Gifts

From the Artist
Assuming the leadership during the Iranian revolution, Ruhollah Khomeini established a clerical system of government in 1979. In the following years, he ordered the arrest and execution of close to 120,000 people, most of whom were sympathizers of People's Mojahedin Organization. About 30,000, including teenagers and elderly, were executed in the second half of 1988 alone. In his letters to Ruhollah Khomeini in July and August of 1988, Hussein Ali Montazeri, the second most important political figure at the time, protested the speed and procedure of the mass executions across Iran.* In 'GIFTS', I have tried to portray the mood imposed on Iranians by the rulling clergymen.

*Crime Against Humanity, 2001. Published by the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Council of Resistance of Iran.

Product Description
'Gifts' is a collection of compositions in Baroque/Classical style. The words are in Persian. It draws attention to more than two decades of social and political injustice in modern Iran.

Gifts

Gifts,Ali Shirazi

Average customer rating: pure genius Another great Yo-Yo Disc first disc great- second a flop Encore The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma

The Essential Yo-Yo Ma Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music 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 Morricone, Ennio | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Piazzolla, Astor | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Porter | Porter, Cole | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Saint-Saëns, Camille | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Shostakovich | Shostakovich, Dmitri | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tchaikovsky | Tchaikovsky, Peter Ilyich | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Vivaldi | Vivaldi, Antonio | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by O'Connor | O'Connor, Mark | ( O ) | 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 Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Film Scores | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Cello | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Ma, Yo-Yo | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music New York Philharmonic Orchestra | ( N ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Appassionato Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone Vivaldi's Cello Classic Yo-Yo Silk Road Journeys: Beyond the Horizon ASIN: B000A7Q29G Release Date: 2005-08-16

Tracks:

1. Prde from Suite No. 1 in G Major for Cello, BWV 1007
2. II. Largo from "Winter", Op. 8, No. 4, RV 297 from the Four Seasons
3. Jesus, bleibet meine Freude (Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring), BWV 147
4. Schafe kn sicher weiden (Sheep May Safely Graze), BWV 208
5. Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme (Sleepers Awake), BWV 645
6. The Swan from Carnival of the Animals (Chamber Version)
7. Havanaise, Op. 83
8. Mtation from Tha
9. Liebesfreud Instrumental
10. Allegro ben ritmato e deciso from Three Preludes
11. Vocalise Vocal
12. IV. Allegro from Sonata in D minor for Cello and Piano, Op. 40
13. Andante Cantabile for Cello Solo and String Orchestra, Op. posth.
14. IV. Rondo alla Zingarese. Presto from Quartet No. 1 in G minor for Piano and Strings, Op. 25
15. III. Finale. Allegro moderato from Concerto in B minor for Cello and Orchestra, Op. 104

Tracks:

1. Cristal
2. A lenda do caboclo
3. Chega de Saudade Live
4. Wapango Live
5. Libertango
6. Appalachia Waltz Solo Cello Version
7. Butterfly's Day Out
8. 1B
9. Pickin' from Three Pieces for Solo Cello
10. Simple Gifts
11. The Mission
12. Gabriel's Oboe
13. The Falls Album Version
14. The Eternal Vow from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
15. The Cellist of Sarajevo - A Lament in Rondo Form for Solo 'Cello, Op. 12
16. Chi passa per'sta strada
17. Mido Mountain (Chinese Traditional)
18. Mohini (Enchantment)
19. Baroque in Rhythm from Suite for Cello and Jazz Piano Trio
20. Anything Goes Instrumental
21. I Could Have Danced All Night Extended version

Amazon.com

Here are three dozen pieces of music, all played by Yo-Yo Ma, culled from his extensive discography. Aside from the technical mastery and beautiful tone that are absolutes in all of his playing, one is dazzled by his curiosity and ability to adapt to so many forms and types of music. His Bach and Vivaldi are pellucid and played with non-sentimental crispness, his tango music gritty and rhythmically pungent, his jazz seemingly spontaneous, the "Meditation" from Thais simply ravishing, "Anything Goes" a romp, and the Appalachian music performed with both respect and a great twang, while the traditional Chinese music is fascinating. It's really a matter of how much Ma loves whatever he plays here, how entirely he becomes involved in it, and what a fine partner he invariably is to other musicians. This collection is a doozy--it is truly "essential." --Robert Levine

Customer Reviews:

pure genius.......2007-05-21

No instrument asks more from the soul of an artist as the cello does.
Yo Yo Ma shows to be master of the instrument and his interpretations en technique are pure genius. Everyone should have this album in his (or hers of course) basic classical collection

Another great Yo-Yo Disc.......2007-05-15

The set-up with the classical pieces on the first disc and the other on the second is excellent.

first disc great- second a flop.......2007-04-12

the first disc is awesome. the second disc is weird and boring.

Encore.......2007-03-31

Incredible. My young cellist (son) loves it. Beautiful music. The album is well organized and each song transitions nicely.

The Versatile Yo-Yo Ma.......2007-03-29

I've found this collection to be extremely delightful! It gives you a sense of the versatility of Yo-Yo Ma like no other, with one disc being dedicated more to his classical side, while the other explores jazz and world music venues. Not your typical "greatest hits" collection.

Average customer rating: I have used this CD for TEN YEARS... Welcome to the warm embrace of angels! Gift of Angels This is truly music from the angels life saving music

Gifts of the Angels Steven Halpern Manufacturer: Inner Peace Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ambient | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Electronica | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Self-Help | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Healing | New Age | Styles | Music Relaxation | New Age | Styles | Music Space Rock | Rock | Alternative Styles | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music Electronic | Progressive | Rock | Styles | Music Self-Help | Miscellaneous | Indie Music | Stores | Music General | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Inner Peace Chakra Suite Sound Medicine: Music for Healing Music for Sound Healing Effortless Relaxation ASIN: B000003IVB Release Date: 1994-10-18

Tracks:

1. Gifts Of The Angels
2. Radiance
3. Ode To Orpheus
4. Celestial Prophecy
5. Eternally
6. Awakening
7. Pachelbel's Canon
8. Sand Dance
9. Angels On High
10. Inner Peace
11. Earthrise
12. Higher Ground
13. Crystal Suite
14. The Light In Your Eyes
15. Starborn Suite

Amazon.com

Steven Halpern has more than 60 recordings in circulation, including audio projects ostensibly designed to enhance memory, wealth, and weight loss. He even has his own trademarked slogan--the Halpern Effect(tm)! (Take that, Mozart.) Thus, it's easy to view Halpern's high-volume output since 1975 less as art and more like a commodity. Gifts of the Angels, a 68-minute compilation (sampling eight albums and adding two original pieces), offers a few nuggets that suggest Halpern's music at times can stand on its own merits, detached from all of its deep-bliss, New Age pretensions. "Celestial Prophecy," is a nicely detailed (which is not to say complex) excursion on solo piano that briefly stirs the senses, and the title track from Higher Ground is a delicate space-music standout. Meanwhile, the 1970s-flashback tonality of Halpern's electric piano (one piece, "Earthrise," can be traced to Halpern's debut release, Spectrum Suite) dates several of the tracks included here. Nevertheless, the disc's pace, which drifts deeper into the ether on each of the last five tracks, is nicely constructed for those aiming to nod off into a state of contented nothingness. --Terry Wood

Customer Reviews:

I have used this CD for TEN YEARS..........2006-12-23

As a massage therapist, this is the ONLY CD I have used consistently in my practice over the past TEN years. There is something about this particular CD that I absolutely love and that has not been duplicated in other CDs I have used (literally hundreds!) Steven Halpern comes up with awesome music! I have many of his other CDs as well, but NOTHING comes close to "Gifts of the Angels". I am now using my 3rd copy and will buy another when this one is worn out. Many of my clients ASK me to use it in their massage sessions and ask me where to find Halpern's music. Superb.

Welcome to the warm embrace of angels!.......2006-08-31

When much of modern day's rock music and the civilization's pressure on people's lifestyle has a stressful and bad influence on the well being Steven Halpern's music is a blessing. The Godfather and inventor of the New Age music that has a healing and relaxing purpose makes music that puts the body in it's own rhythm and leads into a state of balance and inner peace. Gifts of Angels does all this, but adds an extra dimension with its beautiful angel song, making this an absolute world class New Age album. The music puts the brain waves in an alpha state and sometimes my heartbeat even gets down to 40 beats per minute, leading to a sense of peace and relaxation at the same time as its get me ready to meet my everyday life as a more balanced and happier human being. To have the opportunity to lie down and do nothing, just listen to this beautiful music, and let it fill your entire body with peace and comfort is a luxury that I think every human being should have the opportunity to do and that everybody needs to do once in a while. Unfortunately many people don't have the knowledge about New Age and the way it helps us to a better life. Bands like Rush, Journey and Def Leppard gives us the rush and entertainment that we need to be energetic while going to the gym or driving the car fast on a sunny summer day. Steven Halpern's music gets the body in a state of balance and peace and helps us to get more concentrated and focused. The price of this CD is not just the price of another CD, it's an investment in a better life, like buying a miracle pill that gets you healthier and helps you get away from illness and an unhealthy life, a pill that never will end.

Gift of Angels.......2006-08-21

The music is just that! It sounds like you're in Heaven. Halpern scores again!

This is truly music from the angels.......2006-03-24

I listen to this CD when I am meditating and while I am taking a bath. It allows me to relax and truly be in a state of heaven. I love it.

life saving music.......2006-03-07

I did not expect this but I was really buying this for myself, turns out my daughter likes this at night so she can fall asleep. My daughter is 4 and very active, she never seems to know when to rest and relax.
I decided to play this one night just to ease the mood of the night and she was asleep by the 4th song. We play this cd every night. thank!, you thank!, you thank you!

I love this cd because now I can have her go to sleep at a time that is normal for her age instead of an adult time.

Thanks, I recommend this cd for every one that is tense and needs a good easy winding down. I love it

Average customer rating: Music we all need to hear once in a while. A very good CD Revision of history Lovely CD--shameful misspelling on the song titles The Ultimate Patriotic Album

God Bless America: Ult Patriotic Album Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Classical | Styles | Music London Philharmonic Orchestra | ( L ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: God Bless America America's Favorite Patriotic Songs Stars & Stripes Forever, Vol. 2 American Anthems The Military Band: Salute to the Services ASIN: B000068C7V Release Date: 2002-06-11

Tracks:

1. Yankee Doodle
2. Star Bangled Banner (vocal)
3. God Bless America
4. Battle Hymn Of The Republic
5. Shenandoah
6. Amazing Grace
7. America The Beautiful
8. Simple Gifts
9. America (My Country 'Tis Of Thee)
10. Over There
11. You're A Grand Old Flag
12. Thru The Years 1776-1969
13. Semper Fidelis
14. Washington Post
15. American Patrol
16. Star Bangled Banner (instrumental)
17. The Caissons Go Rolling Along
18. Anchors Aweigh
19. Semper Paratus
20. The Air Force Song
21. The Marines' Hymn
22. The Stars And Stripes Forever

Customer Reviews:

Music we all need to hear once in a while........2007-01-04

This album is well put together and I enjoy the old standards. Music is an integral part of our heritage. Often when I listen to this album, I think about what our country has been through and how very, very important it is to appreciate what we have. I spent 3 years living in France in the 60's and I cannot tell you how much all Americans looked forward to going "Home!"

Enjoy!!

A very good CD.......2005-06-16

If you like a mix of songs and marches very well played, this CD is for you. The voices of the singers are good, the music support the lyrics and it is easy to listen or to sing along. Also, nearby half of the tunes are played by the Band of the Grenadier Guards and for me, this Band is the best band to play Sousa marches and military marches. The precision of the execution is perfect, the sound is lovely and the technical quality of the recording is perfect. When I listen Anchors Aweigh, I always hear the sound of the waves and it is one of the only bands that gives me this feeling. If you have just one CD of military music to buy, you may buy this one; it is a best buy.

Revision of history.......2005-03-27

As usual, "Dixie," "The Bonnie Blue Flag," and other songs of a Southern genre are conspicuously absent. Why not throw in a couple of rap tunes to make this album truly "American?"

Lovely CD--shameful misspelling on the song titles.......2002-11-22

I do not own this CD--though it appears it would be a wonderful album to listen to. I was compelled to write my review because of the misspelling of our national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner (as opposed to "The Star Bangled Banner" as it appears not once but twice on the song list). I do hope this error is corrected.

The Ultimate Patriotic Album.......2002-07-20

For all those patriots out there who want to listen to classical patriotic music, then get this album. This has a lot of tracks from yankee doodle march to the Washington post march. Even Amazing grace is here. The orchestras and the chorus here, gave there best performance ever.

Enjoy

Average customer rating: Best of the the popular Copland... A Great American Album Must have this one...

Ultimate Copland Album Manufacturer: Decca ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Ballets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Copland | Copland, Aaron | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Marches | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Ballets & Dances | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Baltimore Symphony Orchestra | ( B ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Detroit Symphony Orchestra | ( D ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Marches | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music The Decca Records Store | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Copland: Music for Films Bernstein Century - Copland: Appalachian Spring, Rodeo, etc / Bernstein, New York PO Copland: Appalachian Spring; Rodeo; Fanfare for the Common Man Bernstein Century - Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue, etc Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue - Piano Concerto in F - An American in Paris ASIN: B00002S5EW Release Date: 1999-11-09

Tracks:

1. Fanfare For The Common Man
2. From Four Dance Episodes From 'Rodeo': Saturday Night Waltz
3. From Four Dance Episodes From 'Rodeo': Hoe-Down
4. From Old American Songs: Simple Gifts
5. Appalachian Spring: Variations On A Shaker Hymn
6. From Music For Movies: Grovers Corners (From Our Town)
7. From Billy The Kid: Introduction - The Open Prairie
8. From Billy The Kid: Street In A Frontier Town
9. From Billy The Kid: Mexican Dance
10. From Billy The Kid: Gun Battle
11. From Billy The Kid: Celebration (After Billy's Capture)
12. From Billy The Kid: The Open Prairie Again
13. From Billy The Kid: El Salon Mexico
14. Appalachian Spring: Very Slowly
15. Appalachian Spring: Allegro
16. Appalachian Spring: Moderato: The Bride And Her Intended
17. Appalachian Spring: Fast: The Revivalist And His Flock
18. Appalachian Spring: Allegro: Solo Dance Of The Bride
19. Appalachian Spring: Meno Mosso
20. Appalachian Spring: Doppio Movimento: Variations On A Shaker Hymn
21. Appalachian Spring: Moderato: Coda

Customer Reviews:

Best of the the popular Copland..........2004-12-26

Here's a great introduction to the popular music of Aaron Copland. When "Fanfare for the Common Man" begins, sparks of recognition will fly for most listeners. This song has been everywhere: presidential inaugurations, the olympics, commercials, movies, etc. Some flatten it as hopelessly clichéd, while others find it moving and inspiring. Copland also reprised it in the finale of his Third Symphony. Arguably Copland's most famous piece, "Appalachian Spring" closes the CD. In between, more great Copland: excerpts from 'Rodeo' (apparently the beef lobby has appropriated "Hoe-Down" as one of their themes); a great vocal rendition of "Simple Gifts" and a large chunk of another of Copland's best known works: "Billy the Kid". The only confusing piece is the "Variations on a Shaker Hymn" from Appalachian Spring when the entire Appalachian Spring is already included. Seems slightly redundant.

Though most of the pieces on this CD were written in the 1930s and 1940s, they tend to evoke the old west. With titles such as "Rodeo" and "Billy the Kid" this shouldn't surprise too many people.

Copland went on to compose more dissonant and twelve tone compositions later on in his career. These obviously weren't as popular with the public in general as the pieces on this CD. Nonetheless, if this disc whets the appetite, a foray into Copland's less popular works will yield much. It will help to expose the totality of Copland's output. This disc only represents a small portion of his work. Regardless, this disc is a great starting point for getting to know one of the United States' best known composers of the twentieth century.

A Great American Album.......2004-02-13

This is a great album representing true patriotic American music. Songs like "Hoe-Down" are lively and energetic and give rememberance to what one can imagine as the true American spirit.

Must have this one..........2002-09-17

I like all types of music, I wanted this album because I liked the song "RODEO" that is used on the beef commercials. This CD has made me into a Copland fan. It has many great songs. If you want a CD that says "I am an American." This is it. I am sending copies to a friend in Bombay and Tel Aviv. This is who I am put to music.

Average customer rating: New Yo-Yo Fan Simply wonderful! Awesome What is this? Great if you're not familiar with Yo-Yo Ma

Classic Yo-Yo Manufacturer: Sony ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Brahms | Brahms, Johannes | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Dvorák, Antonín | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gershwin | Gershwin, George | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Piazzolla, Astor | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by O'Connor | O'Connor, Mark | ( O ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rachmaninov | Rachmaninov, Sergei | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Film Scores | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | 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 Cantatas | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | 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 Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Soundtracks | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classical | Styles | Blowout Music | Stores | Music All Blowout Music | Blowout Music | Stores | Music More Titles at Least 25% Off | Blowout Music | Stores | Music Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music Similar Items: Vivaldi's Cello The Essential Yo-Yo Ma Obrigado Brazil Soul of the Tango: The Music of Astor Piazzolla Simply Baroque ASIN: B00005OAY5 Release Date: 2001-09-18

Tracks:

1. Unaccompanied Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major
2. Prelude
3. Fear Tango
4. Butterfly's Day Out
5. Was Gott tut, das ist wohlgetan
6. Slavonic Dance No. 2 in E minor, Op.72
7. Three Preludes
8. Allegro ben ritmato e deciso
9. American Collection Theme
10. Sonata for Cello and Piano in F Major, Op. 99
11. IV. Allegro molto
12. The Eternal Vow from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
13. Erbarme dich (Matthdus-Passion)
14. Quartet for Piano & Strings No. 2 in G minor, Op. 45
15. IV. Allegro molto
16. Vocalise
17. Libertango
18. Simple Gifts
19. Appalachia Waltz

Amazon.com

Except for one "previously unreleased" recording and two new ones, this is a compilation of segments taken from older Yo-Yo Ma CDs, perhaps to whet listeners' appetite to hear the entire records. The disc represents a triumph of performance over material. The program consists of short pieces and single movements of long ones and serves to display Yo-Yo Ma's extraordinary versatility, his spectacular instrumental and musical gifts, and his remarkable ability to invest everything he plays with the same commitment and emotional concentration. There is no logic to the sequence, except that it begins and ends with solo cello. Bach, whom Ma plays tuned normally when unaccompanied and tuned low with the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, may justify the CD's title but seems out of place. Moreover, juxtaposing him with O'Connor and Piazzolla is jarring, though the Tangos are beautiful. The transcription of Dvorák's lovely E-minor Slavonic Dance, despite the participation of violinist Itzhak Perlman and his golden tone, sounds like a movie soundtrack: all bravura and cheap effects. The playing's the thing, and it is stunning, not only Yo-Yo Ma's, but that of all his collaborators, from vocalists Bobby McFerrin and Alison Krauss to pianist Emanuel Ax, Ma's duo partner of 25 years. Ax joins Ma for the Finale of Brahms's second cello sonata; that is what you may find yourself humming at the end. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

New Yo-Yo Fan.......2006-07-09

I had never listened to Yo-Yo Ma before (that I knew of) and then I was at a dance recital a few months ago. Two little ballerinas danced to "Simple Gifts" with Alison Kraus, and I had to have that song. I really enjoy playing this album when my family is just hanging out reading or playing with the baby in the living room. Each piece is unique and beautiful in its own way. Simple Gifts is still my favorite piece on the album, I only wish it were longer!

Simply wonderful!.......2006-06-04

I recently got this CD as a birthday gift. I've been wanting this CD for a while. The first track is a wonderful song in all reality the entire CD is a wonderful experience. The prelude by Gershwin is unique sounding with the cello. The jazz quality is still there and has a bit of classical influence intertwined among it. Yo-Yo Ma's recording of Simple Gifts is a good song and when they had the lyrics sung by Alison Krauss it was a wonderful choice. Her vocals matched the cello incredibly well. Track 8 is a wonderful song that I love to hear being played on the cello. For any person who loves classical music or cello music this CD is a good choice to buy. It will be well worth your money.

Awesome.......2004-08-20

While most people on this site see the "classic" in the title of the album as referring to classical music only, they are mistaken. Classic Yo-Yo refers to his style, not the genre into which his music choices fall. The list of tracks alone should have been a big enough clue that the music isn't all classical. Judging this album, or any album for that matter, on just its title is simply foolish. And while this is technically a solo album, the way Yo-Yo brings in guest artists to perform with him shows his flexibility as an artist. His version of Simple Gifts is so much more than a school chorus; it is an amazing cellist playing the accompaniment on a song that is meant to be sung.

On a more positive note, I found every track beautiful, from the elegant solo cello in the Bach cello suite to the haunting vocal line in the Bobby McFerrin piece. Yo-Yo Ma gathered a wide range of intriguing pieces to make this fantastic album.

What is this?.......2004-02-10

This is a compilation of many different styles; look Yo-Yo can play bluegrass! Not really "Classic" Yo-Yo.

Great if you're not familiar with Yo-Yo Ma.......2002-12-27

This CD is a good sample of what yo-yo ma has acheived in his musical career, if you want a more in depth listening of his talents than I suggest getting the simply baroque CD. The only thing that I didn't like about this cd was that the compositions were to mixed up in the genres. There was a bit of classical, some movie works, a great song by John Williams, and some of The Tango series music. If you would rather listen to one genre, get a CD that just has Classical or Contemerary, don't get a jack of all trades cd.

Average customer rating: Excellent recording Highly Recommended! Amazing A gentleman musical agreement! Extreme virtuosity

Christopher Parkening - The Great Recordings ~ By America's Preeminent Guitar Virtuoso Johann Sebastian Bach , François Couperin , Gabriel Fauré , Isaac Albeniz , Anonymous , Francisco Tarrega (y Eixea) , Silvius Leopold Weiss , Claude Debussy , Maurice Ravel , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Gordon Young , Georg Philipp Telemann , Heitor Villa-Lobos , Manuel de Falla , Manuel Ponce , Enrique Granados , Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco , Andrew York , Fernando Sor , Gaspar Sanz , Joaquin Rodrigo , and Christopher Parkening Manufacturer: EMI Classics ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Duets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Couperin, François | ( C ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Falla | Falla, Manuel de | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Fauré, Gabriel | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Granados, Enrique | ( G ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart | Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus | ( M ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ravel, Maurice | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Satie | Satie, Erik | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Tarrega | Tarrega, Francisco | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Telemann, Georg Philipp | ( T ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Villa-Lobos, Heitor | ( V ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Debussy | Debussy, Claude | ( D ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music Character Pieces | Short Forms | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Telemann, Georg Philipp | Composers | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Villa-Lobos, Heitor | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Guitar | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Lute | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Parkening, Christopher | ( P ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Christopher Parkening plays Bach Simple Gifts: Christopher Parkening In the Spanish Style / Christopher Parkening The Christopher Parkening Guitar Method - Volume 2: Guitar Technique Christopher Parkening - A Tribute to Segovia ASIN: B000002RTR Release Date: 1993-09-14

