> Classical CD Reviews January 2002 part 5 S-Z: Classical MusicWeb (UK)

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PART 5
S-Y

[Part 1 New]  [Part 2 A-B] [Part 3 C-L]
[Part 4 M-R]  [Part 5 S-Y] [Part 6 Misc] 
              


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ALPHABETICAL LISTING


Joly Braga SANTOS (a) Concerto for Strings in D (1951); (b) Sinfonietta for Strings (1963); (c) Variations Concertantes for Strings and Harp (1967); (d) Concerto for Violin, Cello, Strings and Harp (1967) (d) Bradley Creswick (violin), Alexander Somov (cello); (c,d) Sue Blair (harp) Northern Sinfonia, Álvaro Cassuto (conductor) Recorded Jubilee Theatre, St Nicholas' Hospital, Gosforth, 26th-28th April 2001 Marco Polo 8.225186 (67:51) [CW]

Cassuto at the helm of an English Sinfonia at the top of their form adds to the appeal of a fine issue which does much to fill out our picture of this most worthwhile and surprising initiate into the ranks of indisputably great 20th century composers....see Full Review

Antonio SARTORIO (1620-1681) L’Orfeo, opera Voices and instruments of the Clemencic Consort/René Clemencic Rec. Teatro Goldoni, Venice, Italy, October 1997 WARNER: MUSIC ANTIQUA 8573 84103-2 [CD1 62.21; CD2 44.16; CD3 51.02] [RJF]

Those with specialist interest in Baroque opera will want this mid-price issue. Others may well be more circumspect. ...see Full Review

Rodion SHCHEDRIN (b. 1932) Carmen Suite Concerto for Orchestra No. 1 Naughty Limericks Concerto for Orchestra No. 2 The Chimes Russian National Orchestra/Mikhail Pletnev Rec February-March 1998, Moscow State Conservatory DEUTSCHE GRAMMOPHON DG 471 1362 [61.48]

With richly colourful sound, these compelling works will give much pleasure to those who enjoy the wider range of possibilities modern music offers. For those of more timid tastes, the experience will be vibrant and direct. ...see Full Review

Franz SCHREKER (1878-1934) Overtures and Incidental music Ekkehard Overture (1902) Fantastic Overture (1903) Der Schatzgräber: Act 3 Interlude (c.1915) Die Gezeichneten: Prelude (1914) Das Spielwerk: Prelude (1932) Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra/Edgar Seipenbusch Rec. Slovak Philharmonic Concert Hall, Prague, Czech Republic 1986-7 NAXOS 8.555246 [51.05] [RW]

All deal with principally dark topics and the material is not uplifting. However the performances are strong from the large Slovak orchestra and is sensitively handled under Seipenbusch's baton. … see Full Listing.

Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828).
Symphonies No. 5 D485 and No. 8 "Unfinished" D759 Overtures in the Italian Style D590 and D591 Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra Nikolaus Harnoncourt Recorded Concertgebouw November 1992 APEX 0927 40840-2 [69.29] [JW]

From Harnoncourt’s conspicuously successful traversal of the complete symphonies come these serious minded but never ponderous readings. … see Full Listing

Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828) String Quintet in C major Brandis Quartet, Jörg Baumann (cello) Rec 1987, Teldec APEX 09274 08332 [54.56]

The Brandis ensemble must be commended for their eloquence and skill, though as with other issues in this admirably budget-priced series, the booklet is poorly designed and unnecessarily difficult to read. … see Full Listing

Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828) Die Winterreise, D911. Christian Gerhaher (baritone); Gerold Huber (piano). Recorded in Studio 2 of Bavarian Radio, Munich on January 13th-17th and 19th, 2001. [DDD] ARTE NOVA Lieder 74321 80777-2 [77.59] Superbudget [CC]

Despite many positive points, Gerhaher and Huber in the final analysis fail top move the listener in the way that some of this score’s greatest exponents can. …see Full Listing

Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828) Schwanengesang, D. 957 (1828) Johannes BRAHMS (1833-1897) Vier ernste Gesänge, op.121 (1896) Thomas Quasthoff (baritone), Justus Zeyen (pianoforte) Recorded in the Bavaria Musikstudios, Munich, 12.2000 DG 471 030-2 [65.49] [CH]

