Reviews (20)

Baroque Heaven
A lot has been said about the way both Kathleen Battle and Wynton Marsalis sometimes embelish their baroque performances, but this recording is an exeption: all feeling and no flashiness - both performers display a dazzling enthusiasm coupled with immense talent. The opening track, Handel's Let the Bright Seraphim, is a brilliantly refreshing version of a very famous and often recorded piece that sets the tone for the whole CD. Other highlights include Handel's Eternal Source of Light Divine and Bach's Seufzer Tranen Kummer Not. Kathleen's voice is delicate and expressive and perfectly suited for this type of music, her technique may not be perfect, but her ability to convey feeling makes up for this minor drawback. Wynton in the ultimate trumpet virtuoso, both innovative and technically flawless, and you feel he could turn any piece of music into something worth listening. The repertoire is fabulous and you can hardly imagine two more complete performers for these masterpieces.

Baroque Perfection
It is difficult to express in words the experience of hearing Kathleen Battle and Wynton Marsalis perform this brilliant and difficult pieces on this recording. Every single number on this recital of Baroque pieces for voice and trumpet is a wonder of energy and technical precision. Kathleen Battle's silvery voice is particularly fond of the Baroque repertoire. The extremely difficult arias and cantatas of this CD suit Battle's voice perfectly. The soprano shines with nimble coloratura, soaring high notes (up to brilliant C's and D's)and precise control of dynamics. Marsalis is a perfect partner for Battle, a true virtuoso capable of establishing an effective rapport with the vocal line. The ornamentation used by both artists is both tasteful and brilliant, always mindful that this music calls for both display and ensemble work. John Nelson, an accomplished Baroque conductor, conducts with his usual mastery the Orchestra of St. Luke's, an ensemble who brings excellent support to the work of the soloists. Among the highlights of the recording are Let the Bright Seraphim, with the brilliant trills of both Battle and Marsalis, the fours arias from Scarlatti's Arie con Tromba Sola, and above all, the two movements from Bach's Cantata No. 51 that close the program. These are perhaps the best interpretations of this cantata movements I have ever heard. An unique recording that proves what the term "virtuoso" really means. Highly recommended.

Somewhat disappointed in NE USA
Oh, well - what did I expect? Baroque just isn't Ms Battle's forte - I've heard her perform Mozart reasonably well, although she's a singer I just can't bear to watch - what with all the excessive mouthing and grimacing which I find extremely distracting - I hope this recording never comes out on DVD! Wynton Marsalis, on the other hand is on top form, as usual - what a performer! I'm surprised he has time to play this type of music, what with him being so busy saving Jazz from extinction 'n all - whew! what a guy!

One Annoying Battle, One Great Talent
As a lover of Baroque music, I was looking forward immensely to hearing this cd, but what a disapointment it turned out to be!

Kathleen Battle is just not suited to the baroque repetoire, and having heard her sing on this cd, it is difficult to know what repetoire, if any, would suit her! She is technically okay, but imbues all her singing with a coldness that would chill the devil himself! Her voice is too light and too boring and I found it impossible to sit through the whole cd in one go. Whilst other opera singers can combine emotional intensity, colaratura pyrotechnics and technical brilliance, Ms Battle only manages to bore the listener with her ramblings, her colaratura sounding more like warbling than actual singing, whilst after a few arias, her voice becomes intensely annoying due to its lack of variation.

Thankfully, Kathleen battle is not as popular in Britain as she appears to be in the USA, and on the evidence of this cd, I cannot see that changing any time soon.

The only reason why I gave this review 2 stars is because of the playing of Wynton Marsalis, which is outstanding, especially next to the mediocrity of Kathleen Battle.

My money may have been wasted in purchasing this cd, but at least I now have an extra drinks coaster onto which I can place my cup of coffee!

Blown Away!
What a spectacular event! A collaboration made in Heaven!
Battle & Marsalis literally do the impossible here! Play it
on the way to work - it will energize your whole day! ... Read more

Reviews (24)

You ain't heard nothing yet!
This is of those albums that everyone should own. Forget what you think you know about good horn playing -- this album redefines it. If you're a horn player, you better get it to see what your instrument can do. If you're not a horn player, you should own this because you've never heard a horn like this before. And if you don't even know what a horn is, this album will convince you that you should find out. I've heard master horn players before, but never this many at one time. The variety of music and ability of the players to pull it off flawlessly is inspiration for me to improve, and drive home the fact that horn players wrongfully cursed with the offbeats in the back of the orchestra. My jazz friends jam along with Tico-Tico and Caravan, and I laugh hysterically at the Mozart 4 cadenza. And everyone can sing along with Bohemian Rhapsody.

State of the Art Brass Playing
Cala Records is certainly to be commended for its excellent series highlighting a single musical instrument performed by the best London professionals on that instrument. "London Horn Sound" is, like others in the series, extraordinary playing. Surely there is no other city in the world with this many fine horn players (all are members of London's many fine orchestral ensembles and recording studios). The "cream" of London's fine professional hornists are featured playing a broad selection of music from Wagner & Rossini to Freddie Mercury and film music from "Titanic." This CD is a *must* for horn players. If you're a fan of trombonists, also get "The London Trombone Sound." Brilliant musical arrangements!

WOW!
This CD is sooooo great! I would recommend this CD to all horn players, because this is just amazing! These horn players are just excellent, and the music sounds much much cooler for horn ensemble.

The Best Horn CD Ever
I've played horn for the past 7 years. Wow. These guys are absolutely amazing. Whenever I start to get complacent with my playing, I just listen to this CD. Then, I realize I have a LONG way to go. Ha. If you like music at all, buy this CD. My jaw still drops when I hear Tico Tico. Dang.

A MUST for Frech Horn players!
Okay, so, I'm a fifth year student of French Horn and I listened to this CD and believe me, it actually inspired me to practice and get better (I rarely ever get this motivated) Believe me, you will never be able to listen to Bohemian Rhapsody OR Titanic the same way again! I absolutely LOVE the horn arrangement, and reccomend the CD to anyone who enjoys a good mellow sound with the absence of flutes or clarinets taking all the good parts! ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Bargain
A great selection of classical music with good sound. These discs are made to be listened to and enjoyed; not analyzed and argued over. Just play one after the other for hours of famous pieces that take you from the Baroque to the Romantic period. Just a good, economical set of great music.

It's an OK CD
There are a lot of classical music on these CDs, but the quality of the orchestra is not that good :(

They need to improve the digital quality of the music, even with a great CD player the music sounds pretty awful

good start to classical music
while not the best and crispest recordings and best interpretations of the compositions, this is a good start to delving into classical music. it does require a learned taste to truly enjoy some of the more complex and diverse classical pieces and this is a good start.

Truly enjoyable
I don't know if one could say that these are the "definitve" recordings of classical works, but they are certainly good, and are a great way for people to discover the titles and composers of some of the great familiar works, even if they are untutored, as I am. Two questions though: where are the next five volumes? I have the first 50 works here, but there must be 50 more somewhere? Also, did nobody but Mozart write great works from 1776-1785? One volume is nothing but Mozart.

Soothing music
I have been a longtime Classical Music enthusiast. I guess it stems from being a music major in college. I enjoy all the pieces on this CD. If you want soothing music when stressed, this CD will do the trick of chasing away stress and the blues! ... Read more

Reviews (13)

making a joyous sound
Dame Kiri's voice shines in these beautiful sacred pieces, and as her biographer David Fingleton, in his excellent liner notes for this CD points out, that going back to her youth and first voice teacher, who was a Sister of Mercy, church music has always been a part of her repertoire, even though she is mostly noted as an operatic soprano.
Favorites include Gounod's exquisite "O Divine Redeemer" ("Repentir"), the two Mozart pieces, "Laudate Dominum" (from "Vesperae solennes de confessore" KV 339), and "Ave Verum" KV 618, and the luminous performance of Schubert's popular "Ave Maria".

Track # 11, Purcell's "Trumpet Time", is a trumpet solo by Crispian Steele-Perkins, and there is also a good and jolly trumpet on track # 11, Handel's "Let the Bright Seraphim" from "Samson", which is the piece Dame Kiri sang in St. Paul's Cathedral for the Prince and Princess of Wales, at their wedding in 1981, and has become one of her most often requested songs.
This recording was made in 1984, at the All Saints' Church in Tooting, England, and the sound is not great but quite adequate. The boys of the Choir of St. Paul's Cathedral sing like little angels, and the English Chamber Orchestra is led by Barry Rose. Total time is 47:40.
This would make a nice change of pace CD during the Christmas Season, and for fans of this wonderful soprano, hearing her voice is a joy any time of the year.

Uplifting, sublime...a heavenly collection
Te Kanawa's singing gives real joy, and her affinity for the music shines through. She is well accompanied by the English Chamber Orchestra, and some choral and instrumental(Purcell's charming Trumpet Tune) selections help make this beautiful collection more than just a set of arias. She seems to have a great gift for Baroque music, as evidenced also by the shining performance she gave in Handel's Messiah conducted by Sir Georg Solti. A very uplifting CD indeed, and it includes a brief and interesting introduction by David Fingleton who is the author of "Kiri", a biography of Te Kanawa. Here are some of her own words from the CD booklet: "I chose many of the pieces on this recording myself, because they are very beautiful, very melodic, and make people feel good; and if music makes you feel good, well listen to it or sing it!"

Her rendition of Bist du bei mir moves my soul, and her sense of perfection in the Laudate Dominum would have pleased Mozart himself. Aside from her beautiful voice and enthusiasm for this music, she also articulates every phrase just right. It will not come as a surprise to you that she has been singing sacred arias for as long as she remembers, as the CD booklet mentions. Very highly recommended.

An Inspiring and Heartening Compilation
Kiri Te Kanawa voice never fails to inspire me and uplift my spirit. Her rendition of "Ave Maria" is just so beautiful and moving that its effect on the listener can not be expressed in mere words. Kiri's voice and intuitive nature of delivering the inner strength and emotion of each selection on this CD is just inspiring.

A correction
I don't know where this comment belongs, but I have a correction to make:
Track 2 is Laudate Dominum from Vespearae solennes de confesore (K.337) and not Vespeare de Dominica (K.321) as the listing says.
Both Mozart's arias are beautiful, though.

