Classical CD Review Archive - Classical - Nov2002 part 3 C-L: Classical MusicWeb (UK)

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John CAGE (1912 � 1992) Etudes Australes (1976) Steffen Schleiermacher (piano) - Recorded: Fürstliche Reitbahn, Bad Arolsen, December 2001 DABRINGHAUS & GRIMM MDG 613 0795-2 [3CDs: 63:08 + 69:03 + 71:49] [HC]

A certain monotony but dedicated readings, carefully prepared and fully committed � remarkable � see Full Review

John CAGE (1912-92) Complete Piano Music, Volume 7: Pieces 1933-1950. Soliloquy (1945). Ophelia (1946). The Seasons (1947). Two Pieces for Piano (1935). Jazz Study (1942). Metamorphosis (1938). Quest - Second Movement (1935). Three Easy Pieces (1933). A Room (1943). Crete and Dad (1945). Two Pieces for Piano (1946). Ad Lib. (1942). Triple-paced (First Version, 1943) Stefan Schleiermacher (piano). Recorded at Furstliche Reitbahn Bad Arolsen on March 19th-21st, 2000. [DDD] DABRINGHAUS UND GRIMM MDG613 0793-2 [77'27] [CC]
A rewarding CD. Schleiermacher seems as at home here as with the most cripplingly difficult Darmstadt compositions. � see Full Review
John CAGE (1912-1992) Perpetual Tango (1984). In a Landscape (1948). Suite for Toy Piano (1948, version for Piano). Cheap Imitation (1969). Dream (1948). Swinging (1989). Perpetual Tango (1984). Stefan Schleiermacher (piano) Rec. [DDD] DABRINGHAUS UND GRIMM MDG613 0794-2 [79'34] [CC]

A devotion never once in doubt. Utmost concentration successfully conveys the essence of this music � see Full Review

Luigi CHERUBINI (1760-1842) Medea (1797) Maria Callas (Medea), Fedora Barbieri (Neris), Maria Luisa Nache (Glauce), Gino Penno (Giasone), Giuseppe Modesti (Creonte), Angela Vercelli (Prima ancella), Maria Amadini (Seconda ancella), Enrico Campi (Capo delle guardie) Chorus and Orchestra of La Scala, Milan/Leonard Bernstein - Recorded live 10^th December 1953 at La Scala, Milan EMI CLASSICS CMS 5 67909 2 [2 CDs. 52� 08", 77� 11"] [CH]

The sparks fly between Callas and Bernstein and the set should be heard for its documentation of an extraordinary musical meeting, in quite passable sound. � see Full Review
Frédéric CHOPIN (1810-1849) - A QUINTET OF CHOPIN PRELUDES - 24 Preludes, op. 28
Craig Sheppard (pianoforte) with CHOPIN - Prelude in c sharp, op. 45 - Alexander SCRIABIN 24 Preludes, op. 11 - Recorded live in the Meany Theatre, University of Washington, Seattle - 4^th October 1994 (Chopin), 1^st May 1995 (Scriabin) AT 00-00549 [74�00"]
Nina Milkina (pianoforte) with CHOPIN - Nocturne in c sharp, op. posth. - Recorded at the Bishopsgate Institute, London, 1977 UNTERSCHRIFT CLASSICS (no number) [44�46"]
Artur Rubinstein (pianoforte) with CHOPIN - Sonata no. 2 op. 35, Berceuse op. 57, Barcarolle op. 60 - Recorded 10^th, 11^th, 20^th June 1946 (Preludes), 11^th, 18^th, 29^th March 1946 (Sonata), 20^th June 1946 (Berceuse), 28^th August 1946 (Barcarolle), location not given BMG CLASSICS � RCA VICTOR GOLD SEAL GD60047 [70�26"] [CH]
Summary: A strong recommendation for Nina Milkina�s little-known set; Cortot should be heard if you are at all tolerant of "historical" sound. And one or even two versions of these pieces are not enough � See Full Review
Frédéric CHOPIN (1810-1849) Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor Op. 11 (1830) - Allegro maestoso; Romanza -Larghetto; Rondo - Vivace - Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor Op. 21 (1830) - Allegro maestoso; Larghetto; Allegro vivace - Elisabeth Leonskaya (piano) Czech Philharmonic Orchestra/Vladimir Ashkenazy - Recorded live at the Rudolfinum, Prague, November 1998 WARNER APEX 0927-48748-2 [71.54] [CF]
Leonskaya�s phrasing breathes and expands to accommodate a stylish feel for rubato in shaping those warm melodies. � see Full Review
Frederic CHOPIN (1810-1849) Piano Concerto No. 1 in E minor Op. 11 - Allegro maestoso; Romanza - Larghetto; Rondo - Vivace - Piano Concerto No. 2 in F minor Op. 21 - Allegro maestoso; Larghetto; Allegro vivace - Martino Tirimo (piano) Philharmonia Orchestra/Fedor Glushchenko - Recorded in All Saints, Petersham June 1994 REGIS RRC1096 [76. 07] [CF]
Quite the finest Chopin playing since Vlado Perlemuter � see Full Review

Muzio CLEMENTI (1752-1832) 100 Studies, Op. 44 - Excerpts. Michele Campanella, Sandro de Palma, Maria Mosca, Vincenzo Vitale, Aldo Tramma, Carlo Bruno, Laura de Fusco, Franco Medori (pianos) Recorded in Naples in 1977-1979. ADD WARNER FONIT 8573 87495-2 [50'26] [CC]
It is certainly difficult to imagine anybody making space for these pieces in a recital but persuasive enough performances to justify the outlay for the disc. � see Full Review
Francesco Bartolomeo CONTI (1682-1732) Cantate con istromenti Lontananza dell�amato, Ride il prato, Con piu lucidi candori, Vaghi augelletti Bernarda Fink, mezzo-soprano Ars Antique Austria/Gunar Letzbor Rec: July 2001, Tre Colli church, Calci. ARCANA A 309 [68.20] [KM]
The overall impression this listener has is one of tedium � see Full Review
Aaron COPLAND (1900-1990) 81st Birthday Concert at The Library of Congress - Zion�s Walls (from Old American Songs Second Set 1952) - At the River (from Old American Songs Second Set 1952) - Simple Gifts (from Old American Songs First Set 1950) - The little Horses (from Old American Songs Second Set 1952) - Three Moods (piano solo) (1920-21) - Night Thoughts (piano solo) (1972) - Twelve Poems of Emily Dickinson (1949-50) - Conversation with Aaron Copland, Donald L Leavitt and Leo Smit - Jan DeGaetani, mezzo-soprano Leo Smit, piano - Recorded at the Coolidge Auditorium of The Library of Congress 14^th November 1981 BRIDGE BCD 9046 [58.18] [JW]

Now spare, now furious, all the while managing to convey the myriad suggestible implications � see Full Review
BARGAIN OF THE MONTH Aaron COPLAND (1900-1990) Clarinet Concerto (1947-48) - Four Dance Episodes from Rodeo (1942) - Sextet for string quartet, clarinet and piano (1937) - Quartet for piano and strings (1950) Richard Horsford (clarinet), Chamber Orchestra of Europe, Thierry Fischer (Concerto) Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, John Farrar (Rodeo) - Michael Collins (clarinet), Martin Roscoe (piano), Vanbrugh Quartet (sextet and quartet) - Recorded at Barking Assembly Hall, 1989 (Concerto), Winter Gardens, Bournemouth 1993 (Rodeo), Potton Hall, Suffolk, 1999 (sextet and quartet) ASV PLATINUM PLT 8504 [70.51] [TH]
A cheap way to get to know other aspects of this composer�s art. Recommended unreservedly. � see Full Review
Matthew CURTIS (b.1959) Fiesta (1983) [6.12] - Amsterdam Suite (1995) [19.33] - Pas de Deux (1981) [5.23] - Paths to Urbino - Symphonic Suite (1997) [30.17] - Two Pieces for Small Orchestra (1982, 2002) [10.29] - Outward Bound (1995) [15.20] Royal Ballet Sinfonia/Gavin Sutherland - rec. 1-2 July 2002, Sony Music Studios, London DDD - British Composer series CAMPION CAMEO 215 [77.18] [RB]
Exuberance and rapturously engaging light music ... see Full Review
Claude DEBUSSY (1862-1918) Première Rapsodie* [8�47"] Danse Sacrée et Danse Profane** [9�39"] Deux Arabesques*** [8�04"] Clair de Lune**** [5�05"] Sonata for flute, viola and harp ***** [17�39"] String Quartet in G minor, Op. 10****** [25�09"] * Emma Johnson (clarinet); English Chamber Orchestra conducted by Yan Pascal Tortelier (Recorded in St. Peter�s Church, Morden, January 1987) **Prometheus Ensemble; Caryl Thomas (harp) (Recorded in St Peter�s Church, Morden, 18 May 1989) ***Gordon Fergus-Thompson (piano)(Recorded in Henry Wood Hall, London, July 1989) ****Shura Cherkassky (piano) (Recording date & venue unknown) *****Richard Blake (flute); Yuko Inoue (viola); Caryl Thomas (harp) (Recorded in St Peter�s Church, Morden, 18 May 1989) ******The Lindsays (Recorded in Holy Trinity Church, Wentworth, 5-7 July 1994) ASV PLATINUM PLT 8505 [74�47"] [JQ]

Fine enjoyable collection of performances, excellent, intelligent playing � see Full Review

Frederick DELIUS (1862-1934) Two Aquarelles (arr. Fenby, 1938) - A Song of Summer (1929-30) - The Walk to the Paradise Garden, from A Village - Romeo and Juliet (1901) - Irmelin Prelude (1931) - On Hearing the First Cuckoo in Spring (1912) - Romance - String Quartet �Late Swallows� (1916) - Royal Ballet Sinfonia, Gavin Sutherland (Aquarelles) - Philharmonia Orchestra, Owain Arwel Hughes (Song of Summer, Paradise Garden) - Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Alan Barlow (Irmelin, First Cuckoo) Julian Lloyd Webber (cello), Yitkin Seow (piano) (Romance) - The Brodskys (String Quartet) - Recorded at Sony Music Studios and St. Peter�s Church, Morden, 1988 and 2001? ASV PLATINUM PLT 8506 [74.19] [TH]
Recommended with some minor reservations. � see Full Review
Carl Ditters von DITTERSDORF (1739-99) Giob (1786) Markus Schäfer (tenor) Job; Romelia Lichtenstein (soprano) Zara; Jörg Waschinski (male soprano) Baldad; Ekkehard Abele (bass) Ismael; Beat Duddech (countertenor) Elifaz; Linda Perillo (soprano) Angel Rheinische Kantorei Das Kleine Konzert/Hermann Max. Recorded in Paterskirche in Franzhamerkloster on May 9th-15th, 2000. [DDD] CPO 999 790-2 [2CDs: 151'56] [CC]

The inquisitive will find much to discover and enjoy. Superb achievement. � see Full Review

Paul-Heinz DITTRICH (born 1930) Engführung (1980) - Sigune von Osten (soprano); vocal ensemble; instrumental ensemble; Dresdner Philharmonie; Herbert Kegel - Recorded: Lukaskirche, Dresden, May 1988 BERLIN CLASSICS 0013052BC [58:36] [HC]

Quite simply marvellous � see Full Review
Ernö DOHNÁNYI (1877-1960) Violin Concerto No. 2 in C minor, Op. 43* (1949-50) [29�42"] - Ruralia Hungarica for violin and piano, Op. 32c** (1924) [12�07"] - Sextet in C, Op.37*** (1935) [30�09"] - *Janice Graham (violin); English Sinfonia conducted by John Farrer - (Recorded in Watford Colosseum, 3-5 October 2000) - ** Tasmin Little (violin); Martin Roscoe (piano) - (Recorded in St. Silas� Church, Kentish Town, London, 2-4 September 1996) - *** Endymion Ensemble - (Recorded in Broomhill Theatre, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, 27-29 January 1995) ASV PLATINUM PLT 8507 [72�10"] [JQ]
A most desirable purchase for Dohnanyi admirers and for collectors with an enquiring mind � see Full Review
Madeleine DRING (1923-1977) Chamber works and songs - Trio for flute, oboe and piano - Trio for oboe, bassoon and keyboard - Danza Gaya - Polka for flute and piano - Italian Dance - Colour Suite - Five Betjeman Songs Joanne Boddington (flute) - Jane Finch (oboe) - Martin Gatt (bassoon) - Margaret Lynn (piano) - Nicola Hollymann (soprano) - Recorded at St George's, Bristol, November 2000 MOBILE RECORDING COMPANY RECORDS MRCD1 [59.56] [AJD]
Lovely, melodious and memorable: who needs gloom and doom in their listening? � see Full Review
Anton�n DVOR�K (1841-1904) Ten Legends, B122/Op. 59 (1881) Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra/David Zinman. First issued in 1984. [DDD] WARNER APEX 7559 79676-2 [41'43] [CC]
Disappointing, despite the price tag. � see Full Review
Anton�n DVOR�K (1841-1904) Symphony No. 9 in E minor �From The New World�, Op. 95/B178 (1893) [42.12] - Symphonic Variations, Op. 78/B70 (1877) [23'39] London Philharmonic Orchestra/Zdenek Mácal - Rec in Watford Town Hall on January 8th-9th, 1980 (Op. 78); January 5th-6th, 1982 (Op. 95). [ADD (Op. 78]; DDD [Op. 95]) CLASSICS FOR PLEASURE CFP 5 74943-2 [65'51] [CC]
The 'New World' receives a white-hot performance and can comfortably sit with the very best. � see Full Review
Anton�n DVOŘ�K (1841 � 1904) In Nature�s Realm � mixed Choruses, Op. 65 � (1882) - (1) Josef Bohuslav FOERSTER (1859 � 1951) Czech Song, Op. 30 � (1890) - (1) Nine Male Choruses, Op. 37 � (1899) - (2) Get Up Sleepers (Op. 112) � 1920) - (1) Joseph SUK (1874 � 1935) Three Songs for Mixed Choir, Op. 19 � (1889) - (1) Ten Songs for Female Choir with piano for four hands, Op. 15 � (1899) - (1, 4, 5 & 6) Prague Philharmonic Choir � Joseph Veselka � (1), Moravian Teachers Choral Society � Jan Soupal � (2), Kuhn Mixed Choir � Pavel Kuhn (3), Jarmila Hladikova (soprano) � (4), Marie Mrazova (contralto) � (5), Emil Leichner and Jan Vrana � (piano) � (6). recorded in the Domovina Studio, Prague, 22^nd August, 1965, (2), Rudolfinum, Prague, 1^st � 5^th December 1975 (1) and 9^th � 20^th March 1978 (1, 4, 5 & 6), and at the Jan Nepomucky Church, Prague on the 20^th � 23^rd July, 1976 (1) . DDD SUPRAPHON SU 3114-2 [72.05] [JP]
Should give immense pleasure to fans of choral music, looking for something different, but not too different. � see Full Review
John ELLIS (b.1943) Serenity: A Song Sequence and Organ Meditation (Celtic Prayers; Psalm 23; Psalm 130; Farewell; Meditation (organ solo); Three Prayer Meditations) (1997-2000) Mary Hitch (Soprano) - John Ellis (organ) DUNELM RECORDS DRD0194 [42.10] [PLS]
Warmly recommended, despite the relatively short playing time. ...See Full Review
Ernest FANELLI (1860-1917) Symphonic Pictures: 'The Romance of the Mummy' - Louis-Albert BOURGAULT-DUCOUDRAY (1840-1910) Cambodian Rhapsody Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra/Adriano - Recorded at the Slovak Radio Concert Hall, Bratislava in May 2000 and January 2001 MARCO POLO 8.225234 [69:09] [IL]
Vivid Technicolor music incredibly advanced for its day � see Full Review
Zdeňek FIBICH (1850-1900) Moods, Impressions and Reminiscences Volume 12 Marian Lapsansky, piano Recorded Martinů Hall of the Liechtenstein Palace, Prague September 1997 SUPRAPHON SU 3255-2131 [49�08] [JW]

Lapsansky: entirely sympathetic and playing alive both to elegance and rhythmic élan. � see Full Review
W.S. GILBERT (1836-1911) and Arthur SULLIVAN (1842-1900) �The Romantic Gilbert and Sullivan�: �Favourite Arias and Duets� James Griffett: tenor, Christina Clarke: soprano The Salon Orchestra/Colin Mawby Tracks 13-14 James Griffett: tenor, Simon Lindley: piano Track 15 Pro Cantione Antiqua/Mark Brown FOXGLOVE AUDIO 5JS2801027722D15 80 [52:05] [MC]
A most recommendable release which will disappoint few listeners interested in G&S � see Full Review
Umberto GIORDANO (1867-1948) Andrea Chénier (1896) Mario Del Monaco (Andrea Chénier), Maria Callas (Maddalena di Coigny), Aldo Protti (Carlo Gérard), Silvana Zanolli (Bersi), Maria Amadini (Contessa di Coigny), Lucia Danieli (Madelon), Enrico Campi (Roucher), Enzo Sordello (Fléville) Chorus and Orchestra of La Scala, Milan/Antonino Votto Recorded live at La Scala, Milan, 8^th January 1955 EMI CLASSICS CMS 5 67913 2 [2 CDs: 54�09"+53�36"] [CH]
For Callas fans only; the recording is dire and Del Monaco�s Chénier can be heard properly elsewhere. � see Full Review
Philip GLASS (b.1937) �The World of Philip Glass� - Music from �Low� Symphony (1992) Subterraneans [15:09] - Music from �The Screens� (circa. 1989) Land of the Dead [3:28] - Said�s Treason [3:00] - The Orchard [7:09] - Night on the Balcony [2:05] - Concerto for Violin and Orchestra (1987) Third movement, finale [9:29] - Music from �Aguas da Amazonia� (circa 1993) adapted by Marco Antonio Guimaraes - Amazon River [7:24] - Music from �Heroes� Symphony (1996) Abdulmajid [8:54]; V2 Schneider [6:51] - Track 1, The Brooklyn Philharmonic Orchestra, Conductor: Dennis Russell Davies. Recorded at the Looking Glass Studios, NYC. USA. circa. 1993. Tracks 2-5, (Philip Glass and Foday Musa Suso) Instrumental Ensemble, Conductor: Martin Goldray. Recorded at the Looking Glass Studios, NYC. USA. circa. 1992. Track 6, Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, Violin: Gidon Kremer, Conductor: Christoph von Dohnanyi. Recorded at Vienna, Musikverein, Grosser Saal, Austria, February 1992. Track 7, Ensemble UAKTI - Recorded at the Polifonia Studios, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, December 1993. Track 8-9, The American Composers Orchestra, Conductor: Dennis Russell Davies. Recorded at the Looking Glass Studios, NYC, USA. circa. 1996 DECCA 470 775-2 [63:47] [MC]

A perfect introduction to the world of Philip Glass. � see Full Review
Nicolas GOMBERT (c.1495-c.1560) Magnificats 5 � 8 - With plainchant antiphons: �O Sacrum Convivium� (for Second Vespers of Corpus Christi), �Sancta Maria� (for First Vespers, Feasts of the Blessed Virgin), �In diebus illis� (for First Vespers, Feast of St. Mary Magdalen, 22 July), �Magi videntes stellam� (for First Vespers, Feast of the Epiphany) The Tallis Scholars directed by Peter Phillips - Recorded in the church of St. Peter and St. Paul, Salle, Norfolk Gimell CDGIM 038 [58�23"] [JQ]
Exemplary in every way and is a very fine achievement indeed � see Full Review
Ferde GROFÉ (1892-1972) Death Valley Suite (1957) [16.39] - Hudson River Suite (1955) [18.38] - Hollywood Suite (1938) [20.56] Bournemouth SO/William T Stromberg - re 28-29 Feb 2000, Wessex Hall, Poole Arts Centre, Dorset, UK NAXOS AMERICAN CLASSICS 8.559017 [56.14] [KS]
Magnificent over-the-top; but hugely enjoyable, vividly descriptive music played with all the stops out by film music conductor Stromberg and recorded in some of the best Naxos sound I have yet heard. Don't hesitate, buy it before it sells out! ... see Full Review [IL]
Nothing profound or earth-shattering just an hour of pleasant music very well performed. � see Full Review [KS]
Vyacheslav GROKHOVSKY (b.1945) Russian Caprice for piano and orchestra [11.29]; The Enchanted Wanderer - symphonic poem [18.32]; Hans Andersen's Fairy Tales - suite for piano and orchestra [23.51]; Gypsy Rhapsody for violin and orchestra [8.42]; Valery Grokhovsky (piano) - Vladimir Ivanov (violin) Moscow Radio SO/Vyacheslav Grokhovsky - rec Moscow Radio Recording Studios, 1996 DDD CAMPION CAMEO 2016 [62.41] [RB]
No great profundity. Brightly entertaining. A modern Rimsky ... see Full Review
Georg Frideric HANDEL (1685-1759) Oboe concertos and sonatas - Concerto No.1 for Oboe in Bb major (HWV 301) - Sonata for Oboe and Continuo in F major (HWV 363a) - Sonata for Oboe and Continuo in G minor (Op.1/6;HWV 364a) - Concerto No.2 for Oboe in Bb major (HWV 302a) - Sonata in G minor, violins and continuo (HWV 404) - Sonata for Oboe and Continuo in Bb major (HWV 357) - Sonata for Oboe and Continuo in C minor (Op.1/8;HWV 366) - Concerto No.3 for Oboe in G minor (HWV 287) Sarah Francis (oboe) - London Harpsichord Ensemble - Recorded in St Michael�s Church, Highgate, London, February 1994 REGIS RRC1106 [62.25] [CF]
A definitive collection and a nicely varied mix of concertos and sonatas � see Full Review

