Willow (Soundtrack) [Soundtrack] [Import]
On this CD:
Willow, film score
Composed by
James Horner
Performed by
London Symphony Orchestra
with
Tony Hennigan,
Michael Taylor,
Robin Williamson,
Kazu Matsui,
Ian Underwood
Conducted by
James Horner
Editorial Reviews
Product Description
1988 Virgin release, James Horner's soundtrack to Ron Howard's 1988 fantasy epic starring Val Kilmer and Billy Barty. Eight tracks. George Lucas wrote the story & served as executive producer of the film, which was a Lucasfilm production.
Willow (Soundtrack),Robin Williamson,James Horner,James Horner,London Symphony Orchestra,EMI Int'l,Film,Film Music,Pop,Soundtrack,Soundtracks,Soundtracks & Film Scores
Willow (Soundtrack) [Soundtrack] [Import]
Average customer rating:
- The Complete Piano Music of Scott Joplin
- Another Performer Rewrites Joplin's Masterpieces
- complete piano music of Scott Joplin on 4 CD's
- Ragtime Marvel
- Complete, but poor quality
|
Complete Piano Music of Scott Joplin
Manufacturer: Compendia
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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- Scott Joplin: Piano Rags
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ASIN: B000003QWN
Release Date: 1997-01-28 |
Tracks:
- The Crush Collision March
- Combination March
- Harmony Club Waltz
- Original Rags
- Maple Leaf Rag
- Swipesy Cakewalk
- Reacherine Rag
- Sunflower Slow Drag
- The Augustan Club Waltz
- The Easy Winners
- Cleopha
- A Breeze From Alabama
- Elite Syncopations
Tracks:
- The Entertainer
- The Strenouous Life
- March Majestic
- Something Doing
- Weaping Willow
- Patr Leaf Rag
- The Favorite
- The Sycamore
- The Cascades
- The Chysanthemum
- Bethena
- Bink's Waltz
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Tracks:
- Leola
- Eugenia
- Antoinette
- The Ragtime Dance
- Searchlight Rag
- Gladiolus Rag
- Lily Queen
- Rose Leaf Rag
- Heliotrope Bouquet
- The Nonpareil
- Fig Leaf Rag
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Tracks:
- Wall Street Rag (1909)
- Solace (1909)
- Pleasant Moments (1909)
- Country Club (1909)
- Euphonic Moments (1909)
- Paragon Rag (1909)
- Stop-Time Rag (1910)
- Felicity Rag (1911)
- Scott Joplin's New Rag (1912)
- Kismet Rag (1913)
- Magnetic Rag (1914)
- Reflection Rag (1917)
- Silver Swan Rag (1917)
Customer Reviews:
The Complete Piano Music of Scott Joplin.......2007-06-08
John Arpin does a great job with these pieces. The songs carry a consistent sound and are played very close to as-written, which comes and goes with old ragtime pieces. The stamping on Stop-Time Rag doesn't have a consistent sound to it, can be a little distracting. Everything else is great, overall I think that it's a great buy, I'm very happy with it.
Another Performer Rewrites Joplin's Masterpieces.......2007-05-31
Once again, another performer feels the need to rewrite the music of the King of Ragtime. Scott Joplin spins in his grave each and every time this recording is played.
Again, to those who believe that concert music is meant to be rewritten by each and every performer I ask, is the same treatment also acceptable for Chopin's and Rachmaninoff's music? Would "Moonlight Sonata" sound better if played at twice the tempo and with a reprise of the first Adagio movement thrown in at the end? Obviously, the answer to these questions is a resounding NO!, so why does one of America's greatest composers get such disrespect?
Interpretation is an integral part of every performance. Adding one's own notes, phrases and chords where none should be is not. Randomly changing the structure of the piece is not. Playing a piece at twice the indicated tempo is not.
One the plus side, the depth of this collection is outstanding. Joplin's lesser known pieces like "Harmony Club Waltz" really shine. The recording is decent in quality, although a bit bassy in places.
While its been stated before, I feel its worth repeating: Buy Joshua Rifkin's performances of Joplin in order to hear how the Master intended his pieces to sound.
complete piano music of Scott Joplin on 4 CD's.......2007-02-14
Although all of the music is terrific it is rather a lot of a similar sound. I think I would have preferred 2 CD's of selected piano works of Scott Joplin. But I did get the music at a good price.
Ragtime Marvel.......2005-10-09
This collection of Scott Joplin's piano music is outstanding. As a lover of ragtime which was a prelude to jazz, I am thoroughly enjoying this collection. If you are not a lover of jazz, you may be a lover of ragtime. Jazz can sometimes be grating on the nerves, whereas ragtime lifts the spirit.
Complete, but poor quality.......2005-09-25
I have been learning some ragtime and wanted to hear more to find other selections to learn. Listened to Maple Leaf Rag, my favorite, first and was disappointed. Listened to others and was more disappointed. Maple flies - much faster than anyone would play it, you can't make out some of the phrases. And talk about ad libs - Tempo, dynamics, embelishments, nuances - I really think he plays some wrong notes too because he's going so fast. It's really a poor recording - and that's just on Maple Leaf. Others with "intros" start quick and then there's a grand pause, not a rest, but nearly a five second break. It's hard to argue how Joplin would have played it, but this is hardly anything I want to try to imitate. The only qualitating factor is the number of songs for the price. A lot of variety of a poor interpretation is only worth 3 stars. if that. Look for Rifkin or a copy that is as written to listen to first, then go for the ad libs and "artistic interpretations"
Average customer rating:
- Awesome to hear the old masters almost live.
- The Greatest Ragtime of the Century
- A great introduction and sampling.
|
The Greatest Ragtime of the Century
Manufacturer: Shout Factory
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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ASIN: B00009PJST
Release Date: 2003-06-10 |
Tracks:
- Shreveport Stomp - Jelly Roll Morton
- Sweet Man - Jelly Roll Morton
- Tom Cat Blues - Jelly Roll Morton
- A New Kind Of Man With A New Kind Of Love For Me - Thomas 'Fats' Waller
- Nobody But My Baby - Thomas 'Fats' Waller
- Got To Cool My Doggies Now - Thomas 'Fats' Waller
- Maple Leaf Rag - Scott Joplin
- Weeping Willow Rag - Scott Joplin
- Something Doing - Scott Joplin
- Steeplechase Rag - James P Johnson
- Twilight Rag - James P Johnson
- Charleston Rag - Eubie Blake
- It's Right Here For You - Eubie Blake
- Fare Thee Honey Blues - Eubie Blake
- Mr. Freddie Blues - Jimmy Blythe
- Regal Stomp - Jimmy Blythe
Customer Reviews:
Awesome to hear the old masters almost live........2007-03-27
It was an awesome experience to hear Ragtime and early blues played by the masters themselves. When you hear the music from their own hands, if not their own pianos, it makes the music immediate, and makes even clearer the stylistic differences of the various American musical pioneers. The sound quality is excellent. I'd strongly recommend this recording to anyone who enjoys early-20th-century jazz.
The Greatest Ragtime of the Century.......2005-10-30
What a terrific CD. What a joy to add to your life. Everyone should begin their day with this Great Ragtime.We would all be much better.
As a former dancer, Flapper, wth the Charleston in my routine, I do appreciate Great Music. I'm not quite as good as I used to be, but neither are you, Gal. Will be 66 next birthday. Still have the rhythm and love life.
Put some spice in your life and don't let this CD get away. Please, just get it today.
A great introduction and sampling........2005-08-23
Prior to this album, the only ragtime I really knew was "The Entertainer" and "Maple Leaf Rag". I don't know how this album fares for enthusiasts, but I've thoroughly enjoyed it. It introduced me to several different composers. The way the album is organized by giving you a two or three song block by each composer is good. As you listen to this, you can easily hear the different styles from one composer to another. As for the recording quality, I don't have any complaints whatsoever. Each note is clear without much noticable fuzz or hissing. The versions of Scott Joplin's songs are played a bit brash and speedy when compared to Joshua Rifkin, but I think they sound livlier because of it. Overall a solid release.
Average customer rating:
- Now is the Time
- Amazing offering
- Wow! Best live Delirious? ever!!
- Absolute close to heaven
- Great Music, Great Band, Great Location
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Now Is the Time: Live at Willow Creek (CD+DVD)
Delirious?
Manufacturer: Sparrow
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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ASIN: B000IFRR7G
Release Date: 2006-10-17 |
Tracks:
- Here I Am Send Me
- Rain Down
- Solid Rock
- Now Is The Time
- Our God Reigns
- What A Friend
- Miracle Maker
- Paint The Town Red
- Every Little Thing
- I Could Sing Of Your Love Forever
- Take Off My Shoes
- Majesty
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- All This Time
- Our God Reigns-Radio Edit
Album Description
Live CD+DVD features 1 hour 15 minute live DVD, with 5.1 surround sound, plus bonus "behind the scenes" footage and 30-minute documentary on the story of Delirious? DVD track list: 1. Here I Am Send Me 2. Rain Down 3. Mountains-Reprise 4. Solid Rock 5. Now Is The Time 6. Our God Reigns 7. What A Friend 8. Miracle Maker 9. History Maker 10. Paint The Town Red 11. Every Little Thing 12. Take Off My Shoes 13. Majesty 14. Our God Reigns-Reprise 15. Investigate
Customer Reviews:
Now is the Time.......2007-05-13
A great evening of worship. Delirious? are an amazingly talented Christian band who are totally authentic in their worship of God.The evening rocked.
Amazing offering.......2007-02-04
"Now is the time", the 2006 delirious? live concert at Willow Creek is a phenomenal value full CD and DVD pack - for the price of a budget CD. But there is nothing budget about this production - from the artwork, packaging, to the filming and most important the performance, delirious? creativity and excellence is stamped all over it. Congratulations to the band and production team!
What an amazing offering - and this band knows the spiritual understanding of 'offering'. This is contemporary stadium pop-rock at its best - irrespective of labels - Christian or secular market. Oftened likened to U2, delirious? are an experienced, edgy, professional outfit who play with exuberance and joy. They are the British Christian rock supergroup of the last 15 years although it would be a label they'd distance themselves from.
Having seen them twice at the New Zealand Parachute festival, I believe this captures them at the peak of their powers. They don't hold back as they journey through 15 classic tracks that encourage as much crowd participation as possible.
I loved the different filming angles that captures the light show and faces of performers and audience. With this DVD, the concert experience is more important than focusing on whether the drummer is using a flams or rim shots, or what foot pedal the guitarist is using. That's not to say that the camera doesn't focus on the appropriate musician - it just that overall the filming has creative feel.
Martin Smith still has as youthful, and infectious stage presence as what he did ten years ago. He connects with the audience with friendly eye contact, impish smile and gestures. He amazes me each time I see him again. He can be sincere and gentle and the next minute cajoling the crowd to sing out an anthem roar. He's particularly strong in the title track, 'Now is the time' and 'Every little thing' as is Stu G, who seems to grow and display stronger guitar sounds with each new album. Stu G has a wonderful array of tones and solos that are more of the Edge guitar school rather than Satriani shred. I've never heard him play with such abandon as what he plays on this album.
Yes, this is a fun concert to watch but its more than this as I kept being drawn into their hopeful, uncompromising message. 'Our God reigns' displays this - challenging, uplifting rock.
Certainly this is the time that they shine for their King.
Wow! Best live Delirious? ever!!.......2007-01-17
Truly a great performance by the no.1 praise band in the world! Good songs, nice sound, nice images, nice everything! I love it!
Absolute close to heaven.......2007-01-16
Just need to recomend this. The music is fantastic and also the song content. These people really know the gospel!
Great Music, Great Band, Great Location.......2007-01-10
This DVD is a great insight to the music of DELIRIOUS.-- The SPIRIT of the songs, the band and the location is fully reflected in the concert and the additional DVD bonus material.-- The Spitit comes across !!
Great DVD absolutely worth to buy.--
Average customer rating:
- Well worth the price
- Not Exactly "The Ultimate" Collection...
- Where's the chicks?!?!
- Not quite the ultimate....
