Classical > Instrumental Classical > Academy of Ancient Music Orchestra

Advantages: amazing artists, amazing tracks
Disadvantages: Some really weird other tracks

Imagine bringing all the true classic greats onto one album; Vanessa Mae, Nigel Kennedy, Pavarotti, Leslie Garrett, Paul McCartney (no you didn't misread that last one) It should be the most phenominal album of all time, all these great names on 2 CDs, and in places it is, but there are some really odd, weird choices on this album that completely spoil it for me and in my opinion create an opportunity missed. The album opens with the amazing Ave ...
...truly great tracks here and the highlight for me is Vanessa Mae performing Bachs Toccata and Fugue in D minor (The piece associated with Dracula movies) This piece is usually played accompanied by a full traditional orchestra or there is a great arrangement for the organ. (I played the organ version at my daughters christening - couldn't resist, much to the disgust of the regular congregation) Vanessa is undoubtable incredibly talented and beautiful ... Read review

Advantages: Rarely heard clarinet repertoire
Disadvantages: No other CDs to compare it with

I confess to never having heard the music of two out of the four composers featured on this disc, I feel I have found some true gems which will inspire me to look beyond the normal confines of established clarinet repertoire. Sonata for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 129 by Charles Villiers Stanford starts with a 'matter of a fact' silky tempo that shows the listener they are going to be immersed and lullabied by the vocal quality associated with de Peyer's ...
...for Clarinet and Piano is delivered with a smooth yet vibrant confidence and is a true joy to the ear, the symbioses achieved by him and pianist Gwenneth Pryor is rewarding to say the least. Arthur Benjamin's 'Le Tombeau de Ravel' stands out as a comparatively modern piece and best displays de Peyer's virtuosity. I highly recommend this truly charming CD. ... Read review

Advantages: Good variety or composers and styles
Disadvantages: no specific interest to one composer

Welcome to the world of Classical Music. If you are a fanatical performer, conductor or an avid listener then this is the product for you. 'The best classical album in the world . . . ever' is exactly what it says it is. This product is best suited to the general listener, rather than the listener with a specific interest in a particular composer. But all will enjoy the variety and class that this Cd offers. Music ranging from all periods of music ...
...for everyone. The selection of moods chosen are hugely varied, from schindlers list with its moving lyrical violin solo to the hallelujah chorus with its triumphant melodies. So whether you want to chill out or to be inspired, this is the collection for you. A bargain at under £10 ... Read review

Advantages: Beatuful redentions of highly celebrated works
Disadvantages: Would be nicer with a broader selcetion on disc

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart is a household name, even among non-classical music lovers - he is - for many - the definition of music. This CD houses 2 works by the genius - Symphony No.40 in G minor and Symphony No.41 - Jupiter. Mozart wrote No.40 after the death of his infant daughter - this is potrayed immediatly through the minor key in which the piece begins in. It later modulates to a major key which denotes his hopefulness of moving on and closing ...
...develoment of the 1st section to reiterate his pain and sorrow. Symphony No. 41 was completed just 1month after no.40, in the summer of 1788. It is nicknamed ' The Jupiter Symphony' due to its power and percieved size, particularly in the finale, where a memorable theme is heard alongside with others that have featured earlier in the symphony. A must-have for mozart lovers! ... Read review

Advantages: A rounded collection of timeless classics
Disadvantages: nothing can match the real thing

...others such as, Sailors Hornpipe Rule Britannia and Pomp and Circumstance Make this CD more than a CD; a Patriotic symbol of our nation.If you have never had the chance to attend the Last Night of the proms then i suggest you do. In the meantime - Buy this CD and learn the words! The last night of the proms is the true home to Jerusalem and as such, many people believe it should replace our current national anthem. enjoy! ... Read review