Lorin Maazel’s early DG and Decca recordings were landmarks and this disc offers what is unquestionably two of the finest performances of these two symphonies. The Fifth has really thunderbolt impact and the Berlin strings and winds in the ‘Pastoral’ sing gloriously
This has to be one of the most amazing recordings of Rossini Overtures ever made. The polish and scintillation of the orchestral playing practically outclasses any other recording and the sense of fun is infectious! Try track 1 and you’ll be sold!
Blazing and saturated sound – of the aptly-described ‘gold brick’ variety – characterises these celebrated performances of eight of Beethoven’s best-loved Overtures. All the favourites are there and the recordings have been stunningly remastered for this release.
Some of the most critically-acclaimed – and mesmeric – recordings of Gregorian Chant.
Two of Bizet’s most popular suites here directed with piquancy and spice by Igor Markevitch.
Legendary since its ‘Phase 4’ Decca release, Dorati and his team bring to this recording all the swagger, colour and panache the work deserves. A thrilling performance!
Chopin was not a composer synonymous with Jorge Bolet and yet Bolet’s huge technique and limpid tone were totally suited to the long lines of poetry that Chopin wove, as this recording of both miniatures (the 24 Préludes) as well as the larger-scale works (Ballades, Fantasie) demonstrates.
Taken from Anda’s much-vaunted complete recordings of these concertos, Nos. 22 & 23 are here presented in performances that have held their sway for limpidness, clarity and unforced beauty.
Taken from Anda’s much-vaunted complete recordings of these concertos, Nos. 20 & 21 are here presented in performances that have held their sway for limpidness, clarity and unforced beauty.
Taken from Anda’s much-vaunted complete recordings of these concertos, Nos. 26 & 27 are here presented in performances that have held their sway for limpidness, clarity and unforced beauty.
A wonderful collection of meditative choral music, spearheaded by Allegri’s ubiquitous ‘Miserer’e with works by other Renaissance composers, including the magnificent Spem in Alium by Thomas Tallis, performed here by two of the foremost British choirs under the direction of two of Britain’s leading choral conductors.
The first release on CD of these two wonderful performances. The Berlioz is scored for viola and orchestra while the Bloch is written for cello and orchestra and both works represent their heroes (one named, the other unnamed) in ever-changing landscapes. Needless to say, the performances are absolutely first-rate.
