Wir Sind Hier

Wir Sind Hier

Track Listings

1. Forever Never

2. März Im Park

3. River

4. Tropige Trauben

5. Blaue Fäden

6. Some Things Do Fall

7. Biber & Enten (Plattler)

8. Welt Am Draht

9. Oktober Im Park

10. Pop Song

11. Wir Sind Hier

Tracks:

Toccata And Fugue In D Minor, BWV 565
Herzlich Tut Mich Verlangen, BWV 727
Wachet Auf, Ruft Uns Die Stimme, BWV 645
Fantasia And Fugue In G Minor, BWV 542
Liebster Jesu, Wir Sind Hier, BWV 730
Passacaglia And Fugue In C Minor, BWV 582
Prelude And Fugue In E Flat Major ('St. Anne'), BWV 552
Nun Komm, Der Heiden Heiland, BWV 659
Fantasia And Fugue In C Minor, BWV 537

Tracks:

Toccata, Adagio And Fugue In C Major, BWV 564
In Dulci Jublio, BWV 729
Prelude And Fugue In A Minor, BWV 543
Fantasia In G Major, BWV 572
Prelude And Fugue In D Major, BWV 532
Nun Freut Euch, Lieben Christen G'mein, BWV 734
Wo Soll Ich Fliehen Hin, BWV 694
Fantasia In C Minor, BWV 562
Toccata And Fugue In D Minor ('Dorian'), BWV 538

Customer Reviews:

organ works by bach.......2007-01-10

excellent. unforgettable works by one of the masters, the grand organs have their own place in time mostly heard in church surroundings. this brings it home.cigar, brandy, toccata and fugue d minor, heaven.

Hurford plays very musically.......2006-11-24

Peter Hurford is a wonderul musician.. his interpretations of this music are musical.. (esp. with the St. Anne Fugue where each of the three variations are connected with beatiful transitions..)
A wonderful recording.. in an era where everything has to be perfect,
it's nice to hear an artist take some risk and give us their own
personal, unique, and original interpretations.

Disappointing.......2006-07-27

When you buy a CD like this, the one thing you expect of the artist is to nail the intro to Toccata and Fugue In D Minor, Bach's great masterwork and the lead piece on the CD. Unfortunately, the organist plays the intro robotically, truncating notes and overextending pauses. He rushes some passages so badly in the intro that one cannot distinguish the melodic line. Toccata and Fugue In D Minor is so musically advanced that it sounds modern even today, but you miss that with this recording.

This album belongs amongst the first four or five in every Bach collection........2006-07-27

What to say about these extraordinary works?

First of all, that this is a double-album full of titanic masterworks, intelligently and skillfully performed. These discs belong amongst the first four or five albums in every Bach collection. The famous Toccata and Fugue in D minor is here, together with another, lesser-known but equally awe-inspiring "Dorian" Toccata and Fugue in D minor. There are quite a few other familiar war-horses---the Prelude and Fugue in A minor, the St. Anne Prelude and Fugue, and the Tocatta, Adagio, and Fugue in C (which I first encountered in a piano transcription performed by Evgeny Kissin, on his album with the Mussorgsky Pictures at an Exhibition... well worth hearing next to the original organ writing here), among others---and some more obscure pieces as well to keep us out of "greatest hits" territory (almost always a drawback in recital albums). Like the Mozart piano concerti and the Beethoven symphonies, Bach's compositions for organ are amongst the towering summits of Western music; there is nothing else like them.

Since I'm playing critic here, I suppose I ought to offer at least a bit of actual criticism, rather than only effusive praise. While many would beg to differ, three composers (whose careers, interestingly, were almost exactly chronologically contiguous) are, by a long-standing historical consensus, recognized to occupy the highest tier of artistic achievement in "common practice," tonal music: Bach, Mozart, and Beethoven. Of those three masters, Mozart alone is recognized as having achieved a perfect or near-perfect balance between subject and object, style and substance: Bach tipped the balance just a bit in favor of objectivity and substance, and Beethoven in favor of subjectivity and style. And so, just as I find that Beethoven's music does not hold up quite as well as Mozart's to repeated listenings because his stylistic and emotive devices are less effective once you've heard them before, so that they no longer take you by surprise, so too do I find that Bach's music, especially in the long contrapuntal sections, is not always as worthwhile for listening as it is for theoretical analysis... it is perhaps not quite as valuable in practice as it is in theory, in other words. The organ pieces on these discs are sublime masterpieces, but if they do fall short of absolute perfection it is for being somewhat dry and academic.