Tracks:

1. Fugue From Violin Sonata No. 1, BWV 1001 - J S Bach
2. Estudio brillante
3. Etude No. 1 In E Minor
4. Recuerdos de la Alhambra
5. Leyenda
6. Romance
7. Rumores de la Caleta
8. Capricho Arabe
9. Cantata 147: Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring
10. Well-Tempered Clavier: Prelude No. 1
11. Well-Tempered Clavier: Prelude No. 6
12. Cantata 140: Sleepers Awake
13. Prelude, Fugue, And Allegro: Allegro
14. Cantata 208: Sheep May Safely Graze
15. Les Barricades mysterieuses
16. Preambulo & Allegro vivo: Preambulo And Allegro vivo
17. Passacaglia
18. The Girl With The Flaxen Hair
19. Gymnopedie No. 1
20. Empress Of The Pagodas
21. Afro-Cuban Lullaby

Tracks:

1. Fourth Lute Suite: Praludium
2. Fairest Lord Jesus
3. Praise Ye The Lord, K. 339
4. Simple Gifts
5. Hymn Of Christian Joy
6. Cantata 29: We Thank Thee, Lord
7. Cantata 156: Arioso
8. Cantata 99: What God Hath Done
9. Canon
10. Dolly Suite: Berceuse
11. La Vida breve: Spanish Dance No. 1
12. Terezinha De Jesus
13. Prelude (In The Baroque Style)
14. Goyescas: Intermezzo
15. Prelude & Fugue No. 4 In E: Fugue
16. Evening Dance
17. Variations On A Theme Of Mozart
18. Canarlos
19. La Maja de Goya
20. El Noi de la Mare
21. Concierto de Aranjuez: Adagio - J. Rodrigo

Customer Reviews:

Excellent recording.......2007-05-12

If you are a fan of classical guitar than this is a must own set. I enjoy every moment.

Highly Recommended!.......2006-12-23

I would recommend this CD to anyone who loves music--period! Christopher Parkening is unquestionably one of the greatest classical guitarists of all-time. He embodies personal excellence like no other and is a brilliant artist. This CD is a must-have for any classical enthusiast. My favorite pieces include: Tárrega's "Recuerdos de la Alhambra," "Romance," Bach's "Prelude No. 6," and Rodrigo's "Concierto de Aranjuez." There are other versions of these pieces as well, but I always prefer Parkening's renditions, as they are oh so extraordinary--especially the recording of Aranjuez!! Other guitarists never seem to capture the essence of Rodrigo's musical masterpiece (e.g., Göran Söllescher in "Mad About Guitars"). But Parkening did! And the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra was a perfect accompaniment.

This CD is definitely worth buying. Included is a CD booklet, which illustrates the history of Parkening's illustrious career, interesting tidbits about all 25 recorded pieces, and several photos of his early life to his "breathtaking performance" at Rodrigo's 90th birthday celebration at the Royal Festival Hall in London, 1992.

Amazing.......2006-05-08

I am not going to go into great detail. I am working on a degree in classical guitar and I can say this is something to strive for. His musical interpretation of the peices represented here are some of the best I've heard. His tone,color, and phrasing is incredible.

A gentleman musical agreement! .......2006-03-16

In guitar ` s playing there have been many renowned performers, gifted of exuberant technique. But curiously the Apollonian playing is not by itself strictly enough. The guitar is the instrument which is closer to heart as any other one. It demands from you passion and sentiment. There have been three well known guitarists, one of them from England and the other one from Spain and the third one from Japan whose sensibility was totally absent in their performances.

But fortunately for us, there have been notable interpreters that have been maintained a desired balance and contrast between brain and heart, achieving great distinction and total acknowledgement around the world. I would name seven primordial names along the instrument `s story. First of all: the mythic soloist Andres Segovia, Regino Sainz de la Maza, John Williams, Alirio Diaz, Manuel Berrueco, Siegfried Behrend and Christopher Parkening, among the most representative ones of a great list.

Christopher Parkening `s career has made a brilliant colorist, an impeccable and sensitive interpreter of this well reduced repertoire. His profound artistic conviction and convincing phrasing has been a perpetual motive of constant invitations and presentations around the world.

Extreme virtuosity.......2005-09-25

CP has become my chief inspiration to improve as a classical guitarist. His performances here are, without exception, phenomenal. He makes the most difficult pieces sound effortless. I prefer CP over John Williams because, while Williams is also unquestionably a master, he sounds a bit robotic to me at times. CP, on the other hand, never sacrifices musicality to precision. He sublimely maintains both.

Average customer rating: Tim Janis is my favourite musician. music with an afterthought

Gifts of the Heart Tim Janis Manufacturer: Tim Janis Ensemble ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | New Age | Styles | Music Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music Similar Items: Coastal America The Promise A Quiet Shore Across Two Oceans A Thousand Summers ASIN: B000MEYJ74 Release Date: 2007-02-27

Tracks:

1. Come Home To Me
2. Against The Rising Moon
3. Memories Of The Rhine
4. Cape Lookout (Piano Reprise)
5. Tracing The Wind
6. Unfolding Splendor
7. Gifts Of The Heart
8. Along The Rocky Coast
9. The Very Essence Of You
10. Glimmering Over The Sea
11. Heart's Rest
12. Wonder Beyond Words
13. Clearer The Stars Never Shone (Piano Reprise)
14. Angel's Lullaby

Customer Reviews:

Tim Janis is my favourite musician........2007-06-12

I love the music of Tim Janis. It makes me wanna cry sometimes. Theres something about it that permeates my very being. I thank God for his beautiful talents often. Thanks Tim.

music with an afterthought.......2007-03-31

I have all Tim Janis' music. This is just another perfect cd, you can relax , or read or play it at a gathering. Haunting from the start and
smooth till the end.

Average customer rating: LOVE IN ANY LANGUAGE A serene peaceful album of children's songs and lullabies

Love Is Spoken Here Manufacturer: Mormon Tabernacle ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD All Works by Rutter | Rutter, John | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Mormon Tabernacle Choir | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Similar Items: Peace Like a River Consider the Lilies Sing, Choirs of Angels! Showtime! Music of Broadway and Hollywood Choose Something Like a Star ASIN: B000AE8G5M Release Date: 2005-09-13

Tracks:

1. Love is Spoken Here
2. For the Beauty of the Earth
3. I Feel My Savior's Love
4. Our Savior's Love
5. All through the Night
6. Homeward Bound
7. Home Is a Special Kind of Feeling
8. I Am a Child of God
9. A Child's Prayer
10. Suo-gan
11. Oh, What Songs of the Heart
12. I Often Go Walking
13. Simple Gifts
14. I'm Trying to Be Like Jesus
15. My Heavenly Father Loves Me
16. Turn Around
17. Where Love Is
18. Love at Home
19. May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You

Product Description

Songs of heart and home set the tone for the newest album by the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir. The album features beloved Primary songs such as "I Feel My Savior's Love," "I Am a Child of God," "Where Love Is," and "My Heavenly Father Loves Me." Favorite hymns such as "Love at Home," "Our Savior's Love," and "O What Songs of the Heart" are also included, along with familiar classics such as "May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You" and "Turn Around (Where Are You Going, My Little One?)" With many new arrangements by associate director Mack Wilberg, Love Is Spoken Here is destined to become another bestseller.

Customer Reviews:

LOVE IN ANY LANGUAGE.......2006-12-26

I bought this CD for the song "Love Is Spoken Here" which was sung at my father's funeral, to celebrate his life and love of music, especially Church music. Our soloist was a friend whose voice warmed our breaking hearts. But when I saw that I could also get the Mormon Tabernacle Choir version along with many other beautiful American songs, I ordered this. I highly recommend MTC if you are seeking choir music to lift your spirit.

A serene peaceful album of children's songs and lullabies.......2005-09-13

"Love is Spoken Here" is the newest released by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square. Featuring children's primary songs, well-known lullabies, and popular favorites, this is a unique entry in the Choir's repetoire, and the albums breathes serenity and peace. The track listing is as follows:

1 Love is Spoken Here
Music: Janice Kapp Perry, 1938-
Text: Janice Kapp Perry, 1938-
Arrangement: Sam Cardon 3:25

2 For the Beauty of the Earth
Music: Conrad Kocher, 1786-1872
Text: Folliott S. Pierpoint, 1835-1917
Arrangement: Mack Wilberg 3:03

3 I Feel My Savior's Love
Music: K. Newell Dayley, 1939-
Text: Ralph Rodgers Jr, K. Newell Dayley, Laurie Huffman
Arrangement: Sam Cardon 3:30

4 Our Savior's Love
Music: Crawford Gates, 1921-
Text: Edward L. Hart, 1916-
Pacific Publications 4:37

5 All through the Night
Music: Welsh Folk Song
Text: Welsh Traditional
Arrangement: Mack Wilberg 4:57

6 Homeward Bound
Music: Marta Keen Thompson
Text: Marta Keen Thompson
Arrangement: Mack Wilberg 5:46

7 Home Is a Special Kind of Feeling
Music: John Rutter
Text: David Grant
Arrangement: From "The Wind in the Willows"
Hinshaw Music (ASCAP) 3:11

8 I Am a Child of God
Music: Mildred Tanner Pettit, 1895-1977
Text: Naomi Ward Randall, 1908-
Arrangement: Nathan Hofheins 3:36

9 A Child's Prayer
Music: Janice Kapp Perry, 1938-
Text: Janice Kapp Perry, 1938-
Arrangement: Barlow Bradford 3:46

10 Suo-Gân
Music: Welsh lullaby
Text: David Warner
Arrangement: Mack Wilberg 5:07

11 Oh, What Songs of the Heart
Music: William Clayson, 1840-1887
Text: Joseph L. Townsend, 1849-1942
Arrangement: Mack Wilberg
Jackman Music Corporation 4:45

12 I Often Go Walking
Music: Jeanne P. Lawler, 1924-
Text: Phyllis Luch, 1937-
Arrangement: Nathan Hofheins 2:58

13 Simple Gifts
Music: Shaker song
Text: Traditional Shaker, additional text: David Warne
Arrangement: Mack Wilberg
Oxford University Press (ASCAP) 3:04

14 I'm Trying to be Like Jesus
Music: Janice Kapp Perry, 1938-
Text: Janice Kapp Perry, 1938-
Arrangement: Barlow Bradford
Nature Sings Publishing 4:38

15 My Heavenly Father Loves Me
Music: Clara W. McMaster, 1904-
Text: Clara W. McMaster, 1904-
Arrangement: Nathan Hofheins 2:48

16 Turn Around
Music: Harry Belafonte, Malvina Reynolds, Alan Greene
Text: Harry Belafonte, Malvina Reynolds, Alan Greene
Arrangement: Michael Davis 3:24

17 Where Love Is
Music: Joanne Bushman Doxey and Marjorie Castleton Kjar
Text: Joanne Bushman Doxey and Norma B. Smith
Arrangement: Sam Cardon 4:23

18 Love at Home
Music: John Hugh McNaughton, 1829-1891
Text: John Hugh McNaughton, 1829-1891
Arrangement: Mack Wilberg 3:36

19 May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You
Music: Meredith Willson, 1902-1984
Text: Meredith Willson, 1902-1984
Arrangement: Mack Wilberg 5:59

This album follows on the heels of the #1 charting album "Choose Something Like A Star" and shows the choir hewing closely to their signature sound and style, while adding a new dimension to their repetoire. This album is perfect for families and is especially suited for young children.

