Great Classical Recordings

[BTH K10A]

While I appreciate there's not many classical fans on this forum I'd still be interested in any views on classical recordings (preferably on vinyl) that are not only musically great but are superbly recorded.

Some of my favorites are:

Andre Cluytens - Bizet L'arlesienne & Carmen suites
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/110-1049_IMG-1.jpg

Rostropovitch - Schubert & Bridge Sonatas
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/110-1050_IMG-1.jpg

Annie Fischer - Mozart Piano Concertos's 24 & 27
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/111-1127_IMG.jpg

Efrem Kurtz - Peter & the Wolf
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/111-1134_IMG-2.jpg

[WOStantonCS100]

While I appreciate there's not many classical fans on this forum... ...(preferably on vinyl)...

Are you sure about that? ;) Where's my camera? :scratch:

[BTH K10A]

A couple more recordings I consider worth seeking out

Beautifully recorded Mozart that never disappoints
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/IMG_0970.jpg


A great adaption of Bizet's opera with a deep wide soundstage and fabulous dynamics
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/IMG_0971.jpg

[BTH K10A]

Not too easy to find an original issue but I think has been reissued on vinyl, CD & SACD, Paray's Chabrier is another very dynamic recording
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/IMG_1510.jpg

[MartinT]

Loads, a couple to start with:

Vivaldi: Four Seasons, Drottningholm Baroque Ensemble, BIS CD
Simply stunning performance and recording, by a long way my favourite version of this well-known music.

http://pixhost.info/avaxhome/d7/33/001633d7_medium.jpeg

Richard Strauss: Also Sprach Zarathustra, Ormandy & New Philadelphia, EMI vinyl
Absolutely mesmerising opening with a pedal to shake your entire being, wonderful strings later.

http://www.shugarecords.com/images/records/93784c75-0f14-46b5-824e-663a500a5f3c-0.JPG

[BTH K10A]

Thanks for that recommendation Martin. I'll look out for a copy of the BIS Four Seasons on vinyl.

I've found BIS recordings to be really excellent but I've mainly gone for those of Scandanavian composers so far and have obviously missed out on some gems.

Andy

[MartinT]

Grieg Piano Concerto, Radu Lupu, Decca CD
This is my favourite piano concerto played by my favourite pianist and I was lucky enough to see him perform it live. Superb playing by a master with a revealing recording but you do have to forgive the underground train in the slow movement.

http://pixhost.info/avaxhome/d4/e8/000ae8d4_medium.jpeg

Vivaldi Gloria, Preston & AAM, Decca CD
Simply magnificent in all respects, using boys instead of sopranos and with a part 2 (Et in Terra Pax) to die for.

http://cdn.tower.jp/zz/m/0289/028941467829.jpg

[MartinT]

Thanks for that recommendation Martin. I'll look out for a copy of the BIS Four Seasons on vinyl.

If you can find it on vinyl I want a copy too!

[BTH K10A]

I have the Lupu Greig/Schumann PC on vinyl & CD an it is superb. A little Kinsway rumble it more than offset by the acoustics of that venue.

Another of my favorite recordings is Artulfo Argenta's Concerto de Aranjuez which was a spanish columbia recording.

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/111-1138_IMG.jpg

This spanish pressing is possibly better than the decca and can also be found on the Alhambra label.

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/111-1137_IMG.jpg

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/111-1136_IMG.jpg

I also prefer this early decca cover art by Karo to the later version.
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/IMG_0203.jpg

[MartinT]

I'm intrigued by the different backdrops used in your album photos :)

[BTH K10A]

I'm intrigued by the different backdrops used in your album photos :)

Burdundy is one of the throws on the sofa
green is the chaise long
cream / gold is a runner on the table
the one with flowers is the chinese rug.

The backdrop really depends on when I took the pic.

[WOStantonCS100]

Sorry about the size, for now. I'll try and shrink them in a bit. (EDIT: shrunk)

http://i815.photobucket.com/albums/zz80/TCKA1ESa/IMG_8419.jpg

Trashed cover; but, the record cleanup nicely.

http://i815.photobucket.com/albums/zz80/TCKA1ESa/IMG_8418.jpg

http://i815.photobucket.com/albums/zz80/TCKA1ESa/IMG_8420A.jpg

http://i815.photobucket.com/albums/zz80/TCKA1ESa/IMG_8421.jpg

[MartinT]

Hi Biff

I have the Manuel de Falla, but not with that cover. I'll dig it out and take a look.

[MartinT]

Shostakovich - Symphony No. 13, Previn, LSO, EMI [vinyl]

My favourite recording of this work, even better than the later Haitink. Notable for its deep sense of foreboding, emphasised by the very well recorded, menacing bass drum and brilliant soloist.

http://www.vinylparadise.com/goodlp/1/8sh13pe1.jpg

[WOStantonCS100]

Martin,

I just looked and I don't have any Shostakovich. Sibelius... check. Stravinsky... check. Shostakovich... nada, zip, zilch. :( I guess I need to fix that now on your recommendation.

[BTH K10A]

Shostakovich - Symphony No. 13, Previn, LSO, EMI [vinyl]

My favourite recording of this work, even better than the later Haitink. Notable for its deep sense of foreboding, emphasised by the very well recorded, menacing bass drum and brilliant soloist.

http://www.vinylparadise.com/goodlp/1/8sh13pe1.jpg

Great recommendation Martin, The Previn Shostakovich Sym No 13 is a beautiful record and was one of the last EMI analogue recordings engineered by that great duo Christopher Parker & Christopher Bishop. Parker had a close working relationship with Walter Legge and the Philharmonia orchestra and was responsible for a substantial number of the great EMI / Columbia recordings.

I would love to listen to Chris Parkers "Oral History of Recorded Sound" but it seems is only available to members of a licensed UK higher or further education institution. :(

http://sounds.bl.uk/View.aspx?item=021M-C0090X0028XX-0100V0.xml

[MartinT]

I just looked and I don't have any Shostakovich. Sibelius... check. Stravinsky... check. Shostakovich... nada, zip, zilch. :( I guess I need to fix that now on your recommendation.

Biff - the 13th is brilliant but I would class it as difficult music, if quite awesome and terrifying. You may also want to consider his 5th or 10th symphonies and the 1st & 2nd piano concertos.

[MartinT]

Great recommendation Martin, The Previn Shostakovich Sym No 3 is a beautiful record and was one of the last EMI analogue recordings engineered by that great duo Christopher Parker & Christopher Bishop.

I also have the 8th and 10th by Previn in the same series. He is a very underrated Shostakovich conductor. The sound on all of them is impressive.

[chris@panteg]

This is stunning , great music and amazing recording .

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/617S3Ff3MsL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

These Britten recordings are simply superb

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41F9273YDNL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51aB4B331WL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

[MartinT]

These Britten recordings are simply superb

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41F9273YDNL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Hi Chris

I have this and you're right, it sounds very good indeed. Hard work listening to it in one take, though.

[jandl100]

Quite a few classical fans are coming out of the woodwork ... is there interest in a Classical Music section on AOS? I think one would be good. :)

[jandl100]

Here are 4 of my best sounding classical LPs.
... wonderful performances, as well.

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF6942.jpg

[MartinT]

Yep - that Shossie 10th is superb, Jerry. I mentioned it just a few posts ago.

As for Symphonie Fantastique, I've always liked the Colin Davis interpretations. This one is good:

http://i942.photobucket.com/albums/ad264/universal2/Classique/recto-3.jpg

[jandl100]

And 4 more with top performance and sound quality ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF6944.jpg

[MartinT]

Mahler Symphony No. 8 - Solti, Chicago SO, Decca [vinyl & CD]
Magnificent performance and recording, although even Decca's engineers were at the limit capturing the choir at full tilt. The LP set makes a better fist of the enormous crescendos although the CD captures the full majesty of the lowest organ pedals.

http://static.rateyourmusic.com/album_images/db26bf0ae297b3c51e4ca3fe7a9b36fd/378192.jpg

[BTH K10A]

Some of my favorite Mahler recordings are Haitink's Sym No 1 & Bruno Walter's Sym No 2, Both excellent recordings. I also like the earlier Colin Davis Symphonie Fantastique with the LSO.

