Riverdance

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Based on Irish folk dancing styles, Riverdance was originally devised as a 20-minute intermission entertainment for the Eurovision Song Contest. There, its phenomenal reception inspired composer Bill Whelan to expand the piece into a full-length stage show, still centered around Irish music, but now telling a loose story of many different peoples who in the 20th century have found themselves émigrés. The paradoxically formal yet expressive, sensual, and exhilarating energy of traditional Irish dance and Irish folk music is only the beginning. A work full of strong melodies, excitement, romantic dreams, and nostalgic longing, the full Riverdance show is a spellbinding spectacle. Complete with orchestra, Whelan brings influences from Irish classical music, incorporates the haunting sound of vocal group Anuna, and adds the diverse folk sounds of Nova Scotia, Macedonia, Russia, and Andalucia to his rich cultural melting pot. Playing on the album are some of the finest folk musicians around, including piper Davy Spillane and Eileen Ivers on fiddle. The result is not just a tuneful souvenir of a great stage show, but a most enjoyable release in its own right. Whelan also has worked on the Rob Roy soundtrack and composed The Seville Suite and The Spirit of Mayo. --Gary S. Dalkin --This text refers to the Audio CD edition.

Riverdance, Music, Bill Whelan, Adult Alternative Pop/Rock, Celtic Fusion, Celtic New Age, Celtic Pop, Celtic/Irish, Contemporary Celtic, Int'l & World Music, Irish Folk, Original Cast Recordings, Pop
Riverdance: Music From The Show
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • A MUST HAVE FOR ALL IRISH!
  • Outstanding!!!
  • Disappointment after seeing the show
  • Disappointed
  • Can't get enough of Riverdance!
Riverdance: Music From The Show
Bill Whelan
Manufacturer: Decca U.S.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Michael Flatley's Lord Of The Dance
  2. The Best of Riverdance
  3. Michael Flatley's Feet of Flames
  4. Riverdance - Live From New York City
  5. Michael Flatley's Celtic Tiger

ASIN: B000005B2O
Release Date: 1997-06-17

Tracks:

  1. Reel Around The Sun
  2. The Heart's Cry
  3. The Countess Cathleen/Women Of The Sidhe
  4. Caoineadh Cu Chulainn (Lament)
  5. Shivna
  6. Firedance
  7. Slip Into Spring
  8. Riverdance
  9. American Wake (The Nova Scotia Set)
  10. Lift The Wings
  11. Macedonian Morning
  12. Marta's Dance/The Russian Dervish
  13. Andalucia
  14. Home And The Heartland
  15. The Harvest
  16. Riverdance (Reprise)

Amazon.com

Based on Irish folk dancing styles, Riverdance was originally devised as a 20-minute intermission entertainment for the Eurovision Song Contest. There, its phenomenal reception inspired composer Bill Whelan to expand the piece into a full-length stage show, still centered around Irish music, but now telling a loose story of many different peoples who in the 20th century have found themselves émigrés. The paradoxically formal yet expressive, sensual, and exhilarating energy of traditional Irish dance and Irish folk music is only the beginning. A work full of strong melodies, excitement, romantic dreams, and nostalgic longing, the full Riverdance show is a spellbinding spectacle. Complete with orchestra, Whelan brings influences from Irish classical music, incorporates the haunting sound of vocal group Anuna, and adds the diverse folk sounds of Nova Scotia, Macedonia, Russia, and Andalucia to his rich cultural melting pot. Playing on the album are some of the finest folk musicians around, including piper Davy Spillane and Eileen Ivers on fiddle. The result is not just a tuneful souvenir of a great stage show, but a most enjoyable release in its own right. Whelan also has worked on the Rob Roy soundtrack and composed The Seville Suite and The Spirit of Mayo. --Gary S. Dalkin

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A MUST HAVE FOR ALL IRISH!.......2007-04-04

THIS IS A MUST HAVE CD FOR ALL TRUE IRISH BLOODED PEOPLE OUT THERE. THIS IS THE BEST CD YET RIVERDANCE HAS MADE.

5 out of 5 stars Outstanding!!!.......2006-10-14

I have every Riverdance DVD and have watched the live show once. This CD is based on the original production (With Michael Flatley and Jean Butler) and while it might not carry the "excitement" of the original show as others have commented, it is a great way to remember the beautiful music and orchestration when you are not close to a DVD player to enjoy the video production. The unfortunate thing in listening to the "soundtrack" of a live/video production is that separated from its visual context, it can be difficult to understand or appreciate. Riverdance is a visual as well as a sound experience. If you have never watched the show, it would certainly be hard to appreciate the music in this CD. I listen to it frequently and love the music more each time. If you are a Riverdance fan, this CD is a must. It's simply superb.