Average customer rating: Bryn Terfel's beautiful voice. Why do people think this guy can sing?? Relaxing Bryn Terfel's Simple Gifts A Heartfelt Offering Reminiscent of An Earlier Era

Bryn Terfel - Simple Gifts Manufacturer: Deutsche Grammophon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Franck, César | ( F ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Gounod | Gounod, Charles | ( G ) | 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 Pergolesi | Pergolesi, Gio Battista | ( P ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Rutter | Rutter, John | ( R ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Sondheim, Stephen | ( S ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Film Scores | Theatrical, Incidental & Program Music | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | 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 Terfel, Bryn | ( T ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Deutsche Grammophon: Music | Specialty Stores | Music Similar Items: Bryn Terfel Sings Favorites Bryn Terfel - If Ever I Would Leave You (Songs from My Fair Lady, On a Clear Day, Camelot, The Little Prince, Brigadoon) Sacred Songs Bryn Terfel - Something Wonderful (Bryn Terfel sings Rodgers & Hammerstein) Bryn Terfel - We'll Keep a Welcome ASIN: B000B8ISN2 Release Date: 2005-10-11

Tracks:

1. Ave Verum Corpus, K.618 - Adapted by Chris Hazell
2. Deep River - Arranged by Chris Hazell
3. The Lord Bless You and Keep You
4. I'll Walk Beside You - Arranged by Chris Hazell
5. Stabat Mater
6. Still, Still, Still Weils Kindlein Schlafen Will
7. Simple Gifts - Arranged by Chris Hazell
8. How Great Thou Art
9. Panis Angelicus - Arranged by Chris Hazell
10. Bless This House - Arranged by Chris Hazell
11. Ave Verum Corpus
12. Cavatina - Arranged by Chris Hazell
13. The Rose
14. Amazing Grace - Arranged by Chris Hazell
15. God's Mercy
16. Morning Has Broken - Arranged by Chris Hazell
17. Nearer My God To Thee - Arranged by Chris Hazell
18. Ave Maria
19. Send In The Clowns - Arranged by Jonathan Tunick
20. God Will Be With You

Amazon.com

Everything about Bryn Terfel is over-life-size: his physique, his personality, his breath-control, and of course his extraordinarily beautiful voice. This recording displays his stunning vocalism and versatility to full advantage, but its title belies its content. Alhough it does include some simple pieces, the execution is fussy, overdone, and calculated for maximum external effect. The program ranges from Mozart, Pergolesi and pseudo-Bach to Sondheim in arrangements that are pure Hollywood, complete with throbbing strings and rolling drums, often destroying the spirit as well as the letter of the original compositions. It begins with Mozart's heavenly "Ave verum" arranged for baritone solo and chorus, frustratingly cut off after a few phrases (another setting of the same text by Karl Jenkins, written for Terfel, is more satisfying, being complete and original). The splendid baritone Simon Keenlyside joins him here as well as in the opening number of Pergolesi's "Stabat Mater;" originally for soprano and alto, this must be the baritones' revenge on female singers who usurp songs written for men, like Schubert's and Schumann's cycles. Franck's "Panis angelicus" also inexplicably becomes a duet; unfortunately, Terfel's and tenor Aled Jones' voices do not match. Bach-Gounod's popular "Ave Maria" is all swells and exaggerations. The rest of the program consists of folksongs, hymns, show and film tunes, inflated to operatic proportions and generally ending in a fade-out or a flourish. Even the title song is anything but simple. This record is not for purists who like their music performed the way the composer wrote it, but aficionados of great singing will love it. --Edith Eisler

Customer Reviews:

Bryn Terfel's beautiful voice........2007-05-13

Bryn Terfel has a beautiful voice. Listening to him is very pleasant and definitely something to look forward to. I read a review saying he would replace tenor Pavroti. However, I believe that Mr. Terfel is a Baritone and not a Tenor. That does not detract from the fact that he should be considered one of the world's top male singers. His voice is truly impressive. This CD by Bryn Terfel is one from our collection that is outstanding and a favorite.

Why do people think this guy can sing??.......2007-04-27

Sorry, I think this guy is one of the most overrated singers out there today. He always sounds like he is singing holding his nose shut. VERY nasal sounding.

If you want to listen to an incredibly beautiful voice, buy one of Josh Groban's CD's--you won't regret it! He has the voice of the century!

Relaxing.......2007-02-03

Excellent selection of music. It covers many different types. My wife likes being able to hear the words with out instruments drowning out the vocals. I find it relaxing and many of the songs are familiar and very well done.

Bryn Terfel's Simple Gifts.......2006-02-25

Simply superb. I don't know what our local (Wash DC) paper was talking about when they said Deep River was the weakest link. I was enthralled from beginning to end. I have had the pleasure of hearing Bryn Terfel live in recital at the Kennedy Center. I can assure you that his voice has only improved with age. He was wonderful then and is spectacular now!

A Heartfelt Offering Reminiscent of An Earlier Era.......2006-02-15

Bryn Terfel harkens back to earlier American operatic stars such as Richard Tucker and Robert Merrill who crossed grenres to satisfy their unquenchable need to sing any and all songs that moved them to an appreciative public. These great singers all had their origins singing sacred music from their respective religions and learned to lay their considerable talents before the altar of the simple inspirational song.

This recording is wonderful on many levels. The selections are an unusual mixture of classical sacred music, spirituals, hymns, Lieder, Austrian Christmas and Gaelic songs, musical numbers and movie theme songs harmoniously combined to touch the soul of the listener in a gentle ebb and flow of devotion, intensity and tenderness. All of these songs are beautiful in and of themselves and in his hands, we experience them anew.

Bryn Terfel sings with the commitment necessary to make the awesome challenge of simplicity look easy. To my way of thinking, he is the most communicative and articulate singer today, bar none. He is a poet who savors the sound, feeling and meaning of each and every word and marries it uniquely and faithfully to the music. He transports the listener into the life of a song and transfixes us each and every moment. His enormous talent is not overwhelming or distractive and is inextricably and wholly intertwined with the music. This is greatness and it is very, very rare today.

I like the inclusion of the choir in several of the numbers as it reflects on the nature and context of the songs. I am less fond of the selections with the guest soloists as I feel they do not match his ability to "get inside" a song. The orchestra and orchestations are sensitive and enhancing.

This recording is simply wonderful and should have a broad appeal. It will move and inspire the believer, satisfy and fulfill the otherwise spiritual, calm the troubled and renew a flagging soul.

Average customer rating: REAL MUSIC White bread, well-baked in spots This is the one! A Must for the Sabbath A Must for Sabbath

Mormon Tabernacle Choir: The Sound of Glory-Battle Hymn of the Republic Manufacturer: Telarc ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Mormon Tabernacle Choir | ( M ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music | General Christmas | Today's Deals | Box Sets | Children's Music | Classical Instrumental | Halloween | Hanukkah | Kwanzaa | Opera & Vocal | Pop Instrumental & Easy Listening | Pop Vocal Similar Items: Rock of Ages: 30 Favorite Hymns The Mormon Tabernacle Choir's Greatest Hits: 22 Best-Loved Favorites God Bless America More Greatest Hits: 18 Best Loved Favorites Songs from America's Heartland ASIN: B00005Q5LT Release Date: 2001-10-23

Tracks:

1. Praise To The Lord, The Almighty
2. Lead, Kindly Light
3. Arise, O God, And Shine
4. All Things Bright And Beautiful
5. Sweet Hour Of Prayer
6. The Lord Is My Shepherd
7. The King Of Love My Shepherd Is
8. All Creatures Of Our God And King
9. Take Time To Be Holy
10. The Spirit Of God Like A Fire Is Burning
11. Simple Gifts
12. Battle Hymn Of The Republic
13. Abide With Me; 'Tis Eventide
14. Sing Praise To Him
15. Come, Thou Fount Of Every Blessing
16. I Need Thee Every Hour
17. Love Divine, All Loves Excelling

Customer Reviews:

REAL MUSIC.......2007-01-16

THIS IS MUSIC YOU CAN LISTEN TO EVERY DAY AND ENJOY OVER AND OVER AGAIN.

White bread, well-baked in spots.......2005-08-12

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir that performs on this disc is a tightly-knit, well-conducted unit, and some of the tracks on the disc border on the ethereal. "Lead, Kindly Light," "Sweet Hour of Prayer" (in parts) and "The King of Love My Shepherd Is," for example, touch the soul and bring tears to the eyes.

However, on other arrangements the choir sounds like a group of white folks far removed from the remainder of humanity. For example, the opening track, "Praise to the Lord, the Almighty," and also "All Creatures of Our God and King" sound rote and perfunctory, like a group of elementary school students (with very fine voices, to be sure) going through the paces of a daily sing: elevator music on a grand scale. At the opposite extreme, sudden dynamic shifts in other tracks sound pretentious. The final bars of "All Creatures of Our God and King" suggest an attempt at a grand finale, but lack even a hint of majesty or passion. The choir lacks any apparent understanding of the Shaker spirit in "Simple Gifts" --- rather like Lawrence Welk playing Bob Marley. (Not that I've ever seen a Shaker in dreadlocks.) "Battle Hymn of the Republic" begins majestically, but turns into a caricature, and then reverts to a semblance of glory (except for a brief flirtation with a minor key).

The high praise lavished on this disc by other reviewers is no surprise: It is of very high quality for what it is. The choir offers a lovely sound. However, more than half the tracks are seriously flawed, and the musicianship is sufficiently peculiar on the whole as to lower the rating considerably.

This is the one!.......2002-08-24

If you want to hear the best of the best, this CD is it. These hymn arrangements are just beautiful and very touching. I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys the choir and wants to feel a little closer to heaven. The choir seems to sing literally with one voice and you feel like they are singing just for you. Congratulations to the new conductor, Craig Jessop and all those who contributed to the quality that went into producing this CD.

A Must for the Sabbath.......2002-04-17

I LOVE IT!!! What better way to enjoy the Sabbath than to sing of the Lord's Praises with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir? This album is just the ticket! It's very powerful, and uplifting.

What? You mean I can only give this album five stars? But that doesn't even BEGIN to do it justice!

I love it. Truly a masterpiece!

A Must for Sabbath.......2002-02-05

If you only own one Mormon Tabernacle Choir CD, this is the one. It has creative arrangements of many favorite hymns, as well as the best recording of the Wilhousky Battle Hymn arrgmt that I have ever come across. The only downer: it has (another) recording of Simple Gifts, which has been beat to death by choirs in the last decade.

I especially love the 'Glory' pieces on it: Full of timpani, brass, and alleluias- one of those discs you turn all the way up and direct the stereo when noone is looking. I hope my neighbors like it too; they probably hear it quite a bit.

International Music:

1. Golden Autumn 2
2. Golden Voice [Import]
3. Grooves
4. Guilty!
5. Holy Qur'an: Sourat Ibrahim
6. Holy Qur'an: Sourat Taha
7. Holy Qur'an: Sourata al-Rahman
8. It's a Poppin Time [Import]
9. Kamaleon
10. Kenso [Import]

International Music

International Music