Motifs [Import]

1. High, Low, In

2. Calendar

3. Aquarium

4. Ennemis Siamois

5. Etoile PÂLe

6. Touriste D'une Vie

7. BaguÉE

8. Motus

9. Reflet

10. PrÊTe À Porter

11. Baron De Chaise

12. Discordance

13. AlÉAs

14. Je Ne Sais Qui Fumer

Motifs,Paris Combo,Universal,World Music

Average customer rating: Upbeat Jazz If you like Pink Martini Highly entertaining, keeps you jumping Cool fusion continues, but start with one of their earlier CDs Witty, urbane, funky beats

Motifs Paris Combo Manufacturer: Drg ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD France | Continental Europe | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Cabaret | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music French Pop | Euro Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Hang on Little Tomato Sympathique Latenight Betty Living Room Hey Eugene! ASIN: B0006SSNPA Release Date: 2005-01-11

Tracks:

1. High, Low, In
2. Calender
3. Aquarium
4. Ennemis Siamois
5. Etoile Pale
6. Touriste D'une Vie
7. Baguee
8. Motus
9. Reflet
10. Prete A Porter
11. Baron De Chaise
12. Discordance
13. Aleas
14. Je Ne Sais Qui Fumer

Amazon.com

With a sound made up of equal parts bossa nova and classic chanson transported almost unchanged from the 1960s, plus American jazz, Argentinean Tango, bal musette and the Manouche swing made famous by Django Reinhardt, Paris Combo undeniably personifies that city's aesthetic. French music and film tend to share an elegant, humorless, surreal, coolly theatrical artificiality so ingrained that observed or remembered passion becomes more seductive than the real thing. Style-over-substance is merely a different reality, no less involving than daily life. The band's membership includes a guitarist from Madagascar, a keyboardist/trumpeter from Australia, a French drummer and a French-Algerian guitarist, each of whom contribute whimsical, cosmopolitan images from their own travels. Bandleader-singer Belle du Berry's lyrics are wry metaphors, in which estrangement, loss and desire are experienced in nightclubs under the light of pink lampshades and each carefully posed film-noir frame is wreathed in expensive perfume and cigarette smoke. --Christina Roden

Customer Reviews:

Upbeat Jazz.......2007-06-24

Paris Combo is such a great upbeat jazz group that you can listen to liven up your day. Put this cd on and it is sure to put you in a good mood. A great combination to go along with anyone who listens to Pink Martini.

If you like Pink Martini.......2006-05-29

You'll love this CD. Obviously you don't have to know a language to enjoy music sung in it. The happy tune of this jazzy CD will make you want to dance in your car, as you make up words so that you can sing along.

Highly entertaining, keeps you jumping.......2006-05-20

I bought this CD on the basis that several reviewers indicated that if a listener liked the works of Pink Martini, that they would like this CD by Paris Combo. Well, they are right.

Many of the things I like about Pink Martini are present here. The work is delightful, playful, fun, and danceable. You will hear the influence of jazz, pop, swing, tango, and sophisticated lounge music. In one song you will hear Kurt Weil's influence and then in the next you hear the nightclub music found in 1940 gangster films. The range of music keeps you on your toes - but all in fun. Great for a cocktail party or to get yourself going on a Saturday morning.

Belle Du Barry, the vocalist, has great presentation. All the lyrics are in French.

Cool fusion continues, but start with one of their earlier CDs.......2006-03-23

They sound too satisfied and confident in their fusions here. The sharp edge of surprise I detect in their earlier work is absent here. This work is lighter, popper, loungier than earlier work, to its detriment. Still, the cool fusion continues-Hot club, boulevard, bossa nova, American swing.... Close listening reveals shifts from one style to another in almost every song, so they're still mixing it up. Maybe the edges are easier to see. Stand-outs: tr 7-Baguée (Big American driving beat subverted by quick trip-tongued French vocal, Gypsy finger-picked guitar). Très cool. tr 9- Reflet (Quick 30s Gypsy-viper instrumental). tr 14- Je ne sais qui fumer (Simple American blues with a cool, Parisian jaunt, swagger). [50:30]

Witty, urbane, funky beats.......2006-02-13

Paris Combo's latest album is a tour of another world, a forgotten era, when music moved your heart but was classy and seductive at the same time.

There is no one today producing a sound like this. Their music will stay with you; it is mesmerising.

Average customer rating: The embodiment of FURY Completely over the top! Good alternative. (No title). An incredible recording! Gibbons' Alkan is superb!

Alkan: 12 Études, Op. 39 Manufacturer: Asv Living Era ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Character Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Nocturnes | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Barcarolles | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Alkan: Grande sonate 'Les quatre âges', Sonatine, Le festin d'Esope Alkan: Symphony for solo piano Alkan: Piano Music, Volume 1: 12 Etudes, Op. 35 Alkan: Piano Works; Ronald Smith Alkan: Sonate de Concert; Grand Duo Concertant; Piano Trio ASIN: B0000030PK Release Date: 1995-09-19

Tracks:

1. Etude No.1: Comme Le Vent
2. Etude No.2: En Rythme Molossique
3. Etude No.3: Scherzo Diabolico
4. Etude No.4: Sym-First Movt: Allegro
5. Etude No.5: Sym-Second Movt: Marche Funebre
6. Etude No.6: Sym-Third Movt: Menuet
7. Etude No.7: Sym-Fourth Movt: Finale
8. Nocturne in B, Op.22
9. Allegro Barbaro: Etudes, Op.35 No.5
10. Assez Vivement: Chants, Op.38 No.1
11. J'etait Endormie, Mais Mon Coeur Veillait: Prlds, Op.31 No.13
12. Le Staccatissimo: Esquisses, Op.63 No.2
13. Les Cloches: Esquisses, Op.63 No.4
14. Les Soupirs: Esquisses, Op.63 No.11
15. En Songe: Esquisses, Op.63 No.48
16. Gros Temps: Les Mois, Op.74 1st Ste No.1
17. Barcarolle: Chants, Op.65 No.6
18. La Chanson De La Folle Au Bord De La Mer: Prlds, Op.13 No.8
19. Le Temps Qui N'est Plus: Prlds, Op.31 No.12

Tracks:

1. Etude No.8: Con-First Movt: Allegro Assai
2. Etude No.9: Con-Second Movt: Adagio
3. Etude No.10: Con-Third Movt: Allegretto Alla Barberesca
4. Etude No.11: Ov
5. Etude No.12: Le Festin D'Esope

Amazon.com

Alkan's gargatuan Op. 39 Etudes embody a symphony (Etudes 4-7), a solo concertos (Etudes 8-10), an overture (No. 11), and a riotous set of 25 variations depicting the animals of Aesop's fables (No. 12, La festin d'Esope). The music demands boundless technique and stamina, which Jack Gibbons supplies in spades. He dives headfirst into the treacherous writing, letting the chips fall where they may. One can't really top Marc-Andre Hamelin's unflappable proficiency in the concertos, yet Gibbons rougher, leonine demeanor thrusts Alkan's Dionysiac qualities more to the fore. Bet you can't digest this yummy 12-plus course piano feast all in one sitting! --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

The embodiment of FURY.......2004-09-24

Gibbons' occasional technical vulnerabilities give these performances a human edge missing from hamelin's recordings. Alkan's op39 is music the pianist must fight with. Blood and sweat are a must. Its raw fury can be lost when cooly presented (ala Hamelin). The symphony finale oozes raw excitement under Gibbons' hands. Like in a disaster movie, we root for the protagonist and hope he survives through to the end. A most rewarding experience.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Completely over the top!.......2003-08-04

The main differences between this recording and the only other complete recording of the minor key etudes by Ronald Smith are:

1. Superior sound
2. A virtuosity that must be heard to be believed. Gibbons plays fast, Gibbons plays loud, Gibbons plays soft, Gibbons plays all the notes, and all the while Gibbons plays them musically! A truly remarkable performance of some very complex music.

But the recording by Smith has much going for it too. In an ideal world, if you're a fan of Alkan, get both recordings. I've got them both!

Good alternative........2002-11-02

It's a good alternative to Hamelin's recordings. With a really wilder approach!!

(No title)........2000-12-15

Comme Le Vent, Like the wind, is a firey, unrelenting deluge of notes which, if played at Alkan's specified metronome marking, travels at the rate of 160 bars per minute -- 20 densely packed pages in just 4'30," and Gibbons falls unbelievably only 7 seconds short! En Rhythm Molossique and Scherzo Diabolico, both technically wicked compositions, receive commanding and sure-footed performances. The Symphony further demonstates Gibbons proficiency in adherence to tempo and metronome markings inspite of taxing athletic and visceral demands, giving it a great sense of impetus, space, and drive. The Concerto, in his hands, is less classical and crisp than Hamelin's, but more wildly romantic; an extraordinary feat of virtuosity. Le festin d'Esope and Allegro Barbaro in all their fiendish and barbaric virtuosity get very poetic readings, very rare indeed... The more slow pieces all fall within the heartbeat, receiving sensitive, simple, and atmospheric performances... Gibbons is an Alkan interpreter of exceptional authority, and I cannot wait until his next release (of anything). In excellent sound, this very generous two-CD set is a TOP recommendation!

An incredible recording! Gibbons' Alkan is superb!.......1999-09-04

Alkan's Magnum Opus (39) has been seen recorded many times over the past years in part, as well as in whole. Jack Gibbons demonstrates that his interpretation of this monstrously challenging set stands at the very top of the list. Out of the 250+ CDs I own, I would have to say that this is the best. Gibbons' "Comme le Vent" is breathtakingly virtuostic and full of velocity. His "En Rythm Molossique" is a great wall of power and control, his "Scherzo Diabolique", feindish and scary. This recording of the "Symphonie" is fantastic, second only to Lewenthal's. His "Concerto" is very ordered, the finale a dazzling display of pianism (despite the missed note in the final black-key run). The "Ouverture" is the best recorded yet, and shows the true depth of Alkan's creations; I could write a review on just this piece! His "Festin" is a bit slow, but he never overexagerates the tempos. The other pieces added to the first disc ruin one's picture of the all-out-bravura crazed Alkan, replacing it with a sensitive, profound one. This CD is truly incredible. If you have any affection for Art Music whatsoever, this recording is a must have!

Average customer rating: Superb playing Thibaudet triumphs on this disc

Jean-Yves Thibaudet ~ Liszt - Opera Transcriptions ~ Wagner · Mozart · Donizetti · Verdi · Gounod · Tchaikovsky Franz Liszt , Gaetano Donizetti , Charles Gounod , Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Giuseppe Verdi Richard Wagner , Ferruccio Busoni , and Jean-Yves Thibaudet Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Busoni | Busoni, Ferruccio | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | 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 Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Thibaudet, Jean-Yves | ( T ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | 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 German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Russian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Aria: Opera without Words Reflections On Duke - Jean-Yves Thibaudet Plays The Music Of Duke Ellington Liszt: The Great Transcriptions Conversations with Bill Evans The Chopin I Love ASIN: B00000421C Release Date: 1994-01-18

Tracks:

1. Rigoletto: paraphrase de concert (Verdi)
2. Valse de concert sur deux motifs de Lucia et Parisina (Donizetti)
3. Valse de l'opera Faust (Gounod)
4. Polonaise From Eugene Onegin (Tchaikovsky)
5. Spinning Chorus From Der fliegende Hollander (Wagner)
6. Recitative And Romance From Tannhauser (Wagner)
7. Lohengrins Verweis An Elsa From Lohengrin (Wagner)
8. Schluss-Szene aus Tristan und Isolde - Isoldens Liebestod (Wagner)
9. Fantasie uber 2 Motive aus W.A. Mozarts Die Hochzeit des Figaro (erganzt von Ferruccio Busoni)

Customer Reviews:

Superb playing.......2006-12-27

This CD consists entirely of truly outstanding playing. In fact, these recordings are so good that even Horowitz himself (who rarely said positive things about other pianists) expressed admiration for them and for the power and technique which Thidaudet demonstrates. In fact, it is not just power and technique but also lyricism and a beautiful touch which Thibaudet brings to these pieces. Every note and phrase has been assiduously judged and weighted and these really are artistic performances, full of life with never a dull moment.

The pieces are all arrangements by Liszt of popular tunes from famous operas. Liszt wrote many such pieces and, of course it's a matter of opinion, but for my money Thibaudet has selected most of the best ones for this CD. Perhaps the least exciting one is the well-known Rigoletto paraphrase, a piece which has been done to death by so many pianists. I don't know if this is what takes the edge off it, perhaps it even took the edge off it for Thibaudet and so although his performance of this is very good, it is not inspirational like the other pieces.

The Spinning Chorus paraphrase is played superbly and with a great deal of charm and grace. Similarly, the Concert Waltz based on tunes from 2 operas by Donizetti is played with power and charm - brilliant octave and chordal playing throughout and in the exciting finale. The Polonaise from Eugene Onegin is also excellent - you'll be humming the tune to yourself for ages afterwards and listen out for the glittering passage work in the middle of this piece, Thibaudet makes the piano sparkle and sing.

The biggest feat of technique is in the notoriously difficult Figaro paraphrase. Here the music makes many demands of the pianist right from the word go yet when you hear Thibaudet playing it, it's hard to guess at how difficult the piece is so graceful and easy is his playing. There are a couple of minor clinkers towards the end in a fiendish passage but frankly that's neither here nor there. Particularly impressive (for the pianists among you) is his playing of the rapid contrary motion scales in thirds in both hands - such speed and accuracy and he even manages to inject some wit into it. A phenomenal performance.

The Faust waltz is great too. Listen out for the fun glissandos in the recapitulation of the second theme towards the end.

Finally, a word about the Liebestod from Tristan & Isolde. A very performance but the definitive performance of this is by Horowitz in his CD "The Last Recording".

A great CD, destined to become a classic recording. Thibaudet should be proud of this superb piece of work. If only other pianists took the same care to make their playing as polished and musical and imaginative.

Thibaudet triumphs on this disc.......2000-05-14

I fell in love with this CD upon my first hearing of it. First of all the transcriptions by Liszt are excellent. Secondly, the way Thibaudet plays them is just mind boggling. His pianissimos are incredibly controlled and moving, while his fortes are spectacularly powerful, bold, and commanding. The London recording catches all this detail with brilliant clarity. One example on this disc is the transcription of the Liebestod. You know it should be wonderful, but in the hands of this gifted pianist, the piano soars and aches the feelings of Isolde. It's like Lizst and Thibaudet bring out the whole of the orchestration on the piano. In the climax, I was amazed to hear the loud rumblings of the lower end of the keyboard while the soaring melody on the other end of the keyboard lifted me away. The transcription of Mozart is wonderful. It makes one wish that Mozart had lived and composed on into the Romantic Period. There are some wonderful transcriptions of Donizetti and Verdi as well. In the end, what I can say is this: Thibaudet has become a wonderful interpreter of Liszt. On this disc Thibaudet shows us the wonderful ability of Liszt and his own wonderful pianist abilities.

Average customer rating: Definitive? WELL worth getting. A Great Remastering! Exceptional Pianist/Inspirational Composer

Alkan: Piano Works; Ronald Smith Charles Alkan , and Ronald Smith Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Character Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Nocturnes | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Marches | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Toccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Alkan: 12 Études, Op. 39 Alkan: Grande sonate 'Les quatre âges', Sonatine, Le festin d'Esope Alkan: Symphony for solo piano Alkan: Piano Music, Volume 1: 12 Etudes, Op. 35 Alkan: Sonate de Concert; Grand Duo Concertant; Piano Trio ASIN: B0000CE7FF Release Date: 2004-06-01

Tracks:

1. Petit Conte
2. Nocturne No.1, Op.22
3. Gigue, Op.24
4. Marche, Op.37 No.1
5. Le Tambour Bat Aux Champs, Op.50 No.2
6. XXIX: Delire
7. XI: Morituri Te Salutant
8. XX: Le Premier Billet Doux
9. IV: Les Cloches
10. XLI: Les Enharmoniques
11. X: Increpatio
12. XI: Les Soupirs
13. XLVIII: En Songe
14. Toccatina, Op.75
15. IV: Allegro
16. V: Marche Funebre (Andantino)
17. VI: Menuet
18. VII: Finale (Presto)
19. I: Assez Gravement
20. II: Andantino
21. III: Menuet

Tracks:

1. VIII: Allegro Assai
2. IX: Adagio
3. X: Allegretto Alla Barbaresca
4. Maestoso -
5. Allegro
6. XIII: (Cantique Des Cantiques)
7. XV
8. XVI
9. XI
10. XII

Customer Reviews:

Definitive?.......2006-07-17

This version of the underappreciated work of Alkan should, in deference to Marc Andre Hamelin's amazing versions, should probably be the standard by which others are judged... in addition the album includes a great collection in one purchase.

WELL worth getting........2006-05-19

This CD has what is still my favorite interpretation of Alkan's Concerto out of the three I've heard (although regrettably I haven't heard Jack Gibbons' version). Ogdon and Hamelin seem to kind of rush parts in order to impart a greater sense of technical bravura whereas Smith lets the power and majesty of the piece come through.
Also a great recording of the Alkan Symphonie. Hamelin's playing of the piece seems to have gotten all the attention but I find this one just right.
The prior two pieces would be reason enough to get any Alkan CD but this one is also loaded with a number of smaller gems, some of which it's probably going to be, what, twenty years before someone else makes a recording of any of them. The Petit Conte and Nocturne show Alkan's similarities to Chopin. The Toccatina is a delightful little piece with an awesome ending. Five great preludes, eight esquisses, etc. etc. - probably the best Alkan CD out there.

A Great Remastering!.......2005-07-15

I own the original LP recordings of some of these works and the CD version. In a previous review I remarked how the CD sound quality was not the best, but adequate.

This remastering brings back much of the original vitality and great sound quality that was in the LP version but lacking in the CD version. And all at a bargain price too!

All Alkan (and Ronald Smith fans),don't hesitate to get this 2CD set. To have the symphony for piano and concerto in such fine quality sound again is a real treat for the ears.

Most highly recommended!

Exceptional Pianist/Inspirational Composer.......2004-09-03

Ronald Smith died on the 27 May 2004 a week before I was due to hear him perform in concert at the age of 82. Obviously I was incredibly upset by his death and not having ever heard him play - especially ALKAN.

Ronald Smith was the man who re-established Charles-Valentin Alkan as one of the greatest composers of piano music. Busoni claimed "Alkan, alongside Chopin, Liszt, Schumann and Brahms, was one of the five greatest composers for the piano since Beethoven".

Of particular interest here is Ronald Smiths recordings of the Solo Piano Concerto and Symphony for Solo Piano. These are some of the most extraordinary compositions in musical literature.

Ronald Smith's recordings are exceptional and in my mind can only be equalled technically by Marc-André Hamelin performances of Alkan. Yet with this said Ronald Smith was the only virtuoso pianist who truly understood Alkans philosophy of music - hence smith's book on Alkan - The Man The Music.

This album is highly recommended to all music and piano playing enthusiasts.
The music is innovative, passionate; but not sentimental and incredibly interesting in structure, colouring and philosophy.

Average customer rating: Your ears and your heart will appreciate this album alig Excellent ! not too sure yet...

IF Fahir Atakoglu , Horacio el Negro Hernandez , and Anthony Jackson Manufacturer: Far&Here ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | International | Styles | Music Turkey | Middle East | International | Styles | Music Latin Pop | Latin Music | Styles | Music Avant Garde & Free Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Bebop General | Bebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music Latin Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music Modern Postbebop | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music International Jazz | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Italuba Robby and Negro at the Third World War (La Timba No Es Como Ayer) Sketchin' 2 Codes Paris Concert ASIN: B0009JVTQQ Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

1. If
2. Two Ways
3. Anadolu
4. About autumn
5. Cool
6. Beyoglu
7. Spur Of The Night
8. Ten Eight
9. Glow With The Flow
10. Yana Yana
11. Back Home
12. Saturday

Product Description

“...International award winning composer, Fahir Atakoglu is a much-esteemed composerand pianist in Europe and Turkey, in the fields of large symphonic works and film music. His works have also been performed in various music festivals in Europe and across The United States to much acclaim. This CD called “IF” marks an interesting departure for him. Instead of a ninety piece orchestra, his music here is performed by only three musicians, and what a fabulous trio it is! Fahir’s playing and his harmonic and original rhythmic sense in his compositions, electrifies the musical atmosphere throughout. The legendary bassist Anthony Jackson is superb as always, so is drum virtuoso, Grammy winner Horacio ‘El Negro’ Hernandez. Saxophonist Donny McCaslin plays beautifully on two numbers. The drumming that is Horacio’s “own”, together Anthony’s tone that has been his signature for nearly two decades, and the groups unique grooves of Turkish melodic and rhythmic motifs, makes this album a one of a kind collectors item, a must have…” ARIF MARDIN Producer, Composer, Arranger. This document is edited from the Album’s (CD-FH12005) notes.

Customer Reviews:

Your ears and your heart will appreciate this album.......2005-08-24

What an amazing group of musicians!!! Fahir Atakoglu is a well-known musician in Europe, it was time for him to conquer the US music markets. This is one of those albums, you know, the rare ones that you keep playing for years and years. These musicians are simply genious people, and they know how to show this by touching your heart. Stop reading these comments and go and buy this album immediately. If you are like me, I know you will appreciate it.

alig .......2005-08-22

Having been recording in Europe & Turkey for over 20 years, Fahir is finally recording in the USA. Jackson and Hernadez are serious players, and have given Fahir the good exposure he deserves. Fahir's music has been a part of our lives, souls and dreams for years. Believe it or not, I was surprised to hear Fahir's music as the opening act at a wedding in Medellin, Colombia this August. This guy is an incredible talent. His music has an international appeal with the ability to reach people's hearts. Way to go Fahir!

Excellent !.......2005-08-20

...Wow!!! ; I have never heard this guy before but he sure can play his piano!!His melodies are amazing...His Turkish side really shows in the 3rd track Anadoluo. Fahir's comping on the left hand ,the pulse is so very very much in sync with the Drummer!that it gives listener an overwhelming pleasure and with Anthony Jackson the poly-rithm in all of the compositions are sooo original that I praise this album .. a very BIG AWESOME!!!
I believe pianists, bass players and drummers can "LEARN" a lot from this album!!
I am looking forward to hearing them live ;
you got a FAN!!

not too sure yet..........2005-07-21

...what to make of this record.
I just can't help it,but I feel that this album does not really breathe as well as it could.A lot of clustered left hand voicings from the piano may well be a contributing factor.That the rhythm playing feelsa little hectic (to me anyhow)is another point.And although there is a lot of soloing in the piano,as well as it may be executed,i feel that there is a lack of direction.as a bottom line i got to say,that the pianoplaying really does not touch me all that much.
The rhythm-section however really helps.The bass especially is highly dynamic.The use of the expression pedal much complements the overall picture.At times however gem-like moments in the bass department(of which there are MANY) are a little quiet against the piano.Mind you ,this is a PIANO TRIO record.As to the drums; i really enjoy what is going on there too.apropriately busy.
On the whole;i like this record, although I doubt it will become a favourite,as I am not sure the compositions are of the kind that makes me want to keep on listening through the whole album.One or two pieces at a time,yes,but perhaps not the whole cd.They do not make me alert in a way that some others do,as i miss a sense of clarity and concept(having said that,i have not spent all that much time with the cd as yet-affore mentioned reasons-)-this is of course mostly a taste issue.For rhythm section enthusiasts,and especially basspeople,this will be a very interesting disc to listen to.

Average customer rating: Virtuosic and inspired playing - a pianophile's wet dream Marc "the composer" Hamelin Nothing Special Here Some difficult repertoire Astonishing listening

The Composer Pianists Manufacturer: Hyperion UK ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Busoni | Busoni, Ferruccio | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Godowsky | Godowsky, Leopold | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Medtner | Medtner, Nikolai | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Scriabin, Alexander | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Sorabji | Sorabji, Kaikhosru | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Character Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Toccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Scriabin, Alexander | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Hamelin, Marc-André | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Marc-André Hamelin Live at Wigmore Hall Kaleidoscope Godowsky: The Complete Studies on Chopin's Etudes Reger: Variations and Fugue on a Theme of J. S. Bach Alkan: Symphony for solo piano ASIN: B000009PZ3 Release Date: 1998-07-14

Tracks:

1. Godowsky, Toccata In G flat Major
2. Scriabin, Poeme Tragique
3. Hamelin, Etude No, 9 D'apres Rossini
4. Hamelin, Etude No. 10 D'apres Chopin ('Pour Les Idees Noires')
5. Feinberg, Bach Schubler Chorale No. 6 (Transcription)
6. Alkan, Andante From Sym. 94 (Transcription) From Esquisses Op 63
7. Alkan, No 46: Le Premier Billet Doux
8. Alkan, No 47: Scherzetto
9. Busoni, Fantasia Nach J S Bach
10. Rachmaninov, Moment Musical In E Flat Minor
11. Rachmaninov, Etude-Tableau In E flat
12. Scriabin, Deux Poemes, Op. 71. No. 1 Fantastique
13. Scriabin, Deux Poemes, Op. 71. No. 2 En revant...
14. Feinberg, Berceuse
15. Medtner, Improvisation No. 1 in B flat minor
16. Sorabji, Pastiche On Hindu Merchant Song From Sadko
17. Hamelin, Prelude And Fugue

Customer Reviews:

Virtuosic and inspired playing - a pianophile's wet dream.......2007-03-07

Most of us think of blistering bravura and gravity-defying virtuosity when we think of Marc-Andre Hamelin. After all, the guy is known for launching himself into the most difficult piano repertoire in the history of piano music (although he has yet to tackle Sorabji's monstrous Opus Clavicembalisticum). In the area of conquering technical demands, Hamelin is simply one of the greats, if not THE great. However, I believe he can often be a superb interpreter, too. Look at Alkan's Souvenirs Trois Morceaux Op. 15, Medtner's sonatas, and even the Schumann Symphonic Etudes. When he is passionate and intelligent with his introspections on the pieces he plays, the addition of his indomitable virtuosity makes him a colossus of a musician.

The numerous 3-star reviews below are rather baffling. I understand that some may dislike his overwhelming focus on technical supremacy. This has been an Achilles heel at times; his Alkan Op. 39, for instance, was a complete disaster and embarrassment because he went for technical perfection instead of full-blooded passion (like Jack Gibbons). On this recording, though, Hamelin fuses both technical superiority and subtle emotional details, producing some truly inspired renditions of these pieces. And the pieces here are really all over the place; most of these were new to my ears. The main highlights here are, in my opinion, the following: Scriabin's Poeme tragique, Haydn-Alkan's Andante from the Surprise Symphony, Busoni's Fantasia on JS Bach, and Medtner's Improvisation No. 1.

I agree with another reviewer here that it's ridiculous for Hamelin to pepper his own compositions, his etudes, throughout the disc, as if they have as much merit as Scriabin or Rachmaninov. However, I actually like Hamelin's etudes. Their dense polyphonic textures and dizzying passagework makes for wonderful musical escapades. His Prelude and Fugue is a tireless dissonant storm of notes, but there is also substance of musical interest as well. But Hamelin shines best in the works of other composers. His rendition of Scriabin's Poem tragique is both spirited and brooding; his ability to make the chordal bass accompaniment echo is quite satisfying. The Alkan transcription of Haydn's Andante from the Surprise Symphony is sheer delight. Alkan's fidelity to the endearing Haydn melody is pleasing, and his daring virtuosic episodes are marvelous.

The most profound work on this recording is Busoni's Fantasia on JS Bach. It's hard to believe this haunting music of extreme pathos is from Busoni's pen; when not ensconced in contrapuntal webs, the music sounds like late Liszt. There are scarcely any moments of fanfare or volatile passagework; instead, this cerebral music gently traverses through some Bach themes and various melancholy digressions. Thus I must restate my confusion regarding some of the other reviewers who lambaste Hamelin's performance. How can one not hear Hamelin's sincere emotional outpouring here? Such a heart-felt, sublime, and discerning execution is priceless.

The other works here are just as notable, but it would be exhausting for both myself and the reader to continue with commentary. Suffice it to say, his Medtner and Rachmaninov are outstanding; the Sorabji piece is peculiarly interesting and the Feinberg Berceuse extremely eerie and mysterious. In short, all of these pieces are pianistic treats. My only problem is the placement of Hamelin's etudes. I don't think his compositions are substantial enough to be placed side-by-side with Scriabin or Sorabji. I think he might have paid a better homage by giving us Henselt, Rubinstein, Lyapunov or Tausig pieces instead.

Bottom line: For pianophiles, this is an impressive powerhouse of a recording. On it, Hamelin showcases some splendid obscurities with a mighty unbeatable virtuosity and yes, even poetic feeling. Every piece here has something memorable or even great about it, so I have to disagree with some of the naysayers about the music's worth. Busoni's Fantasia alone is worth the price of this disc.

Marc "the composer" Hamelin.......2006-11-24

Hamelin has included repertory here which other pianists won't (and technically can't) touch and which is well worth getting to know: for example the Alkan Haydn transcription (oh, for a Naxos-type comprehensive series of the complete mad-scientist Alkan transcriptions, to upstage Marco Polo's Alkan series!), and the Godowsky Toccata (Marco Polo seems to have stopped its Godowsky project too soon).
Hamelin is an important pianist and it is well to hear him document in a perfect-recording format playing that can be assumed to be his ideal. What that ideal is is quickly apparent: many notes, many voices, great speed, and much sustain pedal to make notes and voices possible when they otherwise wouldn't be. Hamelin often realizes his ideal: listen to his Alkan transcription of the Beethoven c concerto on his Wigmore album. But more often his ideal is at the expense of the music: for example, his Alkan etudes are a vapid blur of notes, rather interesting, impressionistic...but not Alkan; if you want to hear Alkan listen to Jack Gibbons' recording of the op 39. As for this recording, the best points of comparison of Hamelin with other pianists are his Rachmaninoff and Scriabin tracks. And I think anybody who loves Rach and Scrib will prefer just about any other pianist to Hamelin's smeared, facile renditions.
Hamelin has included 3 of his own piano compositions on this recording: all 3 are all full of notes and many contrapuntal voices and played at great speed with cleverly helpful sustain pedal effects; all 3 are undistinguished in any other way. So here we get Hamelin as a composer, and it's good to have a sense of Hamelin as a composer, because quite astounding claims have been made for him as a composer.
It turns out that this cd is an adjunct to the book "The Composer Pianists" by Robert Rimm in which it is claimed for Hamelin a status as composer on a par with Busoni, Alkan, Rachmaninoff and other revered "composer pianists".
The claim is grotesque. Hamelin is a middleaged concert pianist who has (as far as I can tell) in his entire life of composing, produced a set of unpublished piano studies. And now he has presented this cd to document his own status as a "composer pianist". The fact that he seems to believe that he compares favorably as even a trancriber with the likes of Samuel Feinberg, to say nothing of comparing himself as a composer with Busoni, suggests a mental pathology far more serious than vanity.
So why my generous 3-stars (and generous it is)? Because this is a sumptuous Hyperion production, and because if you can get it in the used or sale bin it's worth having as a gentle freak: Hamelin is the colorless Spider-man of the piano; some of his repertory is still unavailable on any other recording; and of course some of his repertory may never be available on any other recording.

Nothing Special Here.......2006-07-29

He is a well educated pianist who indeed has a great technical capability, however I think his music lacks color, charisma and poetry. After listening Horowitz I would not listen him again, and if techical ability is a starting point I prefer Volodos better.

Some difficult repertoire.......2006-04-29

I have bought several Hamelin CDs recently - this one, Scriabin and Liszt. All are benchmarks for technique. Perhaps the ease with which he navigates the obstacles is the problem, I just don't get the feeling that his heart is in it. And I'm tired of hearing his recurring mantra about how virtuosity is artistry in itself. I don't agree. Perhaps I just don't "get along" with his style well enough. I think he's trying too hard to be different. If you want to hear breathtaking technical performance and excellent recorded sound, then by all means, this is a great choice. Most of the selections are either rhythmically or harmonically "angular" and may not be easy to listen to for first timers. If you are up for something different, this is a good choice to consider.

Astonishing listening.......2002-01-28

Hamelin is astonishing in his readings of these works- I especially enjoy the Scriabin, Busoni, Feinberg, and Medtner. His playing delivers subtle dynamics and the pure intensity of an inspired artist.
If you truly love to hear the most difficult piano works played the way they were envisioned by their composers, listen to Hamelin.

Average customer rating: A grand finale to the series Some of Liszt's best opera transcriptions here

Liszt at the Opera: Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases, and Transcriptions, Vol. VI (Complete Music for Solo Piano, Vol. 54) Manufacturer: Hyperion UK ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Howard, Leslie | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music Similar Items: Liszt at the Opera, Vol 4 Liszt at the Opera II Liszt at the Opera: Operatic Fantasies, Paraphrases, and Transcriptions, Vol. I (Complete Music for Solo Piano, Vol. 6) Liszt Transcriptions of Berlioz, Chopin, Saint-Saëns Schumann: Piano Sonatas Nos. 1 & 3 ASIN: B00000IAE4 Release Date: 1999-03-09

Tracks:

1. La Fiancee: Grande Fantaisie Sur La Tyrolienne De La Fianc- First Version, S385i
2. Ernani: Premi Paraphrase De Concert - S431a
3. Les Huguenots: Rniscences Des Huguenots - 2nd Version, S412ii
4. La Sonnambula: Fantaisie Sur Des Motifs Favoris De L'op La Sonnambula - 1st Version, S393i
5. Lucia di Lammermoor: Marche Des Tchrekesses De L'op Rouslan Et Loudmila De Glinka - 1st Version, S406i

Tracks:

1. Lucia Di Lammermoor: Valse A Capriccio Sur Deux Motifs De Lucia Et Parisina - 1st Version, S401
2. Tannhauser Und Der Sangerdrieg Auf Wartburg: Ouvert R Wagners Tannher - S442
3. I Puritani: Rniscences Des Puritains - 2nd Version, S390i
4. Der Freishutz: Fantasie Uber Themen Aus Webers Der FreischS451
5. Il Giuramento: Rniscences De La Scala - S458

Customer Reviews:

A grand finale to the series.......2006-08-24

Leslie Howard and Hyperion have brought us a glorious plethora of Liszt's neglected operatic transcriptions/fantasies; ambrosia to the Lisztian or Romantic piano lover. While the previous volume lost some steam a bit, only able to deliver a few new pieces in the midst of numerous revisions, this final recording makes up for that. To the person familiar with the previous volumes, you'll notice more alternate versions on these CD's that were recorded in previous volumes. However, the newly recorded fantasies and transcriptions here make up for the duplicates extremely well.

First, I'll mention the "alternate versions" here that can be heard on previous volumes. The Auber Grande fantaisie (first version) is presented here, but was also found on the previous Vol. 5. However, do not be mistaken in thinking it a near duplicate. Compared to the previous (third) version at 11 minutes, this "first" version almost makes 15. Liszt tacks on an extra 4 minutes of thematic enhancements, decorations, and extended phrases. I actually prefer this first version over any other.

The famous warhorse (seems like a favorite of Howard's) the Reminiscences des Huguenots makes its third appearance, this time as the "second version." The version is a good 7 more minutes than the first version but only a few seconds more than the third version on the previous volume (sorry if that makes your head spin). In other words, it's not that different to my ears and so there's nothing new here, really.

The Bellini fantasie on La Sonnambula, the Reminiscences des Puritains, the Glinka transcription, and the Donizetti valse a capriccio are more alternate versions that don't offer much new music material or startling contrasts. Only to the astute listener or Liszt aficionado will there be any significant differences or reasons to enjoy them over the previous versions recorded.

Now for the new stuff: The Ernani Premiere paraphrase de concert is a wholly original work, quite different from the Ernani paraphrase found on Vol. 1. New thematic material from the opera is given an extended fantasy-like intro, which makes way for that recognizable haunting theme which Liszt puts through a set of variations. While I prefer the darker mood found in the other paraphrase, this one has a beautiful eloquence and extended elaboration of the main theme not heard in the first paraphrase.

The colossal transcription of the Tannhauser overture is given its flawless execution here. This is probably the most perfect delivery, beating even Moiseiwitsch's famous recording and many other contemporaries who gave it a shot. Indeed, I think Howard's interpretation and performance *the* best you can find of this titan piano work. On a concentrated listening you will not find a single mistake, nor signs of exhaustion by the final explosion of chromatic octaves. Liszt, himself, often commented how he preferred not to play it in his old age because of the immense physical requirements. I don't know - that somehow makes Howard's efforts even more amazing. It's top-notch in technique and has no hints of roboticism; instead, Howard plays with an indefinable warmth and a clear articulation of the fiery Lisztian grandeur found in the virtuosic end.

Next up is the Fantasie on Themes from Weber's Der Freischutz, not to be confused with the transcription of the overture found on Vol. 1. Liszt weaves a reflective and impassioned fantasy here, accentuated and bolstered by the wonderful Der Freischutz themes. It's not as heavy or focused on the lower bass of the piano as the overture commanded, but its delicate melodies and gradual progressions create a new mood out of the work; in simple words, it's lovely.

As Liszt was inclined to do in his days, he wrote fantasies based on many obscure operas and composers. The obscurity comes as a surprise to me when I hear this fantasy on an opera by Mercadente. It is based off of Mercadente's 'Il giuramento' opera and contains some evocative music ranging from warm beauty to passionate meditations. The fantasy, or Reminiscences de La Scala is one of Liszt's best minor operatic fantasies. Its music and romantic lyricism recalls just as much emotional power as his Liebestraumes, Consolations and romantic-inspired fantasies like the Les Adieux or the Tristan and Isolde love-death scene. It's original, fresh, seductive, gorgeously rich with great melodies, and a thrill ride of romance and passion.

Bottom line: Howard has given us a spellbinding, immaculate and much-appreciated series: Liszt at the Opera. I'm sad to realize that this is the final volume and so there won't be any more great operatic paraphrases or transcriptions to hear. But it's been a great run and truly a milestone in Liszt recording. Face it: no one else has supplied such oustanding premiere recordings or had the guts to play some of Liszt's unjustly neglected pieces. It's their loss, I say, because anyone who enjoys Liszt will find some of the most brilliant high-quality music of his oeuvre here. This should not be missed by any one who has an interest with Liszt or has heard the previous "Liszt at the Opera" series. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Some of Liszt's best opera transcriptions here.......2001-07-12

Volume VI concentrates on longer pieces: Reminiscences des Huguenots (Meyerbeer), Fantaisie on La sonnambula (Bellini), Tannhauser overture (Wagner), etc. Solid final entry in the "Liszt at the Opera" series. Highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

Rare Piano Encores Manufacturer: Hyperion UK ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Busoni | Busoni, Ferruccio | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Bruckner | Bruckner, Anton | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Grainger | Grainger, Percy Aldridge | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Grieg, Edvard | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Reger, Max | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rubinstein | Rubinstein, Anton | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rossini | Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Etudes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Character Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Reger, Max | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Howard, Leslie | ( H ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Caprices | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Bruckner, Anton | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Busoni, Ferruccio | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Grainger, Percy Aldridge | ( G ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Grieg, Edvard | ( G ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Reger, Max | ( R ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Rossini, Gioacchino | ( R ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Rubinstein, Anton | ( R ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Busoni, Ferruccio | ( B ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Grainger, Percy Aldridge | ( G ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Howard, Leslie | ( H ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Anton Rubinstein: Complete Piano Sonatas Horizons - Leif Ove Andsnes ASIN: B00008JL6H Release Date: 2004-09-14

Average customer rating: Liszt - Devil and Angel Mellifluent

Liszt: Piano Music Vol. 10 Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Liszt | Liszt, Franz | ( L ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Elegies | Requiems, Elegies & Tombeau | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Nocturnes | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Lullabies & Berceuse | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs Under $7 | Classical General | Classical | 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 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Liszt: Complete Piano Music, Vol. 4 Liszt: Hungarian Rhapsodies, Vol.13 Liszt: Sonata in B minor; Deux Légendes; Gretchen Liszt: Années de Pèlerinage, Vol. 2 Franz Liszt: Hungarian Rhapsodies, Vol. 1 ASIN: B0000060CG Release Date: 1998-05-12

Tracks:

1. Scherzo Und Marsch, S177/R20: Scherzo
2. Scherzo Und Marsch, S177/R20: Marsch
3. Liebestraume: 3 Notturnos, S541/R211: Notturno No.1 in A flat: Hohe Liebe (Andantino...
4. Liebestraume: 3 Notturnos, S541/R211: Notturno No.2 in E flat (2nd Version): Seliger Tod...
5. Liebestraume: 3 Notturnos, S541/R211: Notturno No.3 in A flat: O Lieb, So Lang Du Lieben...
6. Berceuse (2nd Version), S174B/R57B
7. Albumblatt No.1 in E, S.164, No.1/R64, No.1
8. Elegie Sur Des Motifs Du Prince Louis Fedinand De Prusse, S168/R75
9. Romance, S169/R66A
10. Feuilles D'Album in A flat, S165/R62
11. Berceuse (1st Version), S174A/R57A

Customer Reviews:

Liszt - Devil and Angel.......2006-07-01

Prepare yourself for some superior music in Volume 10 of Naxos' Complete Piano Music of Liszt. The great Lisztian Jeno Jando has given some amazing performances of Liszt's most excellent musical jewels. The CD includes Liszt's most romantic and love-inspired pieces that I might call this CD "Liebestraume" by itself. But before we hear lovers long for each other and lost love that pains the soul, we first get to hear a satanic piece contemporary to the Sonata in B minor: 'Scherzo and March.' Not an outstanding title, but the music certainly is.

The 'Scherzo' is a fast-paced and energetic encore piece. According to the booklet included with the CD, "The Scherzo, marked 'Allegro vivace spiritoso' is a musical vision of darkness. It is forceful, wonderfully harmonized and abounding in sharp dissonances conjuring up nightmarish images." Indeed it is a devilish work of tremendous force. The subsequent 'March' is a catchy one that works its way back to the original theme. The booklet says further that, "The March, marked 'Allegro moderato marziale' which folows has been compared to a battle of good versus evil. Although one clearly hears the frenzied activities of the Witches' Sabbath, good eventually seems to prevail in this tempestuous piece." I'll just be perfectly blunt about the Scherzo and March: it's damn good!

The devil creeps away to leave us with a series of Liszt's most beautiful melodies on romance and love. Jeno Jando performs all three Liebestraumes with sensitivity and passion that makes his interpretation better than most others I've heard. The famous Liebestraume No. 3 is excellent as always. Surprisingly, the two versions of the Berceuse turn out to be wonderful compositions. Before this CD, I wasn't familiar with the work and on a first hearing I was taken away with its grace and meticulous nuances that portray love and intimacy. Obviously it is inspired by Chopin's own superlative composition of the same title; Liszt's is almost as good.

Following this, the 'Elegie sur des motifs du Prince Louis Ferdinand de Prusse' is a full-blooded song of love. It's a little melancholic, a little romantic, and somehow stays on the line between the two; it's a great piece which deserves more attention. However, the most unexpectedly appealing piece on the CD goes to the short 'Romance.' What a monumental piece of passion and Romanticism; it laments and wails an agonizing image of the pains of love.

Bottom line: Do not pass this low budget CD up. It's one of the better CD's of the Naxos label and contains some extraordinary music of demons and witches, lovers and roses, and all by an incredible Liszt-interpreter, Jeno Jando.

Mellifluent.......2000-06-21

Jeno Jando will be an master in the near future. His fast extending repertoire and steadily high standard of records prove that. This disk contains many rare but sweet pieces as well as some of Liszt's most famous work(Lieberstraeume no.3, for example). Jando treats these pieces with a natural singing pace, just as these songs should be. He hides the hard skill under the mellifluent music. We will not recognize those dazzling skills as others do, but a clear performance. Also, unlike many pianists often plays Liszt in an over-sentimental mood, Jando on the other hand gives us a decent image. Recommended.

Average customer rating:

Classics Explained: Rite of Spring Stravinsky , Rahbari , and Brt Po Brussels Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Instructional | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Classics Explained: Pastoral Symphony An Introduction to Ravel's "Boléro" and "Ma mère l'oye" Classics Explained: Brandenburg Concertos 4 & 5 Symphony 9: Introduction to Dvorak An Introduction to Brahms' Piano Concerto No. 2 ASIN: B00007FPFN Release Date: 2003-07-15

World Music:

1. Mujer y Argentina
2. Music Of Indonesia 8: Vocal And Instrumental Music Of East And Central Flores
3. Music & Romance [Import]
4. Ne Quelque Part [Import]
5. Nohea
6. O Porto [Import]
7. Os Caes Ladram E a Caravana Nao Para [Import]
8. Pearl of Africa Reborn
9. Quintal Do Semba [Import]
10. Rashanim

World Music

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World Music

Da Capo [Import]

Haydn: Symphonies Nos. 86, 92, 100

Album Review: A Celebration Of Piano Music From Castle Howard

Soul Sessions

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Kathy September [Enhanced]

Flor Da Paraiba [Import]

Imagenit [Explicit Lyrics]

Gypsy Nights

German Church Cantatas and Arias

Knight Music

Jazz Frontier [Import] [Original recording remastered]

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Absolutely Positively Live

URSADELICA