In Liebe (Meine Schönsten Balladen)

1. Dich Zu Lieben

2. Frei, das Heißt Allein (Verde)

3. Flieg' Mit Zu Den Sternen

4. Santa Maria

5. Hab' Ich Zuviel Riskiert

6. Lieb' Mich Ein Letztes Mal

7. Midnight Lady

8. Lebenslänglich Du

9. Manchmal Möchte Ich Schon Mit Dir

10. Die Gefühle Sind Frei

11. Lute

12. Wind Auf Der Haut und Lisa

13. Wer Küßt Mich [Radio Version]

14. Bevor Die Nächste Fällt (Before the Next Teardrop Falls)

15. Im Dunkel Der Nacht [I'm Born Again]

16. Wohin Gehst Du

In Liebe (Meine Schönsten Balladen),Roland Kaiser,Hansa,World Music

Average customer rating: Can't go wrong Most Famous??? Only one song knew well The Most Famous Opera Duets Good selection of opera highlights

The Most Famous Opera Duets Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Delibes, Léo | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Donizetti | Donizetti, Gaetano | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Puccini | Puccini, Giacomo | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Strauss | Strauss, Richard | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wagner | Wagner, Richard | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music National Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Romances | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Delibes, Leo | C to G | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Donizetti, Gaetano | C to G | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | M to P | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Puccini, Giacomo | M to P | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Strauss, Richard | Q to T | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Wagner, Richard | U to Z | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Vocal Works by Verdi | Verdi, Giuseppe | U to Z | Featured Composers, A-Z | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Ludwig, Christa | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Price, Leontyne | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Scotto, Renata | Divas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music 4-for-3 Classical | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music 4-for-3 All Music | 4-for-3 Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: The Most Famous Opera Arias The Best of Italian Opera The #1 Opera Album Rapture: Opera's Most Heavenly Moments Nessun Dorma ~ 20 Great Tenor Arias / Pavarotti, Carreras, Domingo, Bergonzi, Aragall, Björling, Di Stefano, Kollo, Corelli, Del Monaco... ASIN: B000002SCA Release Date: 1994-04-12

Tracks:

1. Les Peurs des perles Act 1 - Au fond du temple saint
2. Madama Butterfly Act 1- Vogliatemi bene, un bene piccolino
3. Le Nozze di Figaro Act III - Sull'aria - Le Nozze di Figaro
4. La Traviata Act I - Un di, felice, eterea
5. Lucia Di Lammermoor Act I - Ah! Verranna a te sull'aure
6. Tristan und Isolde Act II - O sink hernieder, Nacht der Liebe
7. Carmen Act I - Parle-moi de m
8. Die ZauberflAct I - Bei Mern, welche Liebe F
9. Lakmct I - Viens, Mallika
10. Rigoletto Act I - il sol dell'anima
11. Der Rosenkavalier Act II - Mir ist die Ehre wilderfahren
12. Don Giovanni Act I - Li darem la mano
13. La Boh Act IV - O Mimi, tu pi torni
14. Il Trovatore Act IV - Miserere...Quel suon, quelle preci

Amazon.com

This is a misnomer--not all of these duets are all that famous--but it's a fine compilation nonetheless. You'll hear selections from Bizet's The Pearl Fishers (Nicolai Gedda and Ernest Blanc at their most elegant French), Madama Butterfly (Carlo Bergonzi and Renata Scotto--an impassioned pair), Lucia di Lammermoor (a classy Alfredo Kraus and Edita Gruberova), the lovely Lakme duet, The Presentation of the Silver Rose from Der Rosenkavalier (with the earnest Christa Ludwig and the other-worldly Teresa Stich-Randall), and a fine Trovatore "Miserere" (with Leontyne Price and Franco Bonisolli singing up a storm). There are many others, too--a veritable cornucopia of couplings--and a treat for the opera lover. --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

Can't go wrong.......2007-07-14

This is a really great CD for the price. It has many of the famous Arias on it and although the singers may not be the best out there they are certainly very good. This is cheaper than the price of a take away lunch; you can't go wrong with this CD.

Most Famous???.......2007-05-14

The title of this cd is misleading and I found myself wondering whose list did they use. That is not to say that there aren't some real treasures included here. The duet from Lakme is lovely in every way, Mady Mesple in particular, very beautful and very french, and far superior to Sutherlands hooty approach. Scotto and Bergonzi are superb, the Tristan and Isolde of Vickers and Dernesch truly other worldly, and the presentation of the rose duet with the young Ludwig and the astonishing Teresa Stich- Randell had me playing it over and over and I still can't believe it, but the most famous??? This cd is definitly worth buying, and I hated giving it only 3 stars but if you're talking most famous you could fill a couple of cd's with Puccini, not to mention Verdi, Mozart, etc. before Bizet's Les Pecheurs des perles, beautiful as it is, made the most famous list.

Only one song knew well.......2007-05-14

I should have done more research. The last song is the only one I could easily recognize. Live and learn.

The Most Famous Opera Duets.......2007-01-05

This seller truly makes a purchaser confident in the product as well the time in which is promised.

Thanks again!!!!!

Good selection of opera highlights.......2006-11-04

Super performances by famous opera artists of the 20th century, most of them no longer performing and some of them deceased. I enjoy having their voices available at home.

Average customer rating: Simply the Best

Simply Baroque Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Boccherini | Boccherini, Luigi | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Variations | Forms & Genres | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Organ | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Cello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Ma, Yo-Yo | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Passions | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Boccherini, Luigi | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Ma, Yo-Yo | ( M ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Yo-Yo Ma - Simply Baroque II ~ Bach & Boccherini / ABO, Koopman Vivaldi's Cello The Dvorak Album Classic Yo-Yo Bach: The 6 Unaccompanied Cello Suites ASIN: B0000CD5G9 Release Date: 2003-09-30

Tracks:

1. Sei Lob Und Preis Mit Ehren
2. Erbarme Dich
3. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
4. Ertot' Uns Durch Dein' Gute
5. Ich Ruf' Zu Dir, Herr Jesu Christ
6. Kommst Du Nun, Jesu, Vom Himmel Herunter
7. Lab Mein Herz Die Munze Sein
8. Dein Blut, Der Edle Saft
9. 'Air On A G String'
10. Cello Concerto In G Major
11. Cello Concerto In G Major
12. Cello Concerto In G Major
13. Cello Concerto In D Major
14. Cello Concerto In D Major
15. Cello Concerto In D Major
16. Cello Concerto In D Major
17. Was Gott Tut, Das Ist Wohlgetan
18. Aria From Goldberg Variations
19. Wachet Auf, Ruft Uns Die Stimme

Customer Reviews:

Simply the Best.......2005-05-31

I can only say, that as far as I am concerned, this is just some of the best music I have ever heard.... Im guessing this is the way Bach intended his music to sound in the first place, and who better for that than the AMO and Koopman...and of course YO YO... if u love classic music, you are absolutly going to LOVE this cd..I highly recommend it

Average customer rating: Beautiful a voice teacher and early music fan The True Drama of the St. Matthew Passion My favorite too! Excellent work - but problems with sound level

Bach: Matthaus-Passion (St Matthew Passion) BWV 244 /Bostridge * Selig * Rubens * Scholl * Gura * Henschel * Collegium Vocale * Herreweghe (+CD-Rom) Collegium Vocale Gent Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr. ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Passions | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | Box Sets | Stores | Music Classical | Imports | 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 Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Bach: St. John Passion Bach: Mass In B Minor Bach - Mass in B minor / Argenta, Nichols, Chance, Stafford, Milner, W. Evans, Gardiner Bach: Mass in B minor / McNair, Ziegler, Simpson, Aler, Stone, Paul; Shaw Bach: The Art of Fugue; Musical Offering ASIN: B00002R0ZL Release Date: 1999-11-16

Tracks:

1. Kommt, ihr Toechter, helft mir klagen
2. Da Jesus diese Rede vollendet hatte
3. Herzliebster Jesu, was hast du verbrochen
4. Da versammleten sich die Hohenpriester / Ja nicht auf das fest / Da nun Jesus war zu Bethanien / Wozu dienet dieser Unrat / Da das Jesus merkete
5. Du lieber Heiland du
6. Buss und Reu
7. Da ging hin der Zwoelfen einer
8. Blute nur, du liebes Herz
9. Aber am ersten Tage der suessen Brot / Wo willst du, dass wir dir bereiten / Er sprach: Gebet ihn in die Stadt / Un sie wurden sehr betrubt / Herr, bin ich's
10. Ich bin's, ich sollte buessen
11. Er antwortete und sprach:
12. Wiewohl mein Herz in Traenen schwimmt
13. Ich willdir mein Herze schenken
14. Und da sie den Lobgesang gesprochen hatten
15. Erkenne mich, mein Hueter
16. Petrus aber antwortete
17. Ich will hier bei dir stehen
18. Da kam Jesus mit ihnen zu einem Hofe
19. O Schmerz! hier zittert das gequaelte Herz
20. Ich will bei meinem Jesu wachen
21. Und ging hin ein wenig
22. Der Heiland faellt vor seinem Vater nieder
23. Gerne will ich mich bequemen
24. Und er kam zu seinen Juengern
25. Was mein Gott will, das g'scheh' allzeit
26. Und er kam und fand sie aber schlafend
27. So ist mein Jesus nun gefangen / Sind Blitze, sind Donner in Wolken verschwunden
28. Und siehe, einer aus denen
29. O Mensch, bewein' dein Suende gross

Tracks:

1. Ach! nun ist mein Jesus hin
2. Die aber Jesum gegriffen hatten
3. Mir hat die Welt trueglich gericht't
4. Und wiewold viel falsche Zeugen herzutraten
5. Mein Jesus schweigt zu falschen Luegen stille
6. Geduld, Geduld!
7. Und der Hohepriester antwortete / Er ist des Todes schuldig / Da speieten sie aus in sein Angesicht / Weissage uns, Christe
8. Wer hat dich so geschlagen
9. Petrus aber sass draussen im Palast / Wahrlich, du bist auch einer von denen
10. Erbarme dich
11. Bin ich gleich von dir gewichen
12. Das Morgens aber heilten alle Hohenpriester / Was gehet uns das an / Und er warf die Silberlinge in den Tempel
13. Gebt mir meinen Jesum wieder
14. Sie heilten aber einen Rat
15. Befiehl du deine Wege
16. Auf das Fest aber hatte der Landpfleger / Lass in kreuzigen!
17. Wie wunderbarlich ist doch diese Strafe
18. Der Landpfleger sagte
19. Er hat uns allen wohlgetan
20. Aus Liebe will mein Heiland sterben
21. Sie schrieen aber noch mehr / Lass in kreuzigen! / Da aber Pilatus sahe / Sein Blut komme uber uns / Da gab er ihnen Barrabam los
22. Erbarm es Gott
23. Koennen Traenen meiner Wangen

Tracks:

1. Da nahmen Kriegsknechte / Gegruesset seist du, Judenkoenig / Und speieten ihn an
2. O Haupt voll Blut und Wunden
3. Und da sie ihn verspottet hatten
4. Ja! freilich will in uns das Fleisch und Blut
5. Komm, suesses Kreuz
6. Und da sie an die Staette kamen / Der du den Tempel Gottes zerbrichst / Desgleichen auch die Hohenpreister / Andern hat er geholfen / Desgleichen schmaeheten ihn
7. Ach, Golgatha, unsel'ges Golgatha
8. Sehet Jesus hat die hand
9. Und von der sechsten Stunde / Der rufet dem Elias / Und bald lief einer unter ihnen / Halt, lass sehen / Aber Jesus schriee abermals laut
10. Wenn ich einmal soll scheiden
11. Und siehe da, der Vorhang im Tempel zerriss / Wahrlich, dieser ist Gottes Sohn gewesen / Und es waren viel Weiber da
12. Am Abend da es kuehle war
13. Mache dich, mein Herze, rein
14. Und Joseph nahm den Leib / Herr, wir haben gedacht / Pilatus sprach zu ihnen
15. Nun ist der Herr zu Ruh gebracht
16. Wir setzen uns mit Traenen nieder

Amazon.com essential recording

The St. Matthew Passion, Bach's monumental retelling of the story of the Last Supper and the arrest and execution of Jesus, typically runs from two-and-a-half to three hours. Yet this performance makes the time... well, not exactly fly past (consider the subject matter), but it's not tedious for even a second. Much of the credit for this goes to the marvelous Evangelist, Ian Bostridge. He's an outstanding narrator: the clear tone and diction, skillful timing, and intense involvement with words that made him a famous lieder singer are all in evidence; his part consists of nothing but recitative, yet he holds your interest unfailingly. Franz-Josef Selig gives a more dramatic reading of Jesus than you usually hear these days--he may be a bit too "operatic" for some listeners, but he really communicates his character's very human anguish and sorrow. Similarly, soprano Sibylla Rubens, tenor Werner Güra, and bass Dietrich Henschel sometimes unleash a bit too much vibrato for some tastes, but their singing is full-throated and attractive and they're very sensitive to the nuances in the text and music. Superstar countertenor Andreas Scholl is the standout--he combines unearthly purity with very earthly feeling and blends beautifully with the baroque instruments. The real stars of the record, however, are Philippe Herreweghe and his remarkable choir and orchestra. This conductor and his musicians (especially his radiant choir, Collegium Vocale) have always been superb at conveying warmth, devotion, and contemplation, but intense joy, anguish, or anger have sometimes seemed beyond them. Not here: they cover the full emotional range of this work--from reverent reflection to anguished remorse to churning fury--without ever crossing the line into melodrama or sacrificing clarity.

On top of all this, you get a CD-ROM chock full of interesting and well-organized information (in English, German, and French): texts as well as an overview with a timeline of Bach's life, a discussion of how the work is put together, marvelous graphics, sound clips, and an extensive interview with Herreweghe himself. A superb accompaniment to a superb release. --Matthew Westphal

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful.......2007-02-03

Do not hesitate for a moment to purchase this CD/CD ROM package. I researched thoroughly the many recordings of this work, and I am very pleased to have decided on this one. It is a gorgeous, moving recording.

a voice teacher and early music fan.......2007-01-08

Bach (1685-1750), a Lutheran, was specifically asked by St. Thomas' Church, Leipzig, to supply a non-theatrical Passion. In this context passion stands for the act of passive suffering, of watching and occasonally empathising in the suffering of Christ, a development which began in the Middle Ages when the church took steps to popularise the Bible. When sung, the role of the Evangelist would be taken by a tenor and that of Jesus by a bass. As various instruments were added they began to be associated with certain roles and as with opera any dramatic action in the text occurred during the recitative. The chorus has two functions: to participate in the action and then to reflect upon it, such reflections provided by the chorales which were familiar Lutheran hymns.
The St. Matthew Passion was composed for the Good Friday service at the St. Thomas Church in Leipzig in 1727. As time went on Bach revised and added other pieces and subsequently this Passion became the grandest and the largest of his works. He used a Double Chorus, included a third soprano group for the opening and close of Part One, two orchestras split so that they either accompanied the first or the second chorus, four soloists who carry specific parts and a number of other singers who have other roles. The Gospel of Matthew, Chapters 26 and 27 plus traditional Lutheran chorales and meditative poems (by Henrici also known as Picander) provide the text.The Evangelist narrates the action scene by scene.
Although the work as a whole is somewhat heavy and sombre there are some lighter moments to treasure, and none more delightful than the soprano aria in Part One "Ich will dir mein Herze schenken" (I will give my heart to Thee). Part two contains the best known and loved aria from the work "Erbarme dich,mein Gott" (Have mercy, my God) for alto and violin obligato and pizzicato bass. The death is terse but dramatic as is the earthquake following with the heartrending crying "Walrlich dieser ist Gottes Sohn gewesen" (Truly this was the Son of (God). It all ends with a Sarabande-like chorale bidding Jesus to rest in peace.
The packageing of this edition is outstanding; the booklet includes absolutely all the documentation that one may need to fully comprehend this monumental work of Bach's. In addition, the the 3 CD's, there is a CD-Rom that explains the entire procedure for the production of this recording (in 3 languages:French,English and German).
The performance itself is excellent and beyond reproach. Ian Bostridge is all that one would desire in a tenor Evangelist; a joy just to hear his voice. Andreas Scholl gives one of the most emotional performances I have ever heard from him; he tends to be somewhat 'laid-back' in some renditons, but not in this one. Just my opinion; all you Scholl fans, don't get excited!!!!!I suggest you allow yourself an entire day to explore this wonderful musical experience.

The True Drama of the St. Matthew Passion.......2006-04-11

There are gratefully many recordings of Bach's great St. Matthew Passion from which to choose, and the approaches to this long and mighty work of inspiration are varied. While this listener cut his teeth of the old Klemperer recording now re-mastered from the LP days to CD, this recording under the sensitive and commanding control of Philippe Herreweghe has become the recording most favored for return listenings, especially during the Holy Week. Herreweghe obviously knows the work from intense study, a fact that gives him all the stamina to make the overall Passion work both musically and dramatically.

Herreweghe draws sumptuous playing from his Collegium Vocale Orchestra and Chorus, keeping the period sound intact while adding the contemporary trend for finding the operatic aspects of the work in the lead of all the other recordings. Of course he has an extraordinary group of soloists who give definitive performances. The leading actor is the Evangelist who guides us through the arrest and assassination the Jesus according to the Gospel of Matthew: Ian Bostridge not only has a beautiful tenor voice, rich and warm, but he also offers perfect enunciation of the text and delivers his comments with the exact amount of propelling drama. The role of Jesus is strongly delivered by Franz-Josef Selig and matches his competition (Fischer-Dieskau, Quasthoff and Goerne included!) in conveying both the agony and the transcendence of Bach's lines.

Add to this strong matrix the exquisite singing of Andreas Scholl and the solo work by Sibylla Rubens, Werner G?ra, Dietrich Henschel, Dominik Worner, Elisabeth Hermans, Susan Hamilton and Frits Vanhulle and the beauty of the drama is perfect. This is truly the most dramatic performance of Bach's most dramatic Passion and one to cherish for years. Highly Recommended. Grady Harp, April 06

My favorite too!.......2005-09-17

I own six different St. Matthew Passion recordings, and this is my favorite. Herrweghe gets it right. I am not a stickler for HIP, but prefer it. In my opinion this is the most balanced high quality HIP treatment of the St. Matthew available. Get it!

Excellent work - but problems with sound level.......2005-05-29

I have no complaints about the performance, with the exception of two points: (1) the bass can at times sound too sharp and loud; (2) there is a bit of showing off, desire to impress the listener. Otherwise the work is awesome, but I am irritated by the recording quality. I thought that I would get used to it, but as I continue to listen to it, it irritates me more and more. The sound level is unequal. It is either too low, or annoyingly too high. I simply cannot just turn on the CD and listen through without adjusting volume levels all the time. Music becomes too quiet, then it bursts into sudden loudness, sharp, unpleasant sounds, which is extremely vexing. This is the main reason for my not listening to this recording more often. To add insult to injury, the bonus CD does not work on my computer, but freezes and muddles up. If I knew about this, I wouldn't have bought these CDs. Fortunately, I have also Herreweghe I, which I prefer to this one. But my all time favourite is - HARNONCOURT.

Average customer rating: An Outstanding Collection Gorgeous playing, beautiful pieces.

Itzhak Perlman - A la carte / Lawrence Foster Jules Massenet , Sergey Rachmaninov , Pablo de Sarasate , Alexander Glazunov , Fritz Kreisler , Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky , Henryk Wieniawski , Lawrence Foster , Itzhak Perlman , and The Abbey Road Ensemble Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Kreisler | Kreisler, Fritz | ( K ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Massenet | Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Sarasate | Sarasate, Pablo de | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wieniawski | Wieniawski, Henri | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Perlman, Itzhak | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music $9.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Kreisler, Fritz | ( K ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Massenet, Jules | ( M ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Sarasate, Pablo de | ( S ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Wieniawski, Henri | ( W ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Kreisler, Fritz | ( K ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Perlman, Itzhak | ( P ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Instrumental | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Itzhak Perlman's Greatest Hits Itzhak Perlman's Greatest Hits, Vol. 2 Itzhak Perlman - Greatest Hits ~ "Carmen" Fantasy · Havanaise · Poème · and more Ithzak Perlman: Encores Classic Perlman: Rhapsody ASIN: B000002RVH Release Date: 1996-03-12

Tracks:

1. Meditation (Thais)
2. Mazurka-Obereque: Mazurka - Obereque
3. Vocalise, Op.34, No.14
4. Zigeunerweisen, Op.20
5. Fantasy On Russian Themes
6. Meditation, Op.32
7. Scherzo, Op. 42 No. 2
8. Legende, Op.17
9. The Old Refrain
10. Introduction & Tarantelle, Op. 43
11. Schon Rosmarin

Customer Reviews:

An Outstanding Collection.......2002-02-12

Here is Perlman at the top of his game- performing short Romantic and turn-of-the-century gems. Perlman has always seemed to revel in this specific era in classical music. From Glazunov's fiery Mazurka, to Pablo de Sarasate's virtuosic jaunt, to the simple, romatic charm of Kreisler's "Schon Rosmarin", Itzhak Perlman and the Abbey Road Ensemble deliver with graceful mastery. I've never heard Massenet's Meditations from "Thais" performed with more passion and elegance.
A lot of violinists, myself included, feel that Perlman has had a rather inconsistent recording career, and A La Carte should be impressive and refreshing for his critics. The exceptional sound quality of this recording makes it a very involving experience and great addition to any audiophile's collection. I never tire of this album, and it is a mainstay and a favorite in my collection. I recommend it 100%.

Gorgeous playing, beautiful pieces........1998-10-29

This collection of rarely performed pieces is a fantastic record. Perlman's playing, as usual, is a feast for the ears. The lush accompaniment is equally beautiful. The pieces are accessible to the classical connoisseur as well as the novice. This is the perfect album for a winter afternoon around the house.

Average customer rating: poor recording Travel to the Old Vienna Only Kreisler Can Play Kreisler ***** Perfection disappointing technical quality

Fritz Kreisler Plays Kreisler Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Kreisler | Kreisler, Fritz | ( K ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Film Scores | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Kreisler, Fritz | ( K ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music $7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Kreisler, Fritz | ( K ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Kreisler, Fritz | ( K ) | Performers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Heifetz Showpieces Kreisler plays Kreisler The Kreisler Album Tchaikovsky & Mendelssohn: Violin Concertos The Kreisler Album ASIN: B000003G1K Release Date: 1997-01-14

Tracks:

1. Liebesfreud
2. Liebesleid
3. Tambourin chinois, Op.3
4. Caprice viennois, Op.2
5. Chanson Louis XIII And Pavane
6. Variations On A Theme Of Corelli
7. Rondino On A Theme By Beethoven
8. Schon Rosmarin
9. The Old Refrain - Wiener Volkslied - Le vieux refrain
10. Andantino
11. Berceuse romantique, Op.9
12. Aubade provencale (In The Style Of Couperin)
13. Apple Blossoms: Who Can Tell?
14. Toy Soldiers' March
15. Aucassin And Nicolette (Medieval Canzonetta)
16. Shepherd's Madrigal - Altdeutsches Schafermadrigal - Madrigal du berger
17. Gypsy Caprice - Zigeuner Capriccio
18. Polichinelle
19. La precieuse (In The Style Of Couperin)
20. La gitana
21. Marche miniature viennoise
22. The King Steps Out: Stars In My Eyes
23. Viennese Rhapsodic Fantasietta

Customer Reviews:

poor recording.......2007-04-30

Besides the bacground hiss, I found I had to turn the volume up to max just to hear it. So when you play more than one CD the others will be normal volume but when Kreisler starts you hear nothing and have to turn the volume all the way up to have it at low normal levels. So I recommend passing on this one.

Travel to the Old Vienna.......2006-01-26

Sometimes the author isn`t the best performer of his own works. That`s not the case. I completely agree with the previous reviewer: yes, only Kreisler can play Kreisler.
While listening to this music you so wounderfully feel the spirit of the old Vienna, that most technically perfect record couldn`t compare with this impressions. Treat surface noise of the records made in 1912-1946 as the scent of that distant time (by the way, nearly the age gone) - and you would be completely satisfied, because the playing by Kreisler is so scincere and soulful. So if you like Kreisler - don`t think twice. This is CD for you.

Only Kreisler Can Play Kreisler *****.......2005-05-08

What can I say? Only Kreisler can play Kreisler. Get a discography of Fritz Kreisler and start hunting down everything you can find by this man. You can compare violinists; Heifetz has astounding technique, Milstein's always wonderful, Oistrakh is a favorite of many, Kogan can play anything, etc., etc., etc.. But Kreisler... is a unique personality of the violin. Yehudi Menuhin said of him in his autobiography, there are many great violinists with perhaps greater technique in this area or that; but "Kreisler mystifies me." Bruno Walter, the great conductor, said of Kreisler, "He did not play the violin; he BECAME the violin." and this is true. There is something special about Kreisler that transcends violin playing itself. Something heavenly is communicated by him with his instrument. Transfers from old disks are always of varying quality. Kreisler lived a long time ago and recording techniques were very primitive; but Kreisler even seems to rise above the pops and the clicks. Other artists are drowned out by them but Kreisler soars above them and makes one forget they are there. You're focused on the beauty and the background noise seems to disappear entirely. Other violinists have tried
to play Kreisler and perhaps get the notes right, most notably among them, Zino Francescatti (who plays Kreisler better than any other man except Kreisler), but only Kreisler can play Kreisler.
If you want to hear it best, put up with the background hiss. It's worth it. If you want a modern recording, see if you can find Francescatti's tribute album to Fritz Kreisler. it's OOP, but an LP in mint condition sometimes appears on an online auction service. Why the Francescatti album ever went OOP I do not know. He is the only modern violinist that ever really tapped into the soul of 'Fritz' when he plays Kreisler. If the disk is ever again released, snap it up before it goes OOP again. In the final analysis, modern violinists, at most, will give you a representative selection of only about 16 tracks and usually you get the worn chestnuts over and over again. Enough of Kreislers own recordings are still available that you can still get the whole gamut of his discography if you just look. Do so!

Perfection.......2004-03-08

No crap...really? OF COURSE THIS RECORDING IS A TRANSFER! YOU THINK THEY HAVE DIGITAL RECORDING TECHNOLOGY BACK THEN???? Man, that review from Delaware annoys me.

Go with the first review. This recording is a must. It is one of the great violin recordings. Even my old violin teacher advise me to play some of Kreisler stuff to improve techniques. Kreisler is a legend. Lesson and appreciate the beauties of the violin.

disappointing technical quality.......2000-08-29

I realize that this cd was a transfer, but I have other music that was transferred from old recordings, and they sound much better than this. The disappointing technical quality of the sound on this CD disturbs me. In fact, it sounds worse than the vinyl I already own. Very loud hissing, some popping. The music doesn't actually sound like it's been recorded in a tunnel, but the sound is not as full as I had hoped.

On the other hand, I bought this after comparing Kreisler's performance with Joshua Bell on the samples; and I find I always prefer Kreisler. With no disrespect to Mr. Bell, I find I prefer the composer performing his own music.

Average customer rating: Simply unreal a brave journey A for effort, C for execution BARBRA,BARBRA,BARBRA! A promise fulfilled

Classical Barbra Barbra Streisand Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Canteloube, Joseph | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Handel | Handel, George Frideric | ( H ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Orff | Orff, Carl | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Robert Schumann | Schumann, Robert | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolf | Wolf, Hugo | ( W ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Pop | Styles | Music Contemporary | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music Classic Vocalists | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Musicals | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Je M'appelle Barbra Simply Streisand Color Me Barbra The Third Album Lazy Afternoon ASIN: B000002549 Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

1. Beau Soir
2. Brezairola
3. Verschwiegene Liebe
4. Pavane (Vocalise)
5. Apres Un Reve
6. In Trutina
7. Lascia Ch'io Pianga
8. Mondnacht
9. Dank Sei Dir, Herr
10. I Loved You

Customer Reviews:

Simply unreal.......2007-05-16

I find it utterly, amazingly, unthinkable that ANYone can come up with ONE 'negative' thing to say about this collection by the inimitable Ms Streisand. This CD..this music --- just transports me....elevates me...changes my mood and outlook......it is an ethereal listening experience..almost religiously hypnotic in its beauty, eloquence, and simplistic beauty. Some of the songs bring a lump to my throat. It's a joy and a privilege to hear this Artist render her vocal and emotional interpretation of these classic aural wonders.........a true gift to the ears. Bravo. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars/ Lisa Guerci in CT

a brave journey.......2007-05-14

to record this set of songs was a huge risk for barbra streisand to take. but what other singer would put themselves on the line like this and record a whole album of classical material except barbra streisand?

dusty springfield had a song or two that borrowed melodies from the classical music genre, and aretha franklin famously growled her way through 'nessun dorma' at the grammys back in 1999. but this is very different and bold.
and no one, not even those with the vocals chops and training like linda ronstadt wouldn't take this one on for size.

it is easy to hear that streisand has put all her stylistic trademarks on hold and performed her recital with integrity. and at times, a different streisand emerges and it's quite nice. it's only a phrase here and a note there but it's interesting to hear.

be warned--she still sounds like barbra streisand. and there's one song i personally wish she hadn't sang (the canteloube), only because there's another song in that canon that might have served her even better called 'la dellaisado'.

A for effort, C for execution.......2006-08-23

One does have to applaud Barbra for the effort, for showing that she really does care about music, not just her own. Everyone knows about her forays into pop, rock and even disco. Alas, while her voice is lovely, it seems more like an album of lullabies than classical lieder. She actually did a more authentic classical performance of a Schubert song on her TV special "Barbra Streisand and Other Musical Instruments." Alas, this serious effort never comes close to showing the range of her voice that she played with in that 2 1/2 minute song. A missed opportunity.

BARBRA,BARBRA,BARBRA!.......2006-03-04

This CD shows why Streisand is who she is; the ultimate DIVA! This lady can sing anything and on this wonderful collection she proves it. Barbra recored the album way back in 1973, and because the record label was afraid of low sales due to the classical nature of the material, didn't release it until 1976. What a treat for fans of Barbra and fans of classical music. Barbra showcases hew vocal strengths in the 10 tracks singing in different languages. I first heard this CD at a dinner party 15 years ago and pretty much forgot about it until I saw a few for sale on Ebay. I remembered loving it and immediately bought it through Amazon. I highly recommend this CD for all those people who simply love music. It will put you in a very relaxed mood, almost as if your home is filled with candles. Since I bought it I've listened to it at least 20 times or more and will continue playing it in my home. Don't worry if you can't understand what Barbra is saying if you don't comprehend the laguage of the song; you'll know it's still Barbra doing what she does the best. A few final notes ; Barbra Streisand was nominated for a Grammy for the album. And Streisand has personally stated that this was the hardest album vocally she has ever worked on in her career. In short a beautiful CD for any home.

A promise fulfilled.......2006-02-02

In 1963, when Streisand released her first album, there was no doubt she was a unique and talented singer. Some ten years later, after becoming a great success, she proved with "Classical Barbra" what a nurtured and developed talent is capable of. She didn't sit on her laurels and continue to churn out Broadway warhorses in an attempt to play it safe. Instead, like a true artist, she challenged her abilities. Her reward, and ours as well, is this absolutely gorgeous CD. Her voice, at a level of near perfection, glides effortlessly across each tender note of these well picked gems. If anyone ever doubted man's reason for existence, please, do yourself a favor and buy this CD. You will be inspired for a lifetime.