There is no shortage of famous versions of Schwanengesang and you’d be better off with any of them. ...see Full Review

Robert SCHUMANN Fantasie, Op.17; Davidsbundlertanze. Op.6
Herbert du Plessis (piano) Recorded June 1995, Boulogne-Billancourt PAVANE ADW 7348 [69.09] [CA]

Du Plessis, on his own terms, makes a decent impression, but this is an uncompetitive release given the competition. … see Full Review

Jean SIBELIUS (1865-1957) Symphony no. 1 in E minor, op. 39 (1899) Symphony no. 5 in E flat, op. 82 (1917) London Symphony Orchestra/Sir Colin Davis BMG RCA RED SEAL 7432168017 2 [70.34] [CH]

It’s all very fine; but read on if you dare! … see Full Listing

Jean SIBELIUS (1865-1957) Complete music for violin and orchestra
Violin Concerto
Miriam Fried (violin) Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra/Okko Kamu Serenades Nos. 1 & 2 Jaakko Kuusisto (violin) Kuopio Symphony Orchestra/Atso Almila Six Humoresques Leonidas Kavakos (violin) Tapiola Sinfonietta/Juliani Lamminmöki Suite in D minor for violin & orchestra Jari Valo (violin) Ostrobothnian Chamber Orchestra/Juha Kangas Rec 1988 (Violin Concerto); 1998 (others) Finlandia APEX 09274 06062 [79.17] Superbudget [TB]

Fried is not afraid to wring the utmost emotion from the music, as when she pulls back the tempo in the more expressive moments of the first movement. Characterful and compelling. …. See Full Review

Jean SIBELIUS (1865-1957) Songs Volume 2: Hymn to Thais. Five Christmas Songs op.1. Eight Josephson Songs op.57. Sangen om korsspindeln (King Christian II) op.27 no.4. Four Songs op.72 nos.3-6. Six Songs op.86. Sma flickorna. Recorded January 1994 in Stockholm. (DDD) Monica Groop (mezzo) Love Derwinger (piano) BIS-CD-657 [65.35] [DW]

A marvellous CD. Agreed not all the songs are gems but the singer is! Definitely one of my desert island discs. ...see Full Review

Jean SIBELIUS (1865-1957) Orchestral Songs Mari-Anne Häggander (soprano)Jorma Hynninen (baritone) Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra/Jorma PanulaRec 1985? BIS-CD-270 [55.00?] [DW]

Jorma Hynninen, is undeniably first class in these songs and Marie Anne Haggander's top register is gloriously clear and, in a good sense, piercing and clear like a Nordic winter. …see Full Listing

Richard Stoker (1938- ) Piano Music Eric Parkin (piano) Rec. 1998 PRIORY PRCD 659 [79.00] [JF]

Good introduction to one of the more approachable contemporary composers. Taught by Lennox Berkeley and Nadia Boulanger, this sound education shows in this fine music - interesting, satisfying and enjoyable. Well played by Eric Parkin too. .. see Full Listing

Richard STRAUSS (1864-1949) Friedenstag Soloists Staatsopernchor Dresden Staatskapelle Dresden Giuseppe Sinopoli Rec September 1999, Lukaskirche Dresden DG 463 494-2 [76.03] [TB]

A useful addition to the catalogue rather than a compelling and definitive addition to it. ...see Full Review

Richard STRAUSS (1864-1949) Ein Heldenleben, Tod und Verklarung Concertgebouw Orchestra Willem Mengelberg conductor Recorded Concertgebouw 1941 (Ein Heldenleben) and 1942 (Tod und Verklarung) NAXOS HISTORICAL 8.110161 [65.54] [JW]

Mengelberg has been increasingly well served recently on CD but this late Straussian disc is deserving of wide currency. … see Full Review

Igor STRAVINSKY (1882-1971) Pétrouchka (1919 version) Le Sacre du Printemps Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Yuri Temirkanov Recorded 1988 Venue not given RCA RED SEAL 74321 68020 2 DDD [71:17] Superbudget [CT]

Below par performances of two Stravinsky masterpieces that are lacking in character, refinement and energy. ... see Full Review