- Great Music - Questionable Selection
|
The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection
Arthur Sullivan , Isidore Godfrey , Royston Nash , New Symphony Orchestra of London , Royal Philharmonic Orchestra , Colin Wright , Donald Adams , George Cook , Gillian Knight , Jean Hindmarsh , Jeffrey Skitch , John Ayldon , John Reed , Joyce Wright , Kenneth Sandford , Lyndsie Holland , Owen Brannigan , Pauline Wales , Peggy Ann Jones , Thomas Round , Valerie Masterson , and D'Oyly Carte Opera Company
Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
All Works by Sullivan
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- Topsy-Turvy
- The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan
ASIN: B000007OU0
Release Date: 1998-06-09 |
Tracks:
- H.M.S. Pinafore: We Shall Sail The Ocean Blue
- H.M.S. Pinafore: I'm Called Little Buttercup
- H.M.S. Pinafore: My Galant Crew, Good Morning
- H.M.S. Pinafore: I'm The Monarch Of The Sea
- H.M.S. Pinafore: When I Was A Lad
- H.M.S. Pinafore: Nevermind The Why And Wherefore
- H.M.S. Pinafore: Kind Captain, I've Important Information
- H.M.S. Pinafore: Carefully On Tip - Toe Stealing
- H.M.S. Pinafore: For He Is An Englishman
- The Pirates Of Penzance: I Am The Very Model Of A Modern Major - General
- The Pirates Of Penzance: When A Felon's Not Engaged In His Employment
- The Pirates Of Penzance: With Cat Like Tread
- The Sorcerer: My Name Is John Wellinton Wells
- The Gondoliers: Take A Pair Of Sparkling Eyes
- Patience: If You're Anxious To Shine
- The Mikado: If You Want To Know Who We Are
- The Mikado: A Wand'ring Minstrel I
- The Mikado: Behold The Lord High Executioner
- The Mikado: As Someday It May Happen
- The Mikado: Three Little Maids From School Are We
- The Mikado: The Sun Whose Rays Are All Ablaze
- The Mikado: Here's A How - De - Do!
- The Mikado: From Ev'ry Kind Of Man Obedience I Expect
- The Mikado: A More Humane Mikado Never Did In Japan Exist
- The Mikado: The Criminal Cried As He Dropp'd Him Down
- The Mikado: The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring, Tra La
- The Mikado: On A Tree By A River A Little Tom Tit
- The Mikado: There Is Beauty In The Bellow Of The Blast
- The Mikado: For He's Gone And Married Yum-Yum
Customer Reviews:
Well worth the price.......2006-04-13
I love this CD. No, despite its name it is not the "ultimate" collection, as scarcely could be expected from a single CD. It is heavy on Mikado, as others have stated. It leaves out things I would have included and includes things I would have left out. But the performances are wonderful, traditional and all you expect from G&S. Considering the low price, it is well worth including in your G&S collection ... as PART of your collection. After the disappointment of the godawful Opera World video series (Don't buy it!) this CD is a joy and a relief.
Not Exactly "The Ultimate" Collection..........2004-12-23
It seems that a collection of Gilbert & Sullivan music that has the name "The Ultimate Collection" in its title would boast a wide range of music, but I found the selection disappointing. Half of the tracks are songs from The Mikado, and the other half is divided between five... yes, FIVE other operettas. This means that the representation from each operetta is awfully scant. I would have liked to see less Mikado and more of everything else, and perhaps some highlights from the more obscure operettas (Princess Ida and The Sorcerer, namely).
In addition, while most of the music is very well performed, some of the vocalists either go a bit overboard or, at the very opposite end, seem to lack expression. For example, this Nanki-Poo (in The Mikado) seems to be overly occupied with vibrato. Katisha's voice is annoying, and The Mikado's low voice often seems to lack feeling and humor. The other idiosyncracies, like the very frightening evil laughing during "A More Humane Mikado" and hissing during "Three Little Maids" really bug me.
Then again, I'm new to Gilbert and Sullivan, and was introduced to the music through the Topsy Turvy soundtrack, which has a noticeably less operatic style, and hardly includes "stage noise"... so perhaps all this is the norm. Do listen to the tracks for yourself, though, before you purchase the CD. Personally, I find that the Topsy Turvy soundtrack, while considerably less ecompassing, is much lighthearted and easier listening.
Where's the chicks?!?!.......2003-05-15
It wouldn't be G&S if not for the ladies - so where are they? How could they leave out Mabel's aria - or Josephine's!? The only female aria included on this disc comes from Mikado, which is the least exciting (if G&S could be un-exciting) of the three! Everything else on the recording is great, but I am still quite disappointed.
Not quite the ultimate...........2002-03-25
This is a great collection, but unfortunately it doesn't have songs from all the works of G&S. Most notably, there is nothing from the "Yeoman of the Guard". I still reccommed it however as John Reed is wonderful!!
Great Music - Questionable Selection.......2002-02-05
It's an ongoing challenge to find a recording of Gilbert and Sullivan that combines premium musicality and great theatrical performance. This recording is a true gem on both fronts. My only complaint is that for a "Best of" collection, this compilation is Mikado-heavy and scarcely touches on highlights from other masterpieces, particularly The Pirates of Penzance. This would be my favorite G&S CD of all time, of only it included tracks like "When the Foeman Bares his Steel," "Poor Wand'ring One," and "Dry the Glist'ning Tear," but then again, I guess there's no real consensus as to which are Gilbert and Sullivan's best works, and there are too many to fit on one CD.
Average customer rating:
- Willow (Sound Track)
- many moments of excellence
- Sweeping & Grand
- Willow Soundtrack
- Horner's great adventure score
|
Willow (Soundtrack)
Manufacturer: EMI Int'l
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
Film Scores
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ASIN: B00000762Z
Release Date: 1995-05-05 |
Tracks:
- Elora Danan
- Escape From The Tavern
- Willow's Journey Begins
- Canyon Of Mazes
- Tir Asleen
- Willow's Theme
- Bavmorda's Spell Is Cast
- Willow The Sorcerer
Album Description
1988 Virgin release, James Horner's soundtrack to Ron Howard's 1988 fantasy epic starring Val Kilmer and Billy Barty. Eight tracks. George Lucas wrote the story & served as executive producer of the film, which was a Lucasfilm production.
Album Details
The original score to this fantastical 1998 tale starring Val Kilmer was written by James Horner, who won two Oscars for his work on this 1997 epic 'Titanic' (Best Original Dramatic Score & Best Song). Horner also composed the music to a few other Hollywood blockbusters, including 'Braveheart', 'Apollo 13', 'Field of Dreams' & others.
Customer Reviews:
Willow (Sound Track).......2007-04-12
I enjoyed the movie very much, especially the main music theme but I thought individual album tracks could have been shorter with greater emphasis on the more melodic main theme. It had suprisingly good digital clarity despite it's age. I was satisfied with the product and 3 stars to it's compilation.
many moments of excellence.......2006-04-21
Given this soundtrack is a by-product of my favorite film of all time, I was overjoyed when, while it was still relatively difficult to come across, somebody procured a copy from England as a birthday gift. I sat down to listen and immediately found myself back in the landscape of the film. Trudging through marshes, riding horseback at breakneck speed, and even witnessing teary farewells, all of which come together to form the Willow film experience. This soundtrack creates a memory of the film but also a greater appreciation of the music used for it and why it was used...and when. The only flaw I've found with the album, (and this is touched on in one other review,) is that there does seem to be too large an amount of time dedicated to the smoldering, darker tones of Nockmar; a higher ration of darkness to light then was seen on screen. With this exception, I find the whole album pleasurable and will still go to it every once in a while to relive the film, but in a different sense than the visual.
Sweeping & Grand.......2006-03-20
I'm not much of a fan of James Horner; I don't think he's lacking, but I don't think he's nearly as good overall as many think he is. Many would say he's better than Williams, Shore, Zimmer and Gregson-Williams, all of whom I am a big fan of, and frankly I like them a lot better.
However, I will admit that his music does sound very good - it has a lot of depth to it, and the recording/mixing is fantastic. I also think makes good choices on which instruments to use to make his sound come to life. And in Willow, I think he did a very good job.
The music in this soundtrack is very high quality indeed - it's well composed, well orchestrated, and flows very nicely. Listening to it makes me wish I could find the DVD again, because the mood of the movie is perfectly mirrored in this grand score. Having watched it since the early 90's off and on, I can almost see the movie playing in my head, as while listening to it, I noticed how distinct each scene's music was. And as much as I liked the synth-music used a lot in the 80's, I'm glad that this score went with a fully orchestral sound instead.
However, for those like me who like a sequence-by-sequence CD score, this it does not offer. There's only 8 tracks, 5 of which are 8+ minutes long - the primary example would be that the arrival at Nacmaar (with everything that goes on) to where General Kael is taken down is one track - it stretches to nearly 19 minutes long! Even just the longer half of the tracks being two separate tracks, each half as long, would have done wonders.
It's for this reason that I take away the fifth star.
However, apart from having to listen to long stretches to get to some of the more memorable parts (which with something like an iPod or MP3 player is a very gradual process), this CD is very recommended. If you've seen (and payed attention to) the movie, you probably remember that the musical score is very good.
Just a side note: I mentioned having to move forward in tracks in order to get to the more significant parts. Luckily, there's also little in the way of 'dull moments' in this soundtrack, which are found even in soundtracks I'd give the full 5-star rating to.
Final Verdict: Worth it? Very much so!
Willow Soundtrack.......2006-02-22
The only problem with this soundtrack is that it is not split up into enough tracks. There are 13 min segments some of which is "bad-guy" music that I only want to hear occasionally.
Horner's great adventure score.......2006-02-09
This score is hailed by many fans and critics as Horner's greatest adventure score. I agree that its one of the best. The problem I have with choosing Horner's best score is difficult because the `80s was Horner's best composing decade.
Between Williams' Star Wars and Shore's Lord of the Rings, we have Willow. I haven't seen the film yet but the music conveys the message of epic adventure. Wonderfully performed-as always-by the London Symphony Orchestra, Willow stands on par with Star Wars and Lord of the Rings.
"Elora Danan" opens with chorus much like The Land Before Time accompanied by tense moments before we hear the main theme played by the flute at the 2 ½ minute mark. After the main theme's performance, the track becomes dark and tense and leads up to soft, childish music.
"Escape From the Tavern" is a sweeping, action song carrying the energetic version of Willow's theme.
"Willow's Theme" is probably the best of the bunch because its Willow's theme on its own.
"Bavmorda's Spell Is Cast" is a colossal track lasting over 18 minutes long! There's much diversity in this track ranging from panic scoring to mellow to tense action.
This album definitely belongs with your Star Wars and Lord of the Rings collection.
Other adventure scores by Horner I recommend are: Krull, Mask of Zorro, Legend of Zorro and Braveheart.
Also, discover CutThroat Island, one of the greatest swashbuckling adventure scores in music history.
Average customer rating:
- Horrible Techno Muzak with Beautiful Singing
- Not for the Opera purest...
- Opera meets contemporary music for sophisticated listeners
- buy this cd!
- Incredible music from opera's master composers
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Aria
Manufacturer: Koch Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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- Aria, Vol. 2: New Horizon
- Aria 3: Metamorphosis
- State of Grace
- State of Grace II: Turning to Peace
- Earthbound
ASIN: B0002IQGF8
Release Date: 2004-08-10 |
Tracks:
- Willow
- Un Bel Di
- Secret Tear
- Dido
- Pace Pace
- Pamina Blue
- Habanera
- Home
Customer Reviews:
Horrible Techno Muzak with Beautiful Singing.......2007-06-21
This is a Dr. Jeckal and Mr. Hyde CD. The singing is so incredibly beautiful but it's totally ruined with synthetic background "music". The drum machine parts are so bad it's like listening to a joke from Saturday Night Live.
Not for the Opera purest..........2007-05-19
A doctor buddy of mine and I were working the ER one weekend and he put this CD on. Now, I love just about any kind of music EXCEPT Opera and Country music depresses me after a few songs. Now, this CD sure smacked of opera but I was not offended. In fact, the longer I listened, the more I liked it. I didn't much care for the treatment of Bizet's "Carmen" but that was the only song I didn't care for just because I loved the original classical and just didn't like this arrangement. I guess I was primed for this sound through Yanni's "Aria" from his Dare to Dream CD. Thus the blending of contemporary instrumental music with an operatic voice or voices was born.
As for the disappointed opera fan/reviewer, this IS NOT opera and it was never intended to replace or even imitate true opera. Paul Schwartz was exposed to the opera, orchestral symphonies, rock music and dance clubs that were all within walking distance from his home as a young man. He simply took the sounds that appealed to him and put them together. Thus this, his first effort, leans heavily on traditional classical music that is familiar to a great number of people. I personally found his second release, "Aria, Vol. 2: New Horizon", to be much more enjoyable. "Aria 3: Metamorphosis" was released five years after "New Horrizon" and shows a more matured sound and is highly enjoyable. Paul embarked on another venture through the "State of Grace" series during those five years which I haven't heard, yet. I love listening to all three Cd's with #2 and #3 being my favorites of the three. So if you are an opera purest, Paul Schwartz's "Aria" compositions are NOT what you are looking for. But, if you're a New Age enthusiast with even a little appreciation for classical music, then you'll probably enjoy this CD along with his other works.
Opera meets contemporary music for sophisticated listeners.......2006-11-12
I listen to this CD over and over again. Traditional opera voices backed by modern instruments makes for distinct music that appeals to sophisticated adult ears. You don't need to be an opera fan to enjoy this beautiful, unique style of music. A true opera fan below was disappointed, but after buying Aria, I became interested in opera and added a couple of authentic aria CDs to my collection.
buy this cd!.......2006-10-08
When i first heard this CD i hated it. i had heard about it from several people and decided to buy it. i actually bought the box set that has all three Aria cd's. As i checked this cd out, the woman ringing me up said this was the most beautiful thing she'd ever heard and told me i'd love it. i told her i was more of a metal fan. Here i was, a fan of Metallica and Danzig and Tool, buying opera!? i did like the programming on this cd. the drum beats are clean and accompany the music just right; not too loud and not too quiet. the vocals, which at first i didn't like, are really endearing and beautiful. Rebecca Luker sings many of the songs here. i enjoyed this cd more and more with each listen. I like the fact that the lyrics were translated in the booklet so i could understand the words. Bottom line: this is an excellent CD! i would recommend this to anyone. give it a few listens and let it take you. Ignore what you think you know about opera and let his music enter you and enchant you and speak to you. your heart and soul will thank you. let the vocals of Rebecca Luker wash over you and show you the true emotional range of the human voice.
Incredible music from opera's master composers.......2006-03-04
If I could give this CD 10 stars, I would certainly do so. Five stars is not sufficient to describe this wonderful work of art. I am an opera fan but I am certainly not offended by these contemporary arrangements which brings these wonderful works to a modern audience.
The selection "Willow" from Verdi's Otello is haunting and mystical. "Un Bel Di" from Puccini's Madama Butterfly soars. Other works from Purcell's Dido and Aeneas; or Mozart's The Magic Flute; or Bizet's Carmen are arranged to be unique and evoke the context of the original opera.
Rebecca Luker's voice is superb. The electonic approach to these classics updates them, but never replaces the originals. They were not meant to replace only to offer a unique approach to classics.
Average customer rating:
- Excellent teaching tool
- I have only one complaint about this CD
- What every kid (and parent needs!)
- What's Opera Doc?
- Lots of Fun Music
|
The Classical Child at the Opera
Manufacturer: Classical Child
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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Similar Items:
- Pavarotti's Opera Made Easy-My Favourite Opera For Children
- World's Very Best Opera for Kids... in English!
- Classical Music for Children: A Toddler's Introduction to Classical Music
- Beethoven's Wig: Sing Along Symphonies
- Mozart's Magnificent Voyage
ASIN: B00000J29D
Release Date: 2001-05-04 |
Tracks:
- Children's March [From Carmen]
- Doll Song [From Tales of Hoffmann]
- Anvil Chorus [From II Trovatore]
- Bird Catcher Am I [From the Magice Flute]
- Papagena! Papagena! Papagena! [From The Magic Flute]
- Pa, Pa, Pa, Pa [From the Magice Flute]
- Flower Duet [From Lakm
- Largo Al Factotum [From the Barber of Seville]
- Three Little Maids from School [From the Mikado]
- Sun Whose Rays Are All Ablaze [From the Mikado]
- Tit-Willow [From the Mikado]
- Brother, Come Dance With Me [from Hansel and Gretel)
- I Am the Little Sandman [from Hansel and Gretel)
- Children's Prayer [from Hansel and Gretel)
Album Description
OPERA IS FOR EVERYONE and so, The Classical Child At the Opera was created to give children a taste of the magic, majesty and humor of this glorious art form. Well-known songs and arias have been selected that appeal to young sensibilities, while easy-to-follow English translations bring these delightful stories and characters to life. Care has been taken by the singers to present the music in a way that is light hearted and accessible sometimes gentle, sometimes raucous, but always positive and engaging.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent teaching tool.......2006-05-10
I use this CD is my classroom for a wide variety of activities including art instruction for which it is ideally suited. It is hard to recommend this CD enough! Thanks for putting it together.
I have only one complaint about this CD.......2006-04-16
My one complaint is that after I listen to this CD, the catchy tunes get stuck in my head! And then I want to keep listening to it more and more. I love the selections on this CD, the fact that the songs are in English (I always wondered what the "Figaro, Figaro, Figaro" song was about!), and that a little background is given to each piece as well.
What every kid (and parent needs!).......2004-02-06
All I can say is my family LOVES this CD! We have a blast singing along, dancing, etc. It's made opera a new discovery for all of us.
What's Opera Doc?.......2003-03-29
No, this isn't Bugs Bunny's version of opera. It is, however, an excellent introduction to opera, for young and old alike. The the translations to English are quite clever, and the singers' voices are, for the most part, excellent and clear (overly florid voices can be such a turn-off). Grant Doyle, the baritone, is a particular stand-out: rather than sing "at" you, he manages to convey humor and emotion in his parts... you can almost *see* the funny bird catcher, Papageno, in the three songs from Mozart's "Magic Flute", which happent to be my 5-year old's favorite tracks. Doyle's turn as Figaro in "Largo al Factorum" from "The Barber of Seville" is pure joy. The children's chorus in "The Children's March" from "Carmen" is also delightful, and Gabriella Santinelli's(?) voice as the doll from Offenbach's "Tales of Hoffman" is simply amazing.
As much as I enjoy this album, I question the inclusion of the last three songs, which come from "Hansel and Gretel". The voices on the songs are of the overly florid nature, and I can see my daughter lose interest. I think it would have been more interesting to include more "Carmen," or arias from other such popular operas "Rigoletto" or "Aida". Or if the album needed to end on a slower note, the overcoat song from "La Boheme."
IAC, I have caught my daughter humming bits and pieces from the operas. Even I have managed to amaze people by correctly identifying the Flower Duet from "Lakme"! I strongly recommend this album.
Lots of Fun Music.......2002-11-29
Our baby seems to enjoy this operatic CD almost as much as her parents enjoy it. Maybe she doesn't even really hear it, but she does see her parents acting silly and singing along to the catchy opera songs. I think we'll be listening to this one for many years to come. You'll probably really enjoy this CD if you have an appreciation for opera already.
Average customer rating:
- Relive you movie experiences
|
The Ultimate Movie Music Collection
Erich Kunzel
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
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Similar Items:
- The Incredible Film Music Box
- Hollywood's Greatest Hits, Vol. 2
- Simply the Best Movie Themes
- Hollywood's Greatest Hits, Vol. 1
- Paramount 90th Anniversary Collection: Scores
ASIN: B000BFH26Y
Release Date: 2005-10-25 |
Tracks:
- The Imperial March: The Empire Strikes Back
- Main Theme: Jurassic Park
- Main Title: Shakespeare In Love
- Themes: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
- Main Title: The Last Of The Mohicans
- Theme: The Godfather
- Unchained Melody: Ghost
- Theme: Goldfinger
- We're Losing Him: Somewhere In Time
- Space Camp
- Opening And Closing Titles: Henry V
- Theme: The Thorn Birds
- Suite: Moonwalker
- The Time Of Your Life: A Bugs Life
Tracks:
- Batman Theme: Batman
- Bicycle Chase: E.T. The Extra Terrestrial
- Suite: Independance Day
- Love Theme: Romeo & Juliet
- Theme: Back To The Future
- End Credits: Contact
- Theme: Breakfast At Tiffany's
- Main Theme: Star Trek
- May It Be And Themes: Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship Ring
- Love Theme: Cousins
- Sean's Theme: Minority Report
- I Will Wait From You: The Umbrellas Of Cherbourg
- Theme: Rocky
- The Sand Volcano: The Mummy
- The Raider's March: Raiders Of The Lost Ark
Tracks:
- Theme: Mission Impossible
- Casablanca Suite
- Book Of Days: Far And Away
- Love Theme: Superman
- Tara's Theme: Gone With The Wind
- Don't Mess With: Z
- Main Title: The Mask Of Zorro
- Finale: Victor / Victoria
- Carol Ann's Theme: Poltergeist
- Love Theme: Star Wars: Episode ll: Attack Of The Clones
- Main Theme: Willow
- Main Title: Star Trek ll: The Wrath Of Kahn
- MAin Theme: On Golden Pond
- Theme: A Summer Place
- Theme: Chariots Of Fire
Tracks:
- Iceberg!
- Back To Titanic
- Main Themes: Hook
- Theme: Pink Panther
- Lara's: Doctor Zhivago
- Theme: Love Story
- Right Stuff
- Theme: Jaws
- When You Believe: The Prince Of Egypt
- Smile: Modern Times
- The Apollo 13 Mission
- Re-Entry And Splashdown: Apollo 13
- Main Title: Beetlejuice
- War: Pearl Harbor
- Cavatina: The Deer Hunter
- Throne Room And End Title: Star Wars: Episode lV: A New Hope
Customer Reviews:
Relive you movie experiences.......2006-01-24
This collection of movie themes, will allow you to relive the chilling experiences from practically all (4 CDs)of the great movies. Great movies would not be great without great music. The Cincinnati Pop with Eric Kunzel are unbeatable recordings. Every minute is more beautiful and inspiring to the next. If you love Pops music, this is the begin all, end all.
Average customer rating:
- The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan
- Pure delight
- Delicious G&S samplings abound here.
- Fine Intro to G&S
|
Gilbert & Sullivan - Highlights from The Mikado, The Pirates of Penzance, H.M.S. Pinafore, The Yeomen of the Guard, Trial of Jury
Nicholas Folwell , Arthur Sullivan , Marie McLaughlin , Rebecca Evans , Anthony Rolfe Johnson , John Mark Ainsley , Alwyn Mellor , Anne Howells , Barry Banks , Eric Garrett , Felicity Palmer , Gareth Rhys Davies , Janice Watson , Julie Gossage , Neill Archer , Pamela Helen Stephen , Peter Savidge , Richard Stuart , Richard Suart , Richard Van Allan , Sir Thomas Allen [baritone] , Sir Charles Mackerras , and Welsh National Opera
Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
All Works by Sullivan
| Sullivan, Arthur
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Allen, Thomas
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Similar Items:
- The Ultimate Gilbert & Sullivan Collection
- Topsy-Turvy - The Music of Gilbert & Sullivan: From the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
- The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan
- The Gilbert and Sullivan Overtures
- The Complete Annotated Gilbert & Sullivan
ASIN: B000003D1Y
Release Date: 1996-01-23 |
Tracks:
- A Wandering Minstrel I
- Behold The Lord High Executioner!
- Three Little Maids From School Are We
- Braid The Raven Hair
- The Flowers That Bloom In The Spring
- On A Tree By A River, A Little Tom-tit Sang, 'Willow, Tit-willow'
- For He's Gone And Married Yum-Yum
- We Sail The Ocean Blue
- I'm Called Little Buttercup
- My Gallant Crew
- When I Was A Lad
- Things Are Seldom What They Seem
- Never Mind The Why And Wherefore
- Climbing Over Rocky Mountain
- Poor Wand'ring One
- How Beautifully Blue The Sky
- I Am The Very Model Of A Modern Major-General
- When The Foeman Bares His Steel
- Ah, Leave Me Not To Pine
- With Cat-Like Tread
- Is Life A Boon?
- I Have A Song To Sing, O!
- Were I Thy Bride
- Oh, A Private Buffoon Is A Light-Hearted Loon
- When A Wooer Goes A-Wooing
- When I, Good Friends, Was Called To The Bar
- A Nice Dilemma We Have Here
- Oh, Joy Unbounded
Customer Reviews:
The Best Of Gilbert And Sullivan.......2004-03-15
At the end of the 19th century (1870's, 80's and 90's) the compatible duo of librettist and composer Gilbert and Sullivan popularized the pre-Broadway entertainment of Savoy opera. These were light operas or operettas whose content was satire and comedy, full of bouncy melodies and beautiful singing, highly entertaining theatrical works staged at London's Savoy theatre. Gilbert and Sullivan did not always get along and in fact there was a time when they ended their professional relationship because personal conflicts surfaced. But they managed to create the world's most beloved light operas, over 40 of them. Their most famous are what I call the Big Three- The H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates Of Penzance and The Mikado. Other works include their first hit Trial By Jury, The Yeomen Of The Guard, Princess Ida, The Gondoliers, Patience and several others. A standard signature of Gilbert and Sullivan was in the colorful cast- a comic actor with a special kind of baritone voice, a canary-like and sweet-voiced coloratura or lyric diva, a mezzo soprano with strong chest register and a lyric tenor as the romantic hero. On this album, English conductor Sir Charles Mackerras, a popular figure in the classical music scene and opera, guides the Chorus and Orchestra Of the Welsh National Opera in generally well-delivered performances of excerpts from the operas The Mikado, The H.M.S. Pinafore, The Pirates Of Penzance, Yeomen Of The Guard and Trial By Jury. Although I feel that the recordings made by the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, with Isodore Godfrey conducting and starring the best cast of the Gilbert and Sullivan repertoire- the singers of the 60's and 70's- tenor Phillip Potter, soprano Valerie Masterson, baritone John Reed, Donald Adams and mezzo soprano Christine Palmer. Their version of the Pirates Of Penzance and the Mikado far outshine the Welsh National Opera in technical mastery and vibrant tone color.
But these are fine excerpts. Especially appealing is the famous and cheerful "Three Little Maids From School Are We", a trio that imitates Japanese style melody. Most of the Mikado does this, for it was inspired by Japanisme or the new fashion in Victorian England- everything Japanese, from prints to paintings to poetry. Gilbert and Sullivan simply "Japanized" their English operettas. The Finale "For He's Gone To Marry Yum Yum" is an ebullient and pleasant finale. Not featured here is the domineering and powerful Katisha, a figure who stands out in the Mikado.
The H.M.S. Pinafore is Gilbert and Sullivan's most popular work. The sea chanty "We Sail The Ocean Blue" opens the opera with appropriate atmosphere and it seems to fit perfectly with the other scene in which the Captain greets his crew and they sing his praises "My Gallant Crew..I am the Captain Of The Pinafore". A beautiful melody that seems to come out of a romantic Offenbach tune is "I"m Called Little Buttercup". The finale, not featured here, is also very engaging "For He Is An Englishman" which can almost resemble a British national anthem. The Yeomen Of The Guard was Gilbert and Sullivan's "serious opera" eventhough it remains very Savoyard. The plot deals with Tudor England and takes place at the London Tower. "I have a song to sing" makes use of what can be taken for an English ballad of the Renaissance. Trial By Jury, about the eccentric and hilarious activity of a court trial, has a sextet that although different in composition, has the sextet "Che Mi Frena" from Donizetti's Lucia Di Lammermoor in mind. All in all, an excellent recording sure to delight young and old.
Pure delight.......2003-08-02
--Gilbert & Sullivan--
William Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan were a match made in heaven, yet on earth their pairing seems even with hindsight a most unlikely coupling. Both were destined for other things, Gilbert in fact for decidedly non-musical careers. Introduced by a mutual friend, Fred Clay, the fledgling lyricist Gilbert met the military-band-leader's son Sullivan and together continued to conspire to inspire the delights of audiences from high Victorian times down to the present, as their work in musical theatre comedy continues to provide merriment throughout the English-speaking world and beyond.
--The Music--
This collection includes highlights from five of the most popular Gilbert & Sullivan operettas: The Mikado, HMS Pinafore, The Pirates of Penzance, The Yeoman of the Guard, and Trial by Jury. The arrangements and orchestrations are delightfully energetic and clear; the characterisation and vocal qualities of the leads are perfect for their roles. The haughty if misplaced Lord of the Admiralty has the perfect combination of insecurity and pompous officiousness. The Plaintiff and the Defendant in the Trial are perfectly cast. This is a collection of highlights - at least three but no more than seven songs each, but this gives a good flavour of the music. The recordings on this collection come from complete performances by Mackerras and the WNO.
--Sir Charles Mackerras--
Mackerras is one of the geniuses of the twentieth century musical scene. Having a conducting career that includes the Hamburg Opera, the English National Opera (formerly Sadlers Wells Opera), and the Welsh National Opera (the performers for this piece), he has also conducted major orchestras on the continent of Europe and in the United States. The holder of many major awards and honourary doctorates, he has devoted much time and energy to the preservation and performance of eighteenth and nineteenth century music, as well the restoration of historical musical venues, such as the Estates Theatre in Prague, scene of the original production of Don Giovanni (Mackerras conducted the opera there to commemorate the bicentenary of the death of Mozart).
--Welsh National Opera Orchestra and Chorus--
The seeds of the WNO were planted in Cardiff during World War II by music lovers; the first performances occurred a year after the war's end, with Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci on the bill, with Faust the next night. Popular appeal was so great that the WNO was established, later adding choruses in both Cardiff and Swansea. The professional chorus was established in 1973, with a strength that matches the orchestra. They continue an ambitious performance schedule for recording and live events; Mackerras remains the Conductor Emeritus, as the WNO continues under the direction of Carlo Rizzi. The list of awards the WNO has won over the years is staggering - they are a world class institution by any measure.
--Other performers--
Notable singers such as Richard Stuart, Rebecca Evans, Felicity Palmer, John Mark Ainsley and Anne Howells lead the chorus with stunning vocals and clever characterisations of the parts they play. Many (such as Stuart and Evans) play the leading roles across several of the pieces of the disc.
--Liner Notes--
The liner notes give a good introduction and biographical information about Gilbert and Sullivan, as well as synopses of the five pieces presented here. It does not, unfortunately, include any information about Mackerras, the WNO Orchestra and Chorus, or the other special performers. It also does not include the lyrics to the songs. Were the quality of the CD not so great, this might cost it a star in rating.
--Overall Impressions--
I play this CD in my car, in my home and in my office frequently. It is a great sing-along work and a great comedic relief from the stresses of the day. The music is bubbly and clear; the recording quality is excellent and crisp. I recommend this to any Gilbert & Sullivan lover, any fan of musical comedy, opera and operettas, and anyone who delights in good music.
Delicious G&S samplings abound here........2003-05-06
The first thing I should be saying is "What an infectuous G&S CD." Indeed this is, with this fine sampling of the peppy and bright Mackerras series. I know I have praised its "Mercedes-Benz quality" elsewhere on these pages, but that doesn't stop me from saying that everyone is in fine voice. This generously filled CD may only focus on five operas, but at least you can savour a reasonable choice sampling of delights from each one. Of particular interest is Richard Suart's patter-baritone parts and the soaring lyric soprano of Rebecca Evans. The selection on this disc is filled with a mixture of familiar favourites and lesser-known gems such as the female choruses in Mikado and Pirates. Mackerras is a true G&S conductor, but one who always springs rhythms crisply, and adopts peppy tempo for the fast bits. The one drawback is that this selection is far too infectuous that you'll want to shell out money to buy the full 5-CD Mackerras cycle - an incredible bargain with most of the operas fitted onto one disc each. But still, this is at least a decent G&S sampling for beginners, capped with Steven Ledbetter's copious liner notes. It will leave you wanting to say "dammit I'm going to play it again."
Fine Intro to G&S.......2000-12-30
This is the perfect CD for those who may not be familiar with G&S, or for the initiated who want a smattering but don't have the mother of all CD changers. The difficulty with any G&S Greatest Hits CD is determining which pieces to leave off; while one could easily point to any number equally good bits, it would be difficult to argue about the quality of the choices included. The only problem, such as it is, is that after listening to it I am usually induced to go back and listen to the whole opera anyway. The Mackerras recordings are uniformly excellent. I have read elsewhere the criticism that they are too 'operatic' for light opera. If by this it is meant that the singers are too good, then I leave it to the discretion of the listener when the singing becomes too good to be enjoyable.
Average customer rating:
- It doesn't get better than this.
- starting over
- starting over
- excellence
- Cornet Favorites
|
Cornet Favorites
Manufacturer: Nonesuch
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD
All Works by Thomson
| Thomson, Virgil
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Similar Items:
- Turn-of-the-Century Cornet Favorites
- Herbert L. Clarke: Original Recordings 1907-21
- Carnaval
- The Legendary Trumpet Virtuosity of Rafael Mendez
- The American Brass Band Journal
ASIN: B000005IYD
Release Date: 1992-05-27 |
Tracks:
- From The Shores Of The Mighty Pacific: Rondo Caprice
- Sounds From The Hudson: Valse Brillante
- Willow Echoes
- The Carnival Of Venice: Fantaisie And Variations
- At The Beach: Concert Waltz
- The Debutante: Caprice Brillante
- Slavische Fantasie
- The Bride Of The Waves: Polka Brillante
- Cousins
- Exposition Echoes: Polka
- The Maid Of The Mist: Polka
- Trombone Family: A) Shoutin' Liza Trombone - One Step (Mose Tombone's Ah-finity) B) Teddy Trombone - A Brother To Miss Trombone (Trombone Solo)
- The Cascades: Polka Brilliant
Customer Reviews:
It doesn't get better than this........2001-08-01
I first bought this recording on vinyl back in 1975. Gerard Schwartz has since moved on to a career in conducting, but as this recording shows, he's a true Master of his craft. I'm a trumpet player and I know what a good sound is. This guy's got it!
More than technical perfection, the tunes are delivered with delicacy, grace and power.
starting over.......2001-07-03
This is a very good cd for a trumpet player. Many songs of Herbert L. Clarke and Jean Babtiste Arban are there in their familiar versions. If you get this cd, you ought to get Cornet Favorites also. The solos on both cd's stick to the versions found in Arban's Complete Conservatory Method and Clarke's 24 Charateristic Studies, so you can follow them note for note. Carnaval has wind symphony accompaniment and Cornet Favorites has piano accompaniment.
starting over.......2001-07-03
If you have the Arban Complete Conservatory Method and Herbert Clarke's 24 Characteristic Studies, then you have the versions of the solos that are played on this cd, and can benefit from hearing them played. All songs use piano accompaniment so you will have no trouble hearing the cornet. Carnaval (Winton Marsalis) has some of the same songs, but the cornet is harder to hear because of the wind symphony accompniment.
excellence.......2000-05-30
This is the best verison of Carnival I have heard. Classic Wynton also provides a fantastic interpretation on the most difficult trumpet solo of all time. But Schwarz shows amazing control, fantastic percision, and baffling dexterity. The Debutante and the Bride, etc. are also impressive. Its a shame Schwarz gave up trumpet to conduct. Having played these songs myself, I definitely recommend it to any classical trumpet enthusiast/student
Cornet Favorites.......1999-12-28
I enjoyed the cd because of the literature being performed. However, Schwarz's performance is mediocre and lacks luster. The sound is dull and uninviteing.The tempos were unusal and it felt there was no ensemble with the trumpet and piano performance.
I felt there was not a musical product produced in this recording.
Music:
- Winged Migration [Enhanced] [Soundtrack]
- Wolf's Rain Original Soundtrack 2 [Import]
- Woman on Top [Soundtrack]
- You Only Live Twice [Original recording remastered]
- Zorba the Greek [Soundtrack]
- Ali [Soundtrack]
- All That Jazz (1979 Film) [Soundtrack] [Import]
- Ally McBeal: For Once in My Life Featuring Vonda Shepard [Soundtrack]
- Anna & The King: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack [Soundtrack]
- Best of Stargate SG.1 [Soundtrack]
Music
music