Average customer rating: A great introduction to the art of Placido Domingo This is really the best. If you like Placido at all, you must have this CD. Rare And Great Domingo Classics A real Bobby Dazzler

Very Best of Placido Domingo Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music National Philharmonic Orchestra London | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Paris Symphony Orchestra | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Similar Items: Placido Domingo: A Love Until The End Of Time Bravo Domingo The Very Best of Franco Corelli Perhaps Love The Domingo Songbook ASIN: B000083GOJ Release Date: 2003-04-22

Tracks:

1. Ill Mio Tesoro
2. Un'aura Amorosa
3. Dies Bildnis Ist Bezaubernd Schon
4. La Ci Darem La Mano
5. Vani Sono I Lamenti...Svegliatevi Nel Core
6. Pays Merveilleux...O Paradis
7. Quel Trouble Inconnu Me Penetre...Salut ! Demeure Chaste Et Pure (Faust, Act III)
8. Ah! Tout Est Bien Fini... O Souverain, O Juge, O Pere (Le Cid, Act III)
9. None But The Lonley Heart
10. Lensky's Aria
11. Donna, Non Vidi Mai (Manon Lescauy Act, II)
12. Ah, Manon, Mi Tradisce
13. Dammi I Colori...Recondita Armonia
14. E Lucevan Le Stelle (Tosca, Act III)
15. Ch'ella Mi Creda (La Fanciulla Del West, Act III)
16. Dai Campi, Dai Prati (Mefistofele, Act I)
17. Virgini Muse...Quando Al Soave Anelito
18. O Sink Hernieder, Nacht Der Liebe
19. Was Am Besten Er Kann...Hoho! Hohei!

Tracks:

1. Se Quel Guerrier Io Fossi!...Celeste Aida
2. Su, Profetessa...Di Tu Se Fedele
3. Forse La Soglia Attinse...Ma Se M'e Forza Perderti
4. O Tu Che In Seno Agli Angeli
5. Su, Cacciator...Fontainebleau!...
6. Niun Mi Tema
7. Ach, Wie So Herrlich Zu Schau'n
8. Sckenkt Man Sich Rosen In Tirol
9. Gern Hab'ich Die Frau'n Gekusst
10. O Vaterland...Da Geh'ich Zu Maxim
11. Dein Ist Mein Ganzes Herz
12. Mi Aldea
13. Cancion Del Sembrador
14. No Puede Ser
15. Serenata
16. Copillas De Belen
17. Coplas Del Pastor Enamorado
18. En Aranjues Con Tu Amor
19. Jealousy Tango
20. La Golondina

Amazon.com

Placido Domingo is a phenomenon, and every aspect of his artistry is on display in this 2-CD compilation, which includes arias from his signature roles in Italian, French, German, and Russian operas, and songs from Viennese and Spanish operettas. The original recordings range from the early 1970s to the present and show that though over the years his bright golden voice has taken on a darker, more burnished glow, it has retained the melting lyricism, the heroic ring, the thrilling top notes, and the focused intensity that make it instantly recognizable. (Comparing the Verdi arias included here with their counterparts of later vintage in the all-Verdi set The Tenor Arias bears this out.) The program demonstrates his stylistic and expressive versatility and his ability to instantly establish character and mood, from Lenski's sorrow (in Eugene Onegin), Cavaradossi's heart-rending despair (in Tosca), Otello's shattering agony, to Tristan's passion, Siegfried's exuberance, Faust's ardor (first in French by Gounod, then in Italian by Boito). In three Mozart arias, Domingo spins endless, perfectly shaped phrases with incredible breath control, then adds an oddity: the famous duet between Zerlina and Don Giovanni, a role he has not performed. Five Viennese operetta songs, one of which he also conducts, are delightful; there is a smile of pleasure in his voice, but not a hint of kitsch. By contrast, Tchaikovsky's "None but the Lonely Heart" is spoiled by an orchestration that is pure Hollywood. In the final Spanish group, he is on home ground and incomparable. This is a glorious record, a must for all lovers of great singing. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

A great introduction to the art of Placido Domingo.......2007-07-04

Placido Domingo, of course, is one of the finest tenors of the latter part of the 20th century. This 2 CD set well captures his talent, showing the range of his singing. We hear cuts from Puccini and Verdi to Tchaikovsky and Wagner to Strauss and Handel. And even a traditional Spanish sung and some operetta thrown in for good measure!

This is a wonderful introduction to his artistry, and shows that he can sing well across a variety of styles and eras. Let's sample some cuts:

"Il mio Tesoro" (from Mozart's Don Giovanni) is a difficult aria to sing well. And Domingo is up to the challenge. He displays a smooth and rich voice. His is one of those distinctive tenor voices, like Tucker's or Pavarotti's, that is quickly recognizable. This is, as noted, a challenging piece and Domingo handles it well, showing off considerable vocal agility in the process.

From the same opera, "La ci darem la mano," a sweet duet with, in this instance, soprano Susan Graham. This seductive work is sung well by both parties and is a ravishing version.

From Puccini's "Tosca," "Recondita armonia." At the close, his voice rises above orchestra and chorus. Overall, well and richly sung.

And now for something very different. . . The "Forging Scene" from Siegfried. One may not think of Domingo as a heldentenor, but he does a serviceable job here. His voice sometimes appears a bit light, but, overall, he does estimable work. He catches Siegfried's spirit as he forges the shattered remains of his father's sword, "Nothung." When he sings the name of his sword at the close, with the leitmotif ringing out from the orchestra, it is an affecting moment.

Then, "Celeste Aida" (from Verdi's opera). A stentorian voice well deployed to meet the challenges of this wonderful aria. Some tenors scoop as they move from those lower to the higher notes; Domingo's voice is well controlled here. The final high note is well hit.

Strauss (Junior's) "Ach, wie so herrlich zu schau'n" is a romp! A fun piece and well sung by Domingo. He demonstrates, as before, excellent vocal agility.

Lehar's "O Vaterland" is also fun. It is a sprightly tune sprightly sung.

Finally, he ends the second CD with a traditional Spanish tune--"La Golondrina." He does not overpower this work with operatic technique. He sings it well and affectingly.

So, all in all, if one wants a good introduction to Placido Domingo's vocal oeuvre, this is a very strong starting point.

This is really the best........2007-05-16

I have many of Mr. Domingo's recordings but I really love this one. He seems to get better with age. Some of the songs are on some of my other recordings but they seem new and fresh on this CD. I really think this is the best of Placido Domingo.

If you like Placido at all, you must have this CD........2005-04-06

Placido Domingo has been around for so long, it is easy to take this great artist for granted. I totally agree with the previous reviews of this album; I can also say that I had the opportunity to hear him live in concert on April 2, 2005 in Biloxi, Mississippi, and his voice is still stunning. His opening aria that night was the prayer from El Cid, "O Souverain," which he dedicated to the memory of Pope John Paul II. This piece is the 8th selection on CD 1, and is from a 1997 live recording. His thrilling finish blew me away when I listened to it the first time, and and the crowd on the recording reacts the same way the Mississippi audience did when we heard him. That aria alone is worth the price of this CD set.

Rare And Great Domingo Classics.......2005-03-08

EMI's "The Very Best Of" series is a wonderful way for the opera lover/novice or even connoisseur in training to get acquainted with the great singers of opera in the 20th century. It is possible that in a few years, the great singers of today (from the 90's up to now and further into the future) will grace the album covers of The Very Best Of...The Very Best Of Renee Fleming, The Very Best Of Salvatore Licitra, etc. This is not exactly the best of Domingo. It is more of a collection of rare and wonderfully expressive arias from operas that range all over the map- Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, Wagner, Meyerbeer, Gounod, Massenet. Now, here's the reason why so many people adore Domingo, myself included - Domingo is a Renaissance Opera Tenor. He has sung almost every tenor role in the opera universe. Even if he is, to some, the "tenor who sang with Pavoratti in the three tenors" he proves he's the strongest of the bunch, the most dedicated, the most prolific and most artistic. Domingo has a beautiful voice, with secure high register and dark, masculine middle chest voice and exciting dramatic electricity! He's sung more than 50 operas, in addition operetta and Spanish Zarzuela (the Spanish equivalent to musicals or operetta which is where he got started and his parents sung in Zarzuela) and he has also recorded Spanish mainstream love songs for Latin audiences. A winner of Grammies, an actor in movies about operas that he starred in (Tosca, La Traviata, Otello) and the most active tenor on tv broadcasts, he is just incredible and powerful.
He is a great force in opera.

Even in his old age, he does'nt seem to be slowing down or call it quits. Recent performances (2000-2005) include Eugene Onegin, the lead in Queen of Spades, Rasputin in Debra Dratell's Nicolas and Alexandra, Idomeneo and his next role Parsifal. He is the singular tenor who mastered every repertoire- Mozart (Don Ottavio, Tamino...unfortunately Domingo as Don Giovanni is a miscast because he is too noble and romantic and GOOD to be a bad guy)..to Puccini heros (Mario Cavaradossi in Tosca, Dick Johnson in Fanciualla Del West, Rodolfo in Boheme, Pinkerton in Madame Butterfly, Calaf in Turandot) Verdi heroes (Radames in Aida, Don Carlos, Stiffelio, etc) to the French repertoire...Gounod (Faust, Romeo) Meyerbeer heroes, Massenet hero (Des Grieux, Le Cid) and Saint Saens (Samson) the list goes on and on. When this man dies, an era will die with him. His legend will live on because he will leave behind dozens of albums, movies and memories......

A real Bobby Dazzler.......2004-02-19

Fans of Mr. Domingo would be lucky to find a selection of music that more profoundly explores and exhibits the diversity of his vocal ability and interpretation than is offered on these two discs. Delicious displays of Mozart, ringing renditions of the most challenging high Italian roles, powerfully rounded accounts of some of the heavy German/Russian repetoir, and some noticably nostalgic songs from the light Spannish tradition provide an impressive catalogue of the great man's rich, focussed, technically impecable and singularly beguiling vocal talent. Those who are yet to form an opinion on any particular genre of the operatic spectrum would do well to start here, so eclectic is this album. Also, you might be reassured to know that, should you become an admirer of P.D.'s talent as a result of listening to this compilation, (it is difficult to resist), you will have no trouble finding other recordings by him. A record-breaker with more than 110 roles to his repetoir (40 is a respected total for an opera singer), he is the most recorded tenor in history, leaving more than 80 complete accounts to date of operas in the Italian, French, German and Russian traditions.

Average customer rating: Only Furtwangler can beat Furtwangler Response to S. Bauer re: "Unclear When This Opera Was Recorded," February 2006 Superb voices which are hard to find Very good Unclear when this opera was recorded

Mozart: Don Giovanni, K527 Manufacturer: Gala ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra | ( V ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Opera & Vocal | Box Sets | Stores | Music Bargain Box Sets | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Classical General | Classical | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Bargain Box Sets | Opera & Vocal General | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Opera & Vocal General | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Similar Items: Mozart's Don Giovanni (Dover Opera Libretto Series) Mozart - Don Giovanni / Maazel, Raimondi, Te Kanawa, Paris Opera Mozart: Don Giovanni Mozart: Die Zauberflote Furtwangler Conducts Brahms - Complete Symphonies, etc / North German RSO, Berlin PO ASIN: B000001XNW Release Date: 2000-06-06

Tracks:

1. Ouverture
2. Act One: Nr. 1 Introduzione: 'Notte e giorno faticar' (Donna Anna, Don Giovanni)
3. Act One: Nr. 2: Recitativo accompagnato e Duetto: 'Ma qual mai s'offre, oh dei' (Donna Anna, Don Ottavio)
4. Act One: Recitativo: 'Orsu, spicciati presto' (Don Giovanni)
5. Act One: Nr. 3 Aria: 'Ah! chi mi dice mai' (Donna Elvira, Don Giovanni)
6. Act One: Nr. 4 Aria: 'Madamina, il catalogo e questo'
7. Act One: Nr. 5 Coro: 'Giovinette che fate all'amore'
8. Act One: Recitativo: 'Manco male e partita' (Don Giovanni)
9. Act One: Nr. 6 Aria: 'Ho capito, signor si!'
10. Act One: Recitativo: 'Alfin siam liberati' (Don Giovanni)
11. Act One: Nr. 7 Duettino: 'La ci darem la mano' (Don Giovanni)
12. Act One: Nr. 8 Aria: 'Ah, fuggi il traditor' (Donna Elvira)
13. Act One: Recitativo: 'Mi par ch'oggi il demonio si diverta' (Don Giovanni, Don Ottavio, Donna Anna)
14. Act One: Nr. 9 Quartetto: 'Non ti fidar, o misera' (Donna Elvira, Donna Anna, Don Ottavio, Don Giovanni)
15. Act One: Nr. 10 Recitativo accompagnato ed aria: 'Don ottavio, son morta!'
16. Act One: 'Or sai chi l'onore' (Donna Anna)
17. Act One: Nr. 10a Aria: 'Dalla sua pace' (KV 540 A - Wien 1788) (Don Ottavio)
18. Act One: Recitativo: 'lo deggo ad ogni patto' (Don Giovanni)
19. Act One: Nr. 11 Aria: 'Fin ch'an dal vino' (Don Giovanni)
20. Act One: Recitativo: 'Masetto: senti un po!'
21. Act One: Nr. 12 Aria: 'Batti, batti, o bel masetto'

Tracks:

1. Act One: Recitativo: 'Guard un po' (Don Giovanni)
2. Act One: Nr. 13 Finale: 'Presto presto pria ch'ei venga' (Don Giovanni)
3. Act One: 'Bisogna aver coraggio' (Donna Elvira, Don Ottavio, Donna Anna, Don Giovanni)
4. Act One: 'Riposate, vezzose ragazze!' (Don Giovanni, Donna Anna, Donna Elvira, Don Ottavio)
5. Act Two: Nr. 14 Duetto: 'Eh via, buffone' (Don Giovanni)
6. Act Two: Nr. 15 Terzetto: 'Ah! taci, ingiusto core' (Donna Elvira, Don Giovanni)
7. Act Two: Nr. 16 Canzonetta: 'Deh, vieni alla finestra' (Don Giovanni)
8. Act Two: Nr. 17 Aria: 'Meta di voi qua vadano' (Don Giovanni)
9. Act Two: Nr. 18 Aria: 'Vedrai, carino'
10. Act Two: Recitativo: 'Di molte faci il lume' (Donna Elvira)
11. Act Two: Nr. 19 Aria: 'Sola, sola, in buio loco' (Donna Elvira, Don Ottavio, Donna Anna)
12. Act Two: Nr. 20 Aria: 'Ah, pieta, signori miei'
13. Act Two: Nr. 21a Aria: 'Il mio tesoro intanto' (Don Ottavio)
14. Act Two: Nr. 21b Recitativo accompagnato ed Aria: 'In quali eccessi, o numi' 'Mi tradi quel'alma ingrata' (KV 540 C - Wien 1788) (Donna Elvira)
15. Act Two: Recitativo: 'Ah, ah, ah, ah, questa e buona' (Don Giovanni)
16. Act Two: Nr. 22 Duetto: 'O statua gentilissima' (Don Giovanni)

Tracks:

1. Act Two: Recitativo: 'Calmatevi, idol mio' (Don Ottavio, Donna Anna)
2. Act Two: Nr. 23 Rondo: 'Non mi dir, bell'idol mio' (Donna Anna)
3. Act Two: Nr. 24 Finale: 'Gia la mensa e preparata' (Don Giovanni)
4. Act Two: 'Don Giovanni, a cenar teco m'invitasti' (Don Giovanni)
5. Act Two: 'Ah! dove e il perfido' (Donna Anna, Donna Elvira, Don Ottavio)
6. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 2 Arie: 'Der Vogelfanger bin ich ja'
7. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 3 Arie: 'Dies Bildnis ist bezauberend schon'
8. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 4 Rezitativ und Arie: 'O zittre nicht, mein lieber Sohn!'
9. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 7 Duett: Bei Mannern, welche Liebe fuhlen'
10. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 8 Finale: 'Erster Aufzug: Wie strark ist nicht dein Zauberton'
11. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 10 Arie mit Chor: 'O Isis und Osiris'
12. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 14 Arie: 'Der Holle Rache kocht in meinem Herzen'
13. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 15 Arie: 'In diesen heil'gen Hallen'
14. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 17 Arie: 'Ach, ich fuhl's, es ist verschwunden'
15. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 20 Arie: 'Ein Madchen oder Weibchen wunscht Papageno sich,
16. Die Zauberflote: Arias And Scenes: Nr. 21c Finale: Zweiter Aufzug: 'Wir wandeln durch des Tones Macht'

