Floresta [Import]

Product Description
Third Volume of the Serie of Four Albums, 'musica and Natureza', Inspired by the Nature for Therapy and Meditation.

Floresta,Keco Brandao,Azul,World Music

Average customer rating: Sublime and ridiculous Eeeeeeeeeeewwwwwww Better than I thought it would be Brava Renee Art is always new.

Haunted Heart Paul McCartney , Gustav Mahler , Joni Mitchell , Emile Paladilhe , Arthur Schwartz , James ("Jimmy") Van Heusen , Various Composers , Heitor Villa-Lobos , Jimmy Webb , Richard A. Whiting , Stevie Wonder , Guy Wood , Bill Frisell , Fred Hersch , and Renée Fleming Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Foster, Stephen | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Mahler | Mahler, Gustav | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | 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 | Classical | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Sacred Songs Renee Fleming - The Beautiful Voice ~ Gounod, Lehaair, Orff, Puccini, Rachmaninov, Strauss Renée Fleming Handel Renee Fleming: By Request ASIN: B0007Z9QUS Release Date: 2005-05-10

Tracks:

1. Haunted Heart
2. River
3. When Did You Leave Heaven?
4. You've Changed
5. Answer Me
6. My Cherie Amour
7. In My Life
8. The Moon Is A Harsh Mistress
9. Wozzeck/The Midnight Sun
10. Liebst du um Schit
11. My One And Only Love/This Is Always
12. Can do Amor
13. Psych
14. Hard Times Come Again No More

Amazon.com

While countless fans flock to see soprano Renee Fleming's performances of the Countess in The Marriage of Figaro because she's got the voice and the dramatic ability to handle such meaty roles, the versatile singer throws her fans a curveball on Haunted Heart, singing popular standards and ballads as well as a few altered classical pieces. In her liner notes, Fleming calls this album a "look back at the road not taken" -- she played a weekly gig in a jazz club while in school. Nonetheless, her feel for the material here is undeniable. Interestingly, she drops her voice a full octave from her usual tessitura, and the change reveals a robust gospel-oriented approach filled with dramatic breaths and moans. The lyrical Fred Hersch (piano) and the idiosyncratic Bill Frisell (guitar) provide support, and both are adventurous jazz players who create subtle and uniquely haunting backdrops. It adds up to an interesting cross-section of ideas well carried off by the generous talents of all involved. --Tad Hendrickson

\

Interview with Renee Fleming
Renee Fleming speaks about recent projects, including her memoir The Inner Voice and her recent Handel CD, in our interview.

Customer Reviews:

Sublime and ridiculous.......2007-06-13

The sublime: much of the artistry of this recording is about sound, and the subtle blending/responding of voice with guitar sounds and / or piano sounds. It is in the sensitive musical interplay between the artists where this effort shines. Definitely not recommended for road trips!

The ridiculous: Fleming ended the majority of most phrases in most of the songs with a guttural of some sort which for me becomes irritating to the point of distraction. These punctuations are mostly quite awful: really tasteless, clumsy, and overused big time and I'm amazed at how this ever got released. Without these ersatz testifyin' noises this CD would be stunning.

So, if you have the ability and inclination to edit out this garbage from your perception as you listen I think you'll be glad you experienced these artists at work together. (Unfortunately I'm not up to it).

Eeeeeeeeeeewwwwwww.......2007-06-06

Ugh. Like a manufactured home vs. a stick-built house, Fleming's manufactured (aka "training and technique") blues voice compares unfavorably to other jazz/blues singers/lounge acts. Would not, COULD not, listen to this recording straight through--one big long, breathy, minor key train wreck in the making. Took the CD on a road trip and had to pull over and remove from queue--either that or drive into a wall.

Better than I thought it would be.......2007-04-10

I have to admit, Haunted Heart was a lot better than I thought it would be,especially her recordings of "River", "The Moon's a Harsh Mistress, "My Cherie Amour" and "In my life".
I think this is the most artistically successful recording of Pop/Jazz by a classical singer. I enjoyed it even better than the Anna Sophie Von Otter'/ Elvis Costello CD.
The perspective I am coming from is that of a classical singer who started out as a pop singer/songwriter. I perform and teach cross-genre but love a world class instrument such as Flemming's
I wanted to get the perspective of a friend who used to sing jingles and is also a trained singer but is usually critical of any attempts that opera singers make at crossing -over.
My friend is very familiar with Flemming's voice, but did not recognise it in this context when I played the CD for her. Her reaction was very complimentary, although she did comment that the diction was a bit strange.
She then played it for her brother a well known jazz singer and arranger who had a somewhat negative reaction.He found the singing to be overly dark and round. He prefers a cleaner more 'spoken' approach to this style of singing. I understand this perspective and therefore personally prefer Ella to Sarah as well, but let's not get too picky. Obviously, Rene Flemming is of the Sarah Vaghan School of jazz singing, which is not too shabby.

I will continue to enjoy this CD and will wait for another opera diva to top this one. But, somehow I think the next really good CD of Pop/ jazz from an opera star will also come from Rene.

To those who have been unreasonably mean and negative towards her, I can only say you are not fit to polish her shoes!

Brava Renee.......2007-04-09

This talented woman can sing anything. I really enjoyed this cd with the lights turned down and a glass of wine to relax after a very stressful day at work. Renee could definitely have another singing career outside of opera should she choose. Hearing her drop that gorgeous voice down one octave rivals the best chanteuses in the business - Cassandra Wilson, Nancy Wilson, Regina Belle, Sarah Vaughan, etc. This cd of different musical styles reminds me of Nina Simone and Cassandra Wilson, two great singers whom could interpret any song genre and make their versions special. I loved all the songs and the standouts here are "Haunted Heart", "River", "My One and Only Love", "My Cherie Amour", "Cancao do Amor", and Beatles "In My Life", and "Hard Times Come Again No More".
I hope Renee keeps recording whatever catches her fancy because I'll certainly always listen.

Art is always new. .......2007-03-10

Renee Fleming is an artist bringing us something new, and beautiful. The poor will always be with us as manifest in those who resent other's movement from their established zones. Renee Fleming is a great female voice with accomplishments her detractors will never have, but in their dreams.

I welcome Renee's elan demonstrated with her recent recordings, Love sublime with Brad Mehldau, and Haunted Heart with Fred Hersch and Bill Frissell. Bravery, fun, and talent combined by artists and for people who are listening. Hearing long time favorites Mehldau, Hersch, and Frissell is all the more sublime.

Average customer rating: Very nice and soothing Barrios Defined Good Introduction to Barrios Highly recommended Absoultely the Best Barrios

Barrios: Guitar Music, Vol. 1 Antigoni Goni Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Madrigals | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | 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 $6.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Agustín Barrios: Guitar Music, Vol. 2 Villa-Lobos: Complete Music for Solo Guitar Lauro: Venezuelan Waltzes for Guitar Leo Brouwer: Guitar Music, Vol. 1 Brouwer: Guitar Music, Vol. 2 ASIN: B00005A7JY Release Date: 2001-04-17

Tracks:

1. Maxixe
2. U Sueno En La Floresta
3. Vals, Op.8, No.4
4. Humoresque
5. Sarita (Mazurka)
6. Madrigal - Gavota
7. Vidalita Con Vars
8. Junto A Tu Corazon - Vals
9. Mabelita
10. Tu Y Yo (Gavota Romantica)
11. Villancido De Navidad
12. Pepita
13. Ste Andina: Aconquija
14. Ste Andina: Aire
15. Ste Andina: Cordoba
16. Ste Andina: Cueca

Customer Reviews:

Very nice and soothing.......2007-02-01

We play this CD when we're feeling mellow, or when we're trying to put our 2-year-old daughter to bed. I could swear the third track is part of the soundtrack to "The Third Man."

Barrios Defined.......2006-07-07

I should have written this years ago when I first got this recording. I host a half-hour program of music for guitar called Silver Moonbeams on WHRO FM 90.3 in Norfolk VA. I have all the Barrios recordings, and this is simply the best. Antigoni Goni knows and loves this music. Her timing and phrasing are superb. Her touch on the instrument is light and just right. In short, in my opinion, this is the very finest Barrios recording available. Many guitarists are competent, a few are brilliant and just a handful play music for the Gods. Antigoni Goni is definitely in the latter category.

Good Introduction to Barrios.......2005-03-30

I got this and David Russell's Barrios CD about the same time. The Penguin Guide to CDs gives this CD a three star - outstanding - rating; they also rate John Williams' Barrios recordings highly, but don't mention the David Russell Barrios recording.

This is Volume 1 of a projected series of Barrios' guitar music. It is my first time hearing Antigoni Goni who is excellent, leading me to want to hear her other recordings as well as live in recital.

There isn't too much overlap between her and Russell in Barrios, making getting both CDs worth it if you like Barrios.

Excellent recording quality.

Highly recommended.......2003-07-25

Playing Barrios requires more than just excellent technique. The performer has to capture the darkness in the light passages, like a yearning in moments of gaiety..Also, capture the light in the dark passages, as a ray of optimissim in moments of sorrow. Ms Goni captures all these emotions profoundly in this highly recommended CD.

The programme features rarely heard gems like Humouresque, Pepita, and the magical Tu y Yo. Her expressive phrasing often breathes new life into the often played works such as Maxixe, Junto a Tu Corazon, Vals no4.

Romantic guitar music, with Latin American folkloric influence

Absoultely the Best Barrios.......2002-03-27

This is one of my favorite CDs. You've never heard Barrios like this!

Average customer rating: Guitar Music of Barrios

The Great Paraguayan: Guitar Music of Barrios Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Williams, John [guitar] | ( W ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Agustín Barrios: Guitar Music, Vol. 2 Barrios: Guitar Music, Vol. 1 Music of Barrios Bach: The Four Lute Suites El Diablo Suelto - Guitar Music of Venezuela ASIN: B00077F948 Release Date: 2005-10-18

Customer Reviews:

Guitar Music of Barrios.......2007-06-03

Some of the greatest classical guitar music ever written and played by the master John Williams. I play the classical guitar and have many CDs of guitar music. This is one of the best.

Average customer rating: Lesser known guitarist wins me over

Manhã de Carnaval Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Guitar Music of Argentina Guitar Music from Cuba Latin American Guitar Music Miguel Llobet: Guitar Music Tango Argentino ASIN: B0001N9ZE8 Release Date: 2004-06-15

Tracks:

1. Pixaim
2. Sounds Of Bells
3. Blackbird
4. Lament
5. Gathering In Planaltina
6. Luiza
7. Girl From Ipanema
8. Morning Of The Carnival
9. I. Divertimiento
10. II. Valseana
11. III. Preludio E Toccatina
12. Seven Strings
13. Juliana's Choro
14. Water And Wine
15. Itching Powder
16. Sentimental Melody
17. Appassionata

Album Description

The guitar has played a major part in the evolution of Brazilian music, especially during the twentieth century. On this recording the charm, beauty and sensuality of Brazilian guitar music can be heard in pieces as diverse as Marco Pereira's Pixaim, a fast rhythmic dance originating from North-East Brazil, João Pernambuco's cheeky Blackbird, the classic song Girl from Ipanema by Antonio Carlos Jobim, a founder of the Bossa Nova movement and, from Brazil's most famous composer, Heitor Villa-Lobos, the hauntingly lyrical Sentimental Melody, written for the film Green Mansions in 1957. Award winning guitarist, Graham Anthony Devine was born in England and, in his teens, moved to Brazil where he has become an established performer and teacher, giving many recitals and masterclasses throughout South America. He is a laureate of many international guitar competitions in Europe and the United States.

Customer Reviews:

Lesser known guitarist wins me over.......2005-04-07

I got this disc on an impulse, trying to add to my slowly growing collection of classical guitar music. This is one impulse buy I do not regret! The selections are very mellow and relaxing, and they seem to mesh together well as if logically following one another. Graham Anthony Devine is truly "Devine" in my book. His technique is awe-inspiring, and his phrasing is subtle and precise. It's obvious he is enjoying himself a great deal playing this music. His disc has quickly become one of my all-time favorites. As a guitarist he ranks right up there with the very best and can easily be compared to John Williams or Pepe Romero, among others. Highly recommended!

Average customer rating: Simply Brilliant! 6 Stars Alexander-Sergei Ramirez Mangore, el mago de la guitarra damned fine Barrios

Music of Barrios Manufacturer: Telarc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Flamenco | Latin Music | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Madrigals | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Aire Latino: Latin American Music for Guitar Barrios: Guitar Music, Vol. 1 Reflections of Spain: Spanish Favorites for Guitar Agustín Barrios: Guitar Music, Vol. 2 Nights in the Gardens of Spain ASIN: B000003D0C Release Date: 1995-02-28

Tracks:

1. Un Sueno En La Floresta
2. Gavota Madrigal
3. Danza Paraguaya No. 1
4. Danza Paraguaya No. 2: Jha, Che Valle!
5. Danza Paraguaya No. 3 : London Carape
6. Julia Florida
7. Vals, Op. 8, No. 3
8. Vals De Primavera
9. Vals Tropical
10. Vals, Op. 8, No. 4
11. Las Abejas
12. Fabiniana
13. Mazurka Apasionata
14. Pais De Abanico
15. Cueca
16. I. Preludio (Saudade)
17. II. Andante Religioso
18. III. Allegro Solemne
19. A Mi Madre
20. Caazapa
21. Una Limosna Por El Amor De Dios

Customer Reviews:

Simply Brilliant!.......2007-02-02

I have both Russell and Williams and just finished giving Williams a five star review as well. Yep: I cannot help you by pointing to one or the other as being better in any way. Williams is very direct and tackles each piece effortlessly, and in particular executes the tambora technique better than Russell, (or at least, it's recorded better). Russell meanwhile (as many point out) has a peculiar ability to inject more mood and/or feeling into a given piece - not just the (boring) drama of slower numbers either, but also the excitement and energy of faster numbers. Because of this it's really well worth your while to pick up EVERYTHING Russell has recorded: I've yet to encounter something I didn't like a LOT.

I particularly enjoy the Danza Paraguaya tunes featured here, but prefer Williams for Cueca, and for his inclusion of Maxixa and Aconquija... in short: you've got to get both to fully appreciate the genius of Barrios!

6 Stars.......2007-01-11

This is some of the most difficult guitar music ever written. David Russell makes these pieces sound like they were of average difficulty and his spontaneity is incredible. Much more spontaneous than Williams. Williams takes some liberty when making chord changes, etc. and it almost becomes redundant and boring. Russell does none of that. All of the pieces are flowing and absolutely beautiful. The feeling of the pieces comes shining through. There is so much going on in this music which makes it so interesting and Russell overlooks nothing. Much of these compositions sound like there are two guitars as you will see when you listen to this. There is no guitar composition like a Barrios composition. Amazing.

Alexander-Sergei Ramirez.......2006-08-25

I think I've listen 5-6 different versions for many of Barrios works. From all of them, the one that stands out is the CD from Alexander-Sergei Ramirez.

Mangore, el mago de la guitarra.......2006-07-17

Mangore sigue siendo el mago de la guitarra. lo considero a la altura de Andres Segovia o superior pues también era compositor.
El interprete de este volumen es increiblemente bueno, tanto en la parte tecnica como lo interpretativo. pocas interpretaciones había escuchado tan bien logradas y me sorprendi al ver la pieza "a mi madre" pues consideraba que tenia todas las partituras de Mangore. veo que su produccion sigue dando de que hablar. esta fue una pieza que me conmovio.

damned fine Barrios.......2005-05-31

This is one of the first CDs that I listened to when getting into classical guitar and classical music in general and I couldn't think of a better one for a Barrios lover. Russell's rubato is sparing and tasteful (if you want to hear excessive rubato check out Norbert Kraft) and his tremolo technique is well-honed. He absolutely KILLS "En Sueno en la Floresta" and his "Ultima Cancion" is very moving. And he makes the Waltz Op. 8 No. 4 sound like 2 guitars playing.

This album will always be compared to John Williams's and in the end I think Russell's is better; Williams's reputation for being to mechanistic is well-earned in my opinion and his "Ultima Cancion" doesn't quite do it for me like Russell's does. It's a shame that Julian Bream never extensively recorded this music, it would be interesting to hear what he could do with it.

Average customer rating: A "must Have" for Fans of Villa Lobos Magnificent work From the conductor sheer sonic lushness More than 25 minutes longer version

Villa-Lobos: Forest of the Amazon Manufacturer: Delos Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Tone Poems | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | Styles | Music Similar Items: Villa-Lobos: Bachianas Brasileiras Nos. 1, 2, 5 & 9 / ORTF National Orchestra, De Los Angeles Villa-Lobos: Bachianas Brasileiras (Complete) Villa-Lobos: Choros 1-7 Villa-Lobos: Chôros No.11 Villa-Lobos: Chôros Nos. 8 and 9 ASIN: B00005B16V Release Date: 2001-04-03

Tracks:

1. Overture
2. Deep In the Forest
3. Excitement Among the Indians
4. First Bird Song
5. Nature's Dance
6. Second Bird Song
7. (Vocalise)
8. Sails
9. On the Way To the Hunt
10. Third Bird Song
11. Twilight Song
12. The Indians In Search of the Girl
13. Fourth Bird Song
14. Rima's Music
15. (Vocalise)
16. Head Hunters
17. Love Song
18. Sentimental Melody
19. Forest Fire
20. (Finale)

Customer Reviews:

A "must Have" for Fans of Villa Lobos.......2007-01-26

Previous reviews have noted the sound qualities of the earlier recording, conducted by the composer, released on EMI as "Inspiration Brazil" #7243 5 65880 2 8. That early recording (1958) has been enhanced in ways that are sonically interesting, but really a bit artificial -- for example, in places you can hear a single contra-bassoon "buzzing" over the entire ensemble. This is fascinating but not realistic sound. Dr. Heller's recording, on the other hand, is "real" and lively and vibrant. The playing is excellent, and the additional material, omitted from the 1958 recording, contributes to the whole. After all, it is more of the master's musical inventions, which I, for one, was delighted to hear. On first hearing, we find the unexpected progression a bit surprising -- not what we expected to hear -- but after a few sessions, we delight in the additional music.

Dr. Heller was a student of Villa Lobos, and in many ways, the present recording represents his homage to the master. Little is altered, more is added, and we are the richer for this wonderful new rendition of a little-heard masterpiece. See Dr. Heller's own review below.

I am reluctant to criticize such a great talent as Renee Fleming, but I actually prefer the singing of the wonderful Brazilian soprano Bidu Sayao on the 1958 recording. It is said that she came out of retirement in Maine (USA) to join Villa Lobos in New York to make the recording (there's a Wikipedia article about her). It's also worth noting that of the zillions of recordings of the 5th Bachianas Brasilieras (for soprano and 8 'cellos), hers is possibly the very best -- light, lyrical, sinuous, with the mystical sound that perfectly suits that haunting theme that blends the discpline of Bach with the "wildness" of the Brazilian frontier.

Bottom line -- if you like the nationalistic series of Villa Lobos' compositions, you should have this CD. Hats off to Dr. Heller for producing it.

Magnificent work.......2006-08-14

"Forest of the Amazon" dating from 1959 was one of Heitor Villa-Lobos' (1887-1959) last works. Much of the music was derived from the composer's film score to "Green Mansions" starring Audrey Hepburn and Anthony Perkins. However, the final score was provided by a different composer, who quoted Villa-Lobos here and there, but provided his own music elsewhere. According to the conductor, Alfred Heller, Villa-Lobos was very angry about this and, in response, developed "Forest of the Amazon" from his film score.

"Forest of the Amazon" is, more or less, a 74-minute symphonic poem. The work is divided into 20 sections here, however each section flows into another without a break. Despite the length, this work holds the listener's attention throughout. Villa-Lobos was a brilliant orchestrator and knew how to write a great melody. I was immediately lured into this work by the powerful and evocative overture (Track 1). Other exciting sections include "On the way to the Hunt" (Track 9) and "Head Hunters" (Track 16). The imaginative use of male voices and percussion definitely give "Forest of the Amazon" an exotic flavor. Of course the singing by Renée Fleming is lovely, and Villa-Lobos' melodies for the soprano solo are beautiful and memorable. As an example, listen to "Love Song" (Track 17) or "Sentimental Melody" (Track 18). Amazingly, the symphonic poem is a cohesive work; with early themes reappearing later in the work. Yet the piece is incredibly varied, in which the listener takes an Amazonian journey though Villa-Lobos' unique sound world, which incorporates ethnic, popular and classical elements.

I have two (very slight) reservations about this release. First, the present release represents a remastering of a 1994/1995 recording. Although, the sound quality of the remastering is quite good, it may not be up to the excellent standards of CPO's recordings of the Villa-Lobos symphonies. Second, there is an electronic instrument that accompanies the soprano in certain places (Track 4 and Track 6 for instance). I am not familiar with this instrument, but it is one of which I am not particularly fond. However, its presence is not extensive.

Overall, I should mention that the playing by the Moscow Radio Symphony Orchestra, led by the enthusiastic Alfred Heller, is quite good. In fact, we owe many thanks to Alfred Heller, whose research and dedication made this recording possible.

So in conclusion, this release is wholly recommendable to both fans of Villa-Lobos and those who may be new to this master. In "Forest of the Amazon" Villa-Lobos fully explores the evocative potential of the modern orchestra. This is a major statement by a major composer.

Highly recommended.

74:05

From the conductor.......2006-07-12

Ivorx's review of my recording as well as his/her comments about Villa-Lobos are steeped in inaccuracies.

1. It was not a session orchestra that Villa-lobos conducted, but the Symphony of the Air (NBC Symphony Orchestra).

2. My recording was not just a little longer, but 27 minutes longer (circa 74 minutes total) and included the entire composition. It represented a critical edition.

3. Sadly the Villa-Lobos recording of circa 47 minutes was made when he was ill, done in one day and they kept him there until 2:00AM the next morning as reported to me by pianist Felicja Blumental.

4. Villa-Lobos was my friend and mentor. I watched him orchestrate, "Forest of the Amazon" in December 1958 and I coached Bidú Sayao for his recording.

It irks me to see the uninformed write such a pontifical review as well as an inaccurate one to match his/her arrogance. After a very long time, I finally became irritated enough to say something. Apologies to all for not having done this sooner

I am not saying to buy my recording, but the Ivorx review is absurd. It is based on nothing at all and misinforms the reader. This person owes apologies to the memory of Villa-Lobos and the memories of the excellent musicians who played for his album as well as one to Amazon.com.

sheer sonic lushness.......2005-08-28

I have listened to this album FIVE times since it arrived today. This is simply gorgeous stuff. Villa-Lobos is well represented here, from the Choros - like primitivism of the Overture to the rich lyricism of the "Sentimental Melody" which brings to mind the composer's famous Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5. If you are thinking of dipping your toe in the immense ocean of Villa-Lobos's works, this album is a splendid introduction. If you are already an enthusiast, this work (and this performance of it -- Renee Fleming is at her best here) will delight you. The orchestra IS a rain forest in this composer's hands, and it is full of mysterious delights and terrifying beauty at every turn.

More than 25 minutes longer version.......2002-04-10

... this unabridged version is ... is more than 25 minutes longer than the 1958 recording by the composer himself. The total time is about 74 minutes
It is superb epic music, of the many compositions Villa-Lobos wrote one of his best! The only thing I don't like are some short wordless vocalises to imitate birds.But the real songs (sung by Renee Fleming or the choir) which appear like intermezzos on certain places in the driving orchestral music are beautiful. The recording was released before in 1996 on another label (Consonance).

Average customer rating: must have performance at this price From Marietta, GA Essential Does this inspire a life-times work? OK, but a little over-rated!

Laureate Series: Guitar Carlo Domeniconi , Joaquin Rodrigo , Federico Mompou , Agustin Barrios-Mangore , Leo Brouwer , and Antigoni Goni Manufacturer: Naxos ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | 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: Ana Vidovic Guitar Recital Barrios: Guitar Music, Vol. 1 Villa-Lobos: Complete Music for Solo Guitar Jason Vieaux Elena Papandreou: Laureate Series Guitar ASIN: B0000014FB Release Date: 1998-07-17

Tracks:

1. Koyunbaba: Suite For Guitar, Op. 19: I Moderato - II Mosso - III Cantabile - IV Presto
2. Invocaci Danza - Hommage a Manuel de Falla
3. Suite Compostelana: I Preludio
4. Suite Compostelana: II Coral
5. Suite Compostelana: III Cuna
6. Suite Compostelana: IV Recitativo
7. Suite Compostelana: V Canci
8. Suite Compostelana: VI Mua
9. Un Suen la Floresta
10. El Decameregro: I: El arpa del Guerriero
11. El Decameregro: II: La huida de los amantes por el Valle de los Ecos
12. El Decameregro: III: Ballada de la doncella enamorada

Customer Reviews:

must have performance at this price.......2003-10-16

i'm not very experienced with listening to guitar music but i have been studying piano for 16 years now (i'm 20) and i know a good instrumental recital when i hear one. this is one guys: fresh lyricism and flawless technique. although those looking for 'fire' in a guitar performance probably won't find it completely satisfactory, but superb technique and the way it enables her to shape the subtle details makes this a very desirable cd... at naxos price... anyone slightly interested should get this

From Marietta, GA.......2003-05-09

This is a superb CD recorded by one of the best young players in the world. A composition like "Koyunbaba" played by two world-class classical guitarists should indeed be different, each interpretes it in their own characteristic way and that's what makes it so great. Having said that, I personally found her version to be more expressive and musical although the great John Williams' version is technically mindboggling and superb as always.

Essential.......2003-03-03

This cd is a must for the first 2 pieces alone! Gonis performance of Koyunbaba is (for me) far greater than the legendary Williams' recording. This version is unhurried, and massively progressive, utilising every note and passage to work the whole monumental piece. Invocation y danza is arguably greater than Williams' recording also..truly mesmerising. There are other highlights here, such as Dream in the magic garden by Barrios.

Does this inspire a life-times work?.......2002-06-26

After a few years I am looking back at my review here, and
feel that I was a little negative towards this album, and in
particular to the almighty piece "Koyunbaba". Any attempt
at this great work should be appreciated. However, I, along
with others I am sure, believe that the John Williams' performance
of it (The Guitarist) deserves the loundest and longest
applause of all. If John is a schoolboy, then we are all
mere ants....

OK, but a little over-rated!.......2002-05-20

I don't like negativity, but after reading all these rave reviews I felt I had to add my two cents. This isn't a bad CD, I think it's pretty good....but it's a little slow (if not to say boring at times). I would rather just hear the last two movements of Mompou's "Suite Compostelana" - like Scott Tennant recorded on "Wild Mountain Thyme". I think the main reason I'm writing this though is the comment another reviewer made about her version of Domeniconi's "Koyunbaba" making John Williams sound like a "schoolboy"! I have both John Williams' "The Guitarist" and this CD----believe me, it isn't even close! John Williams version is absolutely incredible (as is his entire CD, a much better selection of repertoire) and makes Ms. Goni's version seem somewhat lame.

Average customer rating: Forgotten musical treasures! Terrific Music, Terrific Guitarist, Terrific Price! Great CD for the price! Latin American Guitar Music Excellent recordings of lesser-known works

Latin American Guitar Music Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | 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 Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Jason Vieaux The Great Paraguayan: Guitar Music of Barrios Barrios: Guitar Music, Vol. 1 Spirit of the Guitar: Music of the Americas Agustín Barrios: Guitar Music, Vol. 2 ASIN: B0000027P9 Release Date: 1992-06-02

Tracks:

1. La Catedral
2. Medley: Madrigal (Gavota)
3. Medley: Minuet
4. Medley: Mazurka appassionata
5. Medley 2: Estudio
6. Medley 2: Preludio
7. Medley 2: Sueno en la Floresta
8. Medley 2: Valse No. 3
9. Medley 3: Cueca
10. Medley 3: Aire de Zamba
11. Medley 3: Aconquija
12. Medley 3: Maxixa
13. Una Limosna por el amor de Dios
14. Villancico de Navidad
15. Themes & Variations With Fugue: Folia de Espana

Customer Reviews:

Forgotten musical treasures!.......2005-07-27

Agustin Barrios (El Indio) Mangore was a true sensitive composer, a real poet of the guitar, and John Williams understood so well the score's intention as any other player of this instrument.
When you listen "Una limosna el amor de Dios" or to my view the best track: "Sueño en la floresta" you will be inmediatly in rapture state. Williams added a profound,touching and expressive lyricism that completes the circle.
Williams have been always a guitarrist deeply involved with the Latin American composers: He has developed a great admiration for Antonio Lauro and his performance of Concierto de Aranjuez with Ormandy and Philadelphia Orchestra in 1967 stands by far as the most convincing version I have ever listened.
Go for this album and you will convince by yourself.

Terrific Music, Terrific Guitarist, Terrific Price!.......2002-02-13

Can't be Beat! 77 minutes worth of some great, neglected 20th Century classics, and the linear notes are by Mr. Williams no less!! Every second here is a gem, and you don't have to play guitar to appreciate these wonders. If you do play, give this one some serious listening, and you'll surely learn some new playing techniques..Among the very best classic guitar values anywhere!!!!

Great CD for the price!.......2002-01-17

The only drawback is that the CD was burned from tapes, which means that you get a bit of hiss in the backround. But the artistry of Williams, together with the genius of Barrios really shines through!

Latin American Guitar Music.......2001-08-17

I used to have this on tape, but now I want to buy the CD. I have Williams' more recent performance of Barrios (from the Jungles of Paraguay)on CD. It's a comprehensive collection of Barrios' best compositions; however, I think that CD was recorded with way too much reverb, which is somewhat distracting. So, I'm going back to this older collection of Barrios, with much less reverb. The only bad thing about it is the Ponce Folias, which I'm not crazy about. Unfortunately, the Folias takes up about half the CD; but like almost every piece Williams lays his hands on, the Folias is played with impeccable skill.

Excellent recordings of lesser-known works.......1999-12-01

This recording is a fine value, featuring a legendary performer presenting some lesser-known gems not part of the standard repertoire. Well worth the modest price.

Average customer rating: Satisfactory, though not great. My song-by-song review of the master guitarist John Williams

John Williams: The Seville Concert from the Royal Alcázar Palace Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Domenico Scarlatti | Scarlatti, Domenico | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Sonatinas | Sonatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Instruments | Early Music | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Williams, John [guitar] | ( W ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Ultimate Guitar Collection Together Again/ Julian Bream & John Williams Brouwer: The Black Decameron Together/Julian Bream & John Williams The Guitarist ASIN: B0001ENYEO Release Date: 2004-02-24

Tracks:

1. Sevilla (Sevillanas)
2. Prelude
3. Andante
4. I. Allegro Giusto
5. II. Largo
6. III. Allegro
7. Sakura Variations
8. Usher Waltz, Op.29 (After Edgar Allan Poe)
9. Asturias (Leyenda)
10. Sueno En La Floresta
11. Adagio
12. Torre Bermeja
13. Granada
14. Cadiz
15. Cordoba

Customer Reviews:

Satisfactory, though not great........2007-04-07

The previous reviewer complains about Williams' lack of expressiveness, though acknowledging the artist's accurate playing. Well, I kind of feel that way about Williams in general. His skill highlights accuracy, in my opinion. Where I like Williams most is on the couple of CD's on which he and Julian Bream play together. Never-the-less, the cd under review has its merits and I enjoy some its pieces.

My song-by-song review of the master guitarist John Williams.......2005-07-08

1. Sevilla (Sevillanas)
--This popular guitar piece is usually played slow and without a strong direct rhythm, such as Williams plays here. While Segovia was responsible for taking the quite mediocre flamenco song and making it more expressive as a classical guitar piece, Williams improved on all those extra notes Segovia put in, by restoring the original dance rhythym (sevilla means dance).

2. Prelude to the Fourth Lute Suite.
--This piece is extremely complex, full of notes and usually satisfies the average listener because it doesn't repeat phrases as much as the other songs in this set. Beginning classical guitarists will hear this and immediately go get the sheet music or tablature for it to start learning it. They are doomed too. The piece is far too advanced. Williams' version here is popular because of how utterly note-for-note flawless it is, in spite of being so complex and difficult that Segovia even said it was impossible to play on guitar!

3. Andante
--I think Amazon.com has mistitled this piece. It is the exact same song as "Sonata in D minor" on the regular CD. But anyway, again, Williams plays flawlessly a difficult piece, but this one is more mellow than the Prelude.

4. I. Allegro Giusto
5. II. Largo
6. III. Allegro
--I personally thought these three movements sounded slightly "rushed", especially the slower second movement "Largo".

7. Sakura Variations
--Williams plays this traditional popular Japanese song several times, each being a different style of the same tune. Nice way to keep things interesting.

8. Usher Waltz, Op.29 (After Edgar Allan Poe)
--This song appears to be nothing but "smart noise", as I like to say. It requires technical feats of skill, but it seems to just spin it's wheels, and would do little more than draw comical smiles if played at a restaurant or club for an audience.