4 out of 5 stars Disappointment after seeing the show.......2006-03-06

I recently saw the show live & was excited to get the soundtrack. However, as many other reviewers have noted, it was a big disappointment - it doesn't match the charisma of the show. While it does have some great songs on it, you just don't get the feeling you got while actually watching the show, which was a tremendous feeling of excitement & thrill. I must add, I did pick up the 'Lord of Dance' soundtrack & was happily impressed.

2 out of 5 stars Disappointed.......2005-09-29

Not the type of music I had envisioned...much slower than I was hoping for.

5 out of 5 stars Can't get enough of Riverdance!.......2005-07-30

First off, I'm 16 years old. I love music, just about every kind there is. I never cared for Riverdance before until last year when I listened to a song from "Lord of the Dance" completely by accident and then went from there. Now, I completely appreciate it, and I believe it's the best stuff I've ever listened to, and I don't regret it all. It's very refreshing, and it just calms you down, and I swear, some of the songs on here sends shivers down my spine even after listening to it for a good year now. While I don't like every song on the CD like I do with "Lord of the Dance" I still think the music is special and unique in its own way. The music from "Lord of the Dance" is more...alive, but "Riverdance" is good for relieving stress, meditating, or for filling you up with so much emotion it could make you cry. Honestly, it's all great.

If you're not convinced yet, then here's a breakdown by song!
REEL AROUND THE SONG: As one person has already said: PERFECT! This is probably the best on the CD. It's starts a little slow with the flute(but then, you learn to love it, the more you listen to it) and then as it progresses, it gets better and better, and then, even better. So it's perfect in every way. But then, considering the song is almost nine minutes long, it better be good.
THE HEART'S CRY: This is a vocal. Nice song, beautiful lyrics, a voice I could tolerate, and I'm just starting to appreciate vocals.
COUNTESS CATHLEEN/WOMEN OF THE SIDHE: Another personal favorite that's almost perfect. The first is very light and pretty, but I love the second half! Very lively and I actually dance to it.
CAOINEADH CU CHULAINN/LAMENT: This is one of the songs that fills you up with emotion and shivers down your spine. It's a very sad (well, the song's called "Lament"), emotional song, and I still listen to it with fresh ears, and probably always will.
SHIVNA: This is another vocal. The only problem with it, is that it's in another language (I'm guessing Gaelic) so I don't know what the heck they're saying, but that doesn't stop me from loving it. Ironically, it's my favorite vocal on here.
FIREDANCE: A mix of Celtic and Spanish music and the results are pretty good. The end of the song is really the only good part of the song though. The beginning's too slow for me.
SLIP INTO SPRING: Very light and incredibly sweet and one of my favorites.
RIVERDANCE: Another favorite (you're probably getting tired of me saying that),it's true. The lyrics are good, the music's beyond great. You really outdid yourself, Whelan.
AMERICAN WAKE: This song falls in the middle. Starts off a wee bit repetitive, but gets better as it progresses.
LIFT THE WINGS: A vocal. Well, the music in the beginning was great. But I just can't get into the song. I think it's the voice that drives me away. Good lyrics though.
MACEDONIAN MORNING: Blah. That's the only word I can use to describe this song. This song can't move me at all. It doesn't go anywhere, it's tiring and dull and flat, and it wouldn't harm the CD if they took this song out.
MARTA'S DANCE/THE RUSSIAN DERVISH: Another (you guessed it!) favorite. It's a mix of Celtic and Russian music, and yes it is a little too repetitive and long, but it's still good and the last two minutes of the song is my favorite part.
ANDALUCIA: I enjoy this song from time to time, it's good, just not as memorable as the other songs.
HOME AND THE HEARTLAND: This song's altogether cute. The lyrics and the music are cute, and the voice that sings it is so tender and beautiful. My second favorite vocal.
HARVEST: Lovely song, falls in the middle and there's some parts that I especially love.
RIVERDANCE (REPRISE): Uh,good, but I'll stick with original.

I don't regret buying this CD at all and I'm sure you'll love this as much as I do. There will be at least one song on here you'll like if not all. If you love emotion and beauty, and you're passionate about music, then you'll love this.
The Very Best of James Galway
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Just perfect
  • CD The Very Best of James Galway
  • Not for the serious flautist
  • The Very Best of James Galway
  • Lightweight
The Very Best of James Galway
James Galway
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. The Wind Beneath My Wings
  2. James Galway - Greatest Hits
  3. James Galway ~ Meditations
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  5. James Galway - Dances for Flute

ASIN: B000068773
Release Date: 2002-06-25

Tracks:

  1. Canon - James Galway and the Munich Radio Orchestra
  2. Gayane: Sabre Dance - James Galway and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra
  3. Concertino for Flute and Piano, Op. 107 - James Galway
  4. Song of the Seashore (Hamabe No Uta) - James Galway and the Tokyo String Orchestra
  5. Thais: Meditation - James Galway and the National Philharmonic Orchestra
  6. Suite No. 2 in B Minor, BWV 1067: Minuet and Badinerie - James Galway and the National Philharmonic Orchestra
  7. Dolly Suite, Op. 76: Berceuse - James Galway and the National Philharmonic Orchestra
  8. Carnival of Venice, Op. 77 - James Galway and the National Philharmonic Orchestra
  9. Suite bergamasque: Clair de Lune - James Galway and the National Philharmonic Orchestra
  10. Concerto No. 2 for Flute & Orchestra, K. 314 in D: Rondeau: Allegro - James Galway and the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
  11. Sonata in E-Flat, BWV 1031: Siciliana - James Galway
  12. Orfeo ed Euridice: Dance of the Blessed Spirits - James Galway
  13. Peer Gynt, Suite No.1: Morning - James Galway and the National Philharmonic Orchestra
  14. The Tale of Tsar Saltan: The Flight Of The Bumblebee - James Galway and the National Philharmonic Orchestra
  15. My Heart Will Go On (Love Theme From ''Titanic'') - James Galway and the London Telefilmonic Orchestra
  16. El Condor Pasa (If I Could) - James Galway and the Galway Pops Orchestra
  17. I Will Always Love You - James Galway
  18. Ashokan Farewell - James Galway
  19. The Girl from Ipanema - James Galway
  20. Wind of Change - James Galway with Peter Willison & His Sinfonia Strings
  21. Annie's Song - James Galway and the National Philharmonic Orchestra
  22. The Wind Beneath My Wings - James Galway and the Galway Pops Orchestra
  23. Memory (From ''Cats'') - James Galway
  24. Riverdance - James Galway and the Tranquility Strings
  25. Tango del Fuego - James Galway
  26. Beauty and the Beast - ames Galway and the Galway Pops Orchestra
  27. Can You Feel the Love Tonight? (From ''The Lion King'') - James Galway and the London Telefilmonic Orchestra
  28. Shenandoah - James Galway and the Nashville String Machine / Shelly Kurland Strings
  29. Waltzing Matilda - James Galway and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra
  30. Danny Boy - James Galway with The Chieftains and the National Philharmonic Orchestra

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Just perfect.......2007-01-12

The CD case was in perfect condition; no cracks. The CD plays great and the product came just on time

4 out of 5 stars CD The Very Best of James Galway.......2007-01-10

This was a gift and the receipant loves it. Amazon responded to my order in above average time and I will continue to buy through their website.

1 out of 5 stars Not for the serious flautist.......2006-06-10

Most of the tracks on this CD consist of saccharine fluff, such as Disney, show-tunes, etc. If I buy a flute recording, I want to hear some serious music, not this ghastly schmaltz. And I hate to say it, I'm not a huge fan of Galway's playing style. It's too light and airy, just on the edge of going into overtones. He overuses his vibrato, especially on the higher notes. When you want them to just smoothly soar with rich tone, they just sort of flutter about. He does have impeccable technique and speed, but his tone leaves a lot to be desired, in my opinion. Seek out another artist!

5 out of 5 stars The Very Best of James Galway.......2005-09-23

Really is one of the best of James Galway, if not the very best. Easy listening, soothing, relaxing - easy to enjoy

3 out of 5 stars Lightweight.......2005-08-24

Admirers of James Galway as a superb classical flutist, of whom I am one, should be forewarned that this 2002 release has been packaged by the mass merchandisers for the "crossover" crowd and the mass market: there's slim pickin's here for serious music lovers. The first CD contains brief, lightweight classical "hits" in "arranged" versions, basically encore bonbons, while almost the entire second CD is devoted to ephemeral, forgettable pop fluff. There's not much of substance here; given Galway's vast (over 50 recordings) discography, the classical music lover would be well advised to look elsewhere.
Riverdance on Broadway
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Good for easy listening, not the thrilling stuff
  • A perfect supplement
  • Inspired, heartfelt and stunning!
  • A wonderful facelift for an enduring Celtic classic....
  • Extraordinary Album!
Riverdance on Broadway
Original Cast Recording
Manufacturer: Decca U.S.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Riverdance: Music From The Show
  2. Michael Flatley's Lord Of The Dance
  3. The Best of Riverdance
  4. Roots of Riverdance
  5. Michael Flatley's Feet of Flames

ASIN: B00004SZVU
Release Date: 2000-05-02

Tracks:

  1. Reel Around The Sun
  2. The Heart's Cry
  3. The Countess Cathleen
  4. Caoineadh Cu Chulainn (Lament)
  5. Shivna
  6. Firedance
  7. At The Edge Of The World
  8. Slip Into Spring
  9. Riverdance
  10. American Wake (The Nova Scotia Set)
  11. Lift The Wings
  12. Amanzi
  13. I Will Set You Free
  14. Let Freedom Ring
  15. Macedonian Morning
  16. Marta's Dance/The Russian Dervish
  17. Ri Ra
  18. Endless Journey

Amazon.com

There have been moments when it seemed every shopping mall in the Western world had succumbed to Riverdance, when every speaker and video monitor in every store and public square was pulsing with the rhythmic Celtic beat of a score of vibrant young hoofers tapping fervently to fiddle and tin-whistle. The phenomenon has now gone Broadway, and composer Bill Whelan--who's done for his native Irish folk music what Freddie Mercury and Queen did for Italian opera--has raised the musical stakes considerably. Whelan's familiar, amped-up take on the Chieftains is supplemented here by harmonically brave a cappella refrains and even the fusion-minded use of Spanish guitar and flamenco rhythms. Whelan has written six new songs for this production, which features vocals by Brian Kennedy and Tsidii Le Loka (who has appeared in Broadway's The Lion King as Rafiki). The album thus presents the most comprehensive and up-to-date version of the evolving Riverdance phenomenon. Whelan is what many critics hate most--a consistent crowd pleaser. --Jerry McCulley

Customer Reviews:

3 out of 5 stars Good for easy listening, not the thrilling stuff.......2005-02-11

What made me listen to riverdance in one word is, Thrilling.
And the rest of the good stuff attributed to something as famous as this one.
This CD lacks the thrill and excitment which Riverdance: Music From The Show [SOUNDTRACK] ASIN: B000005B2O this CD has, however this is a excellent CD for those audiance who love riverdance and usually go very easy on their ears, and not looking for riverdance to increase their heart rate 1 and a half the normal. I am very passionate about music, I said precisely "passionate". so this is not a good buy for me.

5 out of 5 stars A perfect supplement.......2004-11-28

Riverdance on Broadway shouldn't be considered a standalone album. It has wonderful music, and I liked all of the tracks, even those that had more of an African flavor. If you're a Riverdance fan, you need to pick this up- though don't forgo Music from the Show, as some tracks from MftS just wouldn't fit on RoB. Taken together, they are a wonderful aural experience.

5 out of 5 stars Inspired, heartfelt and stunning!.......2003-12-31

Alternately driving and lilting, energizing and haunting, this is music from the Broadway version of "Riverdance", which incorporates highlights of both the "Riverdance" touring show and its sequel, "American Wake". The taps and other percussive foot-pounding of the step dancers and flamenco dancers, an integral part of the livelier tunes, can be clearly heard along with the fiery instrumentals. Bill Whelan's Celtic-, African- and Spanish-inspired compositions are performed here by a variety of artists, including the choral group Anuna, the Riverdance Singers, the Amanzi Singers, fiddlers Maire Breatnach and Eileen Ivers, piper Davy Spillane, vocalists Brian Kennedy and Tsidii Le Loka, Bill Whelan on piano, percussionists Tommy Hayes, Desi Reynolds and Noel Eccles, and the Riverdance Orchestra, conducted by Proinnsias O'Duinn. Though the title "Riverdance" is conveniently memorable, I've never been particularly convinced by the attempt to connect these world-inspired performances to "rivers". However, the integration of music and "dance" in this theatrical masterpiece is obvious, exhiliarating and ingenious. Bravo!

5 out of 5 stars A wonderful facelift for an enduring Celtic classic...........2002-07-02

I bought into the Riverdance craze when it first came out, and I am the proud owner of the video, a T-shirt, a coffee table book, and the original soundtrack. When I'd heard that Bill Whelan had composed several new songs for the Riverdance on Broadway spectacle, I rushed out to buy it even though I already owned the Riverdance:Music from the Show soundtrack.

One of the most pleasing aspects for me was the addition of vocals by Brian Kennedy, a singer from Belfast with a voice of spun gold whose voice adds a remarkable dose of Irish pathos. I was familiar with some of Brian's other works: he was a backup singer with Van Morrison for several years, has appeared as a guest artist on at least a dozen albums, and recently recorded a beautiful track on the new Secret Garden release "Once In A Red Moon" titled "You Lift Me Up." His smooth, soulful voice is a much-needed lift to Riverdance favourites such as "Lift the Wings" and "Reel Around the Sun," and a driving force for the new songs (including "At the Edge of the World" and "Endless Journey"). Unfortunately, Brian is relatively unknown in North America and the majority of his albums are only available in the UK.

Also, Tsidii Le Loka (Rafiki in the Lion King on Broadway) is a spectacular regal presence that truly imparts a new African feel (most evident on the new song "Amanzi") to a tried-and-true show.

Other than the six new songs and the additions of two new singers, the album closely follows the Riverdance: Music from the Show formula. It is a foot-tapping blend of Celtic, flamenco, Eastern, and African, blending low whistles, accordion, Uillean pipes, fiddle and percussion, with performances by such notable musicians as Davy Spillane, Eileen Ivers, Tommy Hayes and Maire Breatnach. Riverdance on Broadway is perfect for Riverdance fans, stepdancers, and fans of Irish/ world music.

5 out of 5 stars Extraordinary Album!.......2001-07-28

I saw the show on Broadway and bought the album from Amazon. They sell the same album at the theater, but at a higher price. Hearing the album brings many of the scenes from the show back to memory. It was a great show for the family, and the recording reflects that. I suppose you would put it in the category of acoustic folk music, or some such.

The show I saw featured Athena Tergis on fiddle, although I don't believe she performed on this album. If you like this genre, you might consider her excellent album, Journey Begun, as well.
Riverdance: Music from the Show
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Dancing Feet
  • What???
Riverdance: Music from the Show

Manufacturer: Decca Broadway
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. The Best of Riverdance
  2. Riverdance: Music From The Show
  3. Michael Flatley's Feet of Flames
  4. Michael Flatley's Lord Of The Dance
  5. Riverdance - Live From New York City

ASIN: B0007KIGJK
Release Date: 2005-03-08

Tracks:

  1. Reel Around The Sun
  2. The Heart's Cry
  3. The Countess Cathleen/Women Of The Sidhe
  4. Caoineadh Cu Chulainn (Lament)
  5. Shivna
  6. Firedance
  7. Slip Into Spring/The Harvest
  8. Riverdance
  9. American Wake (The Nova Scotia Set)
  10. Lift The Wings
  11. Heal Their Hearts/Freedom
  12. Macedonian Morning
  13. Marta's Dance/The Russian Dervish
  14. Andalucia
  15. Riverdance Reprise

Amazon.com

It's hard to believe that Riverdance, which began as a 7-minute intermission act during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, is already 10 years old. Nobody back then could have imagined that a new-fangled amalgam of Irish folk styles, light classical music a la Albert W. Ketelbey and Tin Pan Alley would top the charts, win a Grammy for Best Musical and go on to take the world by storm. But why re-record Riverdance, which is as deeply associated with its original time and context as Saturday Night Fever is with the 1970s? Yes, the Irish players, all of whom are master instrumentalists, still sound fresh, but the percussive dancing feet, minus visuals, gets old fast. The Macedonian, Spanish and Russian interpolations are great fun if a maybe bit patronizing around the edges. But haven't the misty chorales, New-Age-ridden cloaked-and-hooded sopranos and other portentous Celtic Twilight-isms long since descended into self-parody? --Christina Roden

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Dancing Feet.......2007-01-10

Being of Irish descent this is the best collection of Irish music ever. I listen to this CD when I am working out -- it will get your feet moving no matter how you feel.

5 out of 5 stars What???.......2006-11-08

Ok, that was the worst editorial review I have ever seen.... she just totally knocked celtic culture, and one of the best celtic recordings in one condecending swoop. When she can dance like that, then let her critique.
Irish Dance
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Very fun
  • Looking for a "Riverdance"-type sound, and got it.
  • Celtic Pride: Irish Dance (Featuring--The Irish Ceili Band)
Irish Dance
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Riverdance Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  5. Riverdance: Music From The Show

ASIN: B000005XHG
Release Date: 1997-05-01

Tracks:

  1. Riverdance
  2. White, Orange And Green (Tabhair Dom Do Lamb)
  3. Scarce O'Tatties
  4. Feilim's Little Boat Phelims (Baidin Fheidlimi)
  5. Ballinasloe
  6. Fiddler's Green
  7. Three Young Ladies Drinking Whiskey Before Breakfast
  8. Port Lairge
  9. If Your Irish
  10. Arthur McBride
  11. Morrison Merrily Kissed The Quaker
  12. Ramblin' Irishman
  13. The Minstrel Boy
  14. Rising Of The Moon
  15. Little Fairy, Big Fairy
  16. The Beggarman
  17. Roscarbury
  18. The Nightingale
  19. Sport Of The Chase
  20. Whiskey In The Jar
  21. Riverdance (Reprise)

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Very fun.......2005-09-29

A mix of songs and musical pieces. They get you singing and your toes tapping!

5 out of 5 stars Looking for a "Riverdance"-type sound, and got it........2001-08-19

I was surprised that the album was as good as it was, considering its discounted price. Luckily, I was able to preview some of the songs on Amazon.com, enough to make me feel comfortable making my purchase.