Georg Friedrich HANDEL (1685-1759) Arianna in Creta (1734) - Sophie Daneman, soprano - Christine Brandes, soprano - Wilke te Brummelstroete, mezzo-soprano - Jennifer Lane, mezzo-soprano - Philip Cutlip, bass - Tilmann Prautzsch, baritone Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, Nicholas McGegan - Rec: May 27 to June 1, 1999, International Handel Festival, Göttingen. INTERNATIONAL HANDEL FESTIVAL, Göttingen CD - No catalogue number [199 min.] [KM]
The excellence of Daneman�s her singing, coupled with songs that fit her voice so well, make this an essential recording � see Full Review
BARGAIN OF THE MONTH George Frideric HANDEL (1685-1759) Concerti Grossi op. 3 (1710-1720) Concerto Grosso in F major op. 3 no. 4a, Concerto Grosso in D minor op. 3 no. 5, Concerto Grosso in D major op. 3 no. 6, Concerto Grosso in B flat major op. 3 no. 2, Concerto Grosso in G major op. 3 no. 3, Concerto Grosso in B flat major op. 3 no. 1 English Baroque Soloists/Sir John Eliot Gardiner Rec: March 1980, Henry Wood Hall, London.
WARNER APEX 0927 48682 2 [60.21] [KM]
This memorable recording is a must for lovers of Handel�s instrumental music. � see Full Review
Georg Frideric HANDEL (1685-1759) Oboe concertos and sonatas Concerto No.1 for Oboe in Bb major (HWV 301) Sonata for Oboe and Continuo in F major (HWV 363a) Sonata for Oboe and Continuo in G minor (Op.1/6;HWV 364a) Concerto No.2 for Oboe in Bb major (HWV 302a) Sonata in G minor, violins and continuo (HWV 404) Sonata for Oboe and Continuo in Bb major (HWV 357) Sonata for Oboe and Continuo in C minor Op.1/8;HWV 366) Concerto No.3 for Oboe in G minor (HWV 287) Sarah Francis (oboe) London Harpsichord Ensemble Recorded in St Michael�s Church, Highgate, London, February 1994
REGIS RRC1106 [62.25]
A definitive collection and a nicely varied mix of concertos and sonatas � see Full Review
Georg Friedrich HAENDEL (1685-1759) Julius Caesar - Janet Baker: Julius Caesar - Valerie Masterson: Cleopatra - Sarah Walker: Cornelia - Della Jones: Sextus - James Bowman: Tolomeo - John Tomlinson: Achillas - John Kitchiner: Curio - Tomemlyn Williams: Nirenus - Brian Casey: Pothinus English National Opera Orchestra and Chorus/Sir Charles Mackerras (Note: this opera is sung in English - the original was in Italian.) Rec: 1984, Limehouse Studios. Sound format: PCM stereo - Subtitle languages: GB, D, F, SP - Picture format: 4:3 - Region code: 2, 5 - Picture standard: PAL ARTHAUS 100 308 [180 min.] [KM]
Some treasurable moments, and the chance to see the great James Bowman makes it all worthwhile. � see Full Review
Joseph HAYDN (1732-1809) Symphony No. 101 in D major 'The Clock' (1795) - Symphony No. 102 in B flat major (1795) La Petite Bande/Sigiswald Kuijken - Rec 7-11 February 1994 (No. 101), 16-20 January 1995 (No. 102), Doopsgezindekerk, Haarlem, The Netherlands DEUTSCHE HARMONIA MUNDI 05472 77859 2 [52.51] [TB]
Recommended particularly to enthusiasts devoted to the 'original instrument' sound. � see Full Review
Joseph HAYDN (1732-1809) Esterházy Sonatas (1773-74) - Sonata No. 33 in C minor, Hob.XVI/20 (1771) - Sonata No. 39 in D major, Hob.XVI/24 (1774) - Sonata No. 40 in E flat major, Hob.XVI/25 (1774) - Sonata No. 41 in A major, Hob.XVI/26 (1774) Ronald Brautigam (fortepiano) - Rec August 2000, Lünna Church, Sweden BIS-CD-1163 [63.00] [TB]
Uncovers riches, full of imagination on every page � see Full Review
Joseph HAYDN (1732-1809) Mass in F major, Hob.XXII:1(1749) Mass in C major, Missa Cellensis, "Missa Sanctae Caeciliae", Hob.XXII:5 (c.1766) The Choir of Trinity Church, Wall Street, REBEL Baroque Orchestra/Dr.Owen Burdick Recorded 23^rd-24^th May 2001 at Trinity Church Wall Street HÃNSSLER CLASSIC 98.392 [76:12] [GPJ]
A special quality of freshness and enthusiasm which the recording engineers have captured superbly well. � see Full Review