Timothy SULLIVAN A Magic Casement, Two Pianos, A Soft and Golden Fire Kathleen Brett (sop); Linda Maguire (mezzo); Stephen Ralls and Bruce Ubukata (pianos) (Magic Casement). Duo Turgeon (Two Pianos); Kathleen Brett (sop); Robert Cram (flute); Sanya Eng (harp). rec 22-23 June, 5-6 Aug 2000, Church of St Mary Magdalene, Toronto CLASS X DISCS [65.19] [RB]

Thoughtful, beautifully conceived and executed works to gladden the heart. ... see Full Review

Ralph VAUGHAN WILLIAMS (1872-1958) Phantasy Quintet (1912) [15.06] String Quartet No.1 in G minor (1908 rev.1921) [29.36] String Quartet No.2 in A minor (1942-3) [21.46] Maggini Quartet Garfield Jackson, viola Rec. Potton Hall, Suffolk, UK, June 13-15 2000 NAXOS 8.555300 [66.29] [AT]

Naxos hits the bullseye again, as truly excellent performances bring these lesser known works to life. Essential for all Vaughan Williams lovers, very important for everyone else. …. See Full Review


Ralph VAUGHAN WILLIAMS (1872-1958) Mass in G minor Motets: Lord, Thou hast been our refuge; Prayer to the Father of Heaven; O vos omnes; O clap your hands; O taste and see, Anthem: O how amiable, Hymn: Come, down, O Love divine (Down Ampney) Elora Festival Singers Thomas Fitches (organ) Noel Edison Rec 8-11 February 2000, Church of St Mary Magdalene, Toronto and St Mary's Church, Elora, Ontario NAXOS 8.554826 [56.41] [TB]

An appealing collection of interesting repertoire, but the details of the composer's subtle textures are not always articulated. Even so this remains a rewarding collection at the price. … see Full Listing

Giuseppe VERDI (1813-1901) Il Trovatore Soloists Chorus and Orchestra of La Scala, Milan Lorenzo Molajoli (conductor)Recorded on 28 sides by Italian Columbia 10-23 September 1930Appendix: Selected recordings by Bianca Scacciati NAXOS HISTORICAL 8.110162-63[150.09] Superbudget

A glorious feast of singing from a golden age …see. Full Review

Giuseppe VERDI (1813-1901) Opera Choruses Choir and Orchestra of the National Academy of Saint Cecilia / Carlo Rizzi Recorded: Conservatorio di Musica Santa Cecilia, Rome, September 1992 DDD WARNER CLASSICS APEX 0927 40836 2 [61.09] [RMK]

At £4.99 this is a bargain and a half: not to be missed. ... see Full Review

Heitor VILLA-LOBOS (1887-1959) Piano Music - Volume 2 A Lenda do Caboclo, Ondulando, Valsa da Dor, A Prole do Bebe No 2, Cirandinhas Sonia Rubinsky (piano) Recorded Grace Church on the Hill, Toronto April 2000 NAXOS 8.554827 [66.48] [JW]

The sound is natural and sympathetic and Rubinsky’s playing is deeply impressive. Highly recommended. … see Full Review

Antonio VIVALDI (1678-1741) Orlando Furioso Marilyn Horne, Orlando, Susan Patterson, Angelica, Kathleen Kuhlmann, Alcina, Sandra Walker, Bradamante, Jeffrey Gall, Ruggerio, William Matteuzzi, Medoro Kevin Langan, Astolfo Orchestra and Chorus of the San Francisco Opera, Randall Behr Production: Pier Luigi Pizzi Rec: 1989, San Francisco. ARTHAUS DVD 100210 147.00] [KM]

Certainly worth having, especially since there are so few recordings (especially videos) of Vivaldi’s operas. ...see Full Review

William WALTON (1902-1983) The World Of William Walton
Overture: Portsmouth Point London Philharmonic Orchestra/Sir Adrian Boult
Tango-Pasodoble, Valse, Jodelling Song, Scotch Rhapsody, Popular Song (from Façade) Peggy Ashcroft, Jeremy Irons (speakers) London Sinfonietta/Riccardo Chailly Andante tranquillo (first movement of Violin Concerto) Tasmin Little (violin) Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra/Andrew Litton Movements I & IV (from Five Bagatelles) Nicola Hall (guitar) Set me as a seal upon thine heart Timothy Moule (treble), William Kendall (Tenor) Choir of Winchester Cathedral/David Hill Crown Imperial Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra/Andrew Litton Charge and Battle (from Henry V) Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra/Andrew Litton Finale (from Symphony no. 2) Royal Philharmonic Orchestra/Vladimir Ashkenazy The sing aloud . . . . (from Belshazzar's Feast) London Philharmonic Chorus and Orchestra/Sir Georg Solti Rec Decca, 1954-1995 DECCA 470 127 2 [70.30] [TB]

