Classical > Haydn, (Franz) Joseph Classical

Advantages: An excellent introduction to Classical Music
Disadvantages: None

This is a companion set to Naxos' "The A~Z of Opera" (previously reviewed.. It follows the same format and is an ideal compilation for people who are new to classical music as well as classical music buffs. It contains a double CD with two and a half hours of classical music (as you would expect) and a 562 page book (not quite as thick as the Opera one) compiled and written again by Keith Anderson. So what's in the pack? ~~ The Book This contains ...
...same size as a CD and fairly thick. The text is concise and clear and informative, with portraits of composers throughout. After the index you get 450 pages of concise histories of composers, with recommendations of recordings from the Naxos catalogue. It is arranged in alphabetical order, and starts with Adolphe Adam and is completed by Bernd Alois Zimmerman. As well as details about the composer there are sections on the different types of music ... Read review

Advantages: Excellent recording and product
Disadvantages: Pricey - but very much worth every penny!

I am the proud owner of this recording and it has pride of place in my collection. There's a lot to say about this, so I will hopefully cover as much as I can! HAYDN Franz Joseph Haydn is the father of classical music in its true sense. He lived in Austria between 1732 and 1809, and invented the symphony and the string quartet. during his life, he composed over 100 symphonies, and dozens of other works, including concertos, string quartets, quintets, ...
...person, and it may be because of this that his greatest works include masses and oratorios (religious themes set to music). There is so much to say about him, but more information can be found on various websites and books. THE ORCHESTRA AND PERIOD MUSIC The work is performed by the Academy of Ancient Music, a leading orchestra which performs music as it would have been heard at the time it was written. The Academy is over 40 years old, and is ... 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 ...