I AM A SIMPLE WOMAN
I LEARNED TO PLAY CHOPSTIX AND THE RIGHT HAND PART OF BLUE MOON FROM MY FATHER WHEN I WAS LITTLE. I LEARNED TO SING FRERE JAQUES FROM HIM TOO AND WE SANG IT TOGETHER IN ROUNDS. I KNOW WHERE MIDDLE C IS ON THE PIANO AND THIS IS THE EXTENT OF WHAT I KNOW ABOUT MUSIC. SO YOU EXPERTS CAN JUST GO TO THE NEXT REVIEW IF YOU LIKE AND I WONT BE OFFENDED. I AM A KNUCKLEHEAD BY YOUR STANDARDS AND I WOULDN'T PAY ATTENTION TO ME EITHER IF I WERE YOU. BUT FOR THE REST OF YOU, LET ME SAY THAT THIS WOMAN'S VOICE IS LIKE NOTHING YOU HAVE EVER HEARD. THE MUSIC SHE CHOSE TO SING FIRST OF ALL, IS BEATUIFUL, JUST BEAUTIFUL. YOU'LL GET GOOSEBUMPS. BUT HER VOICE IS THE THING. IT'S LIKE GOOD COLD SPRING WATER. IT'S CLEAN AND CONFIDENT, NO FUZZY EDGES OR BIG SHOWY SWOOPS. IT'S SOFT AND STRONG AND BIG AND TINY JUST WHEN IT SHOULD BE, I THINK. YOU WILL JUST FIND YOURSELF LISTENING AND SOMETIMES YOU WILL JUST BE HOLDING YOUR BREATH, HARDLY BELIEVING YOUR GOOD LUCK THAT YOU ARE HEARING THIS. I ACTUALLY SHUSHED MY HUSBAND AND TOLD HIM TO STOP TRYING TO TALK TO ME WHEN I FIRST HEARD IT BECAUSE I WAS AFRAID I WOULD MISS SOMETHING. I LOVE A GOOD VOICE AND/OR A GOOD SINGER. THEY AREN'T ALWAYS THE SAME THING. SO I WILL ADD THIS WOMAN AND HER MUSIC TO MY COLLECTION OF FAVORITES THAT INCLUDE THE MUSIC OF JANIS JOPLIN, NINA SIMONE, JONI MITCHELL, CECILIA BARTOLI, MARIAH CAREY, MR. PAVOROTI AND SOME OTHER GOOD GIRLS AND GUYS. AND POUR YOURSELF A GLASS OF WINE THE FIRST GO AROUND... ... Read more

Reviews (13)

BEWARE this title!
This is a particularly dangerous album; be warned. They start you with this CD, then before you know it, you're buying recording after recording of PDQ Bach and Peter Schickele. While I don't know that these necessarily are the best (or wurst) of the full collection (continued excavations reveal material as funny and literate as when first discovered in the mid-50's), it is certainly the definitive exposition and invitation to the works of PDQ Bach. I'm listening to it as I write this, and it's as wonderful as it was when my mom got me hooked on it twenty years ago: I received a copy for my birthday, but didn't listen to it for several weeks after. While doing homework one evening, I put it on as background music, not realizing the subconscious effect it would have on me for the rest of my life. I'm scarred to this day.

If you enjoy classical music and a good belly laugh, this isn imperative addition to your collection.

One for the ages: An Introduction to PDQ Bach
This was my very first PDQ Bach album, and still my favorite.
Thanks Kevin!!! There are things here that Peter Schickele (PDQ Bach's ghost composer) has never equalled, at least not in the few other records that I have heard or own.

For first-timers: this is an excellent introduction to PDQ Bach. The trouble with some of the other collections is that they don't have the broad variety that this one has. (And the laugh track--yes, there is one--does add to it.)

Many of the jokes are better enjoyed by people familiar with the warhorses of classical music: Mozart, Beethoven, Handel, Haydn, Tchaikovsky, and so forth. (But sometimes just listening to Schickele cracks me up.)

Quite honestly, PS's humor is rather eccentric. It ranges from subtle to heavy-handed to over-the-top, but once you've heard it, you need to keep hearing it every once in a while. For instance, the aria "Now is the season" from the Seasonings pops into my head for no reason at all, and then keeps running through my head for a week. (Incidentally, this aria is beautiful, and belongs in the Soprano/Mezzo-soprano repertoire. It is a spoof of Scarlatti-era arias--or is it Purcell?--and PS has got the harmonies just right. Hey, if I was a Soprano, I'd sing it!)

I own the double-LP (a beautifully produced set on Vanguard; the CD can't possibly match it in style!) and have been searching for the CD for years, and never thought to look here!

If you like PDQ Bach, this album is an excellent introduction to PDQ Bach for your friends (and enemies).

Arch

Recaptured (Twisted) Youth
My friend and I saw the good Prof. Schickele here in Pasadena last night (March 29th-- AND the conductor of the Pasadena Symphony is Jorge Meister!)-- and the last number on the program was the WONDERFUL "The Seasonings"-- I had a very hard time even after all these years of first hearing this on a REAL record of not singing along with every little tune!!! This piece last night, being sung by singers whom I do not doubt were not even born when I first heard a recording of it, were as good as the ones I remember from my decadent youth on the original recording. Buy this C.D. if only for this piece!

I store it in the CD changer in my car.
My favorite single line of music from this is from "The Unbegun Symphony". Who would think to combine "You are my sunshine", a
tune I have always thought of as sappy sweet, played on violins,
with a background of horns, (I don't know what piece, but it
makes me thing of something noble and civilized) making it a
definitive statement of a benevolent sense of life.
PDQ Bach's other works are delighfully absurd, as are Peter
Schickele's commentaries. (Well I have a new set of friends now)

New Horizons in Music Appreciation Indeed...
It was while sitting in Music Appreciation in college that I was first introduced to the work of P.D.Q. Bach, specifically the track "New Horizons in Music Appreciation: Beethoven's Fifth Symphony," in which Professor Peter Schickele and Robert Dennis serve as the announcers for a spirited game involving the first movement of that particular work. Not only was it funny ("He's playing a cadenza! He's out of his mind! He thinks its an oboe concerto!") it was also more informative than the professor ("I get the feeling we are going to hear a lot of that four note motif, Bob").

One of the things about P.D.Q. Bach is that the more I learned about classical music the funnier I found it. Yes, I have enough memories of my mother insisting on playing the Texaco Opera quiz throughout the house on a Saturday afternoon to appreciate why "What's my Melodic Line?" and its exploration of the mysteries of the Baroque is funny, but it was not until I saw "Amadeus" and listened to "The Marriage of Figaro" that I understood why the recitatias in the Cantata "Iphigenia in Brooklyn" were hysterical (I was tempted to share this story of Iphigenia with my Classical Mythology class, but given their tentativeness to explore Euripides I did not think it wise to have them get neck deep in Schickele). Then again, the Madrigal "My Bonnie Lass She Smelleth" really needs no explanation, so there is something for everybody here, no matter what you level of understanding of classical music.

In discussing the works of P.D.Q. Bach with others it becomes clear that you can no more put together an idea collection of his "best" work than you can for lesser composers like Mozart or Beethoven. But you are certainly going to find a few old favorites and maybe one or two pieces that you have hitherto managed to avoid.

Now, if we can only get a University of Southern North Dakota at Hoople t-shirt... ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Wonderful!
This is a great CD. If you're a James Galway fan, this is a must have. He is, after all, THE GREATEST flutist in the world today. The CD is filled with some of the most beautiful (and relaxing) music ever written. Buy it. You will love it. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A Masterpiece
I am a college student and I am majoring in music education. My primary instrument is the flute, and my goal is to attain all of the pieces that I have studied. By buying this CD with many different selections has saved me the aggravation of purchasing many different CDs. James Galway is an extremely talented man, and this collection shows off his capabilities with flare. There are selections from all of the major musical periods such as the Baroque and the Classical which makes for a wonderful variety. This CD is worth every penny.

The Master of the Flute
James Galway performs miracles on the flute. This is an exquisite CD. Flautist must own this one!! It is a wonderful resource and helpful to young musicians needing some musicality help.

lotsa flute
you really have to love flute music to have 2+ hours, I didn't realize it was ALL flute.

Perfect background music
This CD is great. It is wonderful "background" music. I work out of my home and I play this CD a lot while I am working because it offers soothing background music that is not at all distracting. James Gallway is very talented. This CD offers many familiar classical pieces that most anyone will recognize. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Nice Wedding Compilation
This album provides you with some good reference materials on planning the music for your wedding. Many of us may sit around wondering what on earth "Tempo di Mineutto" is. Well, with this album you will wonder no more. This is a pretty good compilation of some wedding favorites set in order that they would appear in your ceremony (prelude, processional, ceremony and recessional). Even if you aren't planning a wedding, this album provides you with some really good classical music to relax by. At a good discount, this CD is a nice addition to any collection. I would recommend this disc. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Definitely worth a close look!
All of the songs on this CD are beautiful, and the CD is even labeled showing their choice of music dedicated to different parts of a wedding, but you don't have to use them as suggested. I arrived to Clarke's Trumpet Voluntary, less traditional than Wagner's Lohengrin but no less thrilling, and I thought it appropriate given the setting of a late a.m. garden wedding. We made our hasty exit to Handel's Arrival of the Queen of Sheba, which I have loved since I was a little girl and even though is called "'Arrival' of the Queen of Sheba", it was my wedding and I did it the way I wanted. Do it YOUR way, to music YOU love. It's your day! Good luck!!!!

A Perfect Gift
I love this cd! I actually own "Baroque for Bathtime" which is why I thought of this cd for my future sister-in-law. I think it will make a perfect little pre-wedding gift!

Great Music
I love this cd! Its probably one of the better buys I made concerning my wedding. Like most people, I have no idea what classical music is appropriate for a wedding, and for the wedding I hope to have. Listening to this cd has helped me make more intelligent choices and be more informed especially when I'm dealing with the church music director. I feel more confident knowing that I am familiar with the choices before me.

The renditions of the music is wonderful too. I always thought the Bridal Chorus from Lohegrin too "common" but listening to the orchestra and choir on this cd has changed my mind--its a beautiful interpretation of the song that's sure to bring a tear or two.

Baroque for Brides-to-be
Short and sweet: I am looking for wedding music to be played while guests are being seated, and I'm only having 2 songs sung by actual vocalists. Just listening to the music for reviewing is enough to bring tears to my eyes. My wedding is coming up in April 2000, so there is a lot of emotion going on inside of this bride-to-be. All in all, so far it is a beautiful album. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Excellent
I find this recording to be quite enjoyable. I find it is well suited for use when company comes for dinner. It sounds very nice when played in the background, as it adds a dimension to a wide variety of gatherings.

Don't let the album's title fool you! It is versitile. Don't use it just for brunch! Try it any time of day. The collection is exquisite and the compilation maintains the listener's interest.

This CD should be a part of everyone's collection!

Enjoyable cd.
I found this cd very enjoyable. It nice to just sit and listen. There was enough variety to keep coming back and listen to it again. I would recommend this item.

A must-have for all classical enthusiasts.
Excellent album !! Great for studying or just relaxing

For casual listeners of classical music, this CD is perfect.
I first purchased this collection on audio tape in 1989. After years of play, it became worn unitl it finally broke, I've searched in vain for a copy in retail outlets. Imagine my delight in finding the CD on Amazon.com! The collection contains perfect background music for quiet gatherings or lazy evenings. The choices are vaied, from Bach's upbeat Brandenburg, to serious Albanoni's Adagio. True to American tastes, the selections are shorter, containing only the most familiar passages. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Properly Remastered
Before getting to the music a slight bit of the technical. This is the second cd release of this album. The first was obviously taken from an LP production master that was muffled and had some odd balances. This present issue has gone back to the original masters and the results are very apparent in over all sound and clarity.

Stokowski's "transcriptions" (there is debate about if he did all of them) have come full circle. Loved in his lifetime , deridded by critics (but still loved by audiences) after his death and finally accepted by all for the quality works they are. Part of that reacceptance has come from the realization that many prominent composers did transcriptions for orchestra of other composers works. Mozart, Elgar, Respighi, Schoenberg, Webern and Ravel are but a few. Bach himself even transcribed works of Vivaldi for organ.