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/IMG_0993.jpg

[BTH K10A]

And 4 more with top performance and sound quality ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF6944.jpg

The Hungaraton Hayden box set is very nice. The quality of recording always seem to be very good on that label.

[jandl100]

The Hungaraton Hayden box set is very nice. The quality of recording always seem to be very good on that label.

Yup - I'm a big fan of many eastern European / Soviet recordings - whilst sometimes lacking subtlety, they can have an immediacy and tonal richness that many more obviously "audiophile" recordings from the West lack.

Here's a few more from my collection ...

http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii114/jandl100/DSCF6947.jpg

Elgar's violin concerto - played by Igor Oistrakh! :scratch: - it's wonderful!! :)

[chris@panteg]

Yep - that Shossie 10th is superb, Jerry. I mentioned it just a few posts ago.

As for Symphonie Fantastique, I've always liked the Colin Davis interpretations. This one is good:

http://i942.photobucket.com/albums/ad264/universal2/Classique/recto-3.jpg

Have you heard this version ? Reference Recordings with Keith Johnson Engineer , amazing !

http://i.ebayimg.com/14/!!eDj5JQBmM~$(KGrHqMOKjUE0Qt3zT7cBNT!nQh0eg~~_35.J PG

[BTH K10A]

Have you heard this version ? Reference Recordings with Keith Johnson Engineer , amazing !

http://i.ebayimg.com/14/!!eDj5JQBmM~$(KGrHqMOKjUE0Qt3zT7cBNT!nQh0eg~~_35.J PG

Does it have the RR trademark bass drum?

[MartinT]

Does it have the RR trademark bass drum?

LOL - yes, they do rather overdo it, more so even than Telarc.

[BTH K10A]

A few great violin concerto recordings.

Leonid Kogan playong Tchaikovsy is well worth looking out for, It was reissued on the CFP label and not too hard to find

Oistrakh and Heifitz playing the Beethoven and Sibelius VC's are good references.

The Edith Peinemann Dvoak VC & Ravel Tzigane is a revelation.The playing is beautiful and is worth looking out for. It's on SLPM 139 120

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/IMG_0994.jpg

Andy

[MartinT]

Faure: Requiem & Durufle: Requiem, Guest, Choir of St John's College, Decca [2CD]

This is an incredibly beautiful performance of both Requiems, with a fantastic treble soloist and very revealing sound (although I wish there was not quite so much traffic rumble). However, the sense of being there is quite palpable, a credit to this 1974-5 recording.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51QR-2FkzJL._SL500_AA280_.jpg

[BTH K10A]

LOL - yes, they do rather overdo it, more so even than Telarc.

As you mentioned Telarc.:) I think the new SACD recording of Tchaikovskys 1812 outdoes the original LP recoring when it comes to dynamics.

It's not to everyones taste but if you really want to test your system.....:eek: Even now I get caught out by the cannon and musket shots. It's not one to listen to with a fresh pint in your hand.:lol:

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/WAC7_1IneBrDNIbd8owMuaXFmcmJOfGZecUlRaW5qXklxQwZJS UFVvr65eXleqk5QPmy1JTM4mS95Pxc_ZLU4hL9zNzE9NRiIDun ODHXzMDUxFAvqyCdgQEA.jpg

[MartinT]

I have that SACD and both the LP and CD of the original recording. The LP is barely playable (there is one humorous section of groove where it actually turns a right angle) but it has mighty impact.

[Barry]

As you mentioned Telarc.:) I think the new SACD recording of Tchaikovskys 1812 outdoes the original LP recoring when it comes to dynamics.

It's not to everyones taste but if you really want to test your system.....:eek: Even now I get caught out by the cannon and musket shots. It's not one to listen to with a fresh pint in your hand.:lol:

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/WAC7_1IneBrDNIbd8owMuaXFmcmJOfGZecUlRaW5qXklxQwZJS UFVvr65eXleqk5QPmy1JTM4mS95Pxc_ZLU4hL9zNzE9NRiIDun ODHXzMDUxFAvqyCdgQEA.jpg

Haha, I have that recording too. You need a very well set up arm/cartridge to successfully track those cannon grooves without damage. Has anyone had a good look at them on the LP?

In my opinion its more 'an example of substance over style'. Yes those cannons are 'impressive', with all the connotations that the adjective implies, so to is the carillon, but there are better recordings out there. I'll have to root through my collection to pick one out. From memory it's actually a 7" EP on Philips.

Re. the Berlioz, again 'impressive' and an example of the potential advantages of recording on 12" vinyl at 45rpm. Not surprisingly the symphony covers three sides; with the fourth duplicating the last movement just in case your arm/cartridge is not good enough and you damage the groove!

Anyway to my 'spinning today':

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/412SVTJ354L._SL500_AA300_.jpg


Sibelius - Symphony No.1 in E minor Op. 39 and Finlandia Op. 26/7
The Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra cond. Neeme Järvi. 1984 BIS CD-221.

Ignore the marketing hyperbole printed on the back, this is a very good performance and recording of both these Sibelius works. I have another recording of Finlandia (again on 7" EP), but haven't played it in years so will have to dig it out to compare.

[Barry]

As promised here are some recommendations from my collection.

The excellent Four Seasons as performed by the Drottningholm Baroque Ensemble on BIS CD-275 has already been mentioned. This is, as far as I know, only available on CD.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416hULSFFuL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

However a recording on vinyl I can thoroughly recommend is

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41MDT60PCZL._SL500_AA300_.jpg
Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, cond. Neville Marriner with Alan Loveday, solo violin.
1970 Decca Argo ZRG 654
(The above image is similar but not identical to the record I’m recommending.)
If you aren’t interested in the use of period instruments (as used on the BIS recording), then try to get this one.

Avoid the Nigel Kennedy version – it’s awful (IMO)!


Also on vinyl and to hand as I have played them recently are:

Ravel – Piano Concerto (in D) for the left hand ,
Monique Haas, piano and Orchestre National, Paris, cond. Paul Paray

Introduction and Allegro for harp, string quartet flute and clarinet,
Nicanor Zabeleta, harp, Orchestre de Chambre, cond. Paul Kuentz

Tzigane (Concert rhapsody for violin and orchestra)
Edith Peinemann, piano, Czech Philharmonic Orchestre, Prague cond. Peter Maag

1965 DGG 135 147


Ravel – Le Tombeau de Couperin, Valses Nobeles et Sentimentales
Debussy – Petit Suite, Prélude À L’Apres-midi D’un Faune
Detroit Symphony Orchestra, cond. Paul Paray
1965 Mecury Living Presence MMA 11119 (mono)

A superb recording, as is much on the Mercury living Presence label.


Grieg – Piano Concerto in A minor, Op. 16
Clifford Curzon, piano, The London Symphony Orchestra, cond. Øivin Fjeldstatd
Frank – Variations Symphoniques
Litolff – Scherzo from Concerto Symphonique no.4, Op. 102
Clifford Curzon, piano, The London Philharmonic Orchestra, cond. Sir Adrian Boult.
1959 Decca SXL 2173

Rapidly becoming one of my test records – the Grieg causes the hairs on my neck to stand up.


Now for some CDs:

J. S. Bach – Das Wohltemperite Klavier, Buch 1 (The Well tempered Clavier, Book 1)
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41V3OrpBebL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Keith Jarrett, piano. (2 CD set)
1988 ECM 1362/63 835 246-2

Hearing Jarrett (normally associated with improvisational jazz piano), play these Bach exercises make you realise how seminal was Bach’s work. A good recording from ECM, as always.

J. S. Bach – Brandenburgische Konzerte 1 – 6
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/410Y8C1MDYL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

The English Consort, cond . Trevor Pinnock

Available as two CDs 1982 Archiv 410 500-2 (Concertos 1 –3) and Archive 410 501-2 (Concertos 4 – 6).

There are many recordings of this, but few using period instruments. This one does and is one of my favourites, for the same reason I like the Drottingholm’s version of the Four Seasons.


Finally (because I’m getting tired of typing):

Beethoven – Triple Concerto
Brahms – Double Concerto
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41THHNS0HSL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

David Oistrakh, violin; Mstislav Rostropovich, cello; Sviatoslav Richter, piano.
Berlin Philharmoniker, cond. Herbert von Karajan (Beethoven)
Cleveland Orchestra, cond. George Szell (Brahms)
1970 EMI Classics 7243 5 66902 2 6

Chosen for the Triple Concerto - three experienced virtuoso performers, playing perfectly together. It doesn’t get much better than this. A 'must have' in anybody’s collection.

More to follow.

[MartinT]

Some nice choices there, Barry.


The excellent Four Seasons as performed by the Drottningholm Baroque Ensemble on BIS CD-275 has already been mentioned. This is, as far as I know, only available on CD.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416hULSFFuL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Special, isn't it? If you only want one recording of the Four Seasons, this is the most exciting performance and recording I know.


http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41MDT60PCZL._SL500_AA300_.jpg
Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields, cond. Neville Marriner with Alan Loveday, solo violin.
1970 Decca Argo ZRG 654

This was my very first ever classical LP purchase! It still sounds good today.


Avoid the Nigel Kennedy version – it’s awful (IMO)!

Agreed!


Rapidly becoming one of my test records – the Grieg causes the hairs on my neck to stand up.

Thanks, I'll look the Curzon up. Have you ever heard the Radu Lupu?


J. S. Bach – Brandenburgische Konzerte 1 – 6
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/410Y8C1MDYL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

The English Consort, cond . Trevor Pinnock

Available as two CDs 1982 Archiv 410 500-2 (Concertos 1 –3) and Archive 410 501-2 (Concertos 4 – 6).

There are many recordings of this, but few using period instruments. This one does and is one of my favourites, for the same reason I like the Drottingholm’s version of the Four Seasons.

Again, it's a great recording and I agree with you about the period instrument sound.


Beethoven – Triple Concerto
Brahms – Double Concerto
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41THHNS0HSL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

David Oistrakh, violin; Mstislav Rostropovich, cello; Sviatoslav Richter, piano.
Berlin Philharmoniker, cond. Herbert von Karajan (Beethoven)
Cleveland Orchestra, cond. George Szell (Brahms)
1970 EMI Classics 7243 5 66902 2 6

Chosen for the Triple Concerto - three experienced virtuoso performers, playing perfectly together. It doesn’t get much better than this. A 'must have' in anybody’s collection.

A superb performance of this very special music. Again, I agree that it should be in every starter collection.

[keiths]

As promised here are some recommendations from my collection.

The excellent Four Seasons as performed by the Drottningholm Baroque Ensemble on BIS CD-275 has already been mentioned. This is, as far as I know, only available on CD.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416hULSFFuL._SL500_AA300_.jpg



According to the CD booklet:

http://www.simister.com/public/four_seasons.jpg

but I've never seen it - bet it's as rare as hen's teeth.

Great CD though and the first classical music disc I ever bought back in 1985.

[BTH K10A]

The Westminster recording of the Beethoven Archduke Trio is up there amongst the best. The playing of Fournier, Badura-Skoda and Janigro has a great depth and there is a feeling of great understanding between the musicians.

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/111-1151_IMG.jpg

[MartinT]

Beethoven - Triple Concerto, Zimmermann, Cohen, Manz, Saraste, ECO, EMI [vinyl]

Since we mentioned the Triple Concerto above, this is another fine recording (later on the CfP label). I can't find a picture of it or much reference at all. However, my Penguin guide says "Jukka-Pekka Saraste and the ECO provide a lively, understanding accompaniment, and the performance has splendid spontaneity throughout."

[WOStantonCS100]

Biff - the 13th is brilliant but I would class it as difficult music, if quite awesome and terrifying. You may also want to consider his 5th or 10th symphonies and the 1st & 2nd piano concertos.

Apparently, I was completely wrong, as I forgot I picked this up a while ago. I have no idea whether this is a good performance and or good pressing; but, I'm about to find out. I'm not at all familiar with the USSR Symphony. The vinyl is in excellent condition, I'm familiar with the Angel label and it was only £1, so I believe my thinking at the time was, "why not".

http://i815.photobucket.com/albums/zz80/TCKA1ESa/IMG_8432.jpg

[MartinT]

Hi Biff - that's a Melodiya (Russian) recording, see the logo top-right. The USSR Symphony were a very capable orchestra and Svetlanov's performances were usually excellent. Kondrashin is another of their conductors to look out for. That 10th should be a good performance and you'll benefit from the Angel (EMI) pressing.

Melodiya recordings were variable - some good and some awful. I bought a whole load of records when I was in Moscow many years ago and they're interesting but the pressing quality was generally not great. Mind you, they cost pennies.

[Barry]

The only way I can suggest Great Classical Recordings methodically, is to gradually go through my collection and pick out those I think might qualify. So still at the beginning of the alphabet and with J. S. Bach, I can recommend the following:

J. S. Bach – Goldberg Variations

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/418MHFWAF7L._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Glen Gould, piano.
1955, Sony 886 978 0606 2

This 1955 recording is regarded by many as the definitive recording of the Goldberg Variations. It is interesting to compare this recording with Gould’s later 1981 revisit. I prefer the earlier recording.

Another recording I enjoy is that by the Taiwanese pianist Chen Pi-Hsien, on Naxos.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51gsLb7bl6L._SL500_AA300_.jpg

1988, Naxos 8.550078

As chance would have it, this month’s BBC Music magazine comes with a recording of the Goldberg variations played by Freddy Kempf. A little more sombre and stately than either of the afore-mentioned recordings but interesting nonetheless and worth the £4.60 magazine price!



J. S. Bach – The 6 Cello Suites

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41MJsRdf3cL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Paul Tortelier, cello
1961, EMI CMS 7 69434-2 (2 CD set)

Like the Goldberg Variations there are hundreds of recordings of the Cello Suites. I cannot say which is regarded as the definitive recording, if such exists, but I have no complaints about Tortelier’s interpretation. Would be interested in hearing Rostropovich playing these.

Another version I have on vinyl is that by Janos Starker:

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Q7BptHk5L._SL500_AA300_.jpg

In some ways I prefer this to that of Tortelier.



J. S. Bach – Concerto for Violin, Strings and Continuo BWV 1041 –1043

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51F16C45WRL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Simon Standage, Elizabeth Wilcock, violin. The English Consort, directed from the harpsichord by Trevor Pinnock.
1983, Archiv (Polydor) 41 646-2

also:

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41X73JKHXFL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Andrew Manze, Rachel Podger, violin. The Academy of Ancient Music, dir Andrew Manze.
1997, Harmoni Mundi 907155

Both of these recordings use period instruments, but I prefer the version byThe English Consort: the astringent sound of period instruments that I appreciate is more apparent.

[WOStantonCS100]

I'm not sure if it qualifies as "great"; but, I'm enjoying it at the moment.

http://i815.photobucket.com/albums/zz80/TCKA1ESa/IMG_8467.jpg

[jimdgoulding]

Apparently, I was completely wrong, as I forgot I picked this up a while ago. I have no idea whether this is a good performance and or good pressing; but, I'm about to find out. I'm not at all familiar with the USSR Symphony. The vinyl is in excellent condition, I'm familiar with the Angel label and it was only £1, so I believe my thinking at the time was, "why not".

http://i815.photobucket.com/albums/zz80/TCKA1ESa/IMG_8432.jpg

Biff- That's a wee treasure you have there. I have it also, along with three of four other Shosty Syms on Melodiya. Did you like it?

[MartinT]

Saint-Saëns Symphony No 3, San Francisco SO, Edo de Waart, Jean Guillou (organ) [cd]

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51rPw9J7EJL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

This performance is a nice straightforward one, well played and enjoyable, if not quite as glowing as the Enrique Bátiz account with the LPO on ASV. The soundstage is typical Philips, a little distant but with good stage width and excellent depth - very much 'there' if you close your eyes. Of special note is the organ playing by the great Jean Guillou, who brings the instrument's part to greater attention than is the case in many recordings of this symphony. The sound quality is quite stunning and world class in respect of the organ. The Davies Symphony Hall features a Ruffatti organ of immense power and this recording has captured the lowest pedal notes to great effect. Rarely has my system produced subsonic vibrations of such power and pitch focus. Be warned: if your system does not have sizeable speakers you won't even hear what I'm talking about.

[vinylspinner]

Hi Martin,

Let us know how the live proms version tonight sounded like, bet that low organ sound shook a few body parts :lol:

Nigel

[MartinT]

It was fan-bloody-tastic! I'll write it up in the classical concerts thread.

[JJack]

I'll throw out a few of my favorite recordings:

Beethoven, late quartets, Yale Quartet on LP, Cleveland Quartet on CD.

Debussy, Walter Gieseking (both vinyl and CD). A steal on one EMI 4-CD reissue. The sound is ASTONISHING mono.

Beethoven 6, Bruno Walter/Columbia SO, on SACD, LP, and, yes Cassette

Britten, Peter Grimes, Britten conducting

Copland, Appalachian Spring, Copland conducting

Copland, Fanfare for the Common Man, Bernstein

[oceanobsession]

Picked up this one from the charity shop, mozart in chelsea first recording,
academy of st. martin- in -the -fields neville marriner, and i have to say its
my best classical recording, the quality is top notch its on philips,

[tannoyman]

Grieg Piano Concerto, Radu Lupu, Decca CD
This is my favourite piano concerto played by my favourite pianist and I was lucky enough to see him perform it live. Superb playing by a master with a revealing recording but you do have to forgive the underground train in the slow movement.

http://pixhost.info/avaxhome/d4/e8/000ae8d4_medium.jpeg

Vivaldi Gloria, Preston & AAM, Decca CD
Simply magnificent in all respects, using boys instead of sopranos and with a part 2 (Et in Terra Pax) to die for.

http://cdn.tower.jp/zz/m/0289/028941467829.jpg

Try the very beautiful recording of both Glorias (RV588 & the more popular RV589) by Choir of St John's College Cambridge with GThe Wren Orchestra conducted by George Guest

David :):)

[tannoyman]

These are pretty little pieces composed when Rossini was 12. The Argo recording by The Academy of St Martin in the Fields is said by Harry Pearson of The Absolute Sound to be possibly the finest string recording of all time - a bold assertion

Happy listening

David :):)

[MartinT]

Try the very beautiful recording of both Glorias (RV588 & the more popular RV589) by Choir of St John's College Cambridge with GThe Wren Orchestra conducted by George Guest

Thanks, David, I'll look it up.

[Barry]

Mozart - 'The 4 Horn Concertos'

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/714XcTcK3-L.jpg

Horn, Alan Civil. Academy of St.Martin in the Fields, cond. Neville Marriner.

Philips 6500 325.

(Picked up in a charity shop for 20p and in impeccable condition.)

[julesd68]

These are pretty little pieces composed when Rossini was 12. The Argo recording by The Academy of St Martin in the Fields is said by Harry Pearson of The Absolute Sound to be possibly the finest string recording of all time - a bold assertion

Just been listening to a version of these on YouTube as have never heard them before. I like them a lot! Thanks for opening my eyes to this - not the kind of thing I normally go for ...

David - do you ever get down to London for concerts? Check out the "Forthcoming Classical Concerts" thread and see if we can tempt you ...
Martin T has cash behind the bar :D

[MartinT]

Martin T has cash behind the bar :D

:rfl:

[tannoyman]

Hi Martin

I do go to the odd Prom but my wife is not keen on classical music. Strangely she has developed a liking for opera, particularly Puccini, so we do go to some of those. Two booked in Northampton in February 2013 (Carmen and Tosca) We also go to jazz concerts both in Northampton and The Stables at Wavendon (Cleo Lane's place) Which is superb.

The thing I find with classical music is that the more I learn the more I realise how profoundly ignorant I am. Such is life!

One more suggestion for classical recordings on vinyl do try the Borodin Quartets by the Borodin Quartet on HMV Melodiya (ASD4100) it is absolutely stunning. The music is to die for and the recording is good enough to justify purchasing a turntable on its own.

David :):):cool:



Just been listening to a version of these on YouTube as have never heard them before. I like them a lot! Thanks for opening my eyes to this - not the kind of thing I normally go for ...

David - do you ever get down to London for concerts? Check out the "Forthcoming Classical Concerts" thread and see if we can tempt you ...
Martin T has cash behind the bar :D

[MartinT]

One more suggestion for classical recordings on vinyl do try the Borodin Quartets by the Borodin Quartet on HMV Melodiya (ASD4100) it is absolutely stunning. The music is to die for and the recording is good enough to justify purchasing a turntable on its own.

Thanks, David. I've never heard them and will look them up.

[MartinT]

:doh:

Well, of course I know them! A quick Spotify and I recognised them immediately, just hadn't made the connection with Borodin. Very nice pieces - thanks!

[GeezerChap]

I have the Lupu Greig/Schumann PC on vinyl & CD an it is superb. A little Kinsway rumble it more than offset by the acoustics of that venue.

Another of my favorite recordings is Artulfo Argenta's Concerto de Aranjuez which was a spanish columbia recording.

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/111-1138_IMG.jpg

This spanish pressing is possibly better than the decca and can also be found on the Alhambra label.

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/111-1137_IMG.jpg

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/111-1136_IMG.jpg

I also prefer this early decca cover art by Karo to the later version.
http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f120/emttsd15/IMG_0203.jpg

I've recently discovered Lupu - spending a lot of time with his Schubert piano works. Top drawer, will go back for more. On Decca, as are most of his other recordings I believe.

[GeezerChap]

The only way I can suggest Great Classical Recordings methodically, is to gradually go through my collection and pick out those I think might qualify. So still at the beginning of the alphabet and with J. S. Bach, I can recommend the following:

J. S. Bach – Goldberg Variations

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/418MHFWAF7L._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Glen Gould, piano.
1955, Sony 886 978 0606 2

This 1955 recording is regarded by many as the definitive recording of the Goldberg Variations. It is interesting to compare this recording with Gould’s later 1981 revisit. I prefer the earlier recording.

Another recording I enjoy is that by the Taiwanese pianist Chen Pi-Hsien, on Naxos.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51gsLb7bl6L._SL500_AA300_.jpg

1988, Naxos 8.550078

As chance would have it, this month’s BBC Music magazine comes with a recording of the Goldberg variations played by Freddy Kempf. A little more sombre and stately than either of the afore-mentioned recordings but interesting nonetheless and worth the £4.60 magazine price!



J. S. Bach – The 6 Cello Suites

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41MJsRdf3cL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Paul Tortelier, cello
1961, EMI CMS 7 69434-2 (2 CD set)

Like the Goldberg Variations there are hundreds of recordings of the Cello Suites. I cannot say which is regarded as the definitive recording, if such exists, but I have no complaints about Tortelier’s interpretation. Would be interested in hearing Rostropovich playing these.

Another version I have on vinyl is that by Janos Starker:

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Q7BptHk5L._SL500_AA300_.jpg

In some ways I prefer this to that of Tortelier.



J. S. Bach – Concerto for Violin, Strings and Continuo BWV 1041 –1043

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51F16C45WRL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Simon Standage, Elizabeth Wilcock, violin. The English Consort, directed from the harpsichord by Trevor Pinnock.
1983, Archiv (Polydor) 41 646-2

also:

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41X73JKHXFL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

Andrew Manze, Rachel Podger, violin. The Academy of Ancient Music, dir Andrew Manze.
1997, Harmoni Mundi 907155

Both of these recordings use period instruments, but I prefer the version byThe English Consort: the astringent sound of period instruments that I appreciate is more apparent.

I have spent many years with the Tortelier recordings of Bach's cello suites. I came across them as a student and spent the following few hours glued to them in the college library. I recently bought Steven Isserlis's Hyperion recording of the same, and would recommend them. He is less stern than Tortelier, but not at the expense of depth.

I have the Podger/Manze Bach too, though haven't heard the English Consort for comparison.

[Landloper]

16982*

Massive soundstage during the Allegro (The 9th of January) and the Allegro non troppo (Tocsin) - an incredible recording and in my opinion a great test of what your deck and phono stage can do, it absolutely trashes the CD version.

[* Stock photo]

[Fuse]

I'm used to analog recordings on vinyl trashing their CD versions, but it still surprises me when a digital recording sounds better on vinyl than on CD.

My only recording of Shosty 11 is Stokowsi conducting the Houston Symphony. I adore Haitink and the Concertgebouw's recording of No. 8, and I would love to hear their complete cycle on vinyl.

[jandl100]

Oops! - posted in wrong classical subforum!