Customer Reviews:

Only Furtwangler can beat Furtwangler.......2007-05-04

Despite the 'historical' sound effect of this live recording, this is a 'must-own' for Mozart lovers.
I agree that Elisabeth Schwarzkopf's Donna Elvira in this live recording is probably the best of her various recordings of this role, including the famous Giulini version. Just listen to her solo arias and the duets, and you will see the audience were so right in applauding as they did.
Elisabeth Gruemmer was a superb Donna Anna, not to be eclipsed by the later Giulini version by Joan Sutherland.
Cesare Siepi was only around 30 years old in this recording. He is the greatest Giovanni on record, both on stage and in recordings. I entirely agree with one earlier reviewer on Eberhard Waechter's Don G in Giulini's version: boorish. Eventhough Waechter led brilliantly in the ensembles.
My only slight reservation is for Anton Dermota's Don Ottavio here. His Dalla pace sua hardly sounded comfortable, though he sang all the notes alright.
One final point - it appears that this Furtwangler version is the Viennese version, not the Prague version.

Response to S. Bauer re: "Unclear When This Opera Was Recorded," February 2006.......2006-09-02

The 6.8.1951 date which you question on page 5 of the booklet accompanying this superior performance of "Don Giovanni" refers to "Die Zauberflote," recorded on CD 3, tracks 6 - 16.

The credits listed on the inside back of the CD case include "Salzburg, 27.7.1953" for Don Giovanni, and "Salzburg, 1951" for Die Zauberflote.

Your recording IS the acclaimed Don Giovanni, 1953 can't-live-without version! Enjoy it more now!

Superb voices which are hard to find.......2006-08-19

The conductor is the number one for Mozart Operas, the 2 Elisabeths sound beautiful in their own distinctive voices, Erna Berger at 51 years old still has a very young voice. Siepi is the number one Don. Edelman and Dermota are wonderful. The sound is the only thing that could be improved but we have to realize that it is a live performance from 1951.

Very good.......2006-04-17

I have bought this cd opera and I listened it yesterday evening.
I live in Ceneda of Vittorio Veneto (Italy) where Da Ponte was born.
I have other two version (Solti director and Muti director) but this is the best.
Very good the director and very good the interpreters.
I have talked with many italian teacher's classical music; they said me that this edition (Furtwaengler director in Salzburg 1953) is the best in every time.

Unclear when this opera was recorded.......2006-02-06

Can I anyone answer this? On the front cover of this CD box it says "1953". On the back cover, and in the booklet, however, it says "1951". In the booklet, on p. 5, it says "6.8.1951". Now are all the Amazon reviewers wrong, taking this recording for the 1953 recording, or is it actually a 1951 recording? If so, perhaps Amazon should also have an editorial note clarifying this.
Thank you.

Average customer rating: Impeccable yet Lusty Performances of the Beloved Brandenburg Concerti Italianate Brandenburgs - and a bonus DVD

Bach: Brandenburg Concertos Johann Sebastian Bach , Concerto Italiano , and Rinaldo Alessandrini Manufacturer: Opus 111 ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Concerto Grossi | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | 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 Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Composers, A-Z | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music Similar Items: Schubert: String Quartets Nos. 13 & 14 Haydn: The Paris Symphonies Nos. 82-87 Gramophone Classical Good CD, DVD & Download Guide 2007 (Classical Good CD, DVD, & Download Guide) (Classical Good CD, DVD, & Download Guide) Bach: The Art of Fugue; Keyboard Concertos Vivaldi Edition: Le Quattro Stagioni (with bonus CD: Portrait) ASIN: B000ALCFYI Release Date: 2005-10-18

Tracks:

1. (...)
2. Adagio
3. Allegro
4. Menuet
5. Trio A 2 Hautbois E Bassono. Corni E Vile Tacent
6. Menuet Repetat
7. Poloinesse. Tutti Violini E Viole Ma Piano. Violino Piccolo Tacet
8. Menuet Ab Inizio
9. Trio A 2 Corni & 3 Hautbois In Unissono
10. Menuet (...) Ab Inizio/Avec Grande Reprise
11. (...)
12. Andante
13. Allegro Assai
14. (...)
15. Adagio. Allegro
16. Sinfonia

Tracks:

1. Allegro
2. Andante
3. Presto
4. Allegro
5. Affettuoso
6. Allegro
7. Cadenza (First Version; 1st Movement: Bars 147-180)
8. (...)
9. Adagio, Ma Non Tanto
10. Allegro

Amazon.com

If you're familiar with Alessandrini and his sparkling period instrument ensemble you expect interpretations featuring rhythmic drive, colorful playing, and original insights. Those characteristics are what help make this version of Bach's perennial and oft-recorded Brandenburg Concertos so compelling. Tempos are generally on the fast side, but never overly swift, while slow movements have just the right touch of soulfulness. Virtually without exception, the solo bits are done with imaginative, fluent expertise, and Gabriele Cassone's rendition of the famous trumpet part of the Second Brandenburg provides musical thrills, as well as virtuoso ones. Alessandrini himself takes us on a wild ride through the Fifth Concerto's brilliant harpsichord cadenza. In addition to the complete Brandenburgs, this set includes another, earlier version of the Fifth's harpsichord solo, a cantata Sinfonia drawn from the Third's opening movement, and a 43' DVD film featuring scenes from the recording sessions and an interview with Alessandrini about Bach. Add Naïve's superb sonics and this set zooms into the preferred handful of Brandenburg Concerto recordings. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Impeccable yet Lusty Performances of the Beloved Brandenburg Concerti.......2006-02-04

Rinaldo Alessandrini and Concerto Italiano offer one of the most exhilarating performances of the much recorded and much performed Bach Brandenburg Concerti in the available repertoire today. The zest, warmth and easy tenderness these works convey has rarely sounded so fresh and well played. Each of the 'solo instruments' are superb and the recorded sound is so clear that it begs credibility that the listener is not in the hall with the Concerto Italiano.

While there are numerous recordings, both in the archives and in the seemingly yearly new releases, this 2 CD set is, for this listener, the most rewarding. And for those who like to get the feel of the backstage machinations of just how music flows from the page to the CD there is a DVD that is interesting to see once, but in no way is it as important an incentive to buying this set as the performances themselves. Highly Recommended - even it you have multiple other recordings of this timelessly delightful music. Grady Harp, February 06

Italianate Brandenburgs - and a bonus DVD.......2005-11-10

The first thing one notices with this set is the cover illustration, a photo of a magnificent fourteen-point stag looking out a window while walking in what looks like a deserted multistory concrete parking garage. I have no idea how it is supposed to relate to the music but it certainly is a striking image.

The next thing one notices, and this is more important, is that the musicians -- one to a part in the ripieno group -- are swinging the music in a loose and somehow very Italianate manner. This is fitting, of course, considering that the concerto grosso was invented in Italy by the likes of Corelli and Vivaldi, whose music Bach knew (and copied) very well. One tends to think of the Brandenburgs as very German, but indeed they have more than a little Italian influence in addition to their Teutonic contrapuntal mastery. And all these performances are first-rate. There are jillions of recordings of the Brandenburgs, many of them excellent, but Rinaldo Alessandrini and Concerto Italiano have something rather new to say about them in that they bring that Italian joie de vivre to their traversal. The woodwinds are fruity and a little raw, the strings have suavity and lively phrasing. Of course, the six Brandenburgs feature all manner of solo instruments and there is not a weak soloist amongst them. I particularly liked the sound of the two recorders (designated 'fiauti d'echo' in the Italian headnote) in Concerto No. 4; they are complemented by the wonderful solo violinist, Antonio de Secondi, in that concerto. I also liked the corni di caccia in Concerto No. 1, and the marvelous harpsichord solos, done by Alessandrini (a real virtuoso) in the grandfather of all keyboard concerti, the Concerto No. 5. The dark mahogany tone of the violin-less No. 6 is impressive. The virtuosity of the trumpet soloist in No. 2 (Gabriele Cassone) takes one's breath away with its élan and brilliance. All in all these are marvelous performances worthy of shelf space with all those other terrific Brandenburgs; my own favorites include the Trevor Pinnock/English Concerto, the second set by Harnoncourt/Concentus Musicus, and Jeanne Lamon/Tafelmusik.

There is a bonus DVD (making three discs in all - 2 CDs, 1 DVD), filmed by Philippe Béziat, that shows Alessandrini and Concerto Italiano rehearsing (and featuring long uninterrupted chunks of the music) as well as a lengthy conversation with Alessandrini concerning his thoughts on the Brandenburgs: a worthy addition and quite informative, as are Alessandrini's extensive notes in the booklet.

This set deserves a place in anyone's library.

Scott Morrison

Average customer rating: Male voices top, female voices flop Poor version NOT QUITE MAGIC TO ME Excelente version! The Best Magic Flute Recording

Mozart: The Magic Flute (Highlights) Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music | Cantatas | Romances German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Operettas | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music CDs $7 - $10 | Operas | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music All Bargain Titles | Operas | Opera & Vocal | Today's Deals in Music | Formats | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Mozart: Le Nozze di Figaro (Highlights) Mozart: Don Giovanni [Highlights] Verdi: Rigoletto (Highlights) / Sutherland, Pavarotti Mozart - Così fan tutte / Cuberli, Bartoli, Rodgers, Streit, Furlanetto, Tomlinson, Berlin Phil., Barenboim [highlights] Bizet: Carmen (Highlights) ASIN: B000001GDP Release Date: 1990-05-16

Tracks:

1. Die Zauberflote: Ouverture
2. Die Zauberflote: Erster Aufzug: 1. Introduktion: 'Zu Hilfe! Zu Hilfe!'
3. Die Zauberflote: Erster Aufzug: 2. Arie: 'Der Vogelfanger bin ich ja'
4. Die Zauberflote: Erster Aufzug: 3. Arie: 'Dies Bildnis ist bezaubernd schon'
5. Die Zauberflote: Erster Aufzug: 4. Rezitativ und Arie: 'O zittre nicht, mein lieber Sohn!' - 'Zum Leiden bin ich auserkoren'
6. Die Zauberflote: Erster Aufzug: 7. Duett - 'Bei Mannern, welche Leibe fuhlen'
7. Die Zauberflote: Zweiter Aufzug: 10. Arie mit Chor: 'O Isis und Osiris'
8. Die Zauberflote: Zweiter Aufzug: 13. Arie: 'Alles fuhlt der Liebe Freuden'
9. Die Zauberflote: Zweiter Aufzug: 14. Arie: 'Der Holle Rache kocht in meinem Herzen'
10. Die Zauberflote: Zweiter Aufzug: 15. Arie: 'In diesen heil'gen Hallen
11. Die Zauberflote: Zweiter Aufzug: 16. Terzett: 'Seid uns zum zweitenmal willkommen'
12. Die Zauberflote: Zweiter Aufzug: 17. Arie: h, ich fuhl's, es ist verschwunden'
13. Die Zauberflote: Zweiter Aufzug: 18. Chor der Priester: 'O Isis und Osiris'
14. Die Zauberflote: Zweiter Aufzug: 20. Arie: 'Ein Madchen oder Weibchen'
15. Die Zauberflote: Zweiter Aufzug: 21 Finale - Duett: 'Pa-pa-gena! Pa-pa-geno!'
16. Die Zauberflote: Zweiter Aufzug: Rezitativ und Chor: 'Die Strahlen der Sonne'- 'Heil sei euch Geweihten!'

Amazon.com

Still probably the most magical recording ever of The Magic Flute, this starrily cast production featured the incomparable Fritz Wunderlich as Tamino, Evelyn Lear as a wonderfully sympathetic Pamina, Roberta Peters as a regal Queen of the Night (surprisingly good coloratura, if a little light at the top), Wagnerians James King and Martti Talvela as the two armed men (imagine that!), and of course, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, in one of his finest operatic outings, as an engagingly earnest Papageno. Behind it all, the marvelously astute Karl Böhm and the Berlin Philharmonic are in top form. The 1964 stereo is first rate. --Ted Libbey

Customer Reviews:

Male voices top, female voices flop.......2007-05-25

To get the real feeling for the charme of "Die Zauberflöte", you need at least two recordings: This one under Böhm is magnificent for its male voices. Nobody can beat Wunderlich as Tamino, Fischer-Dieskau as Papageno, and Crass as Sarastro. The female voices, with the exception of Lisa Otto as Papagena, are not up to the mark, though. Evelyn Lear as Pamina is lacking in brilliance, especially in the duets when she has to stand comparison with her male counterparts. Roberta Peter's singing as Queen of the Night is somewhat extreme. You get used to it after some time, but her timbre is void of beauty and her coloratura shaky at times.

What can be made of the female roles becomes clear when you listen to Klemperer's recording on EMI (also from the early 1960s, like Böhm's). Gundula Janowitz is probably the most beautiful Pamina on disc and Lucia Popp is supreme as Queen of the Night. The three ladies with Schwarzkopf, Ludwig and Höffgen are lovely and sheer luxury. But then Klemperer was less lucky with his male voices: Nicolai Gedda as Tamino and Walter Berry as Papageno sing well but remain pale when compared with Wunderlich and Fischer-Dieskau. Gottlob Frick performs with a lot of warmth, but is clearly beyond his prime when it comes to technique.

So, to experience the full potential of this marvellous opera, there is no way out: You need both the Böhm and the Klemperer version! On its own, neither one is fully satisfactory - but still better than most recent productions!

Poor version.......2005-07-08

This Magic Flute is not quite a good version. Starts good, but some arias are just poor sung... choose another one.

NOT QUITE MAGIC TO ME.......2004-11-23

AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO THINKS MS PETERS IS SLIGHTLY OFF KEY ON HER HIGH F PLACEMENT? THE REST OF THE CAST WAS GREAT....BUT CAN'T STAND PETERS EMOTIONLESS QUEEN OF NIGHT AND I DISLIKE HER TONE PERIOD. STICK WITH SUMI JO, LILY PONS, AND ADELINA PATTI

Excelente version!.......2002-01-26

No entiendo: Porque está tan barato este CD??
Es una de las mejores versiones de "La flauta" que he escuchado, el dúo final de Papageno y Papagena es de lo más rico que he escuchado en Opera y la reyna de la noche no desmerece en absoluta junto a otras afamadas coloraturas, aunque yo personalmente prefiero como interpretá el célebre papel la Deutekom.
La orquestación es correcta y el resto del elenco cumple cabálmente, mi conclusión ya la puse al principio de estos párrafos, ¿qué estás esperando?

The Best Magic Flute Recording.......2000-03-07

I think this is the best recording of The Magic Flute. So many of the singers are absolutely magnificent. Fritz Wunderlich has a beautiful full lyric tenor voice that is perfect for the magical Tamino he creates. Franz Crass is a profoundly noble Sarastro. Roberta Peters is unbelievable as the Queen of the Night. I have heard many coloratura sopranos sing that role and I think she is the best. Her Fs above high C are spectacular and she is very dramatic,especially when she sings her second aria demanding that her daughter Pamina murder Sarastro and goes into fiery coloratura. I think Roberta Peters is the best singer in the world. I would love to find out what her highest note is. Lisa Otto is delightful as Papagena, and Dietrich Fisher-Dieskau brings a lot of earthly humor to the role of Papageno. Mozart's music is pure genuis, and I think this opera is his greatest work.

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2. Karma [Import]
3. Kein Weg Zu Weit [Import]
4. Legend [Import]
5. Leipzig [Import]
6. Lieben Und Leben [Import]
7. Lieder Die Im Schatten Stehen V.7 [Import]
8. Live '82 [Live] [Import]
9. Live in Concert [Live] [Import]
10. Live - Lange Schatten Tour '88 [Live] [Import]

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