The range of works range from the gentle to epic fully showing the extraordinary range of Bach's musical language. We are in awe of the famous arrangement of the Toccata and Fugue in D Minor but equally moved by the gentler Shepherd's Song from the Christmas Oratorio. For me the most moving and emotionally over powering is the Passacaglia and Fugue in C Minor. From its serene but solid opening it gradually grows into a drama of Mahlerian scale. Over the top maybe but quite moving. Stokowski's "Orchestra" plays superbly and well they should. They are mostly members of the then New York Philharmonic and Symphony of the Air (the former NBC Symphony). In the days before year round contracts many players went on the lam and played in pick up orchestras during the 2 or so months of unpaid vacation. The sound from the late 1950's is really quite fine and there is really much to enjoy here; something that listeners have always known despite what the critics sometimes said.

this will rock your world
One of the pieces on this CD is Stokowski's arrangement of one of Schemelli songs by Bach, "Mein Jesu, was für Seelenweh befallt dich in Gethsemane." A very simple song, I remember it as an exercise in figured bass at school. When I heard Stokowski's rendition of it, I was shocked by the immediacy of the emotion. I could not believe what I heard. This type of musicianship is absolutely devastating. None of the living musicians can possibly apporoach this. His handling of the string section is not of this world, it will leave you breathless. Just listen to his phrasing -- and you will be undone in a minute. And this is just a simple 3 minute devotional song...

Of course, there are other arrangemets -- the organ Passacaglia is outstanding. Stokowski was trained first as organist, came here to the US from England, worked at St. Bartholomew Church in New York, then discovered a conductor in himself. I don't think he ever studied conducting; he just invented his own conducting technique, and it worked for him well. But what a musician!

Great Bach transcriptions by a great Bach performer.
Leopold Stokowski was one of the greatest conductors -- and musical geniuses -- of the 20th century. But before he was a conductor he was an organist, and he had a special love for the music of Bach. After he switched from the organ to conducting Stokowski transcribed many of Bach's organ works for orchestra so that he could expose them to a wider audience. His transcriptions, which were initially quite controversial, are now recognized as masterpieces which other conductors now perform. But no one performs them with quite the genius, dedication, and love as Stokowski did. This CD presents several of the greatest Bach/Stokowski transcriptions conducted by Stokowski himself and at a bargain price. Who knows how long it will be available? Please do yourself a favor and get it while you can.

Fantastic Recording!
The works cover an interesting selection of Bach's music. Both Bach-newcomers and the 'Bacherati' (sorry) will enjoy this dynamic recording a great deal.

Stokowski, the forgotten master of this century
I recall as a kid listening to my parents tape of Stokowski conducts Bach in the car. I adored the Little fugue in G minor. I spent a long time looking for his work on CD, and this disc is it. It's beautifully recorded (Stokowski was the first conducter to look at a recording as a work of art, not just a reproduction of a performance). Of course, it's not what Bach wrote... it's important to realize that these works become a collaberation between Stokowski and Bach--and a successful one at that. The point is not whether it is what Bach wrote (recall of course that Bach did the same thing to the masters he admired (and either way, it's of no matter. the only thing that matters is the work itself)). The music is dramatic, it's beautiful, and it's brilliant. A Mighty Fortress is unimaginably rich, this is definitely a must have recording. ... Read more

Reviews (11)

Forget what they SAY
Many of these prior reviewers complain that the abundance of operas and vocals degrate this compilation. They don't know what they're talking about. These genres are what made Classical music popular in it's age. In that era the forum for showcasing "classical music" was operas! Hence why most of these works are lost in the shuffle. Most of us know Mozart and Beethoven's compositions by ear but there are so many other great composers that existed and these CD's will show you but a PIECE. But, fair warning, these CD's show only a small fraction of the whole movement (song). If you truly dig the genre you're in for a treat, investigate!

Great for Beginners
This is a nice recording for folks who don't know much about classical music, and would serve as a wonderful introduction. It covers centuries of great music in a very listener-friendly format. I am sure that I will use this CD in my music classroom. For a seasoned classical music lover, however, the CD proves a bit frustrating, including only segments of masterworks (not even the entire movement of the Holst). I bought the CD for a few recordings, which I truly enjoy and make the CD a worthwile purchase. But I found (and I think that most classical musicians will find) that I already had many of these works in their entirety.

Do not buy this C.D. (if you are new to classical music).
I purchased this C.D. a few months ago as an intro to classical music.

By now, I have found out Who my favorite composers are (Tchaikovsky, Bach, Wagner,), and I own several classical C.D.'s. "The best Classical Album in the world..." is still the worst classical C.D. in my collection... "Period".

My main complaint Is the abundance of operas and other vocal styles. I am not at all into that type of music (yet).
In addition to this, I found the over all song selection dissapointing. With all of the amazing classical music out there, they could have done much better.

If you are new to classical music, Buy something else.

Most Aggravating Album in the World!
This CD is the first thing I ever returned to Amazon. It is an inferior product--selections cut off abruptly before the end, volume fades and returns in the middle of a cut...production values are pure schlock here. Maybe I should have expected as much from such a sophomoric title.

A fair introduction to Classical Music
I purchased this CD because I am new to Classical Music and thought this would be a good introduction CD. There is some wonderful music on this CD. The only problem I have with this CD is every other track is Opera of one form or another. As a new listener I found that after the Opera tracks I felt I had been yelled at and it was a distraction to the other music contained on the CD. I now know to hit the skip button on my CD player just about every other track. I only gave it 3 stars because I felt put off by the vocal tracks. I believe that when someone is new to Classical Music they do not think of Opera. If you don't mind hitting the skip button a lot or if you like Opera this CD is for you! ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A must-have album for trombonists
No instrument blends as well with one another as the trombone, and these four trombonists are among the best at what they do. Joseph Alessi, Scott Hartman, Mark Lawrence, and Blair Bollinger all exhibit great musicality.

Definitely worth buying.
I too must agree that these four gentlemen have produced a very fine album that covers a wide variety of genres. They had obviously put a lot of work into these particlular pieces and, even though all of them are branching out into solo careers, manage to work well as a group. My favourites are the Haydn, Serocki and No more Blues, even though (dare I say it) I prefer some interpretations by other quartets (eg. Triton Trombone Quartet playing the Serocki). I personally feel that the recording quality lets them down a bit at times. The 2nd & 3rd trombones in particular sound a little 'fuzzy' from time to time; whether that's the recording or perhaps their horn I can't say. Nevertheless I have been inspired once again to practice diligently upon listening to this CD. It's worth the money.

These guys are trombone studs!
Other players in my college trombone section kept recommending this CD to me, so I finally ordered it, and I'm very glad I finally listened to them. This is a must-have for the serious trombonist. After all, these are four of the not only best trombonists you'll hear, but best musicians also. "Achieved" is always a good one, along with the beautifully simple "Three Equali" and "Trois Chansons." Who would have thought that such fine soloists would perform so well as one unit, a true ensemble sound. Where else can you hear a guy hold out a high D-flat for about 20 seconds, or a trombonists squeelin high E's and double-high A's at the end? As a trombonist and aspiring performer, I say BUY IT!

A must-buy for any trombone or brass enthusiast!
Fantastic ensemble playing coupled with a beautiful selection of music make this CD one of the favorites in my collection. These gentlemen are truly some of the finest artists in their field.

Superb! Fantastic! Perfect!
I'm a trombone player, and I know what I'm talking about. These guys have been to schools such as Juliard in New York and have studied to become professional musicains most of there lives. In this CD they are right on top of things and don't miss a beat. My personal favorite is No More Blues, the last track on this particular CD. I tell ya, I couldn't be more extatic about four trombone players. These guys are top notch, and are way beyong the Canadian Brass if you ask me, and seeing as how I play the trombone, you might want to. These guys are perfect players, and almost couldn't be better. WOW about sums it up! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellent
I really enjoyed this! It was really great for all oboe and classical music lovers! Very Very Nice! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

The voice of heaven is the voice of Ingrid Kertesi
The reason that I bought this record was that as I was walking around in a record store I suddenly heard a heavenly voice, singing a wonderful song. It was so capturing that I had to go ask the staff for the CD. I must say I was deeply surprised when I found out it was a Naxos recording, since their song-CD's sometimes tend to be not so good. But this one is a real bargain.

The song was "Bist du bei mir" by Bach (Stötzel), and the singer was the totally unknown Ingrid Kertesi. This was almost a year ago, but I still think I get a new glimpse of heaven every time that I listen to her. The beauty of her voice makes you forget that her pronunciation is extremely bad (as with Sutherland in her prime). Kertesi sings a few more songs on this CD, and they're all lovely.

Many of the classic christmas & sacred songs are included on this CD, we find three 'Ave Maria' here. Most of the songs are nicely sung, except for some Mozartpieces. The other singers are not in the same class as Kertesi, but mostly OK.

This is a extremely nice compilation for christmas or any other time when it's dark outside. Ingrid Kertesi alone makes this CD worth the price. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This time out, Baby Einstein shines a light on the Christmas tree andpromises peace in the nursery, if not on earth. Familiar carols like"Jingle Bells," "Silent Night," and "Joy to the World" undergo theexpected twinkly xylophone treatment, but a clutch of others getswept off to the Caribbean (the steel drum-studded "Twelve Days ofChristmas"), the plains of Africa (the earthy, percussive "We Wish You aMerry Christmas"), and additional exotic locales. Afteryuletide stopoffs in France, Japan, and Germany, the "Holiday Concert" part of the disc takes over, featuring brainier but still festive selections fromBach, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky. This mid-CD switchoverbarely registers--each of the 28 mini-tracks (most average a minute anda half) does its part to stir visions of sugarplums and furthers thepossibility of a truly silent night for the Santa's-lap set. --Tammy LaGorce ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Quite a nice little compilation.
"The Bells of St. Genevieve" is a compilation of Baroque pieces that would serve as an excellent introduction for someone who would like to hear more of the Baroque style beyond "Spring" from "The Four Seasons" or "Canon" by Pachelbel. Granted, this cd does contain "Canon" (what Baroque compilation could resist including it), but it doesn't stop there.

I'm not an expert when it comes to Baroque music, but I am something beyond a beginner; I guess I'd consider myself a moderately knowledgable amateur. However, before purchasing this album, I had never heard the title piece, "The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba," or track # 10 "Guitar Concerto" by Vivaldi. Some of the other tracks were familiar but not well-known to me. I was also pleased to see the inclusion of the turbulent Presto from "Summer" instead of the ubiquitous "Spring."

Compilations are often quite useful in helping neophytes get a better understanding and appreciation for classical music (I know they've helped me over the years). Not all compilations are a good mix or contain decent recordings; many seem like carbon copies of each other. This one, however, has good sound quality and great recordings from the likes of James Galway, Pinchas Zukerman, Canadian Brass, and James Levine.

I recommend this album to anyone wishing to branch out a bit in Baroque music but who is not sure where to start. I've discovered new favorites from listening to this album.