5 out of 5 stars Celtic Pride: Irish Dance (Featuring--The Irish Ceili Band).......2000-09-13

This is an excellent CD if you like the Irish sound. With a mix of instramentals and folk tunes, this is among my favorites. I would highly recommend this for any Irish collection.
Roots of Riverdance
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Not as greaat as Riverdance and Lord of the Dance but music's still good.
  • OK, anything related to RIVERDANCE gets 5 stars!
  • Roots of Riverdance/Bill Whelan.
  • Incredible... Enchanting... A must buy for Whelan fans
Roots of Riverdance
Bill Whelan
Manufacturer: Decca U.S.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Riverdance: Music From The Show
  2. Michael Flatley's Lord Of The Dance
  3. Riverdance on Broadway
  4. Dancing At Lughnasa: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
  5. Celtic Fire

ASIN: B000005B3C
Release Date: 1997-09-23

Tracks:

  1. Timedance: I. Humours Of Barrack Street/II. Isercleran/III. The Ballymun Regatta - Liam O'Flynn/Donal Lunny/Any Irvine/Nollaig Casey/Bill Whelan/Bill Whelan/The Timedance String...
  2. Cill Liadain - Aine Ui Cheallaigh/Iarlaith Carter/Cathal Clinch/Ewan Cowley, Noel Cowley/Paul Flynn/John McNamara..
  3. The Countess Cathleen/Woman Of The Sidhe - Maire Breatnach/Davy Spillane/Mairtin O'Connor/Kenneth Edge/Eoghan O'Neil/Clay Drum...
  4. Illyrian Dawn - Davy Spillane/Bill Whelan
  5. The Coast Of Galicia - Davy Spillane/Mairtin O'Connor/Mel Mercier/Mairead Nesbitt/Rodrigo Romani/Xose V Ferreiros...
  6. Bridge Attack - Mairtin O' Connor/Kenneth Edge/Declan Masterson/Nikola Parov/Eileen Ivers...
  7. The Deserted Village - Declan Masterson/Bill Whelan/Alan Smale
  8. Caracena - Mairtin O'Connor/Mel Mercier/Mairead Nesbitt/Rodrigo Romani/Xose V Ferreiros...
  9. Mystic Seacliffs - Davy Spillane/Donald Lunny/Anthony Drennan/Des Moore/John Drummond/Bill Whelan
  10. The Seabird - Eleanor McEvoy/Declan Masterson/Bill Whelan
  11. Chetvorno Horo - Andy Irvine/Davy Spillane/Nikola Parov/Bill Whelan/Mairtin O' Connor/Anthony Drennan...
  12. Riverdance - Katie McMahon/Anuna/Kenneth Edge/Maire Breatnach/Cormac Breatnach/Ronan Browne...

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Not as greaat as Riverdance and Lord of the Dance but music's still good........2005-07-30

Although the music's doesn't compete with Riverdance, let alone "Lord of the Dance" this is still filled with lovely songs once again great music. "Timedance" and "Chetvorno Horo" are my favorite songs, but I also like "Mystic Seacliffs" and "Bridge Attack" and of course, "Women of the Sidhe" from Riverdance. It's all pretty good music, and if you like Riverdance, then well, enjoy

5 out of 5 stars OK, anything related to RIVERDANCE gets 5 stars!.......2002-07-11

But, to be honest, this music is not quite as soul-hauntingly lovely as Riverdance. But what's great about this album is that it gives us RD fanatics, a chance to get a glimpse of how the phenonemom that is Riverdance developed!

Highly reccommended to all the other RD nuts out there. Of course, I can't imagine anyone who doesn't absolutely love Riverdance buying this album! Chuckles and grins... :)

5 out of 5 stars Roots of Riverdance/Bill Whelan........2001-06-18

Bill Whelan is a genius! From the very first time I listened to his music in Riverdance I automatically fell in love with this wonderful type of music. Here in Mexico the Celtic music is not quite popular, and it's difficult to find albums like this, but fortunately I have this one and I highly recommend it. The music is beautiful, and I keep wondering how gifted was this man to have the ability to write such nice compositions. Definitely, if you like Celtic music, you will enjoy this album indeed.

5 out of 5 stars Incredible... Enchanting... A must buy for Whelan fans.......1998-09-01

I purchased this box set only knowing of Whelan's work with the Riverdance score. I was not disappointed... far from it! The Soundtrack to 'Some Mother's Son' has not left my CD player since I put it in there 5 days ago... The other discs that come in the set are just as fabulous... Riverdance, Roots of Riverdance, and the Seville Suite. If you're a fan of the Riverdance score... then by all means, treat yourself to some of his other fantastic works.
Grimethorpe
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • A treat: Grimethorpe pleases once again.
Grimethorpe

Manufacturer: Chandos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Brassed Off!: Original Soundtrack From The Miramax Motion Picture
  2. Old Rugged Cross: 24 Brass Band Favourites
  3. Best of Brass
  4. Brassed Off!
  5. Movie Brass

ASIN: B000000A7V
Release Date: 1997-03-18

Tracks:

  1. March - Grimethorpe Colliery Band
  2. Adagio - Mark Walters
  3. Purcell Variations - Major Peter Parkes
  4. From The Shores Of The Mighty Pacific - Richard Marshall
  5. Overture To 'Abu Hassan' - Major Peter Parkes
  6. The Lark In The Clear Air - Melvyn Bathgate
  7. March - Grimethorpe Colliery Band
  8. Carnival Cocktail - Mike Kilroy
  9. Riverdance - Grimethorpe Colliery Band
  10. It's Alright - Jonathan Beatty
  11. March - Major Peter Parkes
  12. Isaiah 40 - Major Peter Parkes

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars A treat: Grimethorpe pleases once again........1999-12-09

This CD is wonderful. The band once again demonstrates incredible versatility and technical skill along with great arrangements. As a low brass player, I was especially impressed with the euphonium interpretation of Carnival of Venice on the Carnival Cocktail cut. Loved the Riverdance arrangement and always find good circus marches played well to be a real treat (Barnum & Bailey's Favorite, in this case). Other cuts were equally entertaining and satisfying. Great cornet virtuoso work on From the Shores of the Mighty Pacific and a lovely arrangement for tenor horn on The Lark in the Clear Air. A brass band that can be subtle or bold! A brass band that understands dynamics! A brass band that lets you hear more than just the melody line! Note to the band: a CD of KL King and other circus greats would be appreciated. And, being from Maine, USA, more RB Hall marches would go down well. Yes, he was from Maine, but also wrote great marches. Hall's great countermelody style was well interpreted on the Brassed Off CD and the same march, Death or Glory, appears here. How about more?
Jens Lindemann: Rising Sun
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Extremely Fine Trumpet Playing in a Very Eclectic Program
Jens Lindemann: Rising Sun

Manufacturer: Marquis Music
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Jens Lindemann: Flying Solo
  2. Bach: Works for Trumpet
  3. Caprice - Alison Balsom
  4. Music for Trumpet and Organ
  5. Amanda

ASIN: B0006OSD5E
Release Date: 2005-06-14

Tracks:

  1. Malaguena
  2. Riverdance - Rising Sun
  3. Mount Fuji
  4. Temples of Kyoto
  5. Shinkansen: The Bullet Train
  6. Someone To Watch Over Me
  7. Soul Bossa Nova
  8. Slavische Fantasie
  9. Joshua Swings the Battle
  10. Concerto de Aranjues
  11. Concertino Classico for Two Trumpets
  12. Concertino Classico for Two Trumpets
  13. Concertino Classico for Two Trumpets
  14. Sachse Concertino
  15. Eriskay Love Lilt
  16. Standing on the Promises

Album Description

Heralded internationally as an outstanding artist, trumpeter Jens Lindemann has enlisted the talents of The Canadian Staff Band's 30-piece ensemble for his second Marquis recording, Rising Sun.

Lindemann's musicality and virtuosity coupled with the warmth and skill of The Canadian Staff Band clearly demonstrate the brilliance of this collaboration. The music offers an eclectic mix of standard repertoire and original compositions, some of Lindemann's finest work to date.

This musical journey takes the listener from Japanese flavoured pentatonic harmonies found on the title track, to fiery temperaments peppered throughout Slavische Fantasie, and goes on to soothe with the familiar sounds of classic Gershwin delivered in a unique Lindemann style.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Extremely Fine Trumpet Playing in a Very Eclectic Program.......2006-09-12

This disc is somewhat in the vein of Philip Smith's CD titled
My Song of Songs. Smith's disc is predominantly arrangements
of Christian hymns and songs, while Lindemann's is secular
except for two tracks. Both are recorded with excellent
Salvation Army brass bands.

Lindemann's sound, range, technical facility and breadth of
musical expression are phenomenal. Trumpet players will be
astonished at the level of control he has over his tone.
Lindemann excels at selling each piece, whether it be a
light piece or a substantial work such as Allen Vizzutti's
new composition. Musical maturity is evident here. He is
stylistically right-on.

Lindemann has a very strong high range and uses it
frequently -- perhaps a bit too frequently, but if I had
the ability to generate excitement like that, I might do
the same. It remains in good taste. Lindemann conveys a
lot of joy in this recording. The use of fluegelhorn and
piccolo trumpet add a variety of colors to his sound and
keep the disc interesting.

A special note must be made of the gorgeous piccolo trumpet
playing in the Vizzutti piece. It is an effortless, full,
and fluid sound. This piece alone is worth the price of the
disc.

The instrumentation of this project -- trumpet with brass
band -- will limit the appeal of the recording for many. This
is unfortunate, for the playing is on an extremely high level
throughout and the music making transcends the instruments
themselves.