In addition, the different organs Herford plays here so often produce, as good organs will, such a staggering, chest-rumbling roar that you have trouble discerning the pitches in these compositions. It's a similar problem to listening to harpsichord music, where at times you hear just a lot of clanging and can't tell what note or chord is being played. It's not a big problem on these recordings, but it is a little distracting at times.

Nevertheless, it's said that what makes a work of art a masterpiece is not its being perfect or flawless, but rather that its virtues are so meaningful and effective that they compensate for the piece's flaws and imperfections. In fact, in sublime pieces such as these, it's precisely that imbalance, or aesthetic asymmetry, you might say, that makes the music dynamic and exciting: it creates an inner tension, a sort of yearning or striving that, in the hands of the greatest of masters (of which Bach is uncontestably one), makes for a transcendent artistic statement and an invaluable testament to the human experience.

In short, buy this album and listen to it often!

Never a dull moment in this Bach recording............2006-05-29

Peter Hurford is perhaps one of the foremost organists of his time. He has not only studied music but law as well, giving a scholarly twist on his education. I have always been pleased by his interpretations of Bach. They are no-nonsense, with strict tempos, clean, accurate passages, and registrations which are very lush and vibrant. For the new fan of Bach, there is no better place to start, as this set contains all of the "big" organ pieces for which Bach became legendary, as well as a few well-known chorale preludes. For those who wish to explore Bach's organ contributions in more detail, buy Hurford's complete Bach recordings (Although I believe it is out of print or very hard to obtain, as I have not yet found one). If this is the case, buy Marie-Claire Alain's version on Erato. No two organists understand Bach better.

The Swingle Singers - Bach Hits Back ~ A Capella Amadeus

Average customer rating:

Flats and Sharps
Still new... and fantastic
A Swingle Singers Half Treasure -
A capella reigns
Best Swingles Ever

The Swingle Singers - Bach Hits Back ~ A Capella Amadeus
Johann Sebastian Bach , Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , and The Swingle Singers
Manufacturer: EMI Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Improvisation | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Jazz | Styles | Music

Vocal Jazz General | Vocal Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Passions | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

Classic | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

$7.99 and Under | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Keyboard Classics
Swingle Singers
Jazz Sebastian Bach, Vol. 1
Jazz Sebastian Bach, Vol. 2
Christmastime

ASIN: B00000632P
Release Date: 1998-05-05

Tracks:

Ein' feste Burg - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Organ Fugue from Fantasia and fugue - Johann Sebastian Bach_
The Well -Tempered Clavier: Prelude XVIII - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Cantata No. 140: Chorale prelude from Cantata No. 140 'Wachet Auf' - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Wachet Auf: Chorale from 'Wachet Auf' - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Liebster Jesu, wir sind hier - Johann Sebastian Bach_
In Dulci Jubilo - Chorale Prelude - Johann Sebastian Bach_
In Dulci Jubilo - Chorale - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Andante fromSonata No. 2 for unaccompanied violin - Johann Sebastian Bach_
First movement from Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Cantata No. 208: Schafe konnen Sicher Weiden (Sheep May Safely Graze) from Cantata No. 208 - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Badinerie from Suite No. 2 - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Fugue VIII fromThe Well-Tempered Clavier - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Three - Part Invention - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Mass In B Minor: Et Resurrexit from Mass in B minor - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Bist Du Bei Mir - Johann Sebastian Bach_
St. Mathew Passion: Blute Nur, Du Liebes Herz - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Organ Fugue: Alla Gigue - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Suite No. 3: Air from Suite No. 3 (Air on a G String) - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Little Organ Fugue - Johann Sebastian Bach_
Cantata No. 60: Es Ist Genug from Cantata No. 60 - Johann Sebastian Bach_

Tracks:

Symphony No. 40: Die Zauberflote - Overture - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Symphony No. 40: I Molto Allegro - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Symphony No. 40: II Andante - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Symphony No. 40: III Minuetto: allegretto - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Symphony No. 40: IV Finale: Allegro assai - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Ave Verum Corpus - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
String Quartet In G Major: Finale from String Quartet in G major - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Cosi fan tutte: Un' Aura Amorosa from Cost fan tutte - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Eine Kleine Nachtmusik: Finale: Rondo from Eine kleine Nachtmusik - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Finale from Horn Concerto No. 4 - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Canzonetta from Don Giovanni - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Terzettino from Cosi Fan Tutte - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Gigue - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Piano Concerto No. 21: Andante from Piano Concerto No. 21 - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Hostias from Requiem - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Requiem: Quam Olim Abrahae from Requiem - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Piano Sonata In A Major: Finale: Alla Turca from Piano Sonata in A major - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus
Fantasia In F Minor And Major - Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus

Customer Reviews:

Flats and Sharps.......2007-05-18

I enjoy the Swingle Singers very much but sadly, in this album they are flat on about half of the tracks. When they are on key, they are very, very good. When they are flat they are awful. Recommendation: buy a different Swingle Singers CD.

Still new... and fantastic.......2007-03-25

As time goes by, these recordings seem to become better and better. Fresh, perfect... fantastic CD.

A Swingle Singers Half Treasure -.......2007-03-10

If you love Bach and are a fan of the Swingle Singers, buy this CD. Fans of the Swingle Singers enjoy them for what they do to music - release it with air and bounce - and their style is perfectly suited for Bach. I couldn't enjoy it more. But the second Cd in this set is their treatment of Mozart, and, for me, it's inconsistent. This is due to the different styles of the two composers and I just think they match up better with Bach. But at this price, I shouldn't be complaining. The first CD alone is worth twice as much. Snatch it up!

A capella reigns.......2007-01-12

Another fine offering by this group. Fun for classical music buffs and novices.

Best Swingles Ever.......2006-02-16

If you know the Swingle Singers, you may expect jazzed-up Bach with a rhythm section. Now, don't get me wrong, i like that stuff, too, but that is just clean fun, while this is just Bach. No percussion, no jazzy rythym, just straight unaccompanied Bach. AND IT IS WONDERFUL.
Precise rhythm, clear vocal lines, everything you expect from the Swingles without the jazz. This is a really great album that should be bought by all Swingle lovers and all Bach lovers.
P.S. i bought this cd when it first came out,so I have never even heard the Mozart. With all due deference to fans of the worthy Wolfgang, i have always found the artful Amadeus rather a bore, so I will remain silent about that part of the album. No matter. The Bach alone is worth twice the price, so enjoy. And, hey, the Mozart is a nice bonus.

Bach: Matthaus-Passion (St Matthew Passion) BWV 244 /Bostridge * Selig * Rubens * Scholl * Gura * Henschel * Collegium Vocale * Herreweghe (+CD-Rom)

Average customer rating:

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

Bach: Matthaus-Passion (St Matthew Passion) BWV 244 /Bostridge * Selig * Rubens * Scholl * Gura * Henschel * Collegium Vocale * Herreweghe (+CD-Rom)
Collegium Vocale Gent
Manufacturer: Harmonia Mundi Fr.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Passions | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Opera & Vocal | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Classical | Imports | Stores | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Bach: St. John Passion
Bach: Mass In B Minor
Bach - Mass in B minor / Argenta, Nichols, Chance, Stafford, Milner, W. Evans, Gardiner
Bach: Mass in B minor / McNair, Ziegler, Simpson, Aler, Stone, Paul; Shaw
Bach: The Art of Fugue; Musical Offering

ASIN: B00002R0ZL
Release Date: 1999-11-16

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Tracks:

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

Amazon.com essential recording

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

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

Customer Reviews:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Average customer rating:

Comedian Harmonists

Definitive Collection

Manufacturer: Arena Records UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Soundtracks | Styles | Music

General | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music

General | Comedy | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music

General | Dance Pop | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music

Cabaret | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

General | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music

Broadway & Vocalists | Imports | Stores | Music

Pop | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The Comedian Harmonists
The Harmonists
Auf Wiederseh'n
Comedian Harmonists
Finest Selection of: Comedian Harmonists

ASIN: B0000648OR
Release Date: 2001-11-02

Tracks:

Wenn Ich Vergnn
Uch Wollt' Ich W Ein Huhn
Veronika, Der Lenz Ist Da
Bin Kein Hauptmann, Bin Kein Gros Tier
Ein Freund, Ein Guter Freund
Creol Love Call
Bist Nicht Die Erste
Baccarole
Der Sch Blauen Donau
Quant il Pleut
Ein Bisschen Leichtsinn Kann Nicht Schaden
Ich Hab' Fh 'Nen Blumentopf Bestellt
Jetzt Trinken Wir Noch Eins
Ist Die Liebe Der Matrosen
Liebling, Mein Herz L Dich Gr
Irgendwo Auf Der Welt
Ali Baba
Maria Marie
Auf Dem Heuboden
Liebesleid
Tout le Jour
Wir Sind Von Kopf Bis FuAuf Liebe Eingestellt
So Ein KuKommt Von Allein
Musketier Marsch
Mein Kleiner, Graktus