Dave HEATH (b.1956) African Sunrise/Manhattan Rave Darkness to Light (Light Section and Complete Version) (1997) African Sunrise (1995) Manhattan Rave (1995) Dawn of a New Age (1999) Evelyn Glennie, percussion John Harle, saxophone Philip Smith, piano London Philharmonic Orchestra/Dave Heath Recorded at Abbey Road (Studios 1 & 2), London, 3^rd and 6^th June 2000 BLACK BOX BBM1051 [54.07] [NH]
Another direct hit from Black Box - another unsung hero of contemporary British music goes from strength to strength � See Full Review
You can sample or dowload this disc
Alistair HINTON (b.1950) String Quintet (1969-1977) Sarah Leonard (soprano) Jagdish Mistry (violin) Marcus Barcham-Stevens (violin) Levine Andrade (viola) Michael Stirling ('cello) Corrado Canonici (double bass) rec 1999? UK? ALTARUS AIR-CD-9066(3) [3CDs: 41.23+62.45+65.14] [RB]
A major work that impresses by its sincerity, its subtlety and its lyricism .... see Full Review
HOFFNUNG�S MUSIC FESTIVALS: 1956, 1958, 1961 EMI CLASSICS CMS7 63302 2 [JP]
Hoffnung was unique. neither full-time musician, nor comedian � an artist one who had a superb sense of humour, plus a very effective mixture of the ridiculous, a deep love of music, and a wicked way of thumbing his nose at anything that was �erudite� � see Full Review
Vagn HOLMBOE (1909-1996) Symphony No 4 Sinfonia Sacra Op 29 (1941 rev 1945) Symphony No 5 Op 35 (1944) Aarhus Symphony Orchestra Owain Arwel Hughes Recorded June 1992 in Musikhuset, Aarhus BIS-CD-572 [52.33] [JW]
Densely coiled and symphonically argued with the highest of skill � charts a grim and determined course � see Full Review
You can sample, purchase or download this disc
Vagn HOLMBOE (1909-1996) Symphony No 6 Op 43 (1947) Symphony No 7 in one movement Op 50 (1950) Aarhus Symphony Orchestra Owain Arwel Hughes Recorded June 1992 Musikhuset, Aarhus BIS-CD-573 [55.15] [JW]
An inexorable tread palpable in the music occasionally slaked by uneasy twists and moments of cautious repose � see Full Review
You can sample, purchase or download this disc
Vagn HOLMBOE (1909-1996) Symphony No 11 Op 144 (1980) Symphony No 12 Op 175 (1988) Symphony No 13 Op 192 (1994) Aarhus Symphony Orchestra Owain Arwel Hughes Recorded Musikhuset, Aarhus, June 1994 (Symphonies11 and 12) and January 1996 (Symphony 13) BIS CD 728 [63.05] [JW]
Drama and skill, production values of the highest � a major voice in the symphonic canon of the last two thirds of the twentieth century. � see Full Review
You can sample, purchase or download this disc
Gustav HOLST (1874-1934) The Planets, Op. 32 (1913-1917) (50.00) - The Mystic Trumpeter, Op. 18 (1904, rev. 1912)* (18.37) Claire Rutter (soprano)* Royal Scottish National Orchestra and Chorus/David Lloyd-Jones - Rec 17-18 February 2001, City Hall, Glasgow NAXOS DVD 5.110004 [68.37] [TM]
An impressive Planets and a revelatory Mystic Trumpeter make this an unmissable release. � see Full Review
Gustav HOLST (1874 - 1934) The Planets, Suite for Large Orchestra, Op 32* H125 (1916) The Ballet from The Perfect Fool, Op 39 H150 (1922) Egdon Heath, Op 47 H172 (1927) *Ambrosian Singers (Chorus Master: John McCarthy) London Symphony Orchestra/André Previn Recorded at Kingsway Hall, London, September 1973 (H125) and at No 1 Studio Abbey Road, London, August 1974 (H150/172) ADD DVD-Audio EMI CLASSICS 7243 4 92399 9 [76.54] [PS]
An exceptional "Planets" with a great Neptune and the best Saturn ever, re-released in stunning high-resolution sound on DVD. Coupled with a fine "Egdon Heath" � see Full Review
'Poesie et Musique au feminin' Songs by Elaine HUGH-JONES, and others Velma Cuyer (soprano) Martine Jacques (piano) Rec. DDD GALLO CD 1070 [65.00?] [CSS]
Sheer delight in music making of a quality all too rare � see Full Review
Charles IVES (1874-1954) Piano Sonata No. 1 (1909) - Piano Sonata No. 2 � Concord (1912) - Three Page Sonata (1905) - Studies No. 2, No. 9, No, 20, No. 21, No. 22, No. 23 - Waltz-Rondo - Five Take-Offs Philip Mead (piano) - Helen Brammen (flute) - Elena Artemonova (viola) - Recorded at Vestry Hall, Ealing, June 1999/April 2000 METIER MSV CD92037 [2CDs: 173.00] [HO]