There are some splendid things among this compilation. ...see Full Review

Christoph Ernst Friedrich WEYSE (1774-1842) SYMPHONIES CD 1: Symphonies Nos 1 –3 CD 2: Symphonies 4 & 5 CD 3: Symphonies 6 & 7 Royal Danish Orchestra/Michael Schønwandt Rec. 1993/4, Copenhagen, Denmark MARCO POLO/DACAPO CD 1 DACAPO 8.224012 [66.47] CD 2 DACAPO 8.224013 [56.32] CD 3 DACAPO 8.224014 [54.18]

Weyse is in the Haydn tradition. Splendid playing by the Royal Danish Orchestra under Schønwandt. I should have welcomed a touch more gusto but these are rewarding works. ...see Full Review

Christoph Ernst Friedrich WEYSE (1774-1842) The Late Piano Works: 8 Etudes Op.51 (1831) 4 Etudes Op.60 (1837) Allegro di bravura in A Minor Op.50 (1831) Bohumila Jedlickova (piano) Rec. 1993, Copenhagen, Denmark MARCO POLO/DACAPO DCCD 9307 [CD1 50.23] Full Price [RW]

Jedlickova meets the challenge of breathing life into Weyse's piano music with energy and commitment. ...see Full Review

Graham WHETTAM (b.1927) Concerto Drammatico; Sinfonia contra timore Martin Rummel (vlc); Sinfonia da Camera, Urbana, Illinois/Ian Hobson; Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra/Günter Blumhagen (British Orchestral Music Vol 2) rec: Concerto; Sept 2000 Univ Illinois;Sinfonia; Oct 75 German Radio REDCLIFFE RECORDINGS RR 017 [60.00] Midprice

This release puts Whettam’s music back on a map which it should never have deserted. ...see Full Review

James WHITBOURN (b. 1963) A Finer Truth, Crown my heart, Glory to thee , Son of God Mass, For choir, saxophone† and organ Of one that is so fair, Hodie, Come to the wedding, Song of Hannah, Venite, Blessings on you
This is my commandment, The Mystery of Love,
For tenor*, choir and chamber ensemble A finer truth, Come with me, The wide world sings, I saw a plant, Go so gently * Robert Tear (tenor); † John Harle (saxophone); Joby Burgess (percussion) and John Reid (organ) with the Choir of Clare College Cambridge directed by Timothy Brown Recorded in Chapel of St John’s College, Cambridge on 25th and 26th June 2001 ETCETERA KTC 1248 [70:33] [GL]

This is inspired new sacred music, a joy to listen to and a very welcome contrast to accustomed devotional pieces. ...see Full Review

Charles-Marie WIDOR (1844-1937) Piano Trio in B flat major (1875) [31.33] Piano Quintet in D minor (1890) [29.18] Ilona Prunyi (piano)
New Budapest Quartet rec Italian Institute, Budapest, 10-13 April 1988 NAXOS 8555416 [60.51] [RB]

Two French chamber works from the end of the nineteenth century. If you are at all curious about Widor out of the organ loft then your curiosity will be rewarded. ...see Full Review

WOLF Hugo (1860-1903) Mörike Lieder Joan Rodgers (soprano), Stephan Genz (baritone), Roger Vignoles (pianoforte) Recorded 9.1999 and 10.2000 in the Clara-Wieck-Auditorium, Heidelberg-Sandhausen, Germany HYPERION CDA67311/2 [2 CDs, 74.09 71.59] [CH]

The whole of romantic Germany is here. All who care about the continuance of great lieder singing in our own times will hear it with rejoicing. … see Full Review

 

 

[Part 1 New]  [Part 2 A-B] [Part 3 C-L]
[Part 4 M-R]  [Part 5 S-Y] [Part 6 Misc]    
 


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