Albinoni: Concerti & Sonatas

Advantages: Relaxing, serene, dreamy
Disadvantages: The first track is not actual Albinoni

...is a compilation of Albinoni’s slower movements released on the Elektra label on the 24th August 1999. It has a running time of 1 hour 15 minutes and costs £6.99. I purchased my copy from Borders but the CD should be available at most good music shops. The Composer Tomaso Giovanni Albinoni was born on 8th June 1671 in Venice Italy, the eldest son of a wealthy paper merchant. A renowned violinist and composer, he preferred to work “dilettante” rather than seek employment with the church or court. Albinoni married an opera singer, Margherita Raimondi. Apart from this, not much more is actually known of Albinoni's life. In all Albinoni composed 81 operas, 99 sonatas, 59, concertos and 9 sinfonias. However, so much of his musical work has been lost particularly during the latter years of World War II and the bombing of the Dresden State library... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: Nice relaxing music
Disadvantages: Has not actually been made by Albinoni

...This music is considered to be good music for easy listening. It is as civilized as classical music, but it is made in modern times. When you need to relax, or you really enjoy easy listening music, then this album is an excellent choice. I enjoy easy listening music alot, and I do have this album. Every day, I listen to it. Although this album hasn't been made by Albinoni, I still say he had some part in it. Out of all the different kinds of music in the world, easy listening is one of the best, and this album of easy listening music is considered one the best albums. If you are into easy listening music, then consider buying Albinino. I sure did and I enjoy every minute of it. In fact, I listen to this album more than any other album I got. And you should too.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: dynamic and gripping
Disadvantages: none

...Fantastic to have another additional collection of all five of Beethoven's piano concerti. Spanning his life we can really get to grips with his evolving use of the orchestra in these works. From the Third's action packed finale to the Fourth's beautiful expressions to the grandeur of the much loved Fifth. The playing is precise, dramatic and full of energy; as indeed it should be. Aimard's playing is always well crafted and beautifully shaped. This is an insightful disk and has taken the musicians an awful lot of hard work. A must-have for any lover of Beethoven's piano music. If you usually go for his chamber music or string quartets why not branch out and explore Aimard's wonderful take on these concerti? Well worth buying and indeed an inspiration for myself and other pianists alike.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful