London Flat, London Sharp

Amazon.com
The release of this album coincides with Dave Brubeck turning 85. The ten songs offer a veritable tour through the whole of the pianist's strengths, both as a composer and an improviser. Recorded in 2004, he's working in his favored and most celebrated format, a quartet, with saxophonist Bobby Militello offering the melodic counterpoint to Brubeck's playing. The earliest number, "Ballad of the Rhine," was written in 1945 when Brubeck was in the army and stationed in Germany. It was inspired by the rhythms of the tanks and trucks crossing bridges over the Rhine. His writing has always been anchored by a rich background in classical music (he studied with the French composer Darius Milhuad). Far from being an album mired in twilight of nostalgia, London Flat, London Sharp proves that Dave Brubeck is still a formidable presence. --David Greenberger

Tracks:

Clair de Lune
Eine kleine Nachtmusik: Romance: Andante
Moonlight Sonata: Adagio sestonuto
Minute Waltz
On The Beautiful Blue Danube
The Nutcracker Suite: Russian Dance
El Amor Brujo: Danca del Terror
Grand Valse Brillante, Waltz No. 1 op. 18
Scenes Of Childhood Op. 15: Knight Of The Rocking Horse; Important Event
Goldberg Variations: Aria
The Nutcracker Suite: Chinese Dance
Symphony No. 7: Allegro molto
Symphony No. 94: Menuetto: Allegro molto
The Nutcracker Suite: March
Sonata In C Minor, Op.13 'Pathetique': Adagio cantabile

Customer Reviews:

Awesome CD.......2007-05-11

Have enjoyed this CD immensely with our four-year old. Great price for the quality. Thank you.

He started dancing as soon as we put it on!.......2007-01-09

My 12 month old loves this CD and happily bops away to the music (in the car he sometimes even starts singing!). We like it too and not being very well versed in Classical music, it is a nice mix for us.

Better than baby einstein.......2006-02-26

This is a great CD, with great music, at a great price. Everyone seems to love Baby Einstein, but I don't like the plinking music on those CD's, I like real orchestral pieces to stimulate my child. This is exactly what parents need, at a good price!

great music at a great price.......2006-02-02

I got this cd to use as background when putting my 18 month old to sleep and for car rides. So far it has not made it out of the car. The cd is wonderful. The first song is the Luftansa airline comercial song (that is what my husband calls it) and is beautiful. I didn't think my husband would enjoy the cd at all but he doesn't mind one bit listening to it, he actually will put it on himself when we get in the car. My daughter loves it and will often start nodding her head back and forth to songs. I actually listen to it even when my daughter is not in the car. The music is soft and relaxing but not boring. It is also one of the only cd's that my in laws don't mind listening to when they are in the car with us.

I only paid like $4 here on amazon for it and I gladdly would of paid more for such a great cd. Its a great cd for such a great price!

A Wonderful CD for all ages.......2002-11-03

My whole family has enjoyed this CD. It is very upbeat and easy to listen to. I think there is something for everyone on this one.

Average customer rating:

Great for the road
Beethoven 25 Favorites
25 Beethoven Favorites
bEtHoVeN mAnIaC
Great Price...Not so good itself

25 Beethoven Favorites

Manufacturer: Vox (Classical)
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000058HX
Release Date: 1996-08-20

Tracks:

Egmont Overture - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 5 In C Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Piano Sonata No. 21 In C Major - Alfred Brendel
Piano Sonata No. 14 In C Sharp Minor - Jerome Rose
Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor - Jerome Rose
Piano Sonata No. 23 In F Minor - Jerome Rose
Symphony No. 6 In F Major - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 7 In A Major - Ludwig Van Beethoven
'The Creatures Of Prometheus' Ballet - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Violin Concerto In D Major - Susanne Lautenbacher
Sonata For Violin And Piano No. 5 In F Major - Aaron Rosand
Piano Trio In B Flat - Mannheimer Trio
Fse - Various Artists
Quintet In E Flat For Piano And Winds - Abbey Simon
'Chorale Fantasy' In C Minor For Piano, Chorus And Orchestra - Walter Klien
Piano Concerto No. 2 In B Flat - Alfred Brendel
Piano Concerto No. 3 In C Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Piano Concerto No. 4 In G Major - Alfred Brendel
Piano Concerto No. 5 In E Flat - Alfred Brendel
Symphony No. 3 In E Flat - Ludwig Van Beethoven
'The Ruins Of Athens,' - Ludwig Van Beethoven
'Corolian,' - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Ecossaise For Piano - Alfred Brendel
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor - Ludwig Van Beethoven

Customer Reviews:

Great for the road.......2007-05-11

I found this to be a nice collection of favorites, especially to keep in the car and listen to. It is a variety of well known compilations. Although not encompassing, it is perfect as a review for driving, relaxing, and enjoyment. Plus, the price is right!

Beethoven 25 Favorites.......2006-11-21

Very good! I ordered it especially for Piano Sonata No. 8 Pathetique

25 Beethoven Favorites.......2006-11-05

Good overview of his works----an introduction into his depth as a composer

bEtHoVeN mAnIaC.......2005-11-03

[...] Honestly, it isn't THAT THAT great, but its good enough for its price. I'd say that your $ pays off, for a while. I've noticed how after a long time, it gets aggrivating at times. No harm meant, "Beethoven lover". I just mean don't plunge into this cd with all the hopes in the world. Besides, it's just my opinion, so you may like it more than me. All i can say is; a) listen to some samples before you buy, b)know this is not REALLY the great Beethoven himself, and c) enjoy YOUR music, whatever it may be.

Great Price...Not so good itself.......2005-05-19

This a great priced cd, but the content is why it is so cheap. It's a true-amateur album. Beethoven Lover is over her/his head. This is the real world, not a fantasy-everyone-likes-every-type-of-music world. Deal with it and agree with me. It isn't so great.

Beethoven at Bedtime: A Gentle Prelude to Sleep

Average customer rating:

Great but not for massage
Works on my kids
Wakes you up instead
Music for Life
musical morphine

Beethoven at Bedtime: A Gentle Prelude to Sleep

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

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Mozart for Meditation
Bach at Bedtime: Lullabies for the Still of the Night
Mozart at Midnight
Brahms at Bedtime: A Sleepytime Serenade
Baroque at Bathtime: A Relaxing Serenade to Wash Your Cares Away

ASIN: B0000041CN
Release Date: 1995-04-11

Tracks:

A Gentle Prelude to Sleep: Symphony No. 2 In D - Larghetto
A Gentle Prelude to Sleep: Romance No. 2 In F
A Gentle Prelude to Sleep: 'Emperor' Concerto - Adagio un poco mosso
A Gentle Prelude to Sleep: 'Pastoral' Symphony - Scene By The Brook
A Gentle Prelude to Sleep: 'Pathetique' Sonata - Adagio cantabile
A Gentle Prelude to Sleep: String Quartet No. 13 In B-Flat - Cavatina
A Gentle Prelude to Sleep: Fur Elise
A Gentle Prelude to Sleep: Violin Concerto In D - Larghetto
A Gentle Prelude to Sleep: 'Moonlight' Sonata - Adagio sostenuto

Customer Reviews:

Great but not for massage.......2007-03-10

TRY, just TRY to do a massage to Fur Elise. It just can't be done! It wasn't very relaxing. I felt like I should be doing tapotement or something. Threw my rhythm way off.

BUT as a CD, it's lovely. :)

Works on my kids.......2006-12-26

I'm purchasing my second copy of the CD. My kids listen to it every night to lull them to sleep - they usually don't make it through the first piece. It is true that some of the music doesn't seem very conducive to sleep, but by the time one hears those selections, one is fast asleep.

Wakes you up instead.......2006-03-09

This CD was supposed to be soft, easy music that would help you go to sleep. I did go to sleep almost immediately but not because of the music--I was just very tired. However, the music actually woke me up a couple of times when it got just a little louder. Maybe it's me, but I didn't find this product to do as promised.

Music for Life.......2006-03-09

Thanks to the Philips Set Your Life to Music series, we don't have to set aside a concert hour to experience great music. Beethoven at Bedtime gives us the music when we need it to enrich our quiet moments. As with the other titles in this series, the performance is pure and sensitive enough to satisfy the most intellectual listener. One has only to read the list of artists and listen to the clips. What a treasure!

musical morphine.......2005-08-18

this album will definately put you out unless youre manic or all cranked up or something.but why go to sleep? youd miss out on a bunch of beethovens most beautiful music ever written.and being as how hes only the second of 7 musical geniuses ever,no true music lover can be without this many spleandored collection.its got all the great slow songs beethoven did on it like the "moonlight sonata" used on the beatles song "because" and the video game "shadow man".im sure youve heard it somewhere."for elise" is another easily recognizable song.it was on the movie "bill and teds excellent adventure".theres some more musical bliss with his violin piece and even the all important "pathetique sonata".thats the real clencher.if youre not pretty drowsy after that beautiful but utterly sedating ditty perhaps you should seek out a drs prescription before you play it because youre an isomniac.it will put most anybody out though and is plum full of a number of the most beautiful songs ever!

Immortal Beloved / Sir Georg Solti (film 1994)

Average customer rating:

Below Average Beethoven Performances
Immortal beloved film
Living Perfection
A wonderful tribute to the artist
Very emotional and moving!!

Immortal Beloved / Sir Georg Solti (film 1994)
Ludwig van Beethoven , Georg Solti , Renée Fleming , Yo-Yo Ma , Murray Perahia , Emanuel Ax , Pamela Frank , Thomas Frost , Gidon Kremer , Vinson Cole , London Symphony Orchestra , and London Voices
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Immortal Beloved
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Amadeus: The Complete Original Soundtrack Recording
Amadeus: Original Soundtrack Recording
Amadeus: More Music From The Original Soundtrack Of The Film Amadeus

ASIN: B000002AQD
Release Date: 1994-12-06

Tracks:

Symphony No. 5 In C Minor, Op.67: Napoleon Shells Vienna
Fur Elise: Childhood Dreams
Symphony No. 3 In E-flat Major, Op. 55: Ludwig And Julia At Schonbrunn Palace Gardens
Piano Sonata No. 14 (Quasi Una Fantasia) In C-sharp Minor, Op. 27, No. 2 'Moonlight': Julia And Her Father Secretly Watch
Symphony No. 6 In F Major, Op.68 'Pastoral': Ludwig And Caspar Fight
Piano Trio No. 4 In D Major, Op. 70 No. 1 'Ghost': Ludwig Consols Anna Marie
Violin Concerto In D Major, Op. 61: The Beethoven Brothers In Baden
Piano Sonata No. 8 In C Minor, Op. 13 'Pathetique': A Concert For Lichnowsky
Piano Concerto No. 5 In E-Flat Major, Op. 73 'Emperor': The Letter
Missa Solemnis In D Major, Op.123: The Funeral
Symphony No. 7 In A Major, Op. 92: Karl At The Ruins
Violin Sonata In A Major, Op. 47 'Kreutzer': The Carriage Stuck In The Mud
Symphony No. 9 In D Minor, Op. 125: The Night Of The Premiere

Customer Reviews:

Below Average Beethoven Performances.......2007-03-10

It is unfortunate that they chose Solti's direction for the symphonic pieces in this soundtrack as he is simply one of the worst conductors for Beethoven. His direction is so slow one would think he is leading a funeral procession instead of music inspired by the French Revolution.

Of all old school directors such as Karajan, Toscanini, etc., Solti's performances are simply morbidly slow to the point of killing the grieving attendants with boredom. The cacophony of the oversized orchestra doesn't help either. Solti's interpretations are even too slow for a requiem. You think a regular interpretation of the 7th's second movement is slow? Wait 'til you hear this one; you're going to need a massage you'll be so stiff. The 9th symphony march is supposed to be a brisk revolutionary march calling the citizens to arms and to join the militia marching through a town. With Solti you imagine only a funeral procession coming through the town. In the Fifth the whole orchestra is almost struggling to slow down to match the strings. Karajan's interpretations are not particularly fast either but at least he breathes some life into them and the orchestra. I personally like Toscanini in terms of the old 20th century symphonic conductors and Gardiner's traditional interpretations that are at least at a correct speed and give the listener the impression they are marching off as part of a revolutionary batallion to bring liberty to the oppressed instead of being rolled to the morgue. Beethoven was a revolutionary anti-monarchist and strongly supported the idea of political change. Although Periah is a great pianist for Beethoven's concertos, there are simply better performances by him that fortunately aren't conducted by Solti such as on Sony with Bernard Haitink and the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra. The same goes for the performances with Axe and Yo-Yo Ma. Gidon Kramer's performance for the Violin Concerto in D is also mediocre at best: there are better violinists out there than Kremer for Beethoven.

This is just not the best CD to get quality performances of Beethoven's works. Overall, Solti's interpretations are simply too sluggish and indecipherable to represent the ideals of Beethoven's music. Solti would definitely be my last choice for anything. You won't lose anything by not buying this soundtrack that's for sure: Solti's interpretations are so slow they will simply fossilize you.

Immortal beloved film.......2007-02-06

having watched a recording of Immortal beloved for a number of years the tape was past its best. now that i have the chance of ordering on line i did , and a good move it was. It was nice to see the film and things so clear, i had not see before, the writing on the love letter at the begining and tears that was shed. Iam very pleased with the dvd.

Living Perfection.......2007-01-14

This is one of the most perfect CDs I own, it's one I come back to time and time again. The recording quality is excellent - even on the cassette, which I've finally replaced after 12 years - but even better, the musical interpretation is splendid. Anyone who thinks that classical music is no longer relevant in our culture needs to buy this CD.

A wonderful tribute to the artist.......2005-05-25

This CD is perfect in my opinion. The recording is perfect, the pitch is perfect, the tempo is perfect, and the track selections are perfect. I think the album samples Beethoven's most remarkable pieces of work from his early years to his death. I have heard many recordings of the Ninth symphony that was just executed poorly; which is a shame because it is such a powerful piece. However, this album does it superbly. Sir Georg Solti and Murray Perahia did an amazing job with this album.

The album just flows really well from one piece to the next evoking a vast array of emotions along the way. Beethoven is timeless and forever will be. There is no comparison even to this day. This a wonderful tribute to the artist.

Very emotional and moving!!.......2005-05-23

I am a big fan of classical music. Beethoven, in my opinion, was one of the best composers, Mozart 1st, Beethoven 2nd, etc. This album is very moving and filled with emotion. I am currently listening to Adagio Cantabile-from Piano Sonata No. 8-from the film album. This piece is so moving and emotional. Another piece was Moonlight Sonata which I especially liked. Beethoven loads this piece with love and emotion for his one true love. In my opinion, Beethoven was the best at writing emotional and moving music. Whenever I listen to his music, I am immersed in a world of emotion and feeling. His music is truly beautiful. Back to the album, Sir Georg Solti really captured Beethoven's genius and devotion to his music in this album. This album really accents the film. You cannot have one, you must have both the film and the soundtrack. This is a must have for classical music/Beethoven fanatics and people who want to get a great summary of Beethoven's genius. BUY THIS!!!!

Average customer rating:

More like Three and a Half Stars
Good, not Great
Five Stars for Chopin
Chopn's Greatest Hits
Fantastic!!

Chopin: Greatest Hits

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002A1N
Release Date: 1994-08-09

Tracks:

Polonaise In A Major, Op. 40 No. 1: 'Military'
Waltz In D-Flat Major, Op. 64, No. 1: 'Minute'
Mazurka In C Major, Op. 24, No. 2
Waltz In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 64, No. 2
Mazurka In D Major, Op. 33, No. 2
Fantasie-Impromptu In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 66
Nocturne In E-Flat Major, Op. 9, No. 2
Waltz In G-Flat Major, Op. 70, No. 1
Prelude In A Major, Op. 2, No. 7
Polonaise In A-Flat Major, Op. 53
Etude In E Major, Op. 10, No. 3
Prelude In C Minor, Op. 28, No. 20
Prelude In D-Flat Major, Op. 28, No. 15: 'Raindrop'
Piano Sonata No. 2 in B-flat minor, Op. 35: 'Funeral March'
Etude In C Minor, Op. 10, No. 12: 'Revolutionary'
Mazurka In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 6, No. 2
Waltz In E-Flat Major, Op. 18: 'Grand Valse brillante' From Les Sylphides
Piano Concerto No. 2 In F Minor, Op. 21: 'Allegro vivace'

Customer Reviews:

More like Three and a Half Stars.......2006-02-05

When I think of the piano, the first composer that comes to my mind is Chopin. Chopin was a composer who excelled in small form writing for the piano. He wrote beautiful melodies with complex accompaniment that was both challenging for the performer and enlightening for the listener. Chopin did not write many multi-movement pieces and what he did write is generally not as good as his solo piano pieces anyway (this is my opinion, not a fact).
When buying recordings of Chopin's music, there are basically two options. You can either go with a "Greatest Hits" type collection, which works very well with Chopin, or you can buy collections that assemble all he wrote for a certain form (preludes, nocturnes, etudes, etc...). If you are new to Chopin, I suggest buying a "Greatest Hits" collection, though not necessarily this one, even though this is the CD in my car right now. The playing is okay but it's nothing really that special. Considering all the masterful Chopin interpreters out there, such as Rubinstein, Ashkenazy, Argerich, Pollini, and Perahia, it seems silly not to start with a pianist that you really love, since almost every great pianist has recorded works by Chopin. Having said that, this collection contains almost all my favorite works by Chopin, my only complaint being I wish it had more than one nocturne. Thus it serves as a good introduction to Chopin's music. I would recommend the Favorite Chopin collection by Ashkenazy over this collection because not only is he an amazing pianist and a masterful interpreter of Chopin, but it's two discs for the price of one.

Good, not Great.......2002-03-02

Revolutionary Etude and many other performers are good. However, Fanastie Impromptu I've heard performed much better. Raindrop Prelude is played okay, but the song is so low in volume that I can hardly hear it. Good deal though.

Five Stars for Chopin.......2002-01-27

What can I say! This is a wonderful collection of music. I highly recommend it for anyone who loves his music.

Chopn's Greatest Hits.......2001-04-08

Not a good version of Les Sylphides (#17); which is only a 5 minute excerpt. Any other Les Sylphides pieces are sprinkled throughout the CD as piano.

Fantastic!!.......1999-08-15

Frederic Chopin is a very talented artist and composer. A must have of any Chopin collector.

Chopin and Champagne: Set Your Mood for Romance

Average customer rating:

A great selection
The best Chopin you can buy
Romantic Evening Music
Best Interpretation of Chopin
oh, and another thing...

Chopin and Champagne: Set Your Mood for Romance

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Rachmaninoff for Romance: Passionate Music for Love and Desire
Tchaikovsky At Tea Time: A Refreshing Blend For Body And Spirit
Liszt for Lovers: Piano Dreams of Love and Passion
Debussy for Daydreaming: Music to Caress Your Innermost Thoughts
Beethoven for Book Lovers: An Intimate Companion for Reading

ASIN: B0000041D7
Release Date: 1995-06-13

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 2 In F Minor, Op. 21: Larghetto
Nocturne No. 5 In F Sharp, Op. 15 No. 2
Berceuse In D Flat, Op. 57
Nocturne No. 2 In E Flat, Op. 9 No. 2
Waltz No. 9 in A-flat, Op. 69 No. 1 ('Farewell')
Prelude No. 7 in A, Op. 28 ('Les Sylphides')
Nocturne No. 1 In B Flat Minor, Op. 9 No. 1
Prelude No. 4 In E Minor, Op. 28
Andante Spianato In E Flat, Op. 22
Nocturne No. 21 In C Minor, Op. Posth.
Nocturne No. 20 In C Sharp Minor, Op. Posth.
Nocturne No. 8 In D Flat, Op. 27 No. 2
Piano Concerto No. 1 In E Minor, Op. 11: Romance (Larghetto)

Customer Reviews:

A great selection.......2007-03-13

My two favorite pianists are Chopin and Bill
Evans, both for the same reasons: they both had the hand independence, ability to play those fast, multi-noted runs, and they both had what can't be taught, touch and taste. This an excellant overview of his work and will hopefully lead the listener to more of his work (especially the Preludes).

The best Chopin you can buy.......2004-07-15

The most sensitive piano playing I've ever heard. My wife likes it too.

Romantic Evening Music.......2004-05-26

The Phillips label "Set Your Mood" contains classical music for any frame of mind, life event, setting or mood. Others in the series include "Mozart For Your Morning Commute" "Bach For Barbecue" "Baroque For Bathtime" "Beethoven For Book Lovers" "Tchaikovksy For Teatime" "Liszt For Lovers" "Puccini And Pasta" and countless of other delightful albums, each with
its own theme and each containing beautifully performed classical music. On this album, the music of Chopin is meant to accompany your romantic evening or your drinking champagne after dinner. The music of Chopin does effectively describe nocturnal scenes and has a very melancholy romanticism which is very internal and reflective. It's perfect ambiance music. If I owned an office I would pipe in Chopin for the Musak.

The selected pieces here are exquisite and some of Chopin's most beautiful works for piano, the instrument that he made entirely his own in the 19th century. Frederic Chopin, a shy, sickly Polish man, composed countless of nocturnes and preludes, all which bear a sad, introspective, wistful and evening feel. The famous Nocturne No. 2 in E Flat is on here, the so called "Murmurs Of the Seine" a romantic description of the moonlit Seine river. In other preludes, such as the "Raindrop" Chopin captured the sound of water and rain perfectly, as he does with some of his other works. There is fluidity, finesse and elegance in everything he wrote. The opening excerpt is the Larghetto from his Piano Concerto No. 2, a slow movement whose dreamy mood is absolutely breathtaking. It was for this movement and the following Berceuse In D Flat Major Opus 57 that I even bought this album. The Berceuse is a sublime piece, full of intricate trills, falls, runs and an unforgettable melody. It really is rather difficult to play as well. Chopin made the piano a singing voice, with leaps, octaves and floritura. It's really on the same level as Franz Liszt, though Liszt preferred more dynamic, dramatic even shocking sounds while Chopin's music remained ever gentle and romantic. This is a great album for fans of Chopin. The piano artists here, especially Claudio Arrau are doing a remarkable job with the music.

Best Interpretation of Chopin.......2003-08-11

I found this CD on line after hearing a recording of a Chopin prelude on WCRB 102.5, the Boston classical station. I didn't know the pianist but when I found it to be Claudio Arrau, I had to hear more of him. I have kept Vladimir Ashkenazy in such high esteem in his piano interpretation of Chopin and Rachmaninov that I was floored to find in Arrau an even higher level of sensitivity to the emotion of the pieces, in this case, those of Chopin. It is true that the somewhat tacky cover and concept of saving Chopin for champagne and romance may be off-putting, but if this is the way to bring such wonderful recordings to more listeners, then I am all for it.
I can't begin to express the delight and even rapture I experience when I listen to this CD. I need to save it for special times, so it won't become too familiar to me.

oh, and another thing..........2001-06-07

I wrote this review b/c I am revisiting the site to get a shower present for my sister. I'm going to send her this, a champagne topper thing and a champagne cooler. I love thematic gifts, so that's another fun thing about this CD, it works for giving. I know my sister isn't a big Classical fan, but I am pretty sure she will like this for the same reasons I did (in my other review.)

Average customer rating:

I love it!
Famous Beethoven slow movements
Number of discs
I Know Music, and This is Not the Best (by Beethoven Lover)
Not the Best By beethoven Lover

Beethoven for Relaxation

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00000I9LZ
Release Date: 1999-03-09

Tracks:

Piano Sonata No. 14 In C-Sharp Minor, Op.27 No.2, 'Moonlight': Adagio sostenuto
Symphony No. 2 In D, Op.36: II. Larghetto
String Quartet No.13 In B-Flat, Op.130: V. Cavatina: Adagio molto espressivo
Violin Sonata No.5 In F, Op.24, 'Spring': II. Adagio molto espressivo
Fur Elise
Triple Concerto In C, Op.56: II. Largo
Piano Sonata No.8 In C Minor, Op.13, 'Pathetique': II. Adagio cantabile
Fidelo, Act I: Quartet 'Mir ist so wunderbar'
Piano Sonata No. 18 In E-Flat, Op.31, No.3: III. Menuetto: Moderato e grazioso
Serenade In D, Op.8: II. Adagio
Symphony No.6 In F, Op.68, 'Pastoral': II. Scene By The Brook

Tracks:

Piano Sonata No. 14 In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 2, 'Moonlight': I Adagio sostenuto
Symphony No. 2 in D, Op. 36: II Larghetto
String Quartet No. 13 In B-Flat, Op. 130: V Cavatina: Adagio molto espressivo
Violin Sonata No. 5 In F, Op. 24, 'Spring': II Adagio molto espressivo
Fur Elise
Triple Concerto In C, Op. 56: II Largo
Piano Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13, 'Pathetique': II Adagio cantabile
Fidelio, Act I: Quartet 'Mir ist so wunderbar'
Piano Sonata No. 18 In E-Flat, Op. 31 No. 3: III Menuetto: Moderato e grazioso
Serenade In D, Op. 8: II Adagio
Symphony No. 6 In F, Op. 68, 'Pastoral': II Scene By The Brook

Customer Reviews:

I love it!.......2007-01-21

I've had this CD for about 6 years now and it never gets old. As the title suggests, it's great for relaxing with a good book and a glass of wine. I find myself reaching for this CD whenever I get a migraine. I had always heard that the complexities of Beethoven's music could ease a migraine, or I suppose any headache. I've never been able to find any substantiated proof of this but from my experience the music eases my headaches. Whether it's psychological is still a mystery to me. Fact is, I love this CD and it's never far from me.

Famous Beethoven slow movements.......2006-01-15

The real Beethoven would probably be irritated with compilation CD's like this that "cherry picks" a variety of slow movements from various works he composed. But, the average listener today will see it as a great way to get to know his music and enjoy an hour of more serene music - less Beethoven's more intense movements. The variery here is broad: solo piano, violin + piano, string quartet and full orchestra symphonies and concertos. The dreamy solo-piano pieces are some of Beethoven's most beloved and alluring slow movements that vaulted him to fame. While these and the chamber music tend to be more "relaxing," the latter orchestral pieces especially contain shifts in tempo, dynamic range and emotion that some might not find so relaxing. After all, this is Beethoven with a full orchestra and not Bach or the Baroque.

But, all is not lost if you are looking for a collection of serene, lyrical music composed by the great Beethoven. There actually is a CD that features some of Beethoven's most endearing and melodic adagios and largos: "Beethoven for Book Lovers" (Philips label). This CD is mostly comprised of the nicest slow movements from Beethoven's ten violin sonatas (violin + piano) played by the legendary David Oistrakh - a violinist with one of the most gentle and beautiful tone ever recorded. Fortunately for those wanting uninterupted peacefulness, there are only a couple of those typical "Beethoven outbursts" in this CD (very brief though). But, overall, the flow and tone of the entire CD is truly relaxing, enchanting and not distracting. All of these works reveal the gentle side of Beethoven and his surprizing ability (for such a fiery composer) to write music of such poinant and tenderhearted emotional appeal. Also, the "Chopin for Relaxation" is one of the better ones in this series and features some of Chopin's slower, more serene solo-piano music and the ever-so lovely middle movements from his two legendary piano concertos.

Number of discs.......2005-03-16

The ad above shows 2 discs with the same track names... this item has only 1 disc with 11 tracks (names as shown above).

I Know Music, and This is Not the Best (by Beethoven Lover).......2005-02-21

Ok, I'll admit, this is a pretty good album, but it lacks the feeling of Beethoven. Its songs don't sound like Beethoven is playing, and its not too relaxing. It deserves three stars because of this lack of the great Beethoven himself. Sure, the songs are pretty, but I'd buy a different album if I was you.

Not the Best By beethoven Lover.......2005-02-20

not completely a delight...shows little Beethoven in it all, deserves only about two or three stars.

Arthur Rubinstein plays Chopin [Box Set]

Average customer rating:

THE GREATEST OF CHOPIN PIANISTS
The greatest interpretation
Not such a great album
Love it.
RECORDING QUALITY IS A FACTOR

Arthur Rubinstein plays Chopin [Box Set]

Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Mazurkas | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Scherzo | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Lullabies & Berceuse | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Barcarolles | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Arthur Rubinstein: Ludwig Van Beethoven Piano Sonatas
Arthur Rubinstein - Chopin 19 Nocturnes (Vol. 49)
Great Recordings Of The Century - Dinu Lipatti
Schubert: The Piano Sonatas
Beethoven: The Complete Symphonies and Piano Concertos

ASIN: B000002S59
Release Date: 1994-03-15

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 1 In E minor, Op. 11: Allegro maestoso risoluto
Piano Concerto No. 1 In E minor, Op. 11: Romanze (Larghetto) -
Piano Concerto No. 1 In E minor, Op. 11: Rondo vivace
Piano Concerto No. 2 In F minor, Op. 21: Maestoso
Piano Concerto No. 2 In F minor, Op. 21: Larghetto
Piano Concerto No. 2 In F minor, Op. 21: Allegro vivace
Waltz In C Sharp Minor, Op. 64, No. 2
Nocturne No. 1 In B Flat Minor, Op. 9 No. 1
Nocturne No. 2 In E Flat Major, Op. 9 No. 2
Nocturne No. 3 In B Major, Op. 9 No. 3

Tracks:

Nocturne No. 4 In F Major, Op. 15 No. 1
Nocturne No. 5 In F Sharp Major, Op. 15 No. 2
Nocturne No. 6 In G Minor, Op. 15 No. 3
Nocturne No. 7 In C Sharp Minor, Op. 27 No. 1
Nocturne No. 8 In D Flat Major, Op. 27 No. 2
Nocturne No. 9 In B Major, Op. 32 No. 1
Nocturne No. 10 In A Flat Major, Op. 32 No. 2
Nocturne No. 11 In G Minor, Op. 37 No. 1
Nocturne No. 12 In G Major, Op. 37 No. 2
Nocturne No. 13 In C Minor, Op. 48 No. 1
Nocturne No. 14 In F Sharp Minor, Op. 48 No. 2
Nocturne No. 15 In F Minor, Op. 55 No. 1
Nocturne No. 16 In E Flat Major, Op. 55 No. 2
Nocturne No. 17 In B Major, Op. 62 No. 1
Nocturne No. 18 In E Major, Op. 62 No. 2
Nocturne No. 19 In E Minor, Op. 71 No. 1 (posth.)

Tracks:

Waltz In A-Flat Major, Op. 34, No. 1
Mazurka In F-Sharp Minor, Op. 6, No.1
Mazurka In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 6, No.2
Mazurka In E-Major, Op. 6, No.3
Mazurka In E-Flat Major, Op.6, No.4
Mazurka In B-Flat Major, Op. 7, No. 1
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. 7, No.2
Mazurka In F-Minor, Op. 7, No. 3
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 7, No.4
Mazurka In C-Major, Op. 7, No. 5
Mazurka In B-Flat Major, Op. 17, No.1
Mazurka In E-Minor, Op. 17, No. 2
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 17, No. 3
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. 17, No. 4
Mazurka In G-Minor, Op. 24, No. 1
Mazurka In C-Major, Op. 24, No. 2
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 24, No. 3
Mazurka In B-Flat Minor, Op. 24, No. 4
Mazurka In C-Minor, Op. 30, No. 1
Mazurka In B-Minor, Op. 30, No. 2
Mazurka In D-Flat Major, Op. 30, No. 3
Mazurka In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 30, No. 4
Mazurka In G-Sharp Minor, Op. 33, No. 1
Mazurka In D-Major, Op. 33, No. 2
Mazurka In C-Minor, Op. 33, No. 3
Mazurka In B-Minor, Op. 33, No. 4
Mazurka In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 41, No. 1
Mazurka In E-Minor, Op. 41, No. 2
Mazurka In B-Major, Op. 41, No. 3
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 42, No. 4
Mazurka In G-Major, Op. 50, No. 1
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 50, No. 2
Mazurka In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 50, No. 3

Tracks:

Mazurka In B-Major, Op. 56, No. 1
Mazurka In C-Major, Op. 56, No. 2
Mazurka In C-Minor, Op. 56, No. 3
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. 59, No. 1
Mazurka In A-Flat Major, Op. 56, No. 2
Mazurka In F-Sharp Minor, Op. 56, No. 3
Mazurka In B-Major, Op. 63, No. 1
Mazurka In F-Minor, Op. 63, No. 2
Mazurka In C-Sharp minor, Op. 63, No. 3
Mazurka In G-Major, Op. 67, No. 1
Mazurka In G-Minor, Op. 67, No. 2
Mazurka In C-Major, Op. 67, No. 3
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. 67, No. 4
Mazurka In C-Major, Op. 68, No. 1
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. 68, No. 2
Mazurka In F-Major, Op. 68, No. 3
Mazurka In F-Monor, Op. 68, No. 4
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. Posth. (A son ami Emile Gaillard)
Mazurka In A-Minor, Op. posth. (Notre temps)
Scherzi In B-Minor, Op. 20
Scherzi In B-Flat Minor, Op. 31
Scherzi In C-Sharp Minor, Op. 39
Scherzi In E-Major, Op. 54

Tracks:

Barcaolle In F-Sharp Major, Op. 60
Berseuse In D-Flar Major
Polonaise In C-Sharp Major, Op. 26, No. 1
Polonaise In E-Flat Major, Op. 26, No.2
Polonaise In A-Major, Op. 40, No. 1
Polonaise In C-Minor, Op. 40, No. 2
Polonaise In F-Sharp Major, Op. 44
Polonaise In A-Flat Major, Op. 53 (Heroic)
Polonaise In A-Flat Major, Op. 61 (Polonaise-Fantaisie)
Andante splanato & polonaise brillante In E-Flat Major, Op. 22

Customer Reviews:

THE GREATEST OF CHOPIN PIANISTS.......2007-03-01

These are the earlier discs of Rubinstein's Chopin, recorded by HMV in London during the 1930's. It is less complete than his later recordings for RCA - no Sonatas, no Ballades, no Etudes. The sound is naturally of its time - but in many ways more natural than the sharply-lit, slightly edgy piano sound RCA favoured in the 50's and 60's. Nevertheless, these are the Chopin performances I return to most.

Rubinstein's natural affinity with Chopin is legendary. He seemed always able to capture precisely the right degree of rubato at exactly the right moment in these pieces. And he had a unique ability in his countryman's music to balance the lyrical with the impassioned, what seems completely spontaneous with what is clearly deeply considered. The Nocturnes here are, I think, the best you'll hear anywhere on disc. In the greatest of them - the Opp.37 & 48 sets, for example - Rubinstein gets the contrast between the dreamy nocturnal outer sections with the darker, more impassioned central sections just right. These are not salon miniatures in his hands but big works, if not in length then in content. And no-one can match Rubinstein in the elusive diversity of this complete set of Mazurkas. The two Concerti both have Barbirolli as the sympathetic conductor, following Rubinstein's lead in the ebb and flow of phrases and whole sections of these gorgeous and often maligned works. Interestingly the recording of Concerto No.2 (actually the first composed) dates from before the pianist's famous withdrawal from public performance to reconstruct his technique and his approach, that of Concerto No.1 from after. Perhaps one can detect a touch more maturity and refinement in his approach to the latter, but they are both ravishing performances.

Many of the performances on these 5 discs are the greatest Chopin you're likely to hear. And the ear soon adjusts to the somewhat old-fashioned recorded piano sound. This is a highly desirable set for any lover of Chopin and/or great piano playing.

The greatest interpretation.......2007-02-17

The interpretation is stunning. Mono - but no matter for solo piano - and a wee bit hissy but still quite superb.

Not such a great album.......2007-01-12

This album was recorded from records as you can hear the scratches and skips. Don't recommend it!

Love it........2006-06-22

This is my favorite album. I think that not even Rubinstein's later recordings attain this quality of musical involvment.

There is a fair amount of background noise, but the music helps to forget it rather quickly overall.

RECORDING QUALITY IS A FACTOR.......2005-02-10

Otherwise, I would have given 5 stars. The fact that these have a hiss (and you can practically hear him close the piano on several numbers) should be mentioned. I guess we are spoiled to audio quality, but this is an expensive collection and this fact was glaringly omitted. That said, I have enjoyed the recordings, in spite of the very audible hiss.

Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 3

Average customer rating:

The definitive recording
my ears don't lie do they?
Classic!
A very special gifted pianist!
Beautiful recording

Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 3

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Liszt: The Two Piano Concertos; The Piano Sonata
Rachmaninoff: Concerto No. 3 in D minor, Op. 30 / Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No. 1 in B flat minor, Op. 23
Tchaikovsky: 1812 Overture/Capriccio Italien/Beethoven: Wellington's Victory
Brahms: Concertos for Piano No. 1 & 2, Fantasia Op. 116
Horowitz Plays Rachmaninoff/Concerto for Piano in Dm; Sonata for Piano No2/Vladimir Horowitz, Pianist

ASIN: B0000057LA
Release Date: 1991-11-08

Tracks:

Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30: Allegro ma non troppo
Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30: Intermezzo: Adagio
Piano Concerto No. 3 In D Minor, Op. 30: Finale: Alla breve
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: Moderato
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: Adagio sostenuto
Piano Concerto No. 2 In C Minor, Op. 18: Allegro scherzando
Prelude In E-Flat Major, Op.23, No.6
Prelude In C-Sharp Minor, Op.3, No.2

Amazon.com essential recording

Byron Janis' celebrated recordings of these two concertos have never sounded better than in this new remastering by Mercury's Wilma Cozart Fine. Talk about recordings usually focuses on the artists and composers, and rightly so, but there are some people in the industry whose names you should know, producers and engineers whose work is as artistically excellent as the performers they record. During the late 50s and early 60s the Fines, husband and wife, created a catalog of recordings, which, when all is said and done, is probably title for title the finest in existence. There isn't a single one that isn't worth hearing, and some, like this one, belong in every collection. --David Hurwitz

Customer Reviews:

The definitive recording.......2007-07-17

Although this album features two orchestras (LSO and then the Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra) the early 1960s Janis-Dorati partnership produced what is arguably the best single piano & orchestra disk in the catalog and a definitive rendition of these two popular concerti.

While the pace is sometimes stately for the big rolling Rachmaninov themes, the passage work is spritely and the overall effect is one of great energy.

The particular benefit of these early 1960s recording is Wilma Cozart's Mercury Living Presence technique which used a single placement of just three microphones (unlike the modern tendency to "mike" every instrument in the orchestra and then adjust balance concerns in re-mixing). This gives the thrill of being at an actual performance (the "living presence" of the orchestra) but without the coughs and other limitations of a concert recording. Indeed, although the CD is reconstructed from original analog tapes, it's hard to imagine that any recording with the best artist in the world could improve on the sound.

Sadly, Janis did not record the less popular Rachmaninov concerti (1 and 4) in the same format. For those, Earl Wild's mid-1960s record is recommended.