9. Asturias (Leyenda)
--This is a popular piece that just says "spanish pride" all over it. Those who never heard it before would swear this is a soundtrack to a film about wars in old Mexico. While this version is tight, Williams recorded this song back in the 80's on an album called "Spanish Guitar Music", and this earlier version I feel has more power and gusto, while the version on this Seville Concert Album doesn't quite have that earliers gustoin spite of it's own praiseworthy traits.

10. Sueno En La Floresta
--I am a true dedicated fan of John Williams, and I don't like seeing people say he doesn't play with soul, etc. However, while this advanced virtuosic tremelo piece composed by Barrios is technically perfect, it sounds "rushed"; and those small pauses and breaks that give a piece "soul" are all but absent here. He should have slowed it down just a bit. Did Williams ever play this piece with soul? Yes. In 1978, found on his album "John Williams plays barrios".

11. Adagio
--Otherwise titled "Concerto de Arajaunez", guitar + symphony piece composed by Joquin Rodrigo, and intended to highlight the guitar, by giving it most of the limelight. This is very different from the orchestra concertos in songs 4, 5 and 6 on this same album. Williams gives the guitar true color and expression in each of the solo spots.

12. Torre Bermeja
--Some songs just have a very thick authentic "Mexican" sound to them more so than others, and this would be such one. It was Segovia who popularized the notion that no classical guitarist should play one song the same way all the time. I personally feel that the earlier version Williams recorded back in 1958 when he was 17, despite the lessor quality clarity in the recording, is much more expressive. That was when Williams was fresh out of Segovia school.

13. Granada
--A soft and moving Spanish piece, the one you'd want to have playing when your girlfriend walks in the door to eat the gourmet dinner with you under soft lights. This is the stuff I listen to when everybody is out of the house and I can just sit back with nothing but this album and a six-pack of beer and just *V E G* for a precious 3 minutes. Or I'll put the CD player on repeat and turn it into an hour.


14. Cadiz
--A rather lively swashbuckling piece that didn't do a damn thing for me personally. I am a classical guitarist, and this one will never be in my repetoire.

15. Cordoba
--A very expressive piece with a slow beautiful yet haunting beginning, evoking images of the Mosk in Spain. The main body of the song requires some of the most impossible guitar fingering, and yet Williams brings it out without buzzing strings or squeaks. In the video "The Seville Concert", Williams introduces this piece by saying that Cordoba is his personal favorite.

--

Overall, while the extra songs on this special edition CD are interesting, they are not sufficient to justify the extra price, and IMO it is only Cordoba which justifies the increased price. The average person, whether amatuer guitarist or not should be satisfied with what amounts to a culmination of Williams' unbelievably accurate playing. This album however will not satisfy guitar enthusiasts who prioritize feeling and soul more than technical perfection. He simply just doesn't "take his time" often enough for that crowd of listeners.

If I had produced this album, I would have shelved "Cadiz", and put William's latest recording of "Recuerdos de la Alhambra" on it instead; the famous tremelo piece by Tarrega which is the "most" Spanish sounding piece in all the guitar literature in guitarist majority opinion. Cadiz is simply awful. I never thought any noise could be worse than "Usher Waltz". Boy was i wrong!

Average customer rating:

Villa-Lobos: Music for Flute Manufacturer: Hyperion UK ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Latin Music | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical | Imports | Stores | Music $9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Villa-Lobos: Complete Music for Solo Guitar Villa-Lobos: Bachianas Brasileiras (Complete) ASIN: B00004YYPX Release Date: 2000-11-14

Tracks:

1. Quinteto Em Forma De Choros - William Bennet/Neil Black/Janice Knight/Thea King/Robin O'Neill
2. Modinha - William Bennet/Simon Wynberg
3. Bachianas Brasileiras No.6: Aria (Choro) Largo - William Bennet/Robin O'Neill
4. Bachianas Brasileiras No.6: Fant Allegro - William Bennet/Robin O'Neill
5. Distribution Of Flowers - William Bennet/Simon Wynberg
6. Assobio A Jato (The Jet Whistle): Allegro Non Troppo - William Bennet/Charles Tunnell
7. Assobio A Jato (The Jet Whistle): Adagio - William Bennet/Charles Tunnell
8. Assobio A Jato (The Jet Whistle): Vivo - William Bennet/Charles Tunnell
9. Choros No.2 - William Bennet/Thea King
10. Song Of Love - William Bennet/Simon Wynberg
11. Trio: Anime - Neil Black/Thea King/Robin O'Neill
12. Trio: Languisamente - Neil Black/Thea King/Robin O'Neill
13. Trio: Vivo - Neil Black/Thea King/Robin O'Neill

Pop Music:

1. From The Heart
2. Gil Revisitado [Import]
3. Golden J-Pop: Best [Import]
4. Greatest Princess [Import]
5. Grupo Renascenca [Import]
6. Hawaiian Christmas [Import]
7. Homeward
8. Ignition [Import]
9. Koi [Import]
10. La La La [Import]

Pop Music