic storylines, this set is for you. Hours of gorgeous music for practically pennies!

World Music:

1. Canta Canta Minhagente [Import]
2. Celebracion
3. Chansons Contre [Import]
4. Cuban Nights
5. Der Hit - Mix - Das Album [Import]
6. Dhyana Aman: Meditation Of No Mind
7. Dying for Seagulls [Import]
8. Eccentric Opera [Import]
9. Elis & Tom [Import]
10. Emancipation

World Music

world music

World Music

Paranoia [Import]

The Chaliapin Edition, Vol. 3: 1911-14, La Scala Recordings

The Indispensible Benny Goodman, Vol. 5-6 (1938-1939) [Import]

From Q with Love

The Ice Storm: Music From The Motion Picture Soundtrack [Soundtrack]

Techno Magic Kayou-Kyoku [Import]

The Best of Deep Purple Live in Europe [Live]

Susurrate

POR UN MAL AMOR

Shchedrin: The Sealed Angel

Reflexionen Live [Live]

Shirley Scott & the Soul Saxes

The Show [Soundtrack]

Lucky As the Devil

Irony Is a Dead Scene