In short, if my house was burning down, I'd run back in for this CD.

my ears don't lie do they?.......2006-05-29

I have no reference to compare this recording with, I only have Rachmaninov's 2nd piano concerto played by Richter which I like very much, but I cannot describe what's so good about it.
I don't have enough interest for piano solo or recitals to be able to tell what exactly makes a good pianist (in general and for me personal)
I'm not even sure what I like or not.

Well maybe I like uncomplicated, straightforward piano playing, with a somewhat light, clear touche the best, I'm not that fond of heavy pedal use.
(I like Kempff's Beethoven Concertos with Ferdinand Leitner very much)

But my taste and understanding for piano solo (violin solo as well) has to be developed yet.
For now I'm choosing "uncomplicated playing" as my personal preference...but with not much confidence about it.

These performances by Janis and Dorati are pretty straightforward and I'm pleased that I made a good choice out of many recordings.

Dorati's orchestral accompaniment is forceful, sometimes pretty manic, he constantly breaths in Janis' neck, which is breathtaking.
The sound of the orchestra/recording is close and direct with lots of presence what helpes to get even more involved in the performance.
The performances I heard never gave that sense of commitment in the music Dorati and Janis give.
True, the recording helps a lot and obviously the "old sonics" too...I mean the sound is absolutely fabulous, but you're aware it is an old recording and it does add that bit of authenticity to it.

In Rachmaninov's 2nd concerto I like Richter/Wislocki better, but probably only because of the 1st movement, which is slower - slower than everyone else, for me Richter/Wislocki's tempo feels more natural than Rachmaninov's own and everyone else's faster readings.
Janis/Dorati's Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra however is better than Wislocki's Warsaw Orchestra.

As you noticed I haven't mentioned Byron Janis' playing at all...that's because I simply cannot say anything relevant about it, I have to learn a lot and listen to many pianists to make a valid comment.

The performance itself, as a whole, by Janis and Dorati is excellent, no doubt about it, there must be something seriously wrong with my ears if I am wrong about this.

Classic!.......2006-02-19

Definitely a "must-have" performance in piano concerto category. One of a great recordings sonically. Mostly clean throughout the disc, I heard just a few cracking noises during high energy sections.

A very special gifted pianist!.......2005-07-06

Byron Janis was one of the most prominent American pianists of his generation, headed by William Kapell, Rosalyn Tureck, Leon Fleisher, John Browning and Lorin Hollander.He possessed tune, technique and temperament, the famous three T required to shine in this difficult activity.
Maybe the favorite repertoire did not fill the future expectations of new audiences after the sixties. The new tendencies of the Sixties shaped new searches: the Russian repertoire had been reassigned to three magnificent pianists from the USSR: Emil Gilels, Sviatoslav Richter and Vladimir Ashkenazy. The impressive number of Piano Festivals all around the world turned out the attention of new audiences, avid to meet the new talents: precisely The Busoni competition allowed to young promises as Marta Argerich to get a place, but also worked out positively for many European artists as Alfred Brendel, Walter Klien, John Lill, John Ogdon, who triumphed in Tchaikovsky Competition.
The special interest for the Russian music, decayed in that decade. Mahler, Shostakovich, Nielsen, ascended in the musical taste and the piano music of Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms and Schubert remained for small audiences in Europe, but not in USA . There was a huge interest for the new compositions, so Bartok, Schoenberg, Messiaen, Copland and even Brahms held the attention, but the orchestral sound prevailed over the Hall Concerts. The European invasion and the new names from the other side of the Atlantic Ocean, shadowed many emerging figures.
That's why the new generation of pianists (with the exception of two true icons in the American pianism as Rosalyn Tureck and Earl Wild) as David Dubal, Gerard Robbins, Paul Jacobs, Raymond Lewenthal, Jerome Rose, Adrian Ruiz and Ursula Oppenheimer decided to play Reinecke, Copland, Busoni, Alkan and Liszt.
In other words the lack of perception of the new musical tendencies, plus the sudden decay of new directors established the difference and the artistic surviving for many gifted pianists, far beyond the personal disgrace of Fleisher.
However this recording will become a true historical reference for the future generations.

Beautiful recording.......2005-04-19

What can I say about this CD that's not already said? I totally agree with all the comments expressed here by all the reviewers.

In all my 50 years, I never knew piano music could be so rich, evocative and inspiring. This is one discovery that came so late but nevertheless so wonderfully fulfilling and satisfying in my enjoyment of music over a lifetime. I can truly say that this music has enriched my life and came at a time when life seems to be coming to a close, at least as I perceived it for myself. Imagine, such music created nearly fifty years ago still sound so fresh and beautiful that it can touch, move and inspire us even now, after all the years! I encourage music lovers everywhere, especially of classical music, to get hold of this CD and listen to it at least once in their lifetime. You may experience the same sense of joy and wonder as I have. Also, as far as possible, try to listen to it on a high-end high-fidelity audio system. This will definitely give a clearer and more detailed insight, `revelation' into the music, making it that so much more enjoyable.

If Byron Janis was a student of Vladmir Horowitz, then I must say that in this instance, the disciple has truly excelled above and beyond that of the master (as chinese sayings go). In comparison to the Horowitz/Reiner/RCA/1951 recording which some described as the definitive and ultimate interpretation of the Rachmaninoff Third, I find that the latter much less emotionally involving and satisfying. In my opinion, many things in the latter - the seemingly `missing' orchestration (overwhelmed by the forceful pianist maybe), the `plonky' and `banging' piano tone in many instances, the relatively `cold' technical rendition, poor mono recording with thin and reedy sounds overall etc - make it inferior by far. The only other worthy contender, which even comes close to this by Byron Janis, is the Martha Argerich/ Kondrasin/Bavarian RSO/Philips/1980 recording.

So don't hesitate, go get the SACD version of this CD now and enjoy....