Ives�s two monumental Sonatas in the context of several of his smaller pieces - Mead brings out the struggle and the angularity of this music � see Full Review
Leo� JAN�ČEK (1854-1928) On an Overgrown Path, Zdenka Variations Ivan Klánsky (piano) Recorded 8-11 September 1980, Domovina Studio, Prague SUPRAPHON SU 3287 2 111 [52.17] [TB]
Klánsky is a sensitive and reliable performer. � see Full Review
Leo� JAN�CEK (1854-1928) Glagolitic Mass (1926) - Sinfonietta (1926) - Gabriela Benackova (soprano), Felicity Palmer (mezzo soprano), Gary Lakes (tenor), Anatoly Kotcherga (bass), John Scott (organ) London Symphony Chorus and Orchestra/Michael Tilson Thomas - Recorded 1992, Sony Classical SONY ESSENTIAL CLASSICS SBK89903 [64.23][TB]
Real dedication and commitment � the dramatic aspects of the work come across with biting clarity and directness. � see Full Review

Leos JANÁCEK (1854-1928) Sárka Eva Urbanová (soprano) Sárka Peter Straka (tenor) Ctirad Ivan Kusnjer (baritone) Premysl Jaroslav Brezina (tenor) Lumír Prague Philharmonic Choir; Czech Philharmonic Orchestra/Sir Charles Mackerras Rec 16-20 August 2000, Rudolfinum Studio, Prague SUPRAPHON SU 3485-2 [64.04 minutes] [RMK]
The shrill vitriol of the warrior; the warmth of the woman in love. � see Full Review

Joseph JONGEN (1873-1953) Concert à Cinq Op. 71 (1923) [22.14] - Sonate-Duo for violin and cello Op. 109 (1938) [13.25] - Danse Lente for flute and harp Op. 56 (1924) [3.26] - Adagio for violin and viola Op. 22 No.1 (1901) [6.25] - Deux Pièces en Trio for f'lute, cello and harp Op. 80 (1925) [14.33] Ensemble Arpæ - rec March 2002, sint-truiden, academiezal, DDD CYPRÈS CYP1632 [60.52] [RB]
Has to be near the top of your want-list if you love the Ravel Introduction and Allegro. ... see Full Review
Sigfrid KARG-ELERT (1877-1933) Cathedral windows - Organ works: 1-3. Jesu, meine Freude � Symphonic Chorale, Op.87 No.2 :- Introduzione (Inferno) - Canzone - Fuga con corale, 4. Canzone in G flat major, Op 46b, 5-10. Cathedral Windows - Six pieces on Gregorian tunes, Op. 106: - I. Kyrie eleison - II. Ave maria - III. Resonet in laudibus - IV. Adeste fideles - V. Saluto angelico - VI. Lauda Sion, 11-15. Symphony in F sharp minor, Op.134: - Lento misterioso - Allegro brioso ed energico - Presto demoniaco - Largo e quieto - Vivace e brioso. Hans Fagius, Organist - Organ by: Frobenius, 1928, Aarhus Cathedral, Denmark - Recorded:10-12/04/2000 at Aarhus cathedral, Denmark BIS-CD-1184 [79�13] [CA]
A very good release of Karg-Elert�s organ music. One to covet. � see Full Review
Kjell Mørk KARLSEN (born 1947) String Quartet No.1 Op.66 (1985) String Quartet No.3 Op.121 (1998) Sonata Mesto Op.96 (1990)^a Sonata Nova Op.101 (1992)^b
Sonata Dolorosa Op.108 (1994)^c Vertavo String Quartet (Øyvor Volle^a, Berit Varnes Cardas, violin; Henninge Båtnes Landaas, viola^b; Bjørg Værnes, cello^c); Gonzalo Moreno (piano)^abc Recorded: Lommedalen Church, January 1999 AURORA ACD 5007 [72:41] [HC]
Superbly crafted, communicative and basically lyrical music. � see Full Review
Aram KHACHATURIAN (1903-1978) Cello Concerto, in E minor (1964) [36:20] - Concerto-Rhapsody for Cello and Orchestra, in D minor (1963) [26:36] - Marina Tarasova, Cello Symphony Orchestra of Russia/Veronika Dudarova - Recorded in Moscow 1994 DDD REGIS RRC 1094 [63:22] [MC]
Recommendable for Tarasova�s amazing performances. � see Full Review
Erich Wolfgang KORNGOLD (1897-1957) Die tote Stadt (1916-20) Opera in three Acts The DVD (new release) Angela Denoke (sop) Torsten Kerl (ten) Chorus of the Opéra National du Rhin Philharmonic Orchestra of Strasbourg conducted by Jan Latham Koenig Recorded from the Opéra National du Rhin, 2001 Surround Sound ARTHAUS DVD 100 342 [145 mins]
plus
The CD (established release) René Kollo (ten) Carol Neblett (sop) Bavarian Radio Chorus and the Munich Radio Orchestra Conducted by Erich Leinsdorf Recorded in the Bavarian Radio Concert Hall in June 1975 Digitally remastered edition produced by Charles Gerhardt Note this recording is not new it was first released in 1975/76 RCA VICTOR GD87767 (2) [137.14] [IL]
Leinsdorf�s RCA recording is unhesitatingly recommended over the Arthaus DVD. Kollo and Neblett sing with passion and conviction and the orchestra sounds magnificently opulent. � see Full Review
Rued LANGGAARD (1893-1952) Violin Sonatas - Vol. 1 - Violin Sonata No. 1 Viole BVN94 (1915 rev 1945) [38.43] - Violin Sonata No. 2 Den store Mester kommer BVN167 (1920-21) [26.16] Serguei Azizian (violin) - Anne Øland (piano) - rec Mantziusgården, Denmark, Oct, Dec 1999 DDD - in cooperation with Royal Danish Academy of Music DACAPO 8.224153 [65.04] [RB]
Langgaard in contrast: intoxicated high priest of romance on one hand and wily experimentalist on the other ... see Full Review
Franz LEHÁR (1870-1948) - Musikalische Memoiren (1940); Das Land des Lächelns - Overture (1929); Eva; Two Waltzes (1911); Zigeunerliebe � Overture (1910); Der Graf von Luxembourg � Two Waltzes (1909); Die lustige Witwe � Overture (1905); Wiener Frauen � Overture (1902); Gold und Zilber Walzer (1899) Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra (item 1) and the Zurich Tonhalle Orchestra conducted by Franz Lehár - Recorded 1940 Vienna (item 1) and 1947 Zurich (remainder) NAXOS 8.110857 [74.35] [JW]
Marvellous zest and lyrical sweep. � see Full Review
Kenneth LEIGHTON (1929 � 1988) String Quartet No.1 Op.32 (1956) String Quartet No.2 Op.33 (1957) Seven Variations for String Quartet Op.43 (1964) Edinburgh Quartet (Susanne Stanzeleit, Philip Burrin, violin; Michael Beeston, viola; Mark Bailey, cello) Recorded: no details, published 2002 MERIDIAN CDE 84460 [67:43] [HC]
Music that is full of energy, calm, robust and assertive � see Full Review

