Artur Schnabel plays Mozart, Vol.I

Advantages: Classic Brendel, good sound
Disadvantages: Classic Brendel

...this intellectual control and an authentic expression of the childish, playful Mozartian spirit in the way that Sir Clifford Curzon, for example, used to invariably do. I think that we are not hearing the composer's authentic voice here. Brendel fans will not be disappointed; others may not be fully satisfied. Sound quality is first class throughout.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Good introduction to the Opera and Mozart
Disadvantages: Narrative breaks up the musical flow

...In a promotion aimed to make Opera more understandable and accessible, Naxos have produced a series of CDs entitle “Opera explained”. The ninth in the series released on 22nd October 2002, is The Magic Flute composed by Amadeus Wolfgang Mozart. All the CDs in the series roughly follow the same format. The first section of the CD, lasting for approximately quarter of an hour, provides a brief and basic biography Of Mozart and illustrated by excerpts from a variety of his works. The recording continues with musical highlights from the Comic Opera interspersed with explanations of the plot and music. Mozart composed the Magic Flute in 1791 as a commission from Emanuel Schikaneder who provided the libretto. It’s debut performance took place on December 5th just a few weeks before Mozart’s death. The plot is basically... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: Fun, comic, lyrical
Disadvantages: Sung in italian

...From most good music stores and online from Amazon.com Personal Recommendations I first heard this music at an open air performance in the grounds of Errddig Hall near Wrexham. It was a magical moment. The music was superb. This CD conveys all the magic and has a clear tone. The libretto is sung in Italian which may put people off but listen and the emotions and comedy of the music will come throiugh. This is one of Mozarts best operas. The lyrical melody is memorable and the rthyms simple but effective. Try it..... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful