Classical > Vocal & Choral Classical > Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra

Advantages: Glorious recorded sound, a fine group of soloists
Disadvantages: Some fans may not like Sutherland in this music

This version of Verdi's Requiem sounds absolutely terrific. The chorus has lots of presence -so important in the famous Dies Irae and the soloists are miked beautifully. The 'Hostias' and 'Ingemisco' are some of the finest recordings of Luciano Pavarotti available. Arguably he had more character by the time of his later recording from the late 80s with Riccardo Muti but he is caught here at his finest vocally with the hushed ingemisco amongst the ...
...been criticised quite a lot by critics that think she should not have recorded Verdi roles (similar complaints surround her Traviatas, her Leonora in Il Trovatore and her Elvira in Ernani). I really like her in this music. She is certainly preferable in my opiion to Schwarzkopf (Giulini/EMI and De Sabata (Naxos)) or Nelli (singing for Toscanini). Her voice is very different from Angela Gheorghiu so if that is the sort of voice you like in this music ... Read review

Advantages: All the hero's in one
Disadvantages: Mixed sound recordings Sound louder and quieter in places

...first glance you would imagine the CD to be the normal mainstream nonsense with Russell Watson singing Amor ti Vieta, but when looking at the back you do see that this is a quality CD. So lights down low CD player on high and a nice Glass of wine and you are ready for an audio trip through operatic tenor modern history. Track List: (THERE ARE 27 TRACKS IF YOU WANT A SUMMARY OF EACH ONE THEN READ ON OTHERWISE HEAD FOR BOTTOM OF REVIEW) Track 1: O ...
...the Cd. Nothing but quality technique and voice on show here, one of the best renditions you'll ever hear Track 2: Morgenlich leuchtend sung by Peter Anders Not my favourite song and a big jump in quality from the first track but still an adept singer, the first sign that there is going to be a wide variation of voice and style on this record Track 3: Bimba, dagli occh sung by Hedwig von Debicka and Helge Rosvaenge The first Duet we hear on the ... Read review

Advantages: Catchy Tune
Disadvantages: None

Ode to joy was written by one of the worlds most renounced composers - Beethoven. This is in my opinion the best of beethoven's symphonies. This song is the easy to play and the tune is very catchy. The music is E E F G G F E D C C D E E D D E E F G G F E D C C D E D C C. The easy tune is very catchy and quite easy to remember. If you are learning to play the piano or keyboard I would suggest that you start by learning this one. I would recommend ... 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