Conrad LEONARD (b.1898) Life Can Be A Song - The Music of Conrad Leonard Claire Rutter (soprano) Stephen Gadd (baritone) Conrad Leonard (piano) David Mackie (piano) Rec. details no supplied ASC CD008 [47.38] [RB]
If you like the sentimental approach the songs Rodgers and Lehár you are very unlikely to be disappointed. There are some really lovely songs here. � see Full Review
Douglas LILBURN (1915-2001) Symphony No. 1 (1949) [31.13] Symphony No. 2 (1951) [31.18] Symphony No. 3 (1961) [14.45] New Zealand SO/James Judd rec Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington, NZ, 29-31 May 2001 DDD NAXOS 8.555862 [77.16] [RB]
Should be promptly snapped up by Sibelians everywhere ... see Full Review
Franz LISZT (1811-1886) Études d'exécution transcendente Freddy Kempf - Rec January 2001 (Nos. 1-4, 7-9), August 2001 (Nos. 5-6, 10-12), Nybrokajen 11, Stockholm BIS-CD-1210 [66.33] [TB]
Maybe not definitive, nor ideal, but well worth hearing � riches in abundance. � see Full Review

Frederic Lamond (1868-1948) The Complete Liszt Recordings 1919-36 Franz LISZT (1811-1886) Erlkönig (Schubert) two recordings Gnomenreigen (Etude de Concert) three recordings Un sospiro (Etude de Concert) four recordings Cujus animam (Rossini; Stabat Mater) Petrarch Sonnet No 104 Tarantella (Venezia e Napoli) Valse impromptu Tarantelle di bravura (Auber; La Muette de Portici) Feux follets (Etude d�exécution transcendente) Waldesrauschen (Etude de concert) Liebestraum No 3 Frederic Lamond, piano Recorded 1919-1936 APR 5504 [78.11] [JW]

Superbly controlled and virtuosic � idiosyncratic, certainly, but enjoyable. � see Full Review

Sergei LYAPUNOV (1859-1924) Piano Concerto No. 1 in E flat minor Op. 4 (1890) [22.25] - Piano Concerto No. 2 in E major Op. 38 (1909) [19.24] - Rhapsody on Ukrainian Themes Op. 28 (1907) [17.03] Hamish Milne (piano) - BBC Scottish SO/Martyn Brabbins - rec 13-14 June 2002, City Hall, Glasgow DDD - The Romantic Piano Concerto series No. 30 HYPERION CDA67326 [59.06] [RB]
Concise, often magically delicate and luscious ... see Full Review

[Detailed listing (last two days)]
[Part 1 New] [Part 2 A-B] [Part 3 C-L]
[Part 4 M-R] [Part 5 S-Z]
[Part 6 Misc A-L] [Part 7 Misc M-Z]
Revolving notes from clipart.com

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