20th Century American Bassoon Music

Advantages: Good example of early 20th century French/European music. Cheap price
Disadvantages: Not distinct or ground-breaking enough

...halls and circus bands also played heavily in influencing him. From this he became part of the 'Les Six' a group of young French composers who shocked the music establishment with their avant-garde style. Later on in life he developed his music skills and co-operated with other composers of the time. --- MUSIC --- Poulenc himself said "Above all do not analyse my music- love it!". So in the words of the man himself I have tried not to spoil the delight of hearing fresh music for the first time, but have given a rough guideline to what style of music he has created. Some of his most popular pieces were from his chamber music scores. Here he utilised the piano and various wind instruments including Horn, Oboe, Bassoon, Flute, Recorder, Clarinet and pipe. One of my favourite set of songs is his sextet for Piano, Flute, Oboe, Clarinet... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: cool, sophisticated, unique...
Disadvantages: none

...Startlingly original pianist, blending Japanese folk music with early 20th century French impressionism, and oblique yet infectious jazz sensibility echoing Thelonius Monk. She develops her classical composing skills within a jazz context. The music is a rich mixture of classical/traditional Japanese folk and European jazz influences Delicate, beautiful, diverse and inspirational music. This highly talented Japanese pianist is currently promoting original music. An eclectic mix of jazz world music and Japanese folk music.She's at the vanguard of the army of new jazz talent which is adding exciting new sounds to the jazz genre…truly an original and inspired artist who is destined for bigger things. Taeko's band delivers a distinctive sounds, some wonderful backing tracks on this album "space to be" and some great support playing... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: The finest recording on two CDs
Disadvantages: You can only listen to one CD at a time!

...This double CD from a large collection brings together what are considered to be the finst recordings ever made by the artist. The version of Rachmaninov's Piano Cencerto No. 3 is perhaps the definitive recording: technically brilliant and a joy to listen to, and by far my favourite version. She has chosen the scherzo-like cadenza which Rachmaninov himself favoured. Also featured are Liszt's Piano Concerto No. 1 and Ravel's Gaspard de la Nuit among other things. For piano music lovers, these are some of the best recordings I have heard. Highly recommended to all.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful