Classical > Chamber Classical > Schubert, Franz (Peter) > London Philharmonic Orchestra

Advantages: Superb collection of beautifully recorded pieces
Disadvantages: Nothing particularly abstract, few 'original' interpretations

The Classic FM CDs tend to excel particularly in the regions of recording quality, original and varied choices of music from all periods, and a well-enforced central theme. This CD is no different-from the most ancient of Baroque composers to Modern Film pieces each style is well-represented here. As ever, the recordings are crystal-clear, which is to be expected from this franchise. However, the music, though varied in period and musical aspects, ...
...Classic FM style the music is recorded for the casual listener, and as with all compilations the educated musician will often be frustrated at the incompleteness of full works, and also perhaps the often unoriginal interpretations of the pieces. This is definitely a compilation again aimed at the listener with a piece in mind who doesn't particularly wish to delve into the academic realms of study but is perfectly content being able to listen to ... Read review

Advantages: Every tune's a winner
Disadvantages: Nothing new

...Grieg- Peer Gynt (In the Hall of the Mountain King) If you don't know these pieces, then this would be an ideal CD for you if you feel you ought to know what the most commonly known classical pieces are. It could be treated as a mini-course on accepted masterpieces, and the booklet, (minimal, 2 CD-sized sides per CD), gives you a pert selection of related anecdotes to astound your friends with. (For example, Rutter's pick is "A Gaelic Blessing". ...
...as "garlic dressing". Radio 3 would not share this blasphemy with you I'm sure! If you already know all these pieces (and are something of a music buff), don't instantly dismiss this CD. I'm a music graduate and knew almost all of them inside out, and I usually prefer to have "whole" works on CD. But this set does fill a gap- that "I can't decide what I really want to listen to but I want something jolly or that I haven't heard for ages because ... Read review

Advantages: A definite easy listen
Disadvantages: Maybe too easy

This CD was probably a strange choice for me as i've never bought a classical album before, but i was attracted by the front cover ( i know never judge a book by its cover, but it was a CD) which seemed to depict everything i was looking for. Something i could just lie back, listen to and drift away into my own little dream world. Well it did exactly that. I drifted off to sleep after about track 6 and dint wake untill the CD had ended. This unfortunately ...
...but i soon listened to it again to get the full effect. It is definitely as described a very peaceful album. The music seems to lift you up and allow u to float above the world but i warn it does make u feel very drowsy. Whether id advise u to buy it or not depends on if ur into classical music. Although saying that i wudnt exactly say im 'into' it, i jus fancied a change. Its a good CD if u want to relax or for background music if u have sophisticated ... Read review

Advantages: Its a bridal musicopedia!
Disadvantages: It could be overwhelming

(A) Bride's Guide to Wedding Music, is firstly, a CD worth more than the stated price. Not only does it serve the purpose of a songbook, but also acts as a complete resource for planning wedding music. Secondly, there is a myriad of songs which gives you the liberty to pick and choose. As compilation CD's go, this one surely falls in an above average category. The collection varies from traditional sacred songs to classicals varying from Wagner, ...
...of other ever-green composers. The relaxing elements in the songs add another dimension to the scenario, which may be played for several other events, like formal get-togethers, spas, or even while you're sitting back relaxing at home. It inspires a mood of love and happiness, and succeeds wonderfully. Its absolutely user-friendly and categorized according to need. Its an anthology of the best soothing songs ever! And last but not the least, this ... 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