Very highly recommended.
Celtic Spectacular
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Interesting and good music
Celtic Spectacular
Erich Kunzel , and Cincinnati Pops
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Pop RockPop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music
Similar Items:
  1. Epics [Hybrid SACD]
  2. The Overlook (Harry Bosch)

ASIN: B00006771B
Release Date: 2002-04-30

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Interesting and good music.......2007-01-26

A good music ,good sonics.
I particularly enjoyed some traks such as No. 4 in which James Galway plays but also no. 6 and 9 and the others.
Celtic Christmas
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • My Christmas CD of 2006
  • Celebrates the holidays in style
Celtic Christmas
Katie McMahon
Manufacturer: Alternative Dis
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Shine
  2. After the Morning
  3. Celtic Woman - A New Journey: Live at Slane Castle, Ireland
  4. Celtic Woman: A Christmas Celebration

ASIN: B0007MYMR8
Release Date: 2003-09-17

Tracks:

  1. In the Bleak Mid-Winter
  2. The Boar's Head Carol
  3. The Wexford Carol
  4. Christmas Day & Christmas Eve Tunes
  5. The Holly and the Ivy
  6. My Dancing Day
  7. Silent Night
  8. Good King Wenceslaus
  9. What Child is This & Greensleeves Jig
  10. The Little Road to Bethlehem
  11. Christmas Pipes
  12. In Dulci Jubilo
  13. SuantraLullaby)
  14. Gaudete (Rejoice)
  15. The First Day of the Year

Product Description

Katie McMahon is best known for her exquisite soprano solo in the original Riverdance single, which topped the charts in Ireland for three months. Her voice was described by the Irish Times as "poetry, perfection and purity". Before Riverdance, Katie, (born and bred in Dublin), was classically trained in voice and harp and studied Italian and Drama Studies in Trinity College. During a break from her studies, Katie joined the vocal group Anuna and is a featured soloist on their first two CDs. Bill Whelan (Riverdance composer) heard her perform with Anuna and asked her to sing the solo in the interval piece at the Eurovision. This of course went on to become the hugely successful show Riverdance and Katie toured the world with them for five years as their lead vocalist. While touring in America, she met her husband Ben Craig and has made her home in Minnesota for the past three years. During this time she has formed her own band and troupe of Irish dancers. They are in great demand all over the States and play Irish traditional music with a Classical edge. Two of the many celebrities who have enjoyed Katie's performances are President Clinton and Bono (U2), who pulled her aside afterwards and kindly told her that she had "an amazing voice". She has released two critically acclaimed solo CDs "After the Morning" and "Shine". Katie's new CD is a collection of your favorite carols and traditional Irish Christmas music that will set your feet tapping. Of note are Silent Night and Good King Wenceslaus and the catchy never before recorded Christmas Pipes, which is sure to become a new Christmas standard. If you like Enya and the Chieftains you're sure to love this new release.

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars My Christmas CD of 2006.......2006-11-21

OK, so my title is misleading since this disc came out in 2003, but I have put this disc in the player more than any other Christmas CD so far this year.
Katie McMahon's soprano voice is beautiful - not irritating like so many other sopranos - and has a happy feel to it. The instrumentation is excellent, very light and fits her vocals perfectly. And best of all, it's done in a traditional style!
Highlights on this disc include The Boar's Head Carol (which goes through several rhythm changes in its course), My Dancing Day (first time I have ever heard vocals to this carol), Good King Wenceslaus (known but not over-played), and In The Bleak Midwinter (simply beautiful!). She also sings Silent Night partially in German.
As you can see there is quite a mix of carols on this disc - a few well-known, but many (if not most) not quite as familiar, and it's these not so popular tunes that I bought this CD for.
With the sizable Christmas music collection I have obtained over the years, it's always exciting to find a CD that not only am I unfamiliar with, but one that I like so much I listen to it over and over. Katie McMahon's Celtic Christmas is that disc for me for this year.

4 out of 5 stars Celebrates the holidays in style.......2005-12-21

First brought to the public's attention as a vocal soloist for Riverdance, the former Anuna singer (now touring with Secret Garden) uses her perfect soprano voice to great effect and celebrates the holidays in style. "Celtic Christmas" can't help but put you into a festive, yet contemplative, frame of mind.

The 15-track CD is a joyous occasion all by itself. And Irish singing sensation Katie McMahon provides a varied playlist for the party, with songs that range from sacred to secular, somber to sprightly.

The recording benefits from the work of several fine musicians, including Katie on harp. The green-on-green liner notes are excellent, providing the lyrics as well as brief notes from Katie explaining the history of the music or some personal significance to her. All in all, this is a package Christmas enthusiasts will love to find under their trees.

Music:

  1. Scrapbook of Sorts
  2. Sing The Hits Of The Best Of Andrew Lloyd Webber (Karaoke)
  3. Sings the Standards: Best of Shirley Bassey [Import]
  4. So Thankful
  5. Sondheim Songs
  6. Sondheim: The Stephen Sondheim Album
  7. Song & Dance - The Songs [Cast Recording]
  8. Songs That Got Away
  9. Starmania (20th Anniversary) [Cast Recording] [Import] [Live] [Soundtrack]
  10. Still "Young & Foolish"

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