Rock fan falls in love with Baroque's "greatest hits" album!
"Bells of St. Genevieve" (BSG) is the cd that got me, a rock fan, into classical music (technically Baroque and Classical are 2 different periods/styles, but we rock fans call it all "classical":-). This is a "best of" album of some of the greatest, and most famous Baroque music. BSG focuses on the last 50 years of Baroque period, which lasted roughly from 1600 to 1750. Most of the pieces come from the "big 3" of the late Baroque period: Vivaldi (3 of the 16 cuts), Bach (7), Handel (2). The tempo is mostly "allegro" (fast and cheerful), although Bach's Concerto for Violin is "largo" or very slow (the only slow piece on the cd). Still, this album has a very uplifting, energetic feel to it. I doubt it will put anyone to sleep, even if they grew up listening to Zeppelin & the Stones! Even the most classical-clueless rock fan will recognize many of these pieces: "Roundeau" by Mouret is the theme from BBC's "Masterpiece Theatre." Clarke's "Trumpet Voluntary" a.k.a. "The Prince of Denmark's March" is another "deja vous" song, often played in wedding processionals and I think was also BBC theme music. Likewise, Pachelbel's "Cannon" is a popular wedding march. In fact, this album contains many songs commonly played in wedding processionals, recessionals, and during dinner, so is good for anyone who needs quality classical recorded music for a wedding. Much of the music is played by chamber orchestras (small ensembles of up to about 9 instruments), so has more of an intimate feel than music played by large symphonies. I highly recommend this cd as an introduction to great Baroque music. However, once initated, I encourage folks to listen to these pieces in their entirety, such as Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" and Bach's "Brandenburg Concertos" to get the full picture of how these great composers intended their music to sound, complete with key and tempo changes.

Outstanding Collection of Baroque Music
Yes, it could be considered a collection of Baroque's Greatest Hits but, as such, it serves as a glorious introduction to some of the most dramatic and beautiful music the world has known.

The description "Baroque Delights" in the subtitle is completely on target. Look at the composers represented here...Bach (quite a lot of Bach, in fact), Vivaldi, Handel, Pachelbel, Marais, Clarke, Mouret. The artists performing on this CD are James Galway, Pinchas Zuckerman, The Canadian Brass, and the list goes on. The recording quality is rich and dynamic enough for any audiophile

You cannnot go wrong with this magnificent disk.

Beauty and elegance
I First really became interested in Baroque music in particular when I became interested in the eighteenth century. Anyway, before I had just listened to any classical music I could find, but after I discovered Baroque it's become my favorite style. Such beauty, elegance and sheer artistry these composers demonstrate. It's a pity there's not as much attention paid to classical music these days. These fellas certainly deserve it.

A Diamond Among the Pebbles
The Cd itself is barely more than "Baroque 100." However, the fact that it contains Marin Marais' almost never recorded masterpiece, The Bells of St Genvieve makes it a must for any classical enthusiast.

This piece alone is worth any price. It can be recorded to your own "favorites" tape or CD if the pablum which makes up the rest of the album is too standard for your taste. You could "loop record" it to induce a meditational state - it's that powerful! Whether you are a novice or a jaded expert, you should experience this piece for itself. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Huge Offering of Classical Instrumental
Marvelous set of classical instrumental pieces recorded by renown artists by famous composers.

Surely, this inexpensive venture into classical music will have fruitful benefits for all who listen, especially to followup ventures into instruments and composers who interest such.

Especially enjoy the harpsichord selections.

Classical masterpiece
I have played much of this music in my younger years with the local high school symphony. This is an excellent collection for classical music lovers. Most of the pieces selected are done very well and I thought the sound quality was pretty good. It was great to get a CD box set with so much music for this low price. I would recommend this CD collection to anyone who just wants to listen to some really good classical music. What a nice way to relax and stir up the memories of years past. With the various selections and price your can't go wrong with this one.

This is a very good collection.
The array of classical music is all great. The recording could have been better, but this is an inexpensive treat.

GREAT IDEA A WHOLE ORCHESTRA
THIS A VERY GOOD ALBUM. YOU CAN FIND THE MOST IMPORTANT INTRUMENTS IN CLASSICAL MUSIC IN A SOLO VERSION. WHAT A GREAT IDEA OF THE PRODUCER TO INCLUDE A WHOLE EDITION BY CHOOSING THE MOST IMPORTANT CLASSICAL PIECES WITH THE APPROPIATE INSTRUMENTATION. I'M SO PROUD OF SCHUBERT FAMOUS AVE MARIA WITH ONLY THE SOUND OF A CELLO. VERY WONDERFUL PIECE TO RELAX AND HAVE IT READY TO SING ITS LYRICS IF YOU PREFER TO DO SO.
CLASSICAL MUSIC COLLECTORS MUST ADD THIS ALBUM TO THEIR COLLECTIONS. BUY IT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.

Outstanding, just outstanding...
This is an outstanding collection of marvelous pieces and songs, from A of Aranjuez to Z of Zapateado... all absolutely well chosen and selected. Congratulations to those who will purchase it. A great buy. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

Beautiful, moving music! You'll recognize many of the pieces
John Cheng's review, below, said it's "an undeniable bargain," and I whole heartedly agree! I especially LOVE Volume 5. I have a Typing/Resume business, and I listen to Volume 5 ALL the time on my computer while I'm doing my work. It inspires me to be creative and calms me down when I'm stressed.

I would say I've _easily_ listened to Volume 5 at least 100 times, and I'm still not tired of it. That's amazing for me, because I'm also a musician (singer/pianist) and I get bored easily. I actually found the Volume 5 CD at a Thrift store, and loved it so much that I bought the whole set recently. So I've only listened to a few of the other CD's in this set, so far, and they're also great.

This is NOT boring music. My clients and family have heard it also, and they've also mentioned how soothing and wonderful these pieces are. Most of you will probably recognize a lot of these songs! You'll be saying, "OH! I remember THIS one! I haven't heard this for YEARS!!!"

It's well worth the money for 10 very full CD's!!! Try it! You won't be disappointed!

Happy listening!
Betty, Owner of Betty's Desk Typing Service and Quality Resumes

Meditative, But Not Boring
Here's the deal... If you check out the individual CDs of this collection, you'll pay way too much. That said, compare this price, and realize it is a steal at twice the price.

The list of selections is immense. 101 selections. Most of it you've heard before, but that's OK. Despite the various cute names -- quite creative -- "Vol. 9"!... you can load your CD player and enjoy them without feeling a transition of style.

It's true these aren't meditative in the sense of a Gregorian chant. Anyone familiar with classical music will recognize the composers and various movements to know this. What is true is that you can sit down and write Amazon reviews with it in the background quite comfortably. No weird interpretations, just the music as you know it.

It is also meditative in the sense of popping on it your portable player as you go for a Sunday afternoon walk. The music has just the right pacing: no quite aerobics class, but not ready for the office elevator either.

The box and jewel cases are not that flimsy kind of thing often associated with box sets. It sounds silly to review the jewel cases, but I'm frustrated with the ones I've received lately that have no meat to them. This'll do the job.

I fully recommend "Meditation: Classical Relaxation, 10 Volume Set [BOX SET".

Anthony Trendl

A Bargain and Beautiful
This is a wonderful collection of some of my most favorite classical selections. Most I already own, but still like having these all together. I could only wish that the recording level was the same for all selections. Yes, some are written to be softer, but I found it often necessary to turn the volume up or down for different selections. But aside from this minor preference, the quality, the choices, and the price are all super.

Classical Elevator Music Not
This isn't a bad set of CDs, if you like strings and bits of things. There are lots of 'adagio sostenutos,' intermezzos, and movements from such and such. However, Delta Music didn't stint on the performers. The Budapest Philharmonic is a major presence, along with the Berlin Chamber Orchestra, the Vienna Mozart Ensemble, Budapest String Quartet, and Prague Festival Orchestra. I didn't recognize any of the soloists, but that doesn't mean much. They are probably first chairs with the orchestras.

I disagreed with some of the selections as not really conducive to meditation, e.g. Bizet's 'Intermezzo from "L'Arlésienne," Suite No. 2' (BOMM, BOM, BOM, BOMP BA BOMP!). Everyone will probably wish for some exclusions since this is a ten-CD set.

The really great news is that "Meditation" is a ten-CD set and you can purchase the whole thing for the price of a single CD. The performances are good, and most of the excerpts are very peaceful.

Note: there are no liner notes to speak of, except for a quotation from Ludwig van Beethoven: "Music is the mediator between the spiritual [geistigem] and the sensual [sinnlichem] life." The back of each CD case identifies the exerpt, performance, and timing for its tracks.

Meditate? Well, sometimes...
If you want a bunch of classical tunes at an unbelievably great price, here it is. My gripe is with the labeling. Meditation? Relaxation? While there is plenty of stuff here you can relax to, plenty, there also are symphonic pieces that rattle the roof. If you're trying to meditate, expect a migraine to erupt now and then.

This great deal should be pushed simply as a classical collection without the emphasis on peace and quiet. ... Read more

Amazon.com

This sampler, which appeared in 1997, features Robert Shaw, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, and its associated choruses in selections from some of the choral-orchestral blockbusters they recorded for Telarc between 1979 and 1993, in consistently excellent sound. Shaw's unrivalled mastery of this repertory shines through in every selection on the disc, not least in the excerpts that frame the program: the final pages of the "Prologue in Heaven" from Boito's Mefistofele, and the towering conclusion of Mahler's Symphony No. 8, both magnificently done. Just one warning: after listening to this, you're likely to find yourself hurrying back to buy the recordings of the complete works. --Ted Libbey ... Read more

Reviews (3)

I may be musically challanged but....
This is one of those recordings that would have a hole worn in it from overuse if CD's were capable of getting holes from being used. This is the most used CD in my entire collection. I love it! It picks me up when I am down and it quiets me when I am high. It send shivers down my spine and sets my heart pounding. In short, it does everything a good CD is supposed to do. I don't want to listen to an hour of the same piece. I am entirely content listening to the highlights. As I said before, I may be musically challanged, but this CD is my favorite.

Good selection of pieces, uniformly flat performances
This is a collection of choral selection from previous Telarc recordings featuring the Robert Shaw Chorale and the Atlanta Symphony. Recording dates range from 1979 to 1993.

It's a great cross-sampling of (mostly) Romantic-era choral pieces, the choral singing is as usual impeccable, and it's a great group of soloists.

As these excerpts are from some of my very favorite pieces of music, I kept wondering why I wasn't more enthusiastic about this compilation.

Part of the problem is hearing the music in excerpts (a movement here, an aria there) is pretty frustrating. Entering smack in the middle of the last movement of Mahler 8, it can take you a while to get your musical bearings.

I'm also not wild about most of the interpretations, many of which struck me as kind of flat and uninspired (the Verdi Requiem and the Mahler 8 stick out in my mind). Suffice to say I didn't learn anything new about any of the pieces on the album, and in every case there is a recording of the work I like much better. (Except the Cavalleria rusticana excerpt, which I really liked, go figure.)

Bottom line: if you're not familiar with these works, and want a good (and very well-performed) cross-section of Romantic choral pieces, give it a listen. But then do yourself a favor and buy complete and more inspired versions of the pieces you really like.

Standard Shaw
Like all of Shaw's recordings, this one is once again up to standards. A great assortment of selections from the religous works of many artists. ... Read more