Tracks:

Hoppla, Jetzt Komm'ich
Kannst du Pfeifen, Johanna
Tea for Two
In Der Bar Zum Krokodil
Eine Kleine Frsweise
Eins, Zwei, Drei, Vier Glh Bin Ich Nur Mit Dir
Die Liebe Kommt, Die Liebe Geht
Heute Nacht Oder Nie
Hallo, Was Machst du Heut' Daisy
Ich Khre Hand Madame
Auf Wiedersehen Mein Frein, Auf Wiedersehen Mein Herr
Kleiner Mann, Was Nun
Hein Spielt Abends So Schuf Dem Schifferklavier
Mein Lieber Schatz Bist du Aus Spanien
Onkel Bumba Aus Kalumba
Perpetuum Mobile
Leb' Wohl Gute Reise [Farewell, Have a Good Journey]
Wenn Die Sonja Russisch Tanzt
Morgen MuIch Fort Von Hier
Wenn Der Wind Weht er das Meer
Puppenhochzeit
Was Dein Roter Mund Im Fr Sagt
Es Fein Anderer Weg Zur Seligkeit
SchLisa, Ssa
Wochenend und Sonnenschein
Auf Wiedersch'n My Dear

Customer Reviews:

Comedian Harmonists.......2003-05-23

A wonderful Selection of great Harmonies and Novelty Tunes by this Relatively Unknown Group in America , This terrific German Group is a must for anyone that enjoys Good Harmony and just Plain Vocal Fun with Sounds and Lyrics. Highly Recommended and Enjoyable.

Average customer rating:

The "Clinker" of the bunch

Brahms: The Masterworks (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Sextets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Ballads | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Requiems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Brilliant Classics | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Mendelssohn: The Masterworks [Box Set]
Dvorák: The Masterworks [Box Set]
Vivaldi: The Masterworks (Box Set)
Beethoven: The Masterworks (Box Set)
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Complete Works (170 CD Box Set)

ASIN: B00062FLIS
Release Date: 2004-11-30

Customer Reviews:

The "Clinker" of the bunch.......2006-12-19

Having collected the entire "The Masterworks" series (including the Bach and Mozart Complete Works) this set is the 'clinker' of the bunch. First off... 6 CD's of Lieder 'historic' (pre-historic) recordings. No Overtures, No Orchestral Seranades, No Haydn Variations?? The performances of the Symphonies and the Concertos are shakey and not very well recorded. Brilliant Classics, who has done such a wonderful job with the Hadyn Complete Symphonies (licensed from Nimbus), the Mozart and Bach Complete sets, has stumbled a bit with this release.

Average customer rating:

Uneven quality but great value
A superb collection of Mendelssohn

Mendelssohn: The Masterworks [Box Set]

Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Octets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Quintets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Anthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Masses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Motets | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Psalms | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Te Deum | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Dvorák: The Masterworks [Box Set]
Haydn: The Masterworks [Box Set]
Vivaldi: The Masterworks (Box Set)
Brahms: The Masterworks (Box Set)
Schubert: The Masterworks [Box Set]

ASIN: B00062FLJ2
Release Date: 2004-11-30

Customer Reviews:

Uneven quality but great value.......2007-04-30

Brilliant Classics has found a niche with their extremely low-price multi-disc collections of the work of a single composer or performer. The Bach, Mozart and Chopin Complete Editions are legitimately considered to be artistic and economical triumphs. But the Masterworks series are more uneven. Currently available from Amazon France at about a buck per CD, they're still a bargain for those interested in quickly building a music library. But it's worth keeping a few things in mind. Unlike the Bach and Mozart Editions, these are not always historically informed performances. In this Mendelssohn set, the Hanover Band puts in a cameo (in Calm Sea and Prosperous Voyage), but most of the ensembles use modern instruments, techniques and proportions. This doesn't always work out, as in the case of the ponderously heavy recordings of the String Symphonies by an apparently full complement of Gewandhausorchester Leipzig strings (Mendelssohn likely wrote these early works for a much smaller group). The caliber of the performances varies too, ranging from good to poor, and from marquis musicians such as Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau to a few Dutch who-dats. The chamber musicians generally acquit themselves well (though the Octet recording is marred by an engineering flaw in the last movement, distortion, at least on my copy). But the symphonies suffer from some substandard performances, such as the Italian Symphony's live recording with not only audience noise but also ensemble flaws such as a distracting clarinet squeak in the first movement's recapitulation. Another strike is the lack of program notes. Brilliant's Complete Editions provide a booklet or CD-ROM with program notes, but here you'll need to do your own research.

Despite these shortcomings, this set is still good value (at least at Amazon France's current price of 31 Euros). And it's a fine way to become acquainted with Mendelssohn's music.

A superb collection of Mendelssohn.......2007-03-24

Let me preface this by saying that most of these works were not new to me - I own many other Mendelssohn CDs and have enjoyed his compositions for some time now. Also, this set is available much cheaper elsewhere, particularly from European retailers.
The symphonies are well-performed. 'Reformation' is an inspired live recording. The 12 string symphonies, written in Mendelssohn's youth, are also included. The concertos are exceptional - the violin concerto is as good as you'll find anywhere. The oratorios Elijah and Paulus are included, as well as the complete chamber works and a diverse assortment of choral works. The last few discs include the Lied ohne worte, the epic organ sonatas, and excellent renditions of A Midsummer Night's Dream and Fingal's Cave. While there are a few sketchy performances in the choral and chamber works, the performances and recordings are generally very solid, and the body of work couldn't be better.

Average customer rating:

Reverence Beyond Technical Virtuosity

Albert Schweitzer plays Bach, Vol.2

Manufacturer: Pearl
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

Albert Schweitzer: Restored and Uncut
Bach Organ Music, Vol. 2
Albert Schweitzer: A Biography (The Albert Schweitzer Library)
Bach: Organ Works by Albert Schweitzer
The Philosophy of Civilization: Part I, the Decay and the Restoration of Civilization : Part Ii, Civilization and Ethics

ASIN: B000000WYM
Release Date: 1993-11-23

Tracks:

Prelude & Fugue In C Minor, BWV 546: Prelude
Prelude & Fugue In C Minor, BWV 546: Fugue
Prelude & Fugue In C, BWV 547: Prelude
Prelude & Fugue In C, BWV 547: Fugue
Prelude & Fugue In E Minor, BWV 548: Prelude
Prelude & Fugue In E Minor, BWV 548: Fugue
Christum Wir Sollen Loben Schon. BWV 611
Liebster Jesu, Wir Sind Hier. BWV 731
Mit Fried Und Freud' Ich Far' Dahin. BWV 616
Chistus Der Uns Selig Macht. BWV 620
Da Jesus An Dem Kreuze Stund. BWV 621
O Mensch, Bewein' Dein Sunde BWV 622
O Lamn Gottes Unschuuldig. BWV 618
Sei Gegrusst Jesu Gutig BWV 768
Jesus Christus, Unser Heiland. BWV 626
Christ Lag In Todesbanden. BWV 625
Erschienen Ist Der Herrliche Tag. BWV 629

Customer Reviews:

Reverence Beyond Technical Virtuosity.......2000-03-21

Scholar in theology and philosopy, organist and author of a still influential study on J.S.Bach and his music, Schweitzer approached a near-mystic perception of his subject's intended message. Especially in the "Liebster Jesu Wir Sind Hier" we hear a reverence beyond technical virtuosity; Schweitzer's tempo reflects meditation on words unspoken, yet musically understood. The flash and wizardry of other interpretations cheapen in proximity to this CD's brilliant simplicity. Here is Bach as Bach intended; here, too, we feel Schweitzer's living compassion and purpose. Buy this CD - it speaks.

Average customer rating:

Beautiful Sound
The Best sounding pipe organ, recording

Bach: Organ Works

Manufacturer: Telarc
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

The Great Organ at Methuen - Bach: BWV 540, 542, 582, 643, & 737
Bach at St. Bavo's
Bach: Toccata & Fugue in D minor; Prelude & Fugue in B minor; Concerto No. 2 in A minor; Prelude & Fugue in D major
Michael Murray At The Cathedral Of St. John The Divine: Works By Franck, Widor, Dupré, Bach and Others
Bach at Zwolle

ASIN: B000003CTW
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Prelude And Fugue In C Minor, BWV 546
Prelude And Fugue In G Major, BWV 541
Prelude and Fugue In A Minor, BWV 543
Toccata, Adagio, And Fugue In C Major, BWV 564
Liebster Jesu, Wir Sind Hier, BWV 731
Herr Christ, Der Ein'ge Gottes Sohn, BWV 601
Christe, Du Lamm Gottes, BWV 619
Heut' Triumphiret Gottes Sohn, BWV 630

Customer Reviews:

Beautiful Sound.......2006-08-04

This is one of my favorite organ recordings. A beautiful sounding organ fully captured on CD. What a great choice Murray made to end the disk with those four short choral preludes. They don't appear on any other recordings I have, but they are great. I would buy the CD just for those.

The Best sounding pipe organ, recording.......2000-01-24

This recording is superb. The clarity presented on Telarc Digital recording only adds to the beuty of the organ. The 32' pedals are heard loud and clear, making this CD as lifelike as possible. Michael Murray is outstanding organist and performs these selections wonderfully.

Average customer rating:

Finally - a great German band worth listening to!!
Ich liebe diese Band!
Climb On, I'll Carry You
Delightful quirky music

Von Hier an Blind
Wir Sind Helden
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Alternative Rock | Styles | Music

General | Rock | Styles | Music

Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music

Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music

Rock | Imports | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Die Reklamation
Es Ist Juli
Verschwende Deine Zeit
Verschwende Deine Zeit
So Wie Einst Real Madrid

ASIN: B0007Q6Q0U
Release Date: 2005-04-05

Tracks:

Wenn Es Passiert
Echolot
Von Hier An Blind
Zuher
Ein Elefant Fh
Darf Ich Das Behalten
WGenug
Geht Auseinander
Zieh Dir Was An
Gekommen Um Zu Bleiben
Nur Ein Wort
Leben Lang en
Bist Du Nicht M

Customer Reviews:

Finally - a great German band worth listening to!!.......2007-07-03

I'm German and could hardly find young German music worth listening to.

Sad story, NENA is widely known in the US with her ridiculous song 99 red balloons, how embarrassing....

But now there are Wir sind Helden who are very poetic, socio-critical, and just plain impressive!!
Their lyrics blow you away. Deep, funny, creative.

For the first time in a very, very, VERY long time I truly enjoy listening to young German music. Weiter so!

Can't wait to lay my hands on their next CD.

Ich liebe diese Band!.......2006-03-29

Wir Sind Helden is my favorite band. I love their music. I actually heard this album live in Stuttgart, Germany while I was studying there before I got the CD. It was quite a moving experience. The song Von Hier an Blind (From Here on Blind) does so much to express the feelings of the the current generation. One doesn't have to philosophize about the future of Germany to enjoy this album though. Some of my friends have critized the Helden for being less critical of society in this CD than their last one, Die Reklamation, which is certainly also an awesome album. However, I think the criticism that they have "gone soft" since they have become successful is unfounded. Listen for yourself!

Climb On, I'll Carry You.......2006-02-08

Wir sind Helden ought to be the biggest new thing on the U.S. music charts: their lyrics are clever and often profound, their music is contagious without being sappy or insipid, and even their fun songs are deeper the second time around. Unfortunately, not enough people here have heard of them, or they would be the biggest new thing, I'm absolutely convinced. Get the message out! Wir sind Helden rocks!

Delightful quirky music.......2005-12-08

This is the first non-English album I have heard and I say I am hooked! Instantly, u love the quirky hooks and catchy melodies that are both riveting and addictive. Hailing from the the Neue Deutsche Welle or 'New German Wave', Wir sind Helden or "We are heroes" are a quartet consisting of lead vocalist and guitarist Judith Holofernes, Pola Roy at drums, bassist Mark Tavassol and keyboardist Jean-Michel Tourette. Four singles are released from the album sofar and all are gems, namely "Nur ein Wort", "Gekommen um zu bleiben", "Von hier an blind" and "Wenn es passiert". My personal favourite is "Nur ein Wort" - a cheery upbeat song, very folksy sound coupled with a feet tapping beat. Their sound is very analog, unlike the deluge of digitalised music we hear nowadays. This album is quickly a personal Top 5 album for 2005.

Average customer rating:

Handel: The Masterworks (Box Set)

Manufacturer: Brilliant Classics
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Trios | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Anthems | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Cantatas | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Hymns | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Passions | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Blowout Box Sets | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

More Titles at Least 20% Off | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

All Classical Music Blowout | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Opera & Vocal | Classical Music Blowout | Stores | Music

Brilliant Classics | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Haydn: The Masterworks [Box Set]
Vivaldi: The Masterworks (Box Set)
Mendelssohn: The Masterworks [Box Set]
Schubert: The Masterworks [Box Set]
Dvorák: The Masterworks [Box Set]

ASIN: B00062FLI8
Release Date: 2004-11-30

Music Review:

Music Review

music review