AudioCircle
Music and Media => The Classical Music Circle => Topic started by: Desertpilot on 27 Jul 2021, 03:19 am
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My purpose creating this thread is to offer classical recordings that will take full advantage of your audio system.
LIST OF ALBUMS ARE BELOW IN THIS MESSAGE
Each album should be well performed, well recorded and mastered. Sonics, whether two channel or multichannel must be superb. We are fortunate that classical music labels continue to publish high resolution recordings. I will try to offer the best I can find for your consideration and enjoyment. I do not know music theory. I will rely on critical reviews regarding the performance. Many classical recordings have different interpretations by the conductor. Some you may like and some you may not. The quality of the recording, however, must be first rate. I'll also include "tech specs" like format, sample rate, etc..
Here are links to the actual reviews:
Bruckner: Symphony #9: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1867401#msg1867401 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1867401#msg1867401)
Steinbacher: Fantasies, Rhapsodies and Daydreams:[/b] https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1867449#msg1867449 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1867449#msg1867449)
Berlioz: 'Grande Messe des morts': (Gardner, conductor) https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1867645#msg1867645 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1867645#msg1867645)
Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos 2 & 3: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1868048#msg1868048 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1868048#msg1868048)
Beethoven: Concerto in C Major: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1868118#msg1868118 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1868118#msg1868118)
Berlioz: La Damnation de Faust: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1868205#msg1868205 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1868205#msg1868205)
Wölfl: Eclipse Vol. 1, Mattias Spee, Piano: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1868475#msg1868475 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1868475#msg1868475)
Pärt: Stabat Mater: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1868772#msg1868772 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1868772#msg1868772)
Korngold: Symphony in F# Major: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1869101#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1869101#new)
Kleiberg: Concertos: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1869287#msg1869287 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1869287#msg1869287)
Honegger: Jeanne d'Arc au bûcher: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1870162#msg1870162 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1870162#msg1870162)
Whitlock: Organ Sonata: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1870848#msg1870848 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1870848#msg1870848)
Prokofiev: Alexander Nevsky, Lieutenant Kijé Suite: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1871380#msg1871380 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1871380#msg1871380)
Berlioz: 'Grande Messe des morts' (Pappano, conductor): https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1877219#msg1877219 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1877219#msg1877219)
Mahler: Symphony No. 3: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1878350#msg1878350 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1878350#msg1878350)
Brahms: Symphony #4, MacMillan: Larghetto for Orchestra. https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1878827#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1878827#new)
Reference Music by PSAudio https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1883801#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1883801#new)
Mozart: Serenade No. 10 'Gran Partita', Beethoven: Variations on Mozart's 'Là ci darem la mano' from Don Giovanni https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1885541#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1885541#new)
Elgar: Cello Concerto, Tchaikovsky: Variations on a Rococo Theme, Nocturne, Andante cantabile, Pezzo capriccioso https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1885913#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1885913#new)
Madetoja: Kullervo, Op. 15, Klami: Kalevala Suite, Op. 23, Sibelius: Lemminkäinen in Tuonela, Op. 22 No. 2 (1897 version - world premiere recording), Pylkkänen: Kullervo Goes to War. https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1887983#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1887983#new)
Æon Trio: Elegy: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1888887#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1888887#new)
Schubert: String Quintet D.956, Quartettsatz D.703: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1888901#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1888901#new)
Schubert: String Quintet: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1888909#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1888909#new)
Rota: Nonetto, Martinu: Nonet No. 2, Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 4 : https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1890976#msg1890976 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1890976#msg1890976)
Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 2 in E minor Op. 27, Vocalise No. 14 Op. 34: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1892957#msg1892957 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1892957#msg1892957)
Ravel: La Valse, Ma Mère l'Oye, Alborada del gracioso, Pavane pour une infante défunte, Vales nobles et sentimentales, Boléro: https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1897202#msg1897202 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1897202#msg1897202)
The Boulanger Legacy, Lili Boulanger: Nocturne, Cortège, D'un matin de printemps, Nadia Boulanger: Modéré (from 3 Pièces), Bacewicz: Violin Sonata No. 3, Bernstein: Violin Sonata, Piazzolla: Le grand tango
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1909285#msg1909285 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1909285#msg1909285)
Beethoven, Piano Concertos: Gabriel Fauré, Piano Music: Hannes Minnar, NOX https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1911479#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1911479#new)
Saint-Saëns, Vol. 1 Symphonies 1 & 2, Symphony in A major, Vol. 2 Symphony No. 3*, Symphony 'Urbs Roma', https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1911992#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1911992#new)
Schubert: Winterreise, https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1916050#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1916050#new)
Shostakovich: Symphony No. 13, Op. 113 ‘Babi Yar’, https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1916699#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1916699#new)
Joachim Eijlander: Dark Fire, https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1918234#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1918234#new)
Sibelius: The Symphonies, https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1920988#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1920988#new)
Shostakovich: Violin Concerto No. 1, Gubaidulina: In tempus praesens, https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1922148#msg1922148 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1922148#msg1922148)
Shostakovich: 24 Preludes and Fugues, Bach: Goldberg Variations, Hannes Minnaar, Piano. https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1926986#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1926986#new)
Schumann: The Schumann Collection, Vol. 2, Nicolas van Poucke, Piano. https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1967247#msg1967247 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1967247#msg1967247)
Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5, Schulhoff: Five Pieces for String Quartet (arr. Honeck/Ille). https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1967551#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1967551#new)
Chiaroscuro Quartet: Haydn, String Quartets Op. 33 1-3. https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1967602#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1967602#new)
Mahler: Symphony No. 8. https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1969809#msg1969809 (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1969809#msg1969809)
Sibelius: Lemminkäinen Suite, Karelia Suite, Rakastava https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1976148#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1976148#new)
Marcus
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Bruckner: Symphony No. 9
Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
Manfred Honeck (conductor)
Evaluate your system for horns and full orchestra.
5 Stars, David Hurwitz at Classics Today, "This is an amazing performance, captured in terrific sound. ...There’s an organic unity here that’s very special, and wholly unique."
5 Stars, Adrian Quanjer at HRAudio.Net, "...the performance has to be heard, rather than read about, to be struck by its immensely gripping power, turning many other recordings into bleak collections of noise."
2020 GRAMMY® Nominee for Best Orchestral Performance, Best Engineered Album, Classical, and Producer of the Year, Classical
2020 International Classical Music Awards Symphonic Music Nominee
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD, Download.
Original Recording Format: DSD 256
Booklet and sample tracks are available at Native DSD
Reference Recordings (FR-733)
Producer: Dirk Sobotka, Recording Engineer, Mark Donahue Mastering Engineer (Soundmirror Boston)
Venue: Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts, Pittsburgh, PA,
Recording Date: Recorded Live on February 23-25, 2018
Release Date: August 23, 2019
Native DSD Download: https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/fr733-bruckner-symphony-no-9/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/fr733-bruckner-symphony-no-9/)
Presto Classical, 2 channel only, https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8659741--bruckner-symphony-no-9 (https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8659741--bruckner-symphony-no-9)
On Qobuz: Search for...
Manfred Honeck, select SEE ALL RELEASES, look for Bruckner Symphony #9, 24/192 stereo
Everything about this recording will challenge your audio system to the max, from quiet passages to blazing horns. This is the unfinished 3 movement version as the composer passed while composing the 4th movement. The symphony was written to express musically Bruckner's vision of passing in to the afterlife. The power of this performance is amazing and I was emotionally connected to it throughout.
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227429)
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Fantasies, Rhapsodies and Daydreams
Arabella Steinbacher (violin)
Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo
Lawrence Foster (conductor)
Evaluate your system for Violin (especially track 3, "The Lark Ascending").
If I want to play a violin piece for guests (and myself) I turn to this album and especially track #3, "The Lark Ascending", composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams. The lyrical beauty of Steinbacher's playing and the depth provided by the orchestra will create an emotional connection in any listener. Pentatone writes, "...the album also features the work which has topped Classic FM’s listeners’ “Hall of Fame” for the last three years running: the much-loved and achingly lyrical The Lark Ascending..."
MusicWeb International: Assured and focused, Steinbacher provides brilliant virtuoso playing...
Gramophone: Were someone to ask me to suggest a disc to introduce them to the violin, I might well steer them in the direction of this one.
John Broggio, HR Audio.Net: What is unusual is that only 3 accounts of this glorious evocation of nature (The Lark Ascending) exist in native hi-resolution recordings! ...this account of a mainstay of C20 English composition is very much welcome.
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD and download.
Original Recording Format: DSD 64
Sample tracks and booklet at Native DSD. Full tracks available to sample at Pentatone.
Label: PentaTone Classics (PTC 5186536)
Producer: Job Maarse, Recording Engineer: Erdo Groot
Venue: Salle Yakov Kreizberg of the Auditorium Rainier III, Monte-Carlo
Recording Date: October, 2014
Release Date: September 2, 2016
Native DSD Download: https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/campaigns/pentatone-highlights/ptc5186536-fantasies-rhapsodies-daydreams/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/campaigns/pentatone-highlights/ptc5186536-fantasies-rhapsodies-daydreams/)
Pentatone Download: http://www.pentatonemusic.com/fantasies-rhapsodies-and-daydreams-steinbacher-foster-opmc (http://www.pentatonemusic.com/fantasies-rhapsodies-and-daydreams-steinbacher-foster-opmc)
On Qobuz: Search for...
Arabella Steinbacher, select SEE ALL RELEASES, Fantasies, Rhapsodies & Daydreams comes up in 24/96 stereo
I offer this album as "demo worthy" because "The Lark Ascending" is a wonderful piece that classical and non-classical enthusiasts can repeatedly enjoy. The violin is a difficult instrument to reproduce without sounding screechy or harsh. Here you will have a recording that is delightful and engaging. Your audio system will love it and so will you.
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227444)
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Might be helpful for the reader to add purchase links.
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Might be helpful for the reader to add purchase links.
I can do that. Thanks for the feedback.
Marcus
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Berlioz: 'Grande Messe des morts', Requiem, Op. 5.
Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra
Eikanger-Bjorsvik Musikklag (Brass Orchestra)
Choir of Collegium Musicum
Edvard Grieg Kor
Bergen Philharmonic Choir
Edward Gardner, Conductor
Evaluate your system for Choir.
This is my choice for a "demo worthy" choral recording. The reason I selected this piece is its power with multiple choral groups. Additionally, the orchestra and brass sections give the music a driving force right through to the end. There are several notable recordings of this work. All of them have their proponents and detractors. Alternative recordings include Sir Colin Davis, with the London Symphony Orchestra, both in 1969 and 2012 (shortly before his passing) and Roger Norrington, with the Radio-Sinfonieorchester Stuttgart des SWR, in 2006.
Watch the entire performance on Vimeo (free): https://vimeo.com/185669749 (https://vimeo.com/185669749)
5 Stars, David Cairns, The Sunday Times, “… Gardner’s well-drilled, expressive forces have the ever-imposing music’s measure. Todenes gives a beautiful account of the Sanctus… “
5 Stars, Mark Sealey, MusicWeb-International.com, “…If you don’t know this very compelling work, this is an excellent place to start. If you follow Edward Gardner’s intriguing career, you’ll want this as a testament to the best he is so far capable of. If large scale choral repertoire thrills you as much for its exactness, clarity and dedication as for its scale, then prepare to be thrilled; and to be left entirely satisfied on repeated listenings.”
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD, Download
Original Recording Format: 24/96 kHz.
Sample tracks available at Chandos.Net
Chandos (CHAN 5219)
Producer: Brian Pidgeon, Engineer: Ralph Couzens, Engineer assistant: Gunnar Herleif Nilsen, Engineer assistant: Stephen Rinker
Venue: Grieghallen, Bergen, Norway
Recording Date: May 2018
Release Date: October 2018
Download at Chandos https://www.chandos.net/products/catalogue/CHAN%205219 (https://www.chandos.net/products/catalogue/CHAN%205219)
On Qobuz: Search for...
Berlioz: 'Grande Messe des morts', Requiem, The Gardner version comes up in 24/96 stereo
I've listened to this album many times. I also own both the Sir Colin Davis version and Roger Norrington version. All of them are great, but I keep returning to the Gardner version as my favorite. On this recording, play track number 2, "Dies Irae". The male voices are spectacular and about 4 minutes in, the plucking of deep bass strings propel the music forward with depth and power. Sonics are terrific with location of the choirs correctly placed in your listening space. Another several minutes in to the track the brass sections (scattered around the hall, as Berlioz wanted) blaze into the scene. All in all, this is a splendid performance that will give your system a choral performance not to be missed.
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227503)
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I think choral music should not be on any list of demonstration music. Very few audiophiles will tolerate it even for very short period.
A guy played Tallis Scholars Allegri: Miserere (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDOENZediM8) at CAF, and it quickly cleared out the room of a dozen people despite the host serving free beer!
IMO, a demo song should be short and dramatic to demonstrate the technical points without becoming an artistic lecture to those who don't care about that kind of music. It should be "gentle and kind" classical music that is popular and well accepted by most classical fans, not edgy dissonant hard core music that very few can fully appreciate.
Any kind of Bach usually clears the room quickly, with the cantatas having the strongest dispersal force. Drop the needle somewhere in the middle of St Matthews Passion and the people will vanish like a UFO.
This symphonic piece (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbXAHpBTEYI) was a popular demo track among audiophiles 15 years ago. I remember a guy came over my house to hear my system for the first time. I had been to his house, he had lowther single driver DIY speakers, 10W tube amps, all DIY, all very fragile looking. He listened to blues and classic rock pretty quietly. I played this track for him on my big 4 way speakers at normal symphony level. He shouted out loud and jumped back in his seat at the bass drum accent at the beginning. He was impressed but a little shaken, like he had never heard a stereo do that before. I never saw him again, he stopped posting on AC and moved away shortly after that. I am always haunted by the idea that I demoed him right out of the hobby. :lol:
At an audio meet at my house back in the glory days the crowd of 30something DINK audiophiles was rowdy and talking loudly over the music. So I played Beethoven Opus 135, 3rd movement Lento (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQWoDaBZkbE), by Prazak Quartet, thinking it would have its usual effect of gently moving the chatter to another room so the serious listeners can focus. But it had the opposite effect. Everyone suddenly went silent, looked at the stereo and listened intently for the whole movement. You never know what reaction you'll get to a demo track.
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Desertpilot - Thanks a 1,000,000 for this thread and the detailed notes on the suggestions. I am of the generation of audiophiles who studied the writings of Harry Pearson and J. Gordon Holt both of whom stated classical music, especially large scale romantic age works, are the ultimate test of a HiFi. Given the dynamics, bandwidth, and infinite tonal colors possible I still agree with HP & JGH.
richidoo - Enjoyed your stories of demos. Regarding "choral music should not be on any list of demonstration music. Very few audiophiles will tolerate it even for very short period". Well, granted, however lets not limit this discussion thread. I will posit that 'Demonstration Worthy' has at least three levels with the listeners' tolerance level changing accordingly:
- Just me listening solo, lets take this system out and see what she will really do. Anything goes including choral music.
- Listening with friends who are into music and HiFi. Anything goes including classical and choral but the one offering the esoteric selection up perhaps owes us a introduction.
- Listening to demo in public, for example at a trade show like my beloved LSAF. In that setting I would rarely, if ever, do not only choral but any classical. At shows the attention span is shortened by the excitement of the event and there is just not the ability to get listeners to settle into a 10-15 minute movement and wait for that moment when the composer and conductor let it all break loose. There are exceptions, I will post a link below describing when classical music as demo get a bit out of hand.
Reference Recordings’ “Stravinsky: The Rite of Spring, etc.” featuring Eiji Oue conducting the Minnesota Orchestra features 40+ dB dynamic range. https://www.diyaudio.com/forums/multi-way/352063-exploring-purifi-woofer-speaker-builds-29.html#post6244079 (https://www.diyaudio.com/forums/multi-way/352063-exploring-purifi-woofer-speaker-builds-29.html#post6244079)
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Desertpilot - Thanks a 1,000,000 for this thread and the detailed notes on the suggestions.
You are most welcome. Thanks for your feedback. It helps keep me motivated.
Marcus
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I think choral music should not be on any list of demonstration music. Very few audiophiles will tolerate it even for very short period.
At first, I thought you were joking. Let me reiterate, my primary purpose in creating this thread is to offer high quality music selections to AC members for their personal use. We purchase high quality gear. Many of us spend a lot of money on our gear. We should have high quality content to play on it. Again, well performed, well recorded and well mastered to the highest quality possible. I want members to "demonstrate" the capabilities of their systems to themselves! If they wish to play this music to family and friends, that is their choice.
Next up is piano music. Absolutely, a very difficult instrument to reproduce on our systems.
Marcus
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I thought everyone here might be interested in these two articles by Rushton Paul at Positive Feedback. The first is a discussion about Channel Classics records and their chief recording/mastering engineer, Jared Sachs.
https://positive-feedback.com/audio-discourse/jared-sacks-and-channel-classics-transparent-recordings-with-transcendent-artists/ (https://positive-feedback.com/audio-discourse/jared-sacks-and-channel-classics-transparent-recordings-with-transcendent-artists/)
He followed up this article with an interview with Jared.
https://positive-feedback.com/interviews/jared-sacks-channel-classics/ (https://positive-feedback.com/interviews/jared-sacks-channel-classics/)
Why am I pointing this out? Recording and mastering quality is extremely important. I was fascinated with the conversation. I particularly enjoyed hearing that conductor Iván Fischer and the Budapest Festival Orchestra do not record "live" performances. Jared likes this because he can set up microphones wherever needed. Also, they record a full movement at one time. Then, they all crowd in to the control room and take a listen. This may go on several times until they all think they got it "right". I own plenty of Channel Classics recordings and can attest to the care and quality of each one.
I hope you find it as insightful as I did.
Marcus
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Fantasies, Rhapsodies and Daydreams
Arabella Steinbacher (violin)
Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo
Lawrence Foster (conductor)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227444)
Thanks!
This is also available from Qobuz at 24/96.
As is:
Bruckner: Symphony No. 9 with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Manfred Honeck (conductor)
at 24/192
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Thanks!
This is also available from Qobuz at 24/96.
As is:
Bruckner: Symphony No. 9 with Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Manfred Honeck (conductor)
at 24/192
Great news! Super appreciate your post. Oh, and I hope you enjoy them as much as I do, especially with your new X5s!
Marcus
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Thanks Marcus this is a wonderful thread.
The Arabella/Fantasies looks great to a light listening for pleasure what in the end is the reason music exists.
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Thanks Marcus this is a wonderful thread.
The Arabella/Fantasies looks great to a light listening for pleasure what in the end is the reason music exists.
You are most welcome! Your feedback is keeping me motivated.
Marcus
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Honeck's Bruckner 9th is a good one. It is really hard to come up with reference quality performance and sound combined but this one gets close.
You might consider Gunter Wand's Bruckner 4th with the Berliners, their performance is glorious and the sound quality is great.
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I think this album meets your criteria :thumb:
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227519)
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I think this album meets your criteria
I will check it out. Thank you for the suggestion!
Marcus
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(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227520)
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Speaking of Choral works, this is the best I've ever heard the Mahler 8th sound. And best of all - streaming on Qobuz:
(https://www.udiscovermusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Dudamel__Mahler8_cover.jpg)
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I think choral music should not be on any list of demonstration music. Very few audiophiles will tolerate it even for very short period.
A guy played Tallis Scholars Allegri: Miserere (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDOENZediM8) at CAF, and it quickly cleared out the room of a dozen people despite the host serving free beer!
I had a friend come over to hear my speakers and I played a series of short, under 5 min, pieces of varied genres among which was Mozart's Ave verum Corpus, motet for chorus, strings & organ K 618. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Robert Shaw on Telarc. My friend listens 99% to jazz but was literally moved to tears! Turns out he was a boy soprano in his church's choir when a young boy. One never knows what to expect I guess!
Al
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Speaking of Choral works, this is the best I've ever heard the Mahler 8th sound. And best of all - streaming on Qobuz:
Thanks Tyson. I agree. I have the Thierry Fischer with Utah Symphony Orchestra version, Reference Recordings (FR725SACD).
I appreciate your pointing this out because it brings up an important point. I have dozens of recordings which could be on a list like this one. Somehow, I have to pare it down to one or two examples of each type (orchestral, choral, violin solo, piano, etc.). But, members are very welcome to add their choice so the list is as robust as possible. The important criteria on this list is performance and sonics. Does the recording provide the listener with thrilling sound from the listener's system?
Thanks again! Marcus
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I had a friend come over to hear my speakers and I played a series of short, under 5 min, pieces of varied genres among which was Mozart's Ave verum Corpus, motet for chorus, strings & organ K 618. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, Robert Shaw on Telarc. My friend listens 99% to jazz but was literally moved to tears! Turns out he was a boy soprano in his church's choir when a young boy. One never knows what to expect I guess!
Al
Thank you Al. This is a great story. I have an AC member coming over today to audition my X3s. We'll see how it goes.
Marcus
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Doug came over today to listen to my X3s. He ordered a pair of X5s and wasn't sure what to expect. I played a couple minutes from each of my "demo worthy" albums. He was particularly impressed by the violin piece. He commented favorably on the wide soundstage and depth plus strong center image. He handed me several of his own discs and we played a couple tracks from each. He said he liked everything he heard. I enjoyed very much being able to do this for a Spatial customer.
Marcus
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Rachmaninov: Piano Concertos 2 & 3
Yevgeny Sudbin (piano)
BBC Symphony Orchestra
Sakari Oramo (conductor)
Evaluate your system for Piano and Orchestra. Selecting a piano piece to discuss has proven to be a real challenge. There are many available. In fact, I will add a few notable alternatives below.
Music Web International, Roy Westbrook, "But this pairing of the two most popular of the Rachmaninov concertos should take its place among the best of recent times."
Classics Today, David Hurwitz, "It’s really one of the better accounts of this piece in many years, assisted in no small degree by Oramo’s alert conducting and BIS’s typically realistic, well-balanced engineering."
HR Audio.Net, Adrian Quanjer, "There aren’t many two plus three on-a-disc on the market. And while it may not be my one hundred per cent ideal performance, BIS’ offer is not to be neglected and may for now well be the best choice for your hard earned cash. The more so because of the excellent recording quality, which only few, and hardly none of the competition are able to match."
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD, Download
Original Recording Format: 24-bit / 96 kHz
BIS (BIS-2338)
Producer: Marion Schwebel (Take5 Music Production), Sound engineer: Andreas Ruge, Editing and mixing: Marion Schwebel
Venue: BBC Maida Vale Studios, London, England
Recording Date: February 2017
Release Date: January, 2018
Grand Piano: Steinway D
Download available at eClassical https://www.eclassical.com/performers/sudbin-yevgeny/rachmaninov-piano-concertos-nos-2-3.html (https://www.eclassical.com/performers/sudbin-yevgeny/rachmaninov-piano-concertos-nos-2-3.html)
This is a very popular set of piano pieces. This recording has masterful engineering and should sound fantastic on your system. Reviewers were impressed with the performance, however there were a few quibbles over speed.
On Qobuz: Search for...
Yevgeny Sudbin, select SEE ALL RELEASES. The Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 3 is there in 24/96 stereo
I'll post a few alternatives next.
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227584)
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This is the single best recorded piano piece in my collection. "Evening Conversations" by David Fung from Yarlung Records. The cd and lp are available from https://www.yarlungrecords.com/
The sound is exactly what you hear from the perspective of the pianist- a different animal from being off to the side in a living room or the much more remote sound of a concert hall. Selections are from Mozart, Rachmaninoff, Scarlotti, Chopin, Schumann, and Tan Dun. The sound is immediate and powerful, with full reverberation of the bass that a 9' grand creates.
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81-cd0ePscL._SY355_.jpg)
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Beethoven: Concerto in C Major for Pianoforte, Violin, Violoncello and Orchestra, Op. 56 "Triple Concerto", Piano Trio in E-flat Major, Op. 38 after the Septet, Op. 20
Van Baerle Trio
Residentie Orkest The Hague
Jan Willem de Vriend (conductor)
Evaluate your system for Piano and Orchestra.
I'm adding some more piano pieces for your information. I have the entire 5 volume series and while chamber music, I think all the recordings are superb even if just to hear the gorgeous piano. The piano used in this series is a "straight strung" Chris Maene Concert Grand built in 2017. There is an English subtitled video informing you of construction of this very interesting piano. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CO7xWoIRrE0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CO7xWoIRrE0). These pianos are built in conjunction with Steinway.
HR Audio.Net, Adrian Quanjer, "Taken all 5 volumes together, the Van Baerle Trio has set down a survey that can easily measure up to other top sets, no matter how complete they may be, with this one having the additional advantage of great sound, the inclusion of a superbly played Septet Op. 20 transcription, and last but not least a remarkable account of the ‘Triple Concerto’. So, why not go for it!"
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD, and download. For SACD, a box set for all 5 volumes is offered.
Liner notes pdf and sample tracks are available at Native DSD.
Original Recording Format: DXD. If you want the DXD 352.8 version you have to go to Challenge Classics download website here https://www.spiritofturtle.com/shop/complete-works-for-piano-trio-vol-5-download/?v=796834e7a283 (https://www.spiritofturtle.com/shop/complete-works-for-piano-trio-vol-5-download/?v=796834e7a283).
Challenge Classics (CC 72801)
Venue: Atrium City Hall The Hague (Triple Concerto), Studio 1 of the Dutch Radio, Hilversum (Trio Op. 38).
Recording Date: November & December, 2019
Release date: March, 2020
Producer, engineer, editing & mastering: Bert van der Wolf
The 3 volume series of Beethoven Piano Concertos is also wonderful (and a box set as well).
On Qobuz: Search for...
Van Baerle Trio, select SEE ALL RELEASES. All 5 volumes are there. 24/44.1 stereo
Enjoy
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227602)
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Well done Marcus.
I had a feeling you would follow up on my suggestion.
I do think there is space for an overall demo worthy thread for all types of music and ideally it would be integrated into one thread with the background detail that you have included.
Bravo.
Cheers,
Sumo
(Spatial Audio X-3 Owner)
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Beethoven: Concerto in C Major for Pianoforte, Violin, Violoncello and Orchestra, Op. 56 "Triple Concerto", Piano Trio in E-flat Major, Op. 38 after the Septet, Op. 20
Van Baerle Trio
Residentie Orkest The Hague
Jan Willem de Vriend (conductor)
I'm adding some more piano pieces for your information. I have the entire 5 volume series and while chamber music, I think all the recordings are superb even if just to hear the gorgeous piano. The piano used in this series is a "straight strung" Chris Maene Concert Grand built in 2017. There is an English subtitled video informing you of construction of this very interesting piano. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CO7xWoIRrE0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CO7xWoIRrE0). These pianos are built in conjunction with Steinway.
HR Audio.Net, Adrian Quanjer, "Taken all 5 volumes together, the Van Baerle Trio has set down a survey that can easily measure up to other top sets, no matter how complete they may be, with this one having the additional advantage of great sound, the inclusion of a superbly played Septet Op. 20 transcription, and last but not least a remarkable account of the ‘Triple Concerto’. So, why not go for it!"
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD, and download. For SACD, a box set for all 5 volumes is offered.
Lines notes pdf and sample tracks are available at Native DSD.
Original Recording Format: DXD. If you want the DXD 352.8 version you have to go to Challenge Classics download website here https://www.spiritofturtle.com/shop/complete-works-for-piano-trio-vol-5-download/?v=796834e7a283 (https://www.spiritofturtle.com/shop/complete-works-for-piano-trio-vol-5-download/?v=796834e7a283).
Challenge Classics (CC 72801)
Venue: Atrium City Hall The Hague (Triple Concerto), Studio 1 of the Dutch Radio, Hilversum (Trio Op. 38).
Recording Date: November & December, 2019
Release date: March, 2020
Producer, engineer, editing & mastering: Bert van der Wolf
The 3 volume series of Beethoven Piano Concertos is also wonderful (and a box set as well).
Enjoy
Marcus
Nice rec. Actually the entire set of Beethoven symphonies conducted by de Vriend is exceptional sonically and performance.
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Well done Marcus.
I had a feeling you would follow up on my suggestion.
I do think there is space for an overall demo worthy thread for all types of music and ideally it would be integrated into one thread with the background detail that you have included.
Bravo.
Cheers,
Sumo
(Spatial Audio X-3 Owner)
Thank you for your feedback. I initially tried to do a separate circle but since I am 99% classical, I felt this circle was a better home. I'm glad you found me here to follow up on your suggestion. Your X3 video and Clayton interview was a vital part of my buying decision.
Marcus
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Nice rec. Actually the entire set of Beethoven symphonies conducted by de Vriend is exceptional sonically and performance.
Thanks Tyson. I have completed my original plan of offering information about a variety of demonstration worthy recordings. I would like to continue with additional recordings I feel are also excellent. You probably noticed that my reviews are all fairly recent and high resolution. This is my choice for music in my home. I am all solid state gear and set up for multichannel (5.0) so I always lean towards music in both stereo and multichannel. I do not own LPs nor a turntable.
For everyone's information, I will list my equipment:
QNAP NAS to store all my music.
1GB internet (COX), Netgear CM 1000 modem, Ubiquity Dream Machine Router, Audio upgraded network switch.
Bluejeans audio cables, 12 gauge speaker wire, Cat 6a ethernet cables, HDMI cables.
Homebuilt Core i7 Windows 10 PC as my music server (I may invest in an Intel NUC as a separate music server).
ROON and Qobuz (for audio), JRiver Media Center (for tagging music files and Video)
AudioQuest Cinnamon Digital Audio USB Cable A-B
exaSound S88 multichannel DAC.
Marantz AV8805 Pre/Pro (for movies and NVidia Shield Pro streaming)
Parasound Halo A52+ amplifier
Spatial Audio Lab X3 open baffle speakers. Speakers are 5 feet from the front wall with GIK 6A absorber/diffusor panels behind them. I sit 11 feet back from the speakers. Very modest toe-in. The room is 30 feet long.
Thanks everyone for your support.
Marcus
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Berlioz: La Damnation de Faust
Karen Cargill (mezzo)
Bryan Hymel (tenor)
Christopher Purves (baritone)
Gábor Bretz (bass)
London Symphony Chorus
London Symphony Orchestra
Sir Simon Rattle (conductor)
Evaluate your system for male and female soloists plus choir.
This release is one of my favorites and many 5 star critical reviews. From my HR Audio.Net comment: "Faust. I am fascinated by the story. We all have our dark moments of despair in life. Some may choose suicide; Faust certainly was close until he heard the church bells off in the distance. Most of us, as I have constantly reminded my children, wait it out until the darkness lifts. In my experience, it always does. Faust, however, chose to make a deal with the Devil."
The entire concert was on YouTube but it must be taken down now. Here is a video of the "Hungarian March" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7okulqWTP2Q (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7okulqWTP2Q)
Mike Ashman wrote a glowing review for Gramophone. I want to draw your attention to his characterization of the soloists: "There’s no lack of either angst or love in Bryan Hymel’s emotional and stylish reading of the title-part and a special richness about Karen Cargill’s fantasies as Marguerite. Christopher Purves manages both wit and a specially sleazy nastiness as the victorious Devil (actually, the Devil's agent) and Gábor Bretz is strong and straightforward as Brander." I added the following comment: Christopher Purves' baritone voice is exceptional. He really gets in to the role and towards the end, as he leads Faust in to hell, he mocks Faust with truly "dark" emotion. Purves' voice is powerful, commanding and comes through as victorious. Meanwhile, Faust twists in agony and despair. His singing, filled with regret and pleading for mercy, is in strong counterpoint to Purves. It is a moment to savor.
Robert Levine for Classics Today writes: "This is a wonderful, vivid performance. Rattle handles the scene transitions almost cinematically. ...And the LSO is brilliant throughout—the pianissimos sometimes merely a suggestion, the fortes startling."
Erica Jeal writes for The Guardian: "Hymel led a cast of principals that could hardly have been bettered. His tenor, huge and yet malleable, sailed across even the lushest orchestral moments, its timbre penetrating and silvery. Baritone Christopher Purves was a late stand-in as Méphistophélès, but an ideal one – his devil was all charm, honeyed tones and veiled thuggishness, and every glance and gesture told. Karen Cargill’s beautifully centred, silky-sounding singing brought out all Marguerite’s vulnerability and her stillness at the centre of this story. Brander, who gallops through a nasty song about a rat in the Tavern Scene, is an ungrateful role but Gábor Bretz sang it nimbly."
Tech Specs
Available as CD, SACD and download.
Download: https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/lso0809d-berlioz-la-damnation-de-faust/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/lso0809d-berlioz-la-damnation-de-faust/)
Original Recording Format: DSD 64
LSO Live (LSO0809)
Mastering Engineer, Jonathan Stokes for Classic Sound Ltd. and Balance Engineer, Neil Hutchinson.
Venue: Live at the Barbican, London
Recording Date: 17 & 19 September, 2017
Release Date: March 8, 2019
On Qobuz: Search for...
Faust, select SEE ALL RELEASES, look for the LSO & Rattle version, 24/96 in stereo
I can't say enough good things about this recording. Sonics are excellent (even considering it was at the Barbican). The hall was packed and the additional chorus members filling the isles must have been a challenge for the recording team. A reviewer who attended the live performance said there were microphones literally everywhere. If you have a chance to watch any of the vocal videos you'll see that the conductor is center stage. Purves (Baritone), Méphistophélès, the Devil's agent, stands to the right. Hymel (Tenor), Faust, stands to the left. Cargill (Mezzo), Marguerite, stands to the left of Faust. As you play the program you will clearly hear the vocals correctly positioned.
Note: The liner notes state that Berlioz did not want this piece to be a staged opera. Instead, he wanted the music to stir the audience’s imagination. It certainly does and I was very emotionally connected.
Yes. The concert is in French. The liner notes contain the English translation.
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227615)
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Thank you for your feedback. I initially tried to do a separate circle but since I am 99% classical, I felt this circle was a better home. I'm glad you found me here to follow up on your suggestion. Your X3 video and Clayton interview was a vital part of my buying decision.
Marcus
Glad to hear you found value in my video's. Working in a hospital during these times hasn't helped me free up the time to do as much as I hoped these past 18 months, and then birth of my second daughter has been my main priority these days. This is not my business. I don't create videos on the new speaker or amps of the month. Only those rare creations that inspire me to want to invest the time to share my almost 50 year perspective to achieve the ultimate sound quest for a reasonable buck. When my brother and I got our first pioneer receiver and small advent loundspeakers we researched that decision for weeks as we were saving money from our paper route at 11 years old to pay for it.
Getting back to the thread, since I am unfamiliar to your list of recordings, can you recommend the first one I can stream on Qobuz? If you give me the name of it, I'll search your reviews and dive in.
Cheers,
Sumo
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...Working in a hospital during these times hasn't helped me free up the time to do as much as I hoped these past 18 months,
You have my many thanks for helping aid the sick!
...and then birth of my second daughter has been my main priority these days.
As it should be. Heck, I'm retired and have little time.
Getting back to the thread, since I am unfamiliar to your list of recordings, can you recommend the first one I can stream on Qobuz? If you give me the name of it, I'll search your reviews and dive in.
Cheers,
Sumo
Sure thing. I may add this note in my reviews.
On Qobuz: Search for...
Faust, select SEE ALL RELEASES, look for the LSO & Rattle version, 24/96 in stereo
Van Baerle Trio, select SEE ALL RELEASES. All 5 volumes are there. 24/44.1 stereo
Yevgeny Sudbin, select SEE ALL RELEASES. The Rachmaninoff: Piano Concertos Nos. 2 & 3 is there in 24/96 stereo
Berlioz: 'Grande Messe des morts', Requiem, The Gardner version comes up in 24/96 stereo
Arabella Steinbacher, select SEE ALL RELEASES, Fantasies, Rhapsodies & Daydreams comes up in 24/96 stereo
Manfred Honeck, select SEE ALL RELEASES, look for Bruckner Symphony #9, 24/192 stereo
There you go. All my recommendations are on Qobuz.
Marcus
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Consider "Cantate Domino" Recorded by Proprius. Wonderful choral music recorded in a church.
https://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=PRCD7762 (https://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=PRCD7762)
Jim
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As everyone can see from my recommendations, I prefer high resolution digital files. I thought it would be helpful to post information that may help you understand why this works for me and possibly you.
This first article is an interview with Tom Caulfield, NativeDSD's mastering engineer. Why this article? Most important is Tom's explanation of how Native DSD can offer so many file types (PCM, DSD and DXD) and sample rates (DSD 64-512, DXD 24/352.8, PCM 24/up to 192). I've had several email interactions with the Native DSD folks about this topic. They now post information about their process when a customer selects a bit and sample rate. They also publish the original recording format for every title. Lastly, DXD is becoming a popular recording/mixing/mastering format. Tom discusses this and offers that your DAC may prefer DXD files over DSD files. In a subtle way, I do think this is the case for me.
Article: https://positive-feedback.com/interviews/mastering-engineer-tom-caulfield/ (https://positive-feedback.com/interviews/mastering-engineer-tom-caulfield/).
First is a short video from Brendon Heinst, co-owner of TRPTK. I own several of their recordings and can attest to the high sonic quality, especially piano music. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYCYGlm358Q (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYCYGlm358Q).
Here's a video explaining high resolution formats (very simplified): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcHdnBRYa3Y (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcHdnBRYa3Y).
Follow up video, why high resolution music matters: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuOnPIpCQ7g (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uuOnPIpCQ7g).
I hope you find this information helpful. My own purchase decision is to generally buy the same format as the original recording format.
Thanks
Marcus
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Thank you Marcus
This is a treasure to explore.
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I hope you find this information helpful.
Very helpful, thanks. It dovetails neatly with a thread (http://forums.stevehoffman.tv/threads/your-best-tracks-for-critical-listening.1100137/) I started recently on another site. I look forward to exploring all of your suggestions.
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Consider "Cantate Domino" Recorded by Proprius. Wonderful choral music recorded in a church.
https://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=PRCD7762 (https://www.naxos.com/catalogue/item.asp?item_code=PRCD7762)
Jim
From Propius I rec this organ SACD recorded at 15ips tape 1974 full time 77 min.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/203164389421
(https://img.discogs.com/o2Z60kWUhmi2Y83BVdTKdYtz_iM=/fit-in/600x500/filters:strip_icc():format(webp):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-13079229-1547674103-3747.jpeg.jpg)
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I don't know how to insert a photo of the cover art, but I'm absolutely in love with sound of the recordings made by The Orchestra of the Eighteenth Century on the Glossa label. Through Roon and Qobuz I discovered the set of these Beethoven symphonies, live from Rotterdam, 2011. These are done on original or remakes of period instruments. Violins have a drop dead gorgeous feathery sound due to using all gut strings and convex vs. concave bows. Horns are valveless
Flutes are made of wood vs. metal. I really can't tell but the tuning might be more like A=438 vs. A=440. The timbre of the period instruments influences the orchestral balance and thus the interpretation. Recordings are from a mid-hall perspective and not bright or strident. These are oh so beautiful and must hear recordings.
Al
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I don't know how to insert a photo of the cover art, but I'm absolutely in love with sound of the recordings made by The Orchestra of the Eighteenth Century on the Glossa label. Through Roon and Qobuz I discovered the set of these Beethoven symphonies, live from Rotterdam, 2011. These are done on original or remakes of period instruments. Violins have a drop dead gorgeous feathery sound due to using all gut strings and convex vs. concave bows. Horns are valveless
Flutes are made of wood vs. metal. I really can't tell but the tuning might be more like A=438 vs. A=440. The timbre of the period instruments influences the orchestral balance and thus the interpretation. Recordings are from a mid-hall perspective and not bright or strident. These are oh so beautiful and must hear recordings.
Al
Thanks Al,
On Qobuz search for Glossa Beethoven.
Here is the album cover.
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227692)
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Marcus, how do you post the cover art?
Thanks!
Al
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Marcus, how do you post the cover art?
Thanks!
Al
The way I do it is to save the cover art (JPG file) to my hard drive. When you compose your post, look below for "upload and insert an image". Click on it and select "image file to upload". Then select "choose file" and navigate to the cover art on your hard drive. Select it. Then select "upload and insert image". You're done.
Marcus
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Marcus, how do you post the cover art?
Thanks!
Al
To insert an external image without store it in your PC press the Mona Lisa icon at top right (insert image).
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Great!
Many thanks,
Al
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Wölfl: Piano Sonata in C minor, Andante & Variations, Piano Sonata in B minor, Waltz in C minor
Spee: 3 Intermezzi
Mattias Spee (piano)
Evaluate your system for solo Piano.
I've been searching around for a solo piano album I thought worthy to list here. I think I finally found one. Young artist and an unknown composer. Joseph Wölfl. Let's talk about the composer. What a fascinating story. He was a contemporary of Beethoven. In fact, he was engaged in piano duels with Beethoven (a popular entertainment for nobility at that time). Wölfl was extremely popular throughout Europe both for composition and piano performances. The pdf liner notes has the whole story. Fascinating. The artist, Mattias Spee, is an up and comer in the piano performance world. His performance on this album is excellent.
HR Audio, Adrian Quanjer, "All I can say is that Mattias Spee has opened a treasure trove with this first volume in the TRPTK Eclipse series “of unjustly forgotten composers”. I do not know what is to follow, but in the meantime whet your appetite with this one, you won’t be disappointed.
Brendon Heinst guarantees the best possible sound (recorded in DXD 352.8 kHz 32 bits)."
Tech Specs:
Available as a CD, SACD and download (2.0 or 5.0).
-- Download from Native DSD all PCM, DSD, sample rates plus 24/352.8 DXD (FLAC).
-- To get the original recording format 32/352.8 DXD, go to the TRPTK website. This is a WAV file only.
Sample tracks and free copy of the pdf file of liner notes at Native DSD.
Original Recording Format: DXD
Venue: Muziekcentrum van de Omroep (MCO) in Hilversum, Netherlands
Recording Date: February 5-7, 2021
Release Date: 6/9/2021
Mastering Engineer: Brendon Heinst (co founder of TRPTK).
trptk TTK0073
Steinway Model D-274 Concert Grand Piano
Download: https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/ttk0073-eclipse-volume-1/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/ttk0073-eclipse-volume-1/)
Qobuz: Search for Joseph Wölfl. Select "see all releases". Select "Eclipse Vol. 1". 24/88.2 stereo
What's so great about this album? The performance and the music are excellent. The melody is outstanding but won't put you to sleep. What is really important to me is the sound of the piano. Very percussive. Also, I love the detail. You can hear the decay of the piano notes. No distortion in the low bass notes or the high treble notes.
The sound engineer, Brendon Heinst, is dedicated to sonic perfection. There are several YouTube videos about him. Here's a link to one of the videos in which he discusses his mastering/editing room and equipment. Enjoy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYCYGlm358Q (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WYCYGlm358Q)
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227721)
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I've pretty much listed recordings I consider demonstration worthy. But, I do not want to let the thread die off. So, if members do not mind, I would like to continue to list exceptional classical recordings.
Marcus
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Arvo Pärt: Stabat Mater
Gloriæ Dei Cantores, Choir
Richard K. Pugsley, Conductor
Evaluate your system for choir.
Sure, this is sacred music. But, I think you will discover the beauty of the choir voices through the entire album. What I really like about this choir is the depth of voices to include tenors and baritones. Track number 2, "L'abbe Agathon", is my favorite. The soprano can reach beautifully up high. This will give you insight in to your system's capabilities.
The group also released a very well received Rachmaninoff: (Pugsley) All Night Vigil, Op. 37. Here is a teaser/trailer for this work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjFi_g_iOIY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjFi_g_iOIY).
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227766)
Of course, the earlier Rachmaninoff: (Bruffy) All Night Vigil, Op 37, recording is also excellent. Here is the teaser/trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fm1nYApgCk (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fm1nYApgCk).
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227767)
Stabat Mater has received many glowing reviews:
HR Audio Review by Mark Werlin: "For all lovers of contemporary sacred choral music, and as an alternative perspective on the music of Arvo Pärt, this recording is highly recommended."
Classics Today Review by: David Vernier: "But the proof is in the singing, and here you have it–in an exemplary “American” sound that contrasts distinctly with the Estonian, German, and British choirs who’ve also championed Pärt’s music. If you’re a choral music fan, you already have Pärt in your life; if you’re new to his music, you can happily start here..."
GBOpera.it: "Gloriae Dei Cantores…under the direction of Richard K. Pugsley, interprets these works with great technical mastery (homogenity, attention to dynamics, phrasing)… creating pure atmospheres of enchantment, which truly touch the heart and soul of the listener, transporting them to a high and profound spiritual dimension."
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD, and download.
Original Recording Format DSD64
-- Download from Native DSD all PCM, DSD, sample rates plus 24/352.8 DXD (FLAC).
Venue: Church of the Transfiguration in Orleans, MA
Date of Recording: September 2018, May 2019 & September 2019
Release Date: April 10, 2020
Recording Engineer: Brad Michel (known for superior choir recordings) and Dan Pfeiffer
Download: https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/gdcd065-stabat-mater/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/gdcd065-stabat-mater/)
Qobuz: Search for Gloriæ Dei Cantores. 24/176.4 Stereo
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227765)
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I've pretty much listed recordings I consider demonstration worthy. But, I do not want to let the thread die off. So, if members do not mind, I would like to continue to list exceptional classical recordings.
Marcus
Fantastique, I thank you immensely if you could post something when you can spare your time, I could mention famous classics titles, but I couldnt make an analysis that these works deserve due to incompetence and too small free time.
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Korngold: Symphony, Theme and Variations, Straussiana
Sinfonia of London
John Wilson (conductor)
Evaluate your system for Orchestra.
The conductor reconstituted the Sinfonia of London in 2018. The orchestra is composed of the best musicians from a variety of orchestras assembled for studio recordings. They certainly have met that task with several excellent albums including this one. The composer became famous for early film scores. In fact, as you listen to this recording, you might think it is a film score from time to time.
HR Audio review by Graham Williams, "The playing of the orchestra is clean, lean and superbly disciplined throughout. The scherzo, for example, is played with breathtaking precision and confidence – a whirlwind tour de force. The third movement (Adagio, Lento - Con tristezza) flows convincingly even at a tempo seemingly in conflict with the markings given above, but thanks to the eloquent string playing, both the gravity and ardour inherent in the music is never short changed."
John Quinn of Music Web International, "When I first listened to the new John Wilson recording, I was taken aback – in a good way – by the biting drama and tension in the performance of the first movement, qualities which are enhanced by a detailed and potent Chandos recording."
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD, and download
Download 2.0 or 5.0 at Chandos: https://www.chandos.net/products/catalogue/CHAN%205220 (https://www.chandos.net/products/catalogue/CHAN%205220)
Venue: Church of S. Augustine, Kilburn, London
Recording Date: 14 – 16 January 2019
Release Date: 7/24/2019
Sound Engineer: Ralph Couzens; Jonathan Cooper & James Unwin
Qobuz: search for "Sinfonia of London", select "see all releases", all of the recent albums are listed including this one.
I really love this symphony. It is lively and engaging. All four movements are lovely and somewhat different. You won't get bored with it. Sonics are excellent.
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227945)
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If you like more "modern" orchestral works, this is great as are a couple of other of CDs of his music.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227952)
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I find myself listening to more Indian classical music than western these days. A truly stunning recording is "Surround Yourself with Hindustani Ragas" on the Nimbus label. It is available as a DVD-A release. Nimbus used their ambiasonic mic to record these in surround sound. I've never listened to this in surround, I ripped the stereo mix and I listen from my computer. It is a native 24/48 recording and it is fabulous. The timbre of the instruments is palpable and the space of the performance is quite evident.
The music itself is mesmerizing. If you're not familiar with Hindustani classical it can take some time to get used to it but I found these performances to be very approachable and easy to immerse myself in them. I think these are pretty easy to get into because they are all solo instruments with a rhythm backing as opposed to a complex arrangement of an orchestra or something. The ragas (and Hindustani classical in general as far as I can tell) are all about melodic construction and exploration. A big difference between western and Indian classical is that Indian music doesn't use functional harmony to express things or guide the listener.
Give it a try, if nothing else it is fantastic hi fi demo album.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227967)
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(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51HH6KKC21L._AC_UL600_SR600,600_.jpg)
https://www.discogs.com/Korngold-Deutsches-Symphonie-Orchester-Berlin-Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester-Berlin-John-Mauceri-Between/release/2676891
Between Two Worlds: Judgement Day
Alexander Frey, piano
Berlin Radio Symphony Orchestra - John Mauceri
German Symphony Orchestra, Berlin - John Mauceri
London Entartete Musik series
London Classics 444 170-2
Total timing 76:13
Recorded in 1994/95 released in US 1996
Recording Locations:
Jesus Christus Kirche, Berlin Dahlem, April 1994 (Opp.39 & 42)
Funk Haus Nalepa Straße, Berlin Köpenick, April 1995 (Between Two Worlds)
Thanks for reminder me from Korngold he was a great film soundtrack composer, I recommend this CD that I especially like due these pieces Korngold composed for the Judgement Day movie from 1944, these 14 tracks was not all the music Korngold composed for this film just what Me.John Mauceri selected.
Here perfomed by Rundfunk Sinfonie Orchester Berlin under John Mauceri for the London's Entartete Musik series that was a series of musical works and composers suppressed by the Third Reich, recorded in 1994/95 released in US 1996 by London Classics 444 170-2, unfortunately the recording was not great by current DSD and hi rate PCM standards just the regular Decca sound, propably 24/96 multi-miking.
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Never mind. Carry on
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For those interested in exploring adventurous avant-garde classical, I highly recommend this redbook recording of George Crumb's A Haunted Landscape. It's not a hi-res recording, but its sound rivals or even betters many of my SACDs and hi-res downloads.
It's the NY Phil under Arthur Weisberg, on New World, catalog no. NW80326, recorded live before an audience. The work was actually commissioned by the NYP.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=228005)
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Ståle Kleiberg: Concertos
Marianne Thorsen, violin
Eivind Ringstad, viola
Fredrik Sjölin, cello
Trondheim Symphony Orchestra
Peter Szilvay, conductor
Evaluate your system for Violin, Cello and Viola.
2L is high up on my list of superb recording companies. MORTEN LINDBERG is an exceptional recording/mixing engineer. In fact, aside from SACD and downloads, he is pioneering the use of Blu Ray Audio discs to offer Auro 3D and Dolby ATMOS versions of the music. The physical disc won't be available until September 2021. However the download version is available now from Native DSD. They offer all the usual PCM/DSD/DXD formats. I chose to download it in the original recording format 24/352.8 (FLAC) version.
I am a Kleiberg fan ever since the release of his “Treble & Bass” album. This new offer is called a follow-on to it. Kleiberg never disappoints with adding lots of bass instruments to provide his music with power and depth. These concertos are no exception. I've listened to the recording many times now. Each time, I come away with the feeling that maybe I can listen to it one more time.
All three solo instruments, Violin, Viola and Cello are given plenty of music to play with a wonderful accompaniment by the Trondheim Symphony. Thorsen comes through again with sweet melodies. It’s wonderful how she can hold a single note for seemingly an eternity allowing the listener to dwell on the music’s deeper meaning. She follows up with a strong and aggressive play which will keep you paying attention. Ringstad’s viola playing is also first rate. Like Thorsen, he commands the instrument, even through strong orchestra accompaniment. Horns are added to provide thrilling moments in all three tracks. Lastly, Sjölin’s cello brings you to that sad awareness of man’s inhumanity through ethnic cleansing. All in all, the entire album is powerful yet melodic giving the listener an emotional connection.
HR Audio Review by Adrian Quanjer: "...Ståle Kleiberg is the perfect antidote. The many colours of his music have a soothing effect allowing the listener to come to terms with what was and cherish whatever is still in store. Enjoy! ...Needless to say, that Marten Lyndberg, 2L’s sound wizard, has spared no effort to get the full frequency spectrum across without any hint of distortion. So, don’t spare your speakers. Listen to the music and forget about the neighbours. They might actually like it as much as I did!"
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD, Blu Ray and download.
Original recording format: 24/352.8
Read about the recording plus a bunch of photos and orchestra layout at 2L: http://www.2l.no/ (http://www.2l.no/)
Download here: https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/2l166-stale-kleiberg-concertos/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/2l166-stale-kleiberg-concertos/)
Available on Qobuz: Search for Ståle Kleiberg. All his recordings come up in 24 bit/44.1 kHz. Don't forget to check out his 2007 recording Kleiberg: Treble & Bass Concertos.
Editing, Mix and Mastering MORTEN LINDBERG
Catalog #2L166
Venue: Olavshallen, Trondheim, Norway
Recording Date: June and August 2020
Release Date: Download, August 2021, physical disc, September 2021.
Go to Qobuz and take a listen. You won't be disappointed.
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=228017)
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Thanks to this thread, I am listening to Van Baerle Trio (saint saens in f major). Loving everything that trio does! Thank you, 1000x thank you
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I find myself listening to more Indian classical music than western these days. A truly stunning recording is "Surround Yourself with Hindustani Ragas" on the Nimbus label. It is available as a DVD-A release. Nimbus used their ambiasonic mic to record these in surround sound. I've never listened to this in surround, I ripped the stereo mix and I listen from my computer. It is a native 24/48 recording and it is fabulous. The timbre of the instruments is palpable and the space of the performance is quite evident.
The music itself is mesmerizing. If you're not familiar with Hindustani classical it can take some time to get used to it but I found these performances to be very approachable and easy to immerse myself in them. I think these are pretty easy to get into because they are all solo instruments with a rhythm backing as opposed to a complex arrangement of an orchestra or something. The ragas (and Hindustani classical in general as far as I can tell) are all about melodic construction and exploration. A big difference between western and Indian classical is that Indian music doesn't use functional harmony to express things or guide the listener.
Give it a try, if nothing else it is fantastic hi fi demo album.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227967)
Do you have a link, especially qobuz or tidal if necessary? I enjoy that music
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Do you have a link, especially qobuz or tidal if necessary? I enjoy that music
I don't think it's available for streaming I'm afraid. Only physical copy. I'm hoping now that Apple is offering ATMOS streaming they will bring it to the streaming services.
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(http://[img]https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=227715)
[/img]
Composers Collection, Grainger, North Texas Wind Symphony. If you like wind band music, here a wonderful recording of one of the best composers for the genre, Percy Grainger, played by the North Texas Wind Symphony. Lincolnshire Posy is, IMO, one of, if not the greatest composition ever written for wind band.
BTW, this is my first attempt at uploading cover art so I hope it works.
Al
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Honegger: Jeanne d'Arc au bûcher
Judith Chemla, Jean-Claude Drouot, Christian Gonon, Adrien Gamba-Gontard, Claire de Sévigné, Christine Goerke, Judit Kutasi, Jean-Noël Briend, Steven Humes
Netherlands Children’s Choir
Rotterdam Symphony Chorus
Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra
Stéphane Denève (conductor)
Evaluate your system for soloists, choir and speech.
I know there won't be a large market for this work. It is an Oratorio, and one I have loved for many years. This recording is recent and sonically wonderful. The singing is excellent by both soloists and choir. Honegger writes sublime melodies throughout. This is truly inspired music making. The liner notes: "Stéphane Denève ..., who is a leading authority on French music and a regular guest with the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra; together with two choirs and a variety of soloists and actors, ... realized a compelling and moving Jeanne d'Arc au bûcher."
To understand the gripping emotion of this piece you should look at Joan of Arc's biography. Here's one I think is excellent: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVPD5eFihKw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVPD5eFihKw).
Gramophone Magazine, October 2019
Denève’s spacious pacing is to the work’s advantage in many places…The tension of the final scene at the stake builds steadily, with superb French enunciation from both Dutch choruses and polished contributions from the solo singers…For an audio-only Jeanne d’Arc, look no further.
Opera Now, October 2019
It requires large forces, all balanced superbly by conductor Stéphane Denève. Jeanne is a spoken role, taken here by French actress Judith Chemla, heartbreaking in her youth and certitude. She is ably partnered by Jean-Claude Drouot as Frère Dominique, another non-singing role. The large cast is excellent, as are orchestra and chorus.
Erik Voermans, Parool “Unforgettable Jeanne d’Arc.”
Martin Toet, Place de l’Opera “Rare inspiration in Honeggers Jeanne.”
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD and download.
Original Recording Format: 24/96
Download (Stereo Only) https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8624805--honegger-jeanne-darc-au-bucher (https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8624805--honegger-jeanne-darc-au-bucher)
Qobuz: Search for Honegger: Jeanne d'Arc au bûcher, 24/96 Stereo
Producer & recording engineer Everett Porter, assistant engineer Lauran Jurrius
Venue: Recorded live at the Concertgebouw, Amsterdam
Recording Date: 27 and 28 September 2018
Release Date: 30 May, 2019
Catalogue No: 1433701851
I own this superb album on SACD and play the multichannel version. The power of the story is intense, Joan about to be burned at the stake. A savior of France and now a heretic. While it is in French, the booklet provides an English translation. All the elements are there for a superb recording, excellent orchestra, chorus and soloists. The horns provide that haunting effect throughout as the girl is condemned. There is sadness for sure as this is a true story. But, Honegger injects light hearted moments. The soloists and chorus all come through clearly and are not drowned out by the orchestra. In fact, conductor Stéphane Denève does a great job making sure the orchestra and singers compliment one another to keep the emotional impact high. Soundstage is excellent and everyone is located easily as you hear the piece. Side surrounds are used frequently for voices of angels. I greatly prefer the multichannel version over stereo. Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra has put all the tracks on YouTube if you care to sample/listen.
The best compliment I can give is that I play this recording frequently. Intense emotion throughout.
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=228312)
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Thanks for the heads-up, I like Oratórios with drama and if there is a narrator even better, also like as much Operas and Operettas, the important is that the music be good and the recording doesnt leave anything to be desired.
Its not fresh news that Ça Ira(There is Hope) the Roger Waters oratório was now been transformed into opera and staged with a new libretto in english and vocal narration by Roger, the plot also are French (Revolution).
(https://www.vagalume.com.br/roger-waters/discografia/ca-ira-there-is-hope.jpg)
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Whitlock: Organ Sonata
Farnam: Toccata on 'O filii et filiae'
Sowande: Kyrie
Grainger: Blithe Bells (after Bach)
Darius Battiwalla (JJ Binns organ of Rochdale Town Hall)
Evaluate your system for Organ (with some very deep bass notes).
Time for some organ music. This disc will surely give your subwoofers a real workout. Careful with your volume control until you are confident your subs can handle every note. Recording company Base 2 Music, is dedicated to quality recordings of pipe organ music. Here is how they describe themselves, "Base2 Music is a label dedicated to bringing you the best quality in Pipe organ music... No compression and no gating of frequency response." They have a variety of albums available on their own website or at Native DSD. I purchased the download in DSD 256 because I wasn't sure my DAC can handle WAV 384 kHz (which is the original recording format). I enjoy the album. There are several recordings available and you should look through the selections to find music you would enjoy.
HR Audio Review by Adrian Quanjer - June 18, 2021: "The remaining question: What about the music? Long-time forgotten and mostly appreciated for his shorter pieces, Percy Whitlock’s Sonata, the main work on this disc, ‘surfaced’ in the 19-seventies, to become a core element of English organ repertoire. Several recordings exist, but none having such an authoritative level of expression and sound: Around a mighty forty-five minutes of organ splendour filling the full space of the Great Hall. ...in Bastiaan Kuijt’s (BK Audio, Amsterdam) surround mastering, no detail gets lost and all of it is conveyed with energy galore!"
Tech Specs:
Available as SACD, download https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/base209-percy-whitlock-organ-sonata/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/base209-percy-whitlock-organ-sonata/)
Original Recording Format: PCM 384 kHz, stereo or multichannel.
I do not see it available on Qobuz
Venue: Rochdale Town Hall, Rochdale, Greater Manchester, England
Recording Date: 3-4 September 2020
Release Date: May 13, 2021
Producer and Sound Engineers: Jake Purches, Bastiaan Kuijt and Etienne Purches
Instrument: The Organ of Rochdale Town Hall, J. J. Binns, 1913. Rebuilt by J. W. Walker & Sons Ltd. in 1979.
Catalog # BASE209
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=228526)
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https://www.amazon.com/Tchaikovsky-Symphony-No-6-Teodor-Currentzis/dp/B01MS9VBKH/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=tchaikovsky+currentzis&qid=1629574010&s=music&sr=1-1
qobuz has a 24/96 version, which is what i would recommend.
interesting to see how reactions to the engineering are all over the place with this one.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=228619)
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You can buy the 96/24 download from Presto Music.
https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8270995--tchaikovsky-symphony-no-6-in-b-minor-op-74-pathetique
I double check classical and jazz at Presto before buying a CD because prices are better and they often have high resolution versions.
Same with HD Tracks (although their prices are often higher.)
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Prokofiev: Alexander Nevsky, Lieutenant Kijé Suite
Alisa Kolosova (mezzo-soprano)
Utah Symphony Chorus
University of Utah A Cappella Choir
University of Utah Chamber Choir
Barlow Bradford (director)
Utah Symphony
Thierry Fischer (conductor)
Evaluate your system for choir and orchestra.
Prokofiev's Alexander Nevsky and Lieutenant Kijé Suite were originally written as film scores back in 1934. He later adapted them as symphonic pieces. These are great fun and my two sons love the album. I've played the album very frequently. The choir portions are fantastic. Exceptional sonics in either stereo or multichannel.
HR Audio Review by Graham Williams - October 10, 2019: "This stunningly recorded disc with 60 minutes of compelling music performed with style and verve will almost certainly make it the go-to choice for a modern version these two works. ...The multi-channel 5.0 recording, made and post produced in 64fs DSD, offers a degree of aural realism not to be found in any rival medium, but is shown to particular advantage in large-scale orchestral and choral pieces such as these."
Review by Audiophile Audition | Nov 27, 2019: "The Utah forces are superb in every way, with magnificent sound and solid contributions from the choruses. These scores are deserving of such sonic splendor, and one senses the enthusiasm among all involved."
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD and download: https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/fr735-prokofiev-alexander-nevsky-lieutenant-kije-suite/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/catalogue/albums/fr735-prokofiev-alexander-nevsky-lieutenant-kije-suite/)
Qobuz: Search for Thierry Fischer
Original Recording Format: DSD 64
Venue: Maurice Abravanel Hall in Salt Lake City, Utah
Recording Date: November 18 and 19, 2016
Release Date: 10/24/2019
Recording/Mastering: Dirk Sobotka; John Newton; Mark Donahue, Soundmirror of Boston
Catalog Number: References Recordings, FR735
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=228798)
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https://www.amazon.com/Tchaikovsky-Symphony-No-6-Teodor-Currentzis/dp/B01MS9VBKH/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=tchaikovsky+currentzis&qid=1629574010&s=music&sr=1-1
qobuz has a 24/96 version, which is what i would recommend.
interesting to see how reactions to the engineering are all over the place with this one.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=228619)
Probably not unlike the range of reactions to the interpretation/performance. Currentzis takes fermata to a whole new level. This is by far the most melodramatic reading of the Pathetique I've ever heard.
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Ståle Kleiberg: Concertos
Go to Qobuz and take a listen. You won't be disappointed.
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=228017)
Thank you so much for this tip. Beautiful music, beautifully performed and an equally beautiful recording. And from my own country too, Norway. :D
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(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=230433)
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(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=230434)
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(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=230435)
Magical. Harp player doubles as a vocalist on a few tracks.
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Berlioz: Grande Messe des morts
Javier Camarena (tenor)
Coro dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia
Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Amsterdam
Antonio Pappano (conductor)
Evaluate your system for Choir and Orchestra.
Here's my take on this superb recording:
"The original recording format is DXD and I downloaded the 5.0 multichannel version in 24/352.8 DXD from Native DSD. This is my 4th copy of Berlioz: "Grande Messe des morts". I was not disappointed adding this album to my collection. The overall performance is excellent but it is the subtle nuances that are breathtaking. The chorus is a combination of the Chorus of the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia and the Netherlands Radio Choir. Chorus master, Ciro Visco, did a superb job melding these choirs. The best way I can describe their performance is the haunting, even dark, spiritual quality they add to many of the passages. Tenor Javier Camarena also performed magnificently. His voice beautifully communicated the Requiem's heartfelt condolences.
Jenny Camilleri from Opera Today attended the live performance at the Concertgebouw, Amsterdam on Friday, the 3rd of May, 2019. Her reaction? "Berlioz’s Requiem at the Concertgebouw – earthshakingly stupendous. ...The choir produced sumptuous, full-bodied harmonies, with defiantly percussive consonants in the ferocious Dies irae and Rex tremendae. The lyrical lines of the unaccompanied Quaerens me flowed like clear honey. Blanched, fearful murmurs receded into an almost tangible abyss, high voices shimmered in heaven-bound invocations." Read her entire review at NativeDSD: https://www.nativedsd.com/product/rco19006-berlioz-requiem-op-5/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/product/rco19006-berlioz-requiem-op-5/)
More positive reviews:
“Javier Camarena shines in the higher register. Heavenly.”
Merlijn Kerkhof, Volkskrant
“The Concertgebouworkest do justice to the magnificence of the music”
Peter van der Lint, Trouw
“A splendid performance with, as expected by Antonio Pappano, intense text interpretation”
Lucrèce Maeckelberg, Klassiek Centraal
Tech Specs:
Available in CD, SACD and download PCM,DSD, and DXD, 2 & 5 channel. (Native DSD: https://www.nativedsd.com/product/rco19006-berlioz-requiem-op-5/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/product/rco19006-berlioz-requiem-op-5/)
Original Recording Format: DXD
Available in Qobuz. Search for Berlioz. Stereo 24/192
Catalog # RCO19006
Recording Engineers: Everett Porter, Karel Bruggeman (Assistant Engineer), Polyhymnia.
Venue: Recorded Live at the Concertgebouw in Amsterdam
Recording Date: May 3 & 4, 2019
Release Date: 1 October, 2021
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=230443)
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Mahler: Symphony No. 3
Gerhild Romberger (alto)
Cantemus Children's Choir
Chor des Bayerischen Rundfunks
Budapest Festival Orchestra
Ivan Fischer (conductor)
Evaluate your system for Choir and Orchestra.
This recording is sonically excellent. But I am posting it because of the overwhelming praise of the performance. No less than 32 positive reviews. In fact, the entire cycle of Mahler Symphonies is tremendous.
David Hurwitz, Classics Today: "Mostly importantly, Fischer conducts with a plasticity of line, a natural rubato, that maximizes expressivity without excess sentimentality. The concluding Adagio is sublime."
Graham Williams, HR Audio: "Those who have enjoyed Fischer’s earlier Mahler recordings will need no urging to acquire this one. In both musical and sonic terms it provides a further criterion for past and future recordings of this symphony."
Bay Area Reporter: Best of 2017: "...Fischer’s primordial Mahler Third with his Budapest Festival Orchestra (Channel Classics) was just shockingly good"
The New York Times: The 25 Best Classical Music Recordings of 2017
Musicweb International [Recordings of the Year 2017]
Gramophone [Editor’s Choice – June 2017]
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD and download (2 and/or 5 channel) https://www.nativedsd.com/product/38817-mahler-symphony-no-3-in-dminor/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/product/38817-mahler-symphony-no-3-in-dminor/)
Booklet and sample tracks are available at Native DSD
Original Recording Format: DSD 64
Catalog # 38817
Recording Engineer: Jared Sacks, Tom Peeters, (Channel Classics)
Recording location: Palace of Arts, Mupa, Budapest Hungary
Recording date: September 2016
Release Date: April 29, 2017
Qobuz: 24/192 Stereo
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=230797)
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Thanks for the head-up, I have some Channel SACDs and they all sound great and performances are first class too.
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Thanks, I'll look into it. It will be interesting to see how it compares to my own personal touchstone for the Mahler 3rd - Horenstein with the LSO on Unicorn.
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Brahms: Symphony No. 4, MacMillan: Larghetto for Orchestra
Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
Manfred Honeck, Conductor
Evaluate your system for Flute and Orchestra.
The album is available for download at Native DSD (https://www.nativedsd.com/product/fr744-brahms-symphony-no-4-macmillan-larghetto-for-orchestra/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/product/fr744-brahms-symphony-no-4-macmillan-larghetto-for-orchestra/)) The SACD will be released on October 22, 2021. I urge you to download (free) the accompanying pdf file with extensive notes by Maestro Honeck. I will add reviews as they become available.
Review by Adrian Quanjer - HR Audio, 10/17/2021: "This performance is so stunning that it deserves and needs to be played at the best possible resolution your (surround) music system can handle! It’s (almost) like sitting in the Hall allowing you to listen to the music instead of being disturbed by sound coming from the speakers. ...Honeck’s emotional profoundness in the second, and the sweeping excitement in the third movement, combined with the sheer ‘power of sadness’ as Brahms called it, in the first and final movement. ...This is now by far my first choice."
Classical Voice North America: "… this beautiful performance is marked by transparent textures of rich tones as well as wonderful nuances in the strings and particularly powerful climaxes."
The New York Times has just published a list of “Five Classical Albums to Hear Right Now” and number one on the list is the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Manfred Honeck’s Brahms: Symphony No. 4 and MacMillan: Larghetto for Orchestra!
Steven Ritter, Audiophile Audition: "...it contrasts beautifully with what we hear at the opening of the symphony, a deep-breathed sigh that starts everything off. Honeck lingers over this moment. ...Perhaps only Bruno Walter can top this Fourth, as Walter is the gold standard in this music. But even here, the crispness and delineated phrasing that are the hallmarks of Walter’s Brahms are also found in this recording, a manicured spectacle of incredible beauty."
David Hurwitz, Classics Today: "After a first movement outstanding for its exquisitely gentle (but still fluent) opening and an aptly ferocious coda, the remainder of the symphony is noteworthy for its unusual fleetness. ...the finale has both urgency as well as the necessary weight. The famous flute solo at its center is played magnificently by Principal Flute Lorna McGhee, offering a quiet moment of pathos before Honeck drives the symphony to an excitingly grim conclusion.
Through it all, the Pittsburgh Symphony plays the music as beautifully as it can be done."
I do not know music theory. But, I do know what I like. Here are my thoughts:
Review by Marcus DiBenedetto: "I own several Brahms Symphony #4. After hearing Maestro Honeck and the PSO’s performance, this one rises to the top for me! The Symphony is dynamic and alive. The percussion is not just for emphasis but becomes a beautiful musical instrument engaging with the rest of the orchestra. I own the multichannel DSD 256 version and music flows deep and all around my soundstage. Soundmirror does a magnificent job making sure each part of the orchestra is heard distinctly and yet blends to form the whole of the orchestra. Reading Maestro Honeck’s detailed description in the accompanying pdf file gives you a great insight in to the composition and his approach. Listen to the low res sample tracks to get an idea of this outstanding performance. There are sections of each movement that are absolutely thrilling, especially the last couple minutes of each movement as it ends."
Tech Specs:
Available in all the usual formats and sample rates.
Now available on Qobuz (24/192) stereo. Search for Honeck Brahms.
Original Recording Format: DSD 256 (Post processing in 32/352.8 DXD). 2 and/or 5 channel.
Catalog: Reference Recordings, FR744.
Recorded Live, April 20-22, 2018
Venue: Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts, Pittsburgh, PA
Recording Engineers: Dirk Sobotka, Mark Donahue (Soundmirror)
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=230927)
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Pittsburgh has always been a really under-rated orchestra. I enjoy many of their recordings, I'll be on the lookout for this one. Thanks!
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Good find, Pittsburgh and Honeck are in good form and sound is superb. Definitely worth the money for me although it won't dethrone Kleiber as the reigning champion or even the Bohm/Vienna, that I have on LP, on artistic merit. Of course, RR sound quality is in another league compared to DG.
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I'll look for this. I've been a big fan of the Pittsburgh since Previn's tenure there.
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Audiophile Reference Music
PSAudio (Octave Records)
I know this is my classical music thread. But, I find this album very useful for testing my system. It is 2.0 Stereo and available for download (DSD 64 or PCM 24/192). The last track is a "burn-in" track. The music isn't bad either.
Get it here: https://www.psaudio.com/products/reference-music/ (https://www.psaudio.com/products/reference-music/)
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=232561)
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PS Audio has put out some great recordings on their fledgling "Octave Revords" label. So far only one is all classical, but it's a doozy: Zuill Bailey revisiting the Bach Cello Suites. IMO, a considerably better performance and recording than his 2009 effort on Telarc (which was pretty good in its own right).
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Mozart: Serenade No. 10 'Gran Partita'
Beethoven: Variations on Mozart's 'Là ci darem la mano' from Don Giovanni
Members of the Concertgebouworkest
Alexei Ogrintchouk, oboe & direction
Evaluate your system for Oboe and Clarinet.
Lately, I have been listening to more Mozart music. I finally listened to this album very intently today and came away amazed. The sonics are superb in multichannel surround. But, it's the music which got to me today. The melodies are sublime. Each instrument is clear, properly located and combine to give the listener a robust musical experience. Once you get to the Adagio you're hooked. The melodies weave a siren song holding on to you through the rest of the performance. Maybe it's the instruments or maybe the virtuoso playing or maybe both that gave me a strong emotional connection. I loved it through every track. Highly recommended. For folks wanting to hear their system at its best, this is a good choice.
Musicweb International: "I don’t usually remark first upon the sound quality of a recording, as these days sonic excellence is usually a given but this is spectacular... Of course, no review of this work is complete without consideration of that famous, central Adagio. Does it cast its spell? The oboe and clarinet soloists are each given their turn in the spotlight without grandstanding and the effect, as they serenade each other over the bass oompah, is mesmerizing. The answer to my question is that the movement is played to perfection."
HR Audio Review by Graham Williams: "There can be little doubt, however, that the winning combination of unforced virtuosity and playing of refined elegance delivered in superb sound quality will make this new BIS version, for many, a clear front-runner in a crowded field.
Unreservedly recommended."
Classicalmusic: "Alexei Ogrintchouk, directing members of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra from the oboe, delivers a compelling performance..."
Gramophone: "The Concertgebouw players don’t hold back. The variations, too, are memorably characterised, from the sense of a comic-opera conspiracy in No 3 to the dulcet No 5, where the oboe – the ever-eloquent Alexei Ogrintchouk – transmutes the homely tune into a soulful aria against veiled murmurings from clarinets and basset-horns."
Tech Specs:
Catalog # BIS 2463
Available for download from eClassical
Original recording format PCM 24/96 but is also available as an SACD (DSD 64).
Recording Date: March/April 2019
Venue: Kleine Zaal of the Concertgebouw, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Sound Engineer: Marion Schwebel & Fabian Frank (Take5 Music Production)
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=233209)
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(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=233227)
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"Nature's Realm"
Waterlily Acoustics label; Philadelphia Orchestra
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Elgar: Cello Concerto
Tchaikovsky: Variations on a Rococo Theme, Nocturne, Andante cantabile, Pezzo capriccioso
Johannes Moser (cello)
Orchestre de la Suisse Romande
Andrew Manze (conductor)
Evaluate your system for Cello.
I've listened to this album a number of times. It is beautiful music. The solo cello portions are absolutely wonderful.
HR Audio Review by Graham Williams: "Elgar's valedictory Cello Concerto receives a commanding and richly eloquent performance from Moser, in which he is superbly supported by Andrew Manze and the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande whose sympathetic accompaniment throughout matches the soloist's personal approach to the piece. ...Those who have waited for a recording of this concerto to appear on multi-channel SACD will be delighted by the superlative sound quality of this production."
Musicweb International: "Here is a direct but compelling reading of the Elgar Cello Concerto, one that bares the work’s soul without necessitating a dry handkerchief. Its immediacy is in no small part due to the Pentatone recording, closely balanced, but in the warm and generous ambience of the Victoria Hall in Geneva."
Gramophone: "A most unusual account of the Elgar Concerto, one that’s both musically gripping and recorded at relatively close quarters. The first minutes command immediate attention, Johannes Moser’s handling of the opening chords confident and tonally full-bodied, the ascending solo scales that lead to the principal melody haltingly tiered, the melody itself tenderness personified, slowing subtly before the strings take the lead and Moser rises boldly to the crest of the phrase. The full orchestra’s response is both heroic and uplifting."
Tech Specs:
Available at Native DSD
Recording Date: July 2016
Venue: Victoria Hall, Geneva, Switzerland
Original Recording Format: DSD 64
Sound Engineer: Erdo Groot and Karel Bruggeman
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=233345)
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I bought this album on LP many years ago, and then within the last 10 or 15 years I bought it again when it was issued on CD. While only redbook, it has a remarkable presence that rivals the LP in realism. It's a collection of oboe-based chamber music from a variety of composers. That alone may not make it everyone's cup of tea, but if you think you might like the music, it's worth the purchase, IMO. It's said that when the LP was released, Randall Thompson contacted Mr. Christ to compliment him on the performance of his suite.
I don't believe the company is in the LP business any longer, but they sell their CDs direct on their website. This album can be found at https://crystalrecords.com/#!/CD321-Oboist-Peter-Christ/p/144917861/category=36377327 (https://crystalrecords.com/#!/CD321-Oboist-Peter-Christ/p/144917861/category=36377327).
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=233346)
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Always was a fan of Crystal Records since knew Hovhaness 1911~2000.
RIP
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Scenes from the Kalevala
Madetoja: Kullervo, Op. 15
Klami: Kalevala Suite, Op. 23
Sibelius: Lemminkäinen in Tuonela, Op. 22 No. 2 (1897 version - world premiere recording)
Pylkkänen: Kullervo Goes to War
Lahti Symphony Orchestra
Dima Slobodeniouk (conductor)
Evaluate Your System for Orchestra Playing Lyrical Music.
Marcus' Review: "You might think that Finnish folk poetry would hardly be the stuff of great orchestrations, but you would be wrong. I downloaded the surround version of the album from eClassical in the original recording format 24/96. I too was not expecting much but with such a strong recommendation I wanted to hear it for myself. The music is robust and full bodied. Every aspect of the orchestra is used to evoke a myriad of feelings in the listener. Normally, I do not connect the storyline to the music. It's just me. I love the music and melodies but can't seem to connect the composer's story. Not so in this case, every track is evocative and creates a strong emotional connection (no matter what your nationality). I found the surround version to give me concert hall filling sound. It is glorious."
HR Audio Review by Graham Williams: "I cannot recommend this imaginatively constructed programme and superbly executed release highly enough; collectors should find this recording a more than worthy addition to their shelves."
Musicweb International: “… This album has value for both the curious listener and veteran collector. Approach it either as a doorway to lesser-known corners of the Scandinavian repertoire or as a way to complement your existing collection of this music. It need not replace your preferred alternatives but do not miss the chance to hear Pylkkänen’s worthy music and enjoy a successful concept well executed.”
Artsfuse: “This disc highlights various, early-20th-century works inspired by the Kalevala, the Finnish creation epic. It is a fantastic demonstration of creative programming and invigorating orchestral performance.”
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD and download (2.0 or 5.1 surround) from eClassical.
Recording Date: September 2017 [Klami], January 2018 [Sibelius] and January 2020 [Madetoja, Pylkkänen]
Release Date: November 2021
Venue: Sibelius Hall, Lahti, Finland
Recording Engineer: Marion Schwebel & Christian Starke (Take5 Music Production)
Catalogue Number: BIS-2371
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=233924)
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A stunner, thank member abomwell for the find.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=234113)
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I just wanted to thank Marcus and everyone that's put so much time and effort into this thread! I have never been truly into Classical music in my own regard, but grew up with it, as my Grandma what a violinist (sometimes lead/first chair) in a symphony orchestra for 65 years of her life! Yes... 65 years! I can hardly believe it, from 18 years old to 83. So I frequented the Symphony quite often as a lad and later in life. I just never truly tapped into it myself, but always knowing I would someday. I think I just didn't have a system up to par to really appreciate this style of music at home... There's so much detail, and so much to hear, it's really unreal. My system is really starting to sound like you're there!
This thread is going to be my introduction to Classical, and I really appreciate everyone's efforts on this, as it is truly daunting trying to get into it... There's SO MUCH!
The other night my Wife and I were listening to some music... maybe near midnight with her pestering me to get to bed, and I said, one more song, let's listen to some classical... She excitingly agreed, so I picked the I believe first Bruckner song that Marcus posted... which is 25minutes long... thanks for letting me stay up later! :wink: :lol: wow... just amazing! What a show! Definitely points where my eyes were watering.
I think currently, I'm a bit more into chamber music rather than full on orchestra though. I just love being able to listen to each instrument more on it's own, rather than blended with say 10 other violins... Which is AWESOME in it's own right. I just love hearing the friction of a single string of say an upright bass, or cello, or violin... Cello may be my favorite solo instrument. Or maybe a Sax... Or guitar... Piano? lol!
Would anyone have some suggestions of more chamber style? Or even solo classical recordings? - I apologize if there are many before this, this is just a daunting thread to get into.
Also - my preference is definitely on the more emotional, melancholy, sad, type of classical music. The super upbeat... idk Disney? style isn't really what I'm looking for. I like more of the depressing style music, because for some reason it makes me happy :lol: I wish I had examples, but I really don't. Regardless, I'll start making my way down the list!
Thanks everyone! I'm VERY excited to begin this journey! :thumb:
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Oh, I have a few suggestions. If you want to avoid the 'Disney style' classical you mentioned, then I'd say avoid Mozart and Haydn (for now, plenty of time for them later). For string quartets, here are the composers you should check out, in order of increasing darkness/intensity/dissonance:
Schubert, Death and the Maiden quartet - performed by Quatuor Arod
Beethoven - performed by the Artemis Quartet
Brahms - performed by the Jerusalem Quartet
Shostakovich - performed by the Mandelring Quartet
Bartok - performed by the Takacs quartet (best performance) or the Jerusalem Quartet (best recording)
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Thank you, Tyson! I really appreciate you taking the time to list these out!
You've mentioned Shostakovich to me in the past, I cannot remember exactly what pieces they were, but I remember very much enjoying them!
I'll definitely look through all of these over the coming days/weeks!! :thumb:
Just going through Qobuz classical... It's too much. Without a thread like this, I'd just be totally lost. Which, is fun in itself to self-discover, but I'd much rather have a few suggestions and discover from there!
Thanks again!
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I just wanted to thank Marcus and everyone that's put so much time and effort into this thread!
You are most welcome! Your post keeps me motivated to continue the thread. I've tried to span all the different types of classical music including excerpts of professional reviews. Yes, I should include more chamber music.
Marcus
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Aeon Trio "Elegy"
Maya Fridman – Cello
Atzko Kohashi – Piano
Frans Van Der Hoeven – Double Bass
Evaluate your system for a trio (ensemble).
Marcus' thoughts: "I'm going to fit this in here because it truly is classical/jazz crossover. I downloaded the album (DXD 24/352.8 surround 5.1) based on a recommendation. I've listened to it at least a dozen times and it has quickly become one of my favorite albums. The album begins in more chamber music fashion. In the middle of the second track, the trio picks up the tempo and the jazz flavor comes out. Every track is engaging. The piano is to the left of center, cello in the center and double bass to the right of center. Each is sufficiently apart to allow the listener to distinctly hear the instrument. But, close enough together to create the ensemble atmosphere. Sadly, they came together for just this one album. Highly recommended."
Wayne Wilmeth, Golden Ear: "Amazing music that grips you from the first note and never lets go. Recorded and mastered at a very high quality level. Highly recommended!"
Erno Elsinga, Jazzenzo: "The shapely storylines from Friedman’s cello are straight from the heart and move between melancholy and hope. Kohashi’s whispering playing flutters around it, nurturing each note before it drops. Themes die off and swell again, improvisations trickle in. Classical and jazz are timelessly connected, while you sink deep into it with indefinable thoughts. Magnificent."
Mark Werlin, All About Jazz: "It is no exaggeration to state that Elegy is one of the best-sounding hi-res recordings of Jazz or Contemporary Music in my collection."
Peter Chattelin, Chattelin Audio Systems: "Highly recommended. Elegy is probably the most lifelike sounding music download we have experienced over the years. A true masterpiece!"
Tech Specs:
Available as CD or download (Native DSD or TRPTK) in all the usual formats, 2.0 or 5.1 channels.
Original Recording Format: DXD
Catalog # (TRPTK) TTK0010
Piano: Fazioli Modello F228 Grand Piano
Sound engineers: Brendon Heinst, Bart Koop
Venue: Beauforthuis in Austerlitz ,The Netherlands
Recording Date: October 4, 2016
Release Date: March 31, 2017
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=234203)
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Would anyone have some suggestions of more chamber style? Or even solo classical recordings? - I apologize if there are many before this, this is just a daunting thread to get into.
Also - my preference is definitely on the more emotional, melancholy, sad, type of classical music. The super upbeat... idk Disney? style isn't really what I'm looking for. I like more of the depressing style music, because for some reason it makes me happy :lol: I wish I had examples, but I really don't. Regardless, I'll start making my way down the list!
Thanks everyone! I'm VERY excited to begin this journey! :thumb:
Chewbacca,
You should listen to Schubert's Quintet in C major with two cellos. It is one of the greatest compositions in history and is certainly very tragic!
Enjoy!
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Chewbacca,
You should listen to Schubert's Quintet in C major with two cellos. It is one of the greatest compositions in history and is certainly very tragic!
Enjoy!
Thanks for the suggestion! I happen to have two superb recommendations.
Marcus
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Schubert: String Quintet D.956, Quartettsatz D.703
Tokyo String Quartet
MARTIN BEAVER & KIKUEI IKEDA, VIOLINS
KAZUHIDE ISOMURA, VIOLA
CLIVE GREENSMITH, CELLO
WITH DAVID WATKIN, CELLO
Evaluate your system for string instruments. This recording includes two cellos.
From the liner notes: "Cellist David Watkin, formerly of the Eroica Quartet, joins the Tokyos in this distinguished reading of Schubert's 'Quintet in C' - the last and perhaps the most haunting of all his chamber works, in which light and shadow, serenity and drama are presented in constant alternation."
HR Audio Review by John Miller: "This is a powerfully moving performance of the String Quintet in which the Tokyo Quartet and David Watkin dig deep into Schubert's and their own souls. With breathtaking sound, I'm almost certain that this will prove to be my SACD of the year. Please don't miss it; even if you are not normally a fan of chamber music, this performance gives luminous insight into one of humankind's great achievements."
Laurence Vittes, STRINGS: "… the staggering beauty of the phrasing and seamless unanimity… is sublime."
Nalen Anthoni, Gramophone: "The Tokyo String Quartet with David Watkin promise much as they traverse the slow harmonic progression that opens the first movement, dynamic shifts expertly weighed, SACD recording spaciously lifelike"
Chris Spector, Midwest Record: "A deep, dramatic reading that’s flawless throughout, this is first class… The high octane pairing of the players and the music was a match made in heaven… Killer stuff."
Tech Specs:
Available as a CD, SACD or download from Native DSD.
Original Recording Format: DSD 64
Catalog # harmonia mundi (HMU907427)
Recording Engineer: Brad Michel
Venue: Air Studios, Lyndhust Hall, London, UK
Release Date: May 3, 2014
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=234206)
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Schubert: String Quintet D.956, Quartettsatz D.703
Tokyo String Quartet
MARTIN BEAVER & KIKUEI IKEDA, VIOLINS
KAZUHIDE ISOMURA, VIOLA
CLIVE GREENSMITH, CELLO
WITH DAVID WATKIN, CELLO
Evaluate your system for string instruments. This recording includes two cellos.
From the liner notes: "Cellist David Watkin, formerly of the Eroica Quartet, joins the Tokyos in this distinguished reading of Schubert's 'Quintet in C' - the last and perhaps the most haunting of all his chamber works, in which light and shadow, serenity and drama are presented in constant alternation."
HR Audio Review by John Miller: "This is a powerfully moving performance of the String Quintet in which the Tokyo Quartet and David Watkin dig deep into Schubert's and their own souls. With breathtaking sound, I'm almost certain that this will prove to be my SACD of the year. Please don't miss it; even if you are not normally a fan of chamber music, this performance gives luminous insight into one of humankind's great achievements."
Laurence Vittes, STRINGS: "… the staggering beauty of the phrasing and seamless unanimity… is sublime."
Nalen Anthoni, Gramophone: "The Tokyo String Quartet with David Watkin promise much as they traverse the slow harmonic progression that opens the first movement, dynamic shifts expertly weighed, SACD recording spaciously lifelike"
Chris Spector, Midwest Record: "A deep, dramatic reading that’s flawless throughout, this is first class… The high octane pairing of the players and the music was a match made in heaven… Killer stuff."
Tech Specs:
Available as a CD, SACD or download from Native DSD.
Original Recording Format: DSD 64
Catalog # harmonia mundi (HMU907427)
Recording Engineer: Brad Michel
Venue: Air Studios, Lyndhust Hall, London, UK
Release Date: May 3, 2014
Marcus
Very nice. I can affirm that the DSD recordings of the Tokyo Quartet performing the Beethoven string quartets are also excellent sounding.
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Solid pick Marcus! What was the second one?
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Schubert: String Quintet
Amsterdam Sinfonietta Soloists
Jacobien Rozemond & Candida Thompson, Violins
Daniel Bard, Viola
Kaori Yamagami, Cello
Rick Stotijn, Double Bass
From the liner notes: "One of the icons of chamber music, Schubert's celebrated String Quintet is heard in an unusual version on this recording. Schubert's work was styled after those of Boccherini and Onslow, which featured two violins, viola and two cellos. After hearing the double bass virtuoso Domenico Dragonetti, Onslow decided to add an alternative bass part to replace the second cello part. Schubert might have done the same if he had heard Dragonetti play, so the Amsterdam Sinfonietta commissioned this Marijn van Prooijen adaptation, and the double bass part is performed here by Rick Stotijn."
Marcus' thoughts: "I am an admitted Rick Stotijn fan. His inclusion playing a Double Bass replacing one of the Cellos really gives this music depth."
The Guardian: "The playing is terrific: tasteful phrasing, gracious ensemble intuition and a string sound that’s luminous and poised."
Audio Review: "...the instruments blend well, don’t overwhelm the others and have clarity, edge and depth..."
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD and Download (Native DSD), both 2.0 and surround 5.0.
Catalog # Channel Classics (36215)
Original Recording Format: DSD 64
Sound Engineer: Jared Sacks & Daan van Aalst
Venue: Stadsgehoorzaal Leiden Holland
Recording Date: December 1 & 2, 2013
Release Date: October 23, 2015
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=234208)
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Very nice. I can affirm that the DSD recordings of the Tokyo Quartet performing the Beethoven string quartets are also excellent sounding.
Thank you Tyson
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Solid pick Marcus! What was the second one?
Just posted. Rick Stotijn (Double Bass) and members of the Amsterdam Sinfonietta.
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1888909#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1888909#new)
Marcus
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Just posted. Rick Stotijn (Double Bass) and members of the Amsterdam Sinfonietta.
https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1888909#new (https://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=177443.msg1888909#new)
Marcus
Thank you. Just streamed it on Amazon, very enjoyable with the double bass.
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I just wanted to stop in and thank everyone for the time and suggestions for my musical requests! The first one I listened to was my favorite so far... The Aeon Trio - Elegy album. I first put this on as some background music to eat dinner to, then after about two songs found myself sitting on the couch (I think I finished dinner?.. Maybe not lol!) and didn't leave until the album was over. It was one of the most beautiful and EXHAUSTING albums I've ever listened to. By exhausting I mean, I was so into it, that afterword's I could hardly stay awake. It took so much out of me - I needed a nap :lol: But this is all GREAT praise! It is now, no doubt, one of my favorite albums of all times!
I'm sill going to go through all of the other suggestions - which I have a few down. BUT, if anyone else knows more along the lines of the Aeon Trio... That would be extremely appreciated! I know it's technically classified as jazz... but idk. It's kinda jazz/classical fusion? Maybe? But I do prefer smaller ensembles with different instrunments. Like this album: a piano, cello, and double bass. AMAZING!
Thank you all!
Aeon Trio "Elegy"
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=234203)
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I just wanted to stop in and thank everyone for the time and suggestions for my musical requests! The first one I listened to was my favorite so far... The Aeon Trio - Elegy album. I first put this on as some background music to eat dinner to, then after about two songs found myself sitting on the couch (I think I finished dinner?.. Maybe not lol!) and didn't leave until the album was over. It was one of the most beautiful and EXHAUSTING albums I've ever listened to. By exhausting I mean, I was so into it, that afterword's I could hardly stay awake. It took so much out of me - I needed a nap :lol: But this is all GREAT praise! It is now, no doubt, one of my favorite albums of all times!
I'm sill going to go through all of the other suggestions - which I have a few down. BUT, if anyone else knows more along the lines of the Aeon Trio... That would be extremely appreciated! I know it's technically classified as jazz... but idk. It's kinda jazz/classical fusion? Maybe? But I do prefer smaller ensembles with different instrunments. Like this album: a piano, cello, and double bass. AMAZING!
Thank you all!
Check out stuff by Terry Riley, Philip Glass, Steve Reich and John Adams.
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I'm sill going to go through all of the other suggestions - which I have a few down. BUT, if anyone else knows more along the lines of the Aeon Trio... That would be extremely appreciated! I know it's technically classified as jazz... but idk. It's kinda jazz/classical fusion? Maybe? But I do prefer smaller ensembles with different instrunments. Like this album: a piano, cello, and double bass. AMAZING!
Thank you all!
Chewbacca, if you liked the Aeon trio, check out these Rolf Lislevand releases (especially 'Nuove Musiche')
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=234454) (https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=234455)
and the following: Cello and guitar, a husband-and-wife collaboration:
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=234453)
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As a big believer in digital (no offense to the 'spinners' out there), I'd usually be the last to post something like this in a thread like this, but...
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=234532)
For a 1958 recording, this is a helluva piece of work as far as SQ is concerned. Whoever did the original engineering obviously knew what he was doing to get sound like this out of analog equipment. It doesn't say 'remastered' on the artwork anywhere AFAIK (I'm streaming it) but it's gotta be. It may even be Plangent-processed. The dynamics may fall a bit short of what you can get from digital, but when the original is done right (proper miking in particular) you can get results that are quite impressive for a 1958 recording. Especially in terms of dynamics and clarity.
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Thanks, Tyson and dB!
I should have some time this weekend, and will absolutely check those suggestions out! Can't wait! :thumb:
I'll also put that Leonard Bernstein album on my radar when searching the record stores! :wink:
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There are also a few groups that specialize in more modern style classical music. The Kronos Quartet and Brooklyn Rider are 2 groups that do really interesting things. In fact it was via the Kronos Quartet that I was first exposed to works by Terry Riley and Steve Reich.
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... It is now, no doubt, one of my favorite albums of all times!
Thank you all!
Comments like this one really encourages me to continue!!! You are most welcome! Glad you are enjoying the music. I have more I will post soon.
Marcus
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Rota: Nonetto, Martinu: Nonet No. 2, Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 4
Intercontinental Ensemble, In Motu
Evaluate your system for ensemble music.
Marcus' thoughts: I downloaded this album based on very positive reviews. It's more than chamber music. The ensemble has nine performers, four strings and five winds. This is their second release from TRPTK. Sonics are superb. In surround, the rear channels are more aggressively used, so you get that "music in the round" effect. Track 1 is typical chamber music but then, as it advances to track 2, the music turns drama filled. The wind instruments play with each other with different melodies, separate and together. Strings come in giving the music depth. These 2 tracks set the tone for a wonderful listening experience. The last set of tracks is the Mendelssohn: Symphony No. 4 orchestrated by the ensemble for their nine member group. They have done this with a few other symphonies on their first album, Traveling Light. If you like chamber music, this one is highly recommended.
HR Audio Review by Mark Werlin: "... the nine-piece ensemble projects clarity of melodic line and bold strokes of instrumental color, and in their divergent idioms, generates movement—the unifying theme of “In Motu” (in motion)."
Alpha Audio: "Few ensembles make such a varied and surprising musical journey as the ever-moving Intercontinental Ensemble."
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD or download from either Native DSD or TRPTK.
Catalog #TTK0071
Venue: Westvest 90 Church in Schiedam, Netherlands
Recording Date: May 17-19, 2021
Release Date: September 3, 2021
Recording/Mastering engineer: Brendon Heinst
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=234806)
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Thank you so much for this list, it'll be great to have such a listing to reference.
Regards,
Niall
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This one is not for the traditionalists, but the recording is remarkable. It seems I find that to be true for Naxos standard redbook CDs more often than not. The have an impressive catalog.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=235242)
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Penderecki - not for the faint of heart!
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(https://img.discogs.com/Z4G33cmNoO77AUg5KNXlZidA21c=/fit-in/595x600/filters:strip_icc():format(jpeg):mode_rgb():quality(90)/discogs-images/R-13359427-1609768669-4971.jpeg.jpg)
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Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 2 in E minor Op. 27, Vocalise No. 14 Op. 34
Budapest Festival Orchestra
Ivan Fischer (conductor)
Marcus Thoughts: Ordinarily, I do not highlight older recordings. This one is from 2004 (gosh, eighteen years ago) and early in DSD performances. However, I must offer to you a superb recording of Rachmaninov: Symphony No. 2 in E minor Op. 27. This recording is highly praised both for performance and sonics. I own the surround version in DSD 64. The album continues to outshine even newer performances and I agree wholeheartedly. Highly recommended.
David Hurwitz, Classics today: "Fischer turns in what is unquestionably the finest version of the Rachmaninov Second Symphony to come along in years. ...I can’t recommend this performance highly enough: everything about it is excellent, and it merits the enthusiastic attention of anyone who cares about top quality music-making presented in state-of-the-art sound."
Gramophone: "Ivan Fischer and his magnificent Budapest Orchestra have made a Rachmaninov Second for our time staggeringly played and recorded."
Tech Specs:
Original Recording Format: DSD 64
Available in Stereo or Surround, SACD, CD, Download.
Catalog: Channel Classics 21604
Recording/Mixing/Mastering Engineers: Hein Dekker, Jared Sacks
Venue: Italian Institute, Budapest Hungary
Recording Date: October 2003
Release Date: 2004
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=235470)
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"Ordinarily, I do not highlight older recordings."
Wow. Of my multi thousand vinyl collection, very few are later than the 2003 date you call "an older recording".
I guess you are digital only, and I'm nearly all analogue. Different universes.
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"Ordinarily, I do not highlight older recordings."
Wow. Of my multi thousand vinyl collection, very few are later than the 2003 date you call "an older recording".
I guess you are digital only, and I'm nearly all analogue. Different universes.
Yes, all digital. I try to stay away from DSD/SACD recordings between 2000 and 2005 as it was in its infancy. It took awhile for recording/mastering engineers to get it right. Lately, many engineers, even if they record in DSD, will now master in DXD (typically, 32/352.8 ) and modulate the master to DSD 64 to produce an SACD. BIS is one of a very few recording labels that sticks to recording in PCM 24/96. They then convert the master to DSD 64 to produce the SACD.
Why digital? Lots of reasons but the most important for me is 5.0 (or 5.1) multichannel surround. I rarely buy SACDs anymore. I prefer downloads.
Why focus on digital in this thread? I am trying to offer members the recordings that I feel are exceptionally well recorded and mastered for a sonic presentation which will challenge the member's audio system. If you are looking for classical music which offers exceptional dynamic range with spectacular breadth and depth of soundstage then I hope the titles I have listed will be fulfilling.
Marcus
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+1 :thumb:
But Iam buying vinyl again when the cover art are nice, it looks great on the wall.
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Ravel:
La Valse
Ma Mère l'Oye
Alborada del gracioso
Pavane pour une infante défunte
Vales nobles et sentimentales
Boléro
Sinfonia of London
John Wilson
Marcus' Thoughts: I downloaded the album from Chandos (FLAC 24/96 surround). I've listened to it twice now and can attest that this is a superb recording both for performance and sonics. The winds are spectacular and make the music all the more enchanting. There's more, in fact, too many instruments to name that all have their moments to engage the listener. Once you realize there is nothing distracting in the performance, you can settle in and enjoy the musical journey from beginning to end. An emotional connection is easy to make with every track. Forget what was intended. Instead, sit back and allow the music to conjure up in your imagination whatever pictures come to mind. It is that good!
Aside from the performance, I need to comment on the sonics. When I first listened to the album, I was amazed at the clarity of each instrument. It was as if I could see the performer, on stage, in their rightful position. Aside from the individual performers, the whole orchestra comes together in a wide and deep soundstage. I'm not sure how it was accomplished, but the sonics in multichannel were among the best I've ever heard in my system. All the action was up in the front. My rear surrounds had only a minor role. It didn't matter. I was completely engaged from beginning to end. ...And what a great ending with Boléro. It is a wonderful feeling to purchase music and while listening it makes you sit up and take notice.
Graham Williams HRAudio.net: "Comparisons with any of the countless other recordings of these ever popular pieces, all of which are already well represented on SACD, are superfluous and while one or more of them will be found already in the libraries of Ravel aficionados, the eloquence of Wilson’s performances – subtly nuanced in the more reflective pieces and rhythmically incisive elsewhere – are unmissable."
James Longstaffe – Prestomusic.com: "… for me the highlight of the album has to be La valse, offering a dizzying kaleidoscope of shifting moods and colours. From complicated string harmonics to flutter-tongued flutes and raucous brass, it's a fiendishly difficult work to perform, and yet with this ensemble it comes across as nothing other than deftly effortless…”
David Mellor – The Daily Mail: "… The ballet version [Bolero], with beautifully taken solos, is, for me, the major discovery here. This is a truly captivating album, particularly when the sound is of such demonstration quality. A great issue. I’m only giving it five stars because I’m not allowed to award ten.”
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD or download (24/96).
Download and sample of tracks: https://www.chandos.net/products/catalogue/CHAN%205280 (https://www.chandos.net/products/catalogue/CHAN%205280)
Catalog # CHAN 5280
Original Recording Format PCM 24/96
Originally Recorded in September 2021
Release Date: February 2022
Venue: Church of S. Augustine, Kilburn, London
Sound Engineers: Ralph Couzens
Marcus
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The son of lutist Rolf Lislevand (see reply #105 above) and a force in his own right on viola da gamba.
My highest recommendation for both sonics and content.
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=237142)
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The Boulanger Legacy
Lili Boulanger: Nocturne, Cortège, D'un matin de printemps
Nadia Boulanger: Modéré (from 3 Pièces)
Bacewicz: Violin Sonata No. 3
Bernstein: Violin Sonata
Piazzolla: Le grand tango
Marcus' Thoughts: "Ordinarily, I am not a fan of violin and piano music. In the case of this album, especially because I have become very enamored with Lili Boulanger's works, I listened to the previews and downloaded the album in DXD (24/352.8 ) surround. No regrets. I've listened to it a few times now and can attest to the superb playing of each selection. TRPTK again works its magic producing a wonderful sound that puts the performers in my Livingroom.
Dina Ivanova, piano and Merel Vercammen, violin, talk about "crowdfunding" this album and their musical selection in this YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3q8RCGzuiM (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3q8RCGzuiM)
You'll immediately recognize the style of Grażyna Bacewicz's "Sonata No. 3 for violin and piano", and Astor Piazzolla's "Le Grand Tango". I was not familiar with Leonard Bernstein's "Sonata for Violin and Piano" with several variations. All of these pieces were very enjoyable. But, the star for me was the three Lili Boulanger tracks, "Nocturne", "Cortege" and especially "D'un matin de printemps". If you know her life story you will understand why there are "dark" moments in each piece. It's a sudden mood switch. I found it intriguing and quite interesting. Ending the album is a piece, "Trois pieces" by Lili's older sister, Nadia Boulanger, very famous in her own right.
Sonically, Chief Engineer Brendon Heinst gets better and better. The sound is full and rich, as if there are more instruments than just the violin and piano. All in all, I was very impressed with the album. The high rez version sounds much better than when I sampled the tracks."
Additionally, It is helpful to know about Lili Boulanger with this brief bio: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrFIohURbi4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrFIohURbi4)
I also want to highlight her composition that won the "Prix De Rome" at age 19. Boulanger: Faust et Hélène, available from Chandos (9745). Unfortunately, it is only available on RBCD. The included booklet is an in depth look at her compositions on the album and includes the lyrics. I found the music engaging, the singing is superb. There is a YouTube video of the music by the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra, posted 1/21/20. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APNixVdQycI (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APNixVdQycI)
Maarten-Jan Dongelmans, De Gelderlander, "In this pair, chamber music becomes a medium without fussy or false vanity. Vercammen and Ivanova make music with their hearts on their sleeve and then you, as a listener, are glued to listen to the temperamental sounds of Gracina Bacewicz."
Gerard Scheltens, Opus Klassiek "Vercammen and her Russian piano partner Dina Ivanova (third prize Liszt Competition 2017) are striking talents with a creative and original angle and the recording by Brendon Heinst leaves nothing to be desired."
Tech Specs:
Catalog TTK0064 (TRPTK)
Available as SACD, CD or download (preference is Native DSD website, booklet and samples are available)
Mastering Engineer: Brendon Heinst, Antal van Nie (Assistant Engineer)
Original Recording Format: DXD (Stereo and Surround)
Venue: Westvest90 church in Schiedam, The Netherlands
Date of recording: September 29th and October 1st 2020
Release Date: April 30, 2021
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=240221)
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Good to see Nadia in a new release.
Thanks Marcus :thumb:
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This post will review three separate piano albums featuring Hannes Minnaar. He is an insanely gifted pianist. I listen to these albums regularly.
NOX
Schumann: Nachtstücke
Zuidam: Nox
Ravel: Gaspard de la nuit
Janacek: Dobrou noc (from An overgrown path)
Hannes Minnaar, THE CHRIS MAENE STRAIGHT STRUNG GRAND PIANO https://www.chrismaene.be/nl/the-straight-strung-grand-piano/ (https://www.chrismaene.be/nl/the-straight-strung-grand-piano/)
Piano discussion (English Subtitles): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktL33ZsSjrA (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ktL33ZsSjrA)
Marcus' thoughts: I am admitted Hannes Minnaar fan. I own most all of his album releases and I was most impressed with his "Fauré - Piano Music". I listen to it often. Of course, that led me to this release, "Nox". I've listened to the album several times and at the end, I am very pleased with my purchase. The music is challenging to me. One would think "night music" would be a lullaby of sorts, entrancing, along with a glass of wine, as you gently fall asleep. This is not the case. The music is a bit jarring, some of it as if in a nightmare. The track, "insomnia" conveys the desperation you might feel needing sleep. If you give it time, the music will begin to affect you. You will "feel" the darkness of night which many of us do not experience. I get it now. I am emotionally connected and I realize that some people are indeed "night people".
I love solo piano music. This one is gladly added to my collection. The sonics (in surround) are superb. I was unfamiliar with this music. It is so fresh and new to me that I am drawn to it. Hearing it is satisfying. I admit, it took some time to understand it. But, now, it gets a good amount of play time in my home.
Sample track, Gaspard de la Nuit - Trois poèmes pour piano d’après Aloysius Bertrand: I. Ondine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYMMc94zUjs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYMMc94zUjs)
Review by Adrian Quanjer HRAudio.net: "...He is not just very good, he is more, he has that indefinable artistic feeling, going well beyond mere technical mastery...This recital is about an astonishing and colourful combination of ‘night music’, including a brand-new piece (2020) by the Dutch composer, Robert Zuidam, entitled Nox (night), which is also the title of this album, and - not mentioned on the cover - a ‘good night’ bonus track from Leoš Janáček. I must admit that I had never heard of Robert Zuidam (though regular Tanglewood visitors may). Thoroughly modern, without being eccentrically shocking, and thoroughly interesting. His ‘Nox’ is a discovery (and a clear invitation to visit Zuidam’s website to find out more). It is carefully placed in between Schumann’s ‘Nachtstücke’ and Ravel’s ‘Gaspard de la Nuit’."
Gabriel Fauré Piano Music:
Nocturne No. 1 in E-Flat Minor, Op. 33 No. 1, Barcarolle No. 3 in G-Flat Major, Op. 42, Thème et variations in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 73, Nocturne No. 7 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. 74, Impromptu No. 5 in F-Sharp Minor, Op. 102, Nine Preludes, Op. 103, Barcarolle No. 12 in E-Flat Major, Op. 106bis, Nocturne No. 13 in B Minor, Op. 119, Encore: from 3 Romances sans paroles, Op. 17 No. 3 in A-flat Major
Hannes Minnaar (piano)
Marcus' thoughts: "WOW! Lovely piano music, well recorded and available in multichannel. I was not familiar with the composer. Minnar gives us a walk through time of Fauré's piano compositions from an early age through his passing. I've listened to all of it several times now and find the music enchanting and delightful."
Sample Track, Barcarolle No. 3 in G-Flat Major, Op. 42: Andante quasi allegretto: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvjtjT8s_Hs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvjtjT8s_Hs)
Review by Adrian Quanjer, HR Audio.net: "His Fauré is not Volondat’s, it is played with masterly authority. Where Volondat floats poetically Minnaar gives us a firm toucher and an undeniable presence. Thus lifting Fauré from salon to concert venue. This is not to say that he lacks poetry. On the contrary. But his poetry is without ‘softness’; it’s more convincingly encouraging in tone. Like a mother reassuring her child. And besides, Fauré is more than an extension of impressionist painting: 'These sets (nocturnes, barcarolles and impromptus) were composed across the decades of his career, and display the change in his style from uncomplicated youthful charm to a final enigmatic, but sometimes fiery introspection…'."
Beethoven: Piano Concerto No. 3, Op. 37
Hannes Minnaar (piano)
The Netherlands Symphony Orchestra
Jan Willem de Vriend (conductor)
Marcus' thoughts: All five piano concertos can be purchased as a box set from Challenge Classics. See the box set information here: https://www.hraudio.net/showmusic.php?title=12289 (https://www.hraudio.net/showmusic.php?title=12289). I play all the concertos often. I love the dynamic interplay between pianist and orchestra..
Sample track, Beethoven "Piano Concerto No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 37: I. Allegro con brio", https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mTkhFFCuK0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mTkhFFCuK0)
Tech Specs for all albums:
Stereo or surround
CD, SACD and download.
Sound Engineer: Bert van der Wolf
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=240917)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=240918)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=240919)
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Marcus, neither I nor my pianist wife were familiar with Hannes Minnaar, but we’re listening to his Faure album. We are fans of Faure’s music and Minnaar’s performance is very, very good (as is the sound quality). We’ll try out his other albums too. Thanks for your recommendation!
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Marcus, neither I nor my pianist wife were familiar with Hannes Minnaar, but we’re listening to his Faure album. We are fans of Faure’s music and Minnaar’s performance is very, very good (as is the sound quality). We’ll try out his other albums too. Thanks for your recommendation!
You are most welcome. Comments like yours keep me motivated to continue this thread.
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A Gathering of Friends - John Williams, Yo-Yo Ma, Jessica Zhou, Pablo Sáinz Villegas, New York Philharmonic
(https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1778562/Album.jpg?p=distribution)
Big and bold, a tour de force of tone and technique.
Cello Concerto (2021 Revision)
1 I. Theme & Cadenza
2 II. Blues
3 III. Scherzo
4 IV. Song
Three Pieces from Schindler's List
5 I. Theme
6 II. Kraków Ghetto - Winter '41
7 III. Remembrances
8 Highwood's Ghost
9 With Malice Toward None from Lincoln
10 A Prayer for Peace from Munich
HDtracks 96kHz · 24bit
https://www.hdtracks.com/#/album/626fdd93962aaf2480692b49 (https://www.hdtracks.com/#/album/626fdd93962aaf2480692b49)
You will need a bigger sub to play at a satisfying level :)
May 24th Update - "All Things Considered" has an interview with Yo-Yo Ma and John Williams, they talk about this album, their 40 year friendship and John's recent 90th birthday:
Composer John Williams and cellist Yo-Yo Ma bring together 'A Gathering of Friends'
https://www.npr.org/2022/05/24/1100996754/composer-john-williams-and-cellist-yo-yo-ma-bring-together-a-gathering-of-friend (https://www.npr.org/2022/05/24/1100996754/composer-john-williams-and-cellist-yo-yo-ma-bring-together-a-gathering-of-friend)
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A two volume set of symphonies composed by Camille Saint-Saëns.
Vol. 1
Saint-Saëns: Symphonies 1 & 2, Symphony in A major
Orchester Philharmonique Royal de Liege
Jean-Jacques Kantorow (conductor)
Vol. 2
Saint-Saëns: Symphony No. 3*, Symphony 'Urbs Roma'
Thierry Escaich* (organ)
Orchestre Philharmonique Royal de Liege
Jean-Jacques Kantorow (conductor)
Marcus' thoughts: "I downloaded (eClassical for BIS albums) both albums in surround. Obviously, Symphony #3 is the more popular piece recorded on 28 SACDs. I thought both albums are excellent. Sonics are outstanding. Soundstage width and depth are superb. Instrument clarity is excellent. Reviews were generally very positive with a few quibbles over the robustness of the Organ. Apparently, conductor Charles Munch with the Boston Symphony Orchestra is the "gold" standard for the "Organ" Symphony. I do not own it but has been remastered twice into surround and released on SACD. David Hurwitz supports this view as well. ... I am very pleased with the Kantorow discs. I am also very happy to discover Saint-Saëns music. Rich melodies and easy to become emotionally connected."
Vol.1 reviews:
David Phipps, Music-Web International: "I have to say that, in the case of Jean-Jacque Kantorow and the Orchestre Philharmonique Royal de Liège, this music is most assuredly in the right hands. The orchestra’s skill and polish is exemplary, with the woodwinds especially acquitting themselves most impressively in the passages I previously mentioned as making good orchestra audition material. ...As is always the case in my experience with BIS Records, the engineering and sound-quality are flawless, and give us the best seat in the house."
Adrian Quanjer, HRAudio.net" "The long and the short of it is that we must be grateful to Robert von Bahr (Bissie) to offer Saint-Saëns, two lovely symphonies, in a glowing performance by one of the better Belgian symphony orchestras under the baton of a seasoned French conductor needing no further recommendation, to be discovered by the rest of the world. Why not succumb to its charm. It freshens the mind after a hefty Mahler."
Vol. 2 reviews:
Simon Thompson, Music-Web International: "Their recording of the Organ Symphony can also hold its own in a much more crowded marketplace. In one sense the acoustic really helps: the organ is a part of the texture, sounding clean and clear throughout; but it doesn’t overly dominate, and the orchestral sound is every bit as important, particularly the strings who play with only a discrete amount of vibrato. The violins sound sensational at the start of the slow second movement (if we can call it that), and there is a smile in their sound throughout the serious business of the finale."
Gramophone: "There are memorable moments in Kantorow’s first recording of Saint-Saëns’s Organ Symphony, too. In the transition from the first part’s Allegro moderato to the Adagio, for instance, one almost feels the change of atmosphere on one’s skin; it’s like walking from the heat of a sun-drenched street into the cool of a cathedral. I also like how stealthily organist Thierry Eschaich slips in, stepping out of the shadows, as it were."
Tech Specs:
Vol 1:
Catalog # BIS 2460
Release date: May 2021
Recording Date: April and December 2019; October 2020
Venue: Salle Philharmonique, Liège, Belgium
Sound engineer: Ingo Petry (Take5 Music Production)
Original Recording format: 24-bit / 96 kHz
Vol. 2:
Catalog # BIS-2470
Release Date: 1st Oct 2021
Recording Date: 9th—13th April (Organ Symphony); 26th—31st October 2020 (Urbs Roma)
Venue: Salle Philharmonique, Liège, Belgium
Sound engineer: Ingo Petry (Take5 Music Production)
Original Recording format: 24-bit / 96 kHz
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=241051)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=241052)
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Schubert: Winterreise
Michael Wilmering (baritone)
Daan Boertien (piano)
From the liner notes: "Of all the classical song cycles, Schubert’s ‘Winterreise’ is perhaps the most beloved. The adventurous TRPTK label steps into the deep end with a new take on this masterpiece. Baritone Michael Wilmering and pianist Daan Boertien give a surprising charge to the familiar music, which, in these uncertain times, seems to be a compass for a future whose contours are not yet entirely clear.
Winterreise is about a man who has been rejected by his lover and has then decided to go on a journey. The songs describe his journey through a barren and desolate winter landscape, which reflects the loneliness of the traveller. The song cycle actually consists of two halves. In the first song, ‘Gute Nacht’, the main character says goodbye to his beloved and decides to leave. The rest of the cycle shows that no return is possible."
Marcus' Thoughts: "My comment is intended to draw fellow members to this superb recording. It takes time to listen and digest all of it. I've approached it several times now and each listening draws me more into the drama and anguish of the piece. I have the piece in DXD, 24/352.8, surround. TRPTK captures the piano and baritone perfectly. The piano presents a broad soundstage and reproduces wonderfully on my system. The baritone, Wilmering, does not hold back the emotion he feels and conveys to the listener. There are several cuts available on YouTube. You will see him display his emotions as he sings."
YouTube: Schubert - Winterreise: Die Krähe, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoMbHANXJ6A (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QoMbHANXJ6A) The audio just gives you a taste of the power and emotion of the album. On my system, both the piano and vocals are superbly reproduced.
David McDade, Music Web International: "...The drama here is in the music not in some kind representation of events. ...Boertien (the pianist) is a similarly endless source of delight. Even the seemingly plain spun figurations of Die Post are coloured with consummate care under his fingers. Listen to the ache he finds in the arching melody of Täuschung – not too much but just enough. ...It is all the more terrifying for being so understated. Singer and pianist are in absolute communion here. Characteristically, the climax isn’t overdone but all the more devastating for their restraint."
Rushton Paul, Positive Feedback: "Wilmering’s very clear, transparent and highly flexible baritone voice is a delight to hear. He can be delicate, yearning, quietly pleading, then transition to huge power and impact."
Erik Voermans, Het Parool: "Thanks to the involuntary concert break that had caused the pandemic, baritone Michael Wilmering and his pianist Daan Boertien had a lot of time to study Winterreise in depth. During that period, Boertien even attended a master class with Alfred Brendel.
The result is impressive, not least because TRPTK has managed to capture the piano and the voice beautifully."
Tech Specs:
Catalog #TTK0078
Original Recording Format: DSD 256
Mastering Engineers: Brendon Heinst & Antal van Nie (Assistant Mastering Engineer)
Recording Engineers: Brendon Heinst & Bart Koop (Assistant Recording Engineer)
Recording Location: Westvest Church in Schiedam, Netherlands
Recording Date: September 13-18, 2021
Release Date: January 28, 2022
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=242322)
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I too have a wife musician , not professional and am looking for ways to get homer buy-in from her with the system I am assembling. This should help. Thanks
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More buy-in.
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Shostakovich: Symphony No. 13, Op. 113 ‘Babi Yar’
Oleg Tsibulko, bass
Popov Academy of Choral Arts Choir
Kozhevnikov Choir
Russian National Orchestra
Kirill Karabits, conductor
Liner notes: "Inspired by Yevgeny Yevtushenko’s poem “Babi Yar” about a Nazi massacre of Jews just outside Kiev in 1941, Shostakovich based the Symphony on five of the author’s poems. The texts reflect on the peculiarities of daily existence in Stalinist Russia, providing a deep insight into life under Soviet reign. After the sombre, impressive opening movement, Shostakovich alternates between a satirical stance, humour, and portraying the hardships of the Stalinist reality, leading up to the innocent beauty of the symphony’s finale."
Marcus Thoughts: "I just discovered this piece of music. David Hurwitz released a YouTube video discussing choral music, including the Shostakovich Symphony. "Repertoire: 16 Amazing Vocal Symphonies", https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86ecd3bFkd4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86ecd3bFkd4). This album, recorded in DXD in November, 2017 and released in 2020, is as Russian as you can get. Reviews are excellent. I can attest to the great sonics (in surround). Deep bass vocals and many bass instruments. I downloaded it in DXD from Native DSD. Finally, a male chorus and bass soloist. What a great find for me!
Fanfare Magazine writes: "Karabits conducts incisively, with the accent on drama...Tsibulko’s singing is first-rate, as is the orchestra’s playing, especially from the brass, who are encouraged to snarl. The powerful male choruses of native Russian speakers surpass any Western chorus for clarity and diction, not to mention authenticity. Pentatone’s recorded sound is beautifully transparent and lifelike."
BBC Music Magazine: "This beautifully engineered studio recording under Kirill Karabits has all the necessary adrenaline to keep the listener fully engaged. Karabits is particularly effective in negotiating the tricky changes of tempo in the opening ‘Babi Ya’ movement and ensures that the tension is sustained right to the very end."
Music Web International: "The orchestral playing astounds at every turn, the choral singing beyond reproach. Even more important, the narrative thread, apt to stretch and sometimes break, is preserved, Karabits in full control to the very end."
Tech Specs:
Available in CD, SACD and download from Native DSD https://www.nativedsd.com/product/ptc5186618-shostakovich-symphony-no-13-in-b-minor-op-113-babi-yar/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/product/ptc5186618-shostakovich-symphony-no-13-in-b-minor-op-113-babi-yar/). Samples and the booklet are available.
Catalog #PTC5186618
Original Recording Format: DXD
Recording Engineer: Nadia Nikolayeva and Erdo Groot (Polyhymnia International B.V.)
Venue: DZZ Studio 5 in Moscow, Russia
Recording Date: November 2017
Release Date: 8/4/2020
Thanks
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=242554)
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Great Symphony, the Russian orchestras are always stunning, I have some place a Chandos version with the amazing baritone Nikita Storoyev, good digital recording from Chandos for the time. Definitely worth listening the 13th, but I dont know why I had bought the 15th.
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Joachim Eijlander - Dark Fire
Saygun: Partita for solo cello, Op. 31
Cassadó: Suite for solo cello, Lamento de Boabdil, Requiebros
Tsintsadze: Toccata, 5 Pieces on Folk Themes
Trad.: Sari Gelin, Hicherier Jorgelook
Joachim Eijlander – Cello
Kadir Sonuk – Duduk (an Armenian reed instrument)
Izhar Elias – Guitar
Helena Basilova – Piano
Vincent van Amsterdam – Accordion
From the liner notes: "Philosopher Martin Heidegger (1889–1976) described the encounter between the organized philosophical world of the ancient Greek and the mystical, abstruse world of the East as a dark fire. ...I (Eijlander) found the mental image of a dark fire lit by this chance meeting beautiful and highly inspiring."
Marcus Thoughts: "The album is labeled 'classical - modern'. I think of it as 'East meets West fusion'. I've listened to it several times now and the sonic clarity is so great, the Cello was right in my listening space. Well done, TRPTK. Tracks 6 and 7 include the Duduk (Armenian double reed) creating a strong Middle Eastern flavor. Exceptional in my mind. The sonics of all the tracks (I have the DXD surround 24/352.8 ) are superbly recorded."
Here is a teaser trailer on You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlUyvfp24H4 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlUyvfp24H4). It does not do full justice to the eloquent duo tracks but gives you an idea of the album's direction.
Andrew Everard, Hi-Fi News & Review: "It’s one of those ‘musical cultures meet‘ projects, the cello being joined by guitar, piano, accordion, and duduk. Yes, I had to look it up too: it’s an Armenian double-reed woodwind instrument made from apricot wood. ...the performances and the recorded sound, placing the instruments in an atmospheric church acoustic, are excellent..."
Mark Werlin, HR Audio and Native DSD Blog: "Dark Fire, TRPTK’s new DSD album of solo and duo works for cello, brings the immediacy and excitement of a house concert into your listening room. Two short duets for cello and duduk, played by Eijlander and Kadir Sonuk...The duduk’s voice-like tone resonates with the antiquity of its 5th-century origins."
Joep Stapel, NRC: "He accompanies duduk player Kadir Sonuk in traditionals, such as the enchanting Hiçliğe yolculuk (‘Journey to nothing’). With master guitarist Izhar Elias, Eijlander plays a wonderful lament by Gaspar Cassadó, whose dance Cello Suite is the best-known work on the album. Pianist Helena Basilova and accordionist Vincent van Amsterdam participate in compositions by Sulkhan Tsintsadze – melancholic, rattling, uplifting, folk-like and of course dark and firey."
Peter van der Lint, Trouw: "Rich and varied repertoire beautifully brought together and beautifully performed."
Tech Specs:
Catalog #TTK0056
Available as CD, SACD and download. https://www.nativedsd.com/product/ttk0056-dark-fire/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/product/ttk0056-dark-fire/)
-- Check the download for sample tracks and download the liner notes pdf.
Mastering Engineer: Brendon Heinst and Gilles Stoop
Original Recording Format: DXD
Venue:Westvest90 Church Schiedam, The Netherlands
Recording Date: July – August, 2020
Release Date: December 11, 2020
Thanks
Marcus
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=243009)
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Swiss pianist Beatrice Berrut, playing her own transcriptions of music by Mahler and Schoenberg. The performances are excellent, and something that immediately caught my attention was the clarity of the recorded piano sound. Available on the major streaming platforms.
Jugendstil
Beatrice Berrut, piano
La Dolce Volta LDV100
Program notes: https://www.ladolcevolta.com/flipbook/LDV100/
Gustav Mahler
Transcriptions for piano (Beatrice Berrut)
Symphony no.5 in C sharp minor: Adagietto
Symphony no.3 in D minor: Tempo di Menuetto
Symphony no.6 in A minor: Andante moderato
Arnold Schoenberg
Verklärte Nacht – Paraphrase (Beatrice Berrut)
(https://static.qobuz.com/images/covers/fb/o6/f2s7xnggeo6fb_300.jpg)
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Very interesting repertoire, these transcriptions are unique.
Thanks for posting.
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Jean Sibelius:
Symphony No. 1 in E minor, Op. 39 (1898–99, rev. 1900)
Symphony No. 2 in D major, Op. 43 (1901–02)
Symphony No. 3 in C major, Op. 52 (1904–07)
Symphony No. 4 in A minor, Op. 63 (1909–11)
Symphony No. 5 in E flat major, Op. 82 (1914–15, rev. 1916 & 1919)
Symphony No. 6 (in D minor), Op. 104 (1922–23)
Symphony No. 7 in C major, Op. 105 (1923–24)
Lahti Symphony Orchestra
Okko Kamu (conductor)
Marcus' Thoughts: "There are three complete noteworthy sets of Sibelius' Symphonies, Osmo Vänskä, (conductor), with the Minnesota Orchestra, Sir Simon Rattle (conductor), with the Berliner Philharmoniker and the set I will discuss, Okko Kamu (conductor), with the Lahti Symphony Orchestra. Preferences by reviewers and consumers are strong. I happen to like the Kamu set the best."
If you are not familiar with Sibelius, here is his bio: Great Composers: Jean Sibelius, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfhbnwxQcXU (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfhbnwxQcXU).
A 5 minute look at conductor Kamu and the Lahti Symphony Orchestra: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2S4YUwkPKss (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2S4YUwkPKss)
Review by Mark Novak for HR Audio: "This set is a truly fine legacy for Finland’s greatest composer and a proud achievement for Maestro Kamu, the Lahti players and BIS. Despite the old canard about avoiding complete sets because “no single conductor gets all the symphonies right”, one can safely dismiss that adage and revel in this set from Okko Kamu. It is now my “go to” set for these symphonies where each and every performance is of the highest musical order. Strongly recommended!"
Review by John Broggio for HR Audio: "...this is by some distance the most consistent and best recorded cycle of Sibelius to have been issued on hi-res media. Very strongly recommended, enormously thought provoking and tremendously enjoyable music making."
BBC Music Magazine: "Kamu offers an [easy] sense of movement… intense quiet dynamics and clarity in perfect equilibrium with atmosphere. There's plenty of excitement too: the scherzo of the Second is truly vivacissimo…Three, Seven and above all Six are just perfect, with all the naturalness I want in these elusive masterpieces."
Dan Morgan, Music Webb International: "Production values in both boxes are high, prices are competitive and the liner-notes are excellent. That's why I won't recommend one cycle over the other; you simply must have both. ...Kamu’s distinguished Sibelius joins Vänskä’s at the top of the tree; formidable engineering, too."
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD and download (stereo or surround): BIS is available at eClassical: https://www.eclassical.com/labels/bis/sibelius-the-seven-symphonies.html (https://www.eclassical.com/labels/bis/sibelius-the-seven-symphonies.html)
Catalog # BIS-2076 SACD
Original Recording Format 24/96
Release Date: 2015-09-10
Sound engineers: Fabian Frank (Symphonies Nos 1, 3–7); Andreas Ruge (Symphony No. 2)
Venue: Sibelius Hall, Lahti, Finland
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=243822)
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Shostakovich: Violin Concerto No. 1
Gubaidulina: In tempus praesens*
Simone Lamsma (violin)
Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra
James Gaffigan & Reinbert de Leeuw* (conductors)
An interview with Lamsma and Gaffigan on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhiWpowQikE (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhiWpowQikE)
Marcus' Thoughts: "There are 10 Super Audio CD albums featuring this Shostakovich concerto. However, this studio recorded performance and incredible sonics are superb. I purchased the album in multichannel DXD (24/352.8 ) from "SpiritoftheTurtle" website. Soundstage is wide and deep. Instrument clarity is remarkable. I felt that the violin was very well balanced with the orchestra. The violin in movement one leads the listener into the abyss. The orchestra covers with a shroud of darkness. Each succeeding movement deepens the darkness and ramps up the emotional intensity. I could write much more melodramatically but Dominy Clements' review (see below) did so much better than I. Suffice it to say I was completely drawn in and had to listen to it many times."
Dominy Clements, Musicweb International: "This is a genuinely potent performance, the first movement filled with emotional depth, the contrasting Scherzo a sharp, almost panicky dance of death, the urgent rhythms of which propel us into a remarkable Passacaglia, “a masterpiece – mature, elegiac and highly lyrical.” Lyrical yes, but also full of dark drama that is fully exploited in this recording. The final movement Burlesque has a demonic feel, Lamsma digging deep into the strings of her Stradivarius, pitting her single violin against the forces massed behind her and, as with the Scherzo, propelling us with high-tensile nervous angst into a world of smoky industry and a society stained by fear."
Adrian Quanjer, HR Audio: "In her reading Ms Lamsma not only has the required skills & bravura, but is also able to understand and share the emotional aspects with Maestro James Gaffigan, a conductor I hold in high esteem. ...This is a deeply moving account which has to be heard to be believed. And when I say 'heard', there are only two suitable ways: In the concert hall with the full dynamics, or else at home with the best possible sound reproduction in order to be completely engulfed and gripped by the cruel history it conveys."
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD streaming and download. Stereo or multichannel.
DSD 64 download at Native DSD: https://www.nativedsd.com/product/cc72681-violin-concerto-no-1-op-77-in-tempus-praesens/ (https://www.nativedsd.com/product/cc72681-violin-concerto-no-1-op-77-in-tempus-praesens/)
Now available from Challenge Classics in DXD (24/352.8 ): https://spiritofturtle.com/collections/dxd/products/kopie-van-simone-lamsma-violin-concerto-no-1-in-tempus-praesens-auro-3d-5-1-4-immersive?variant=42405734809770 (https://spiritofturtle.com/collections/dxd/products/kopie-van-simone-lamsma-violin-concerto-no-1-in-tempus-praesens-auro-3d-5-1-4-immersive?variant=42405734809770)
Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra
Conductor for Shostakovich: James Gaffigan
Conductor for Gubaidulina: Reinbert de Leeuw
Catalog # CC72681
Recording/Mastering Engineer: Bert van der Wolf
Venue: MCO Hilverusm, (Gubaidulina – Concertgebouw Amsterdam)
Release Date: March 10, 2017
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=244195)
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Shostakovich: 24 Preludes and Fugues
Bach: Goldberg Variations
Hannes Minnaar (piano)
I am offering to you two solo piano works by Hannes Minnaar. I own both of them in multichannel surround DXD 24/352.8. Both are also available on SACD or DSD download.
My newest purchase is Shostakovich: 24 Preludes and Fugues. There are no reviews yet. Minnaar is currently performing the work live at various concert venues. The tracks are available on his YouTube channel. Here is the last one, 8 minutes long, 24 Preludes and Fugues, Op. 87: Fugue No. 24 in D Minor (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=un-rx0IPdYI&list=OLAK5uy_kdcvZLxCP0lwgMt8mbmPvf4oIWphR8ynQ&index=48).
Marcus' Thoughts: "Time now to dive into this recording and offer my thoughts. There's not many SACD recording but competition is fierce in RBCD. The most notable is Tatiana Nikolayeva's several recorded performances. The liner notes to her RBCD 1990 recording (Hyperion, DA66441/3), available free as a download in pdf format (https://www.hyperion-records.co.uk/dc.asp?dc=D_CDA66441/3), describes her association with Shostakovich as he was writing the piece. Her recordings are considered the benchmark. A more recent, and highly acclaimed, RBCD recording is Igor Levit's performance recorded in May, 2020, (SONY 19439809212). This is a massive recording spanning three CDs for a full 232:41 minutes. Aside from the Preludes and Fugues, the CDs also include Ronald Stevenson's Passacaglia. Great praise is given to the Levit recording by David McDade, Music Web International (http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2021/Oct/Shostakovich-preludes-19439809212.htm). He writes, "Nikolayeva gives us a much more familiar picture of Shostakovich where Levit finds greater light and shade; his Shostakovich even smiles and not just in a sarcastic grimace. Nikolayeva’s humour is flatter and more caustic. The two sets complement each beautifully, yet I imagine Levit’s will win over more listeners new to the music. Ideally, I would say any listener needs to hear both but if pushed to choose just one, it would be Levit." Levit's CDs are available at Presto as CD, LP and download (https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/8920511--on-dsch#about).
What about the Minnaar recording? There are no reviews yet. I downloaded the multichannel DXD 24/352.8 version from Spirit of the Turtle website. Disc 1 is 73:01 minutes and disc 2 is 77:31 minutes. I've listened to both CDs a couple of times now (an advantage of retirement). The sonics, as usual from Bert van Der Wolf, are superb. I will note that Minnaar played on a Steinway Model D rather than his Chris Maene Straight Strung Concert Grand. I suspect logistics played a role here. The venue was Muziekcentrum van de Omroep, MCO-1, Hilversum. Recording dates were 22-24 December 2021 (Preludes and Fugues Nos. 1-12) & 1-3 May 2022 (Preludes and Fugues Nos. 13-24). Each piano note is clear and wholesome. Many times he will hold the final note for a long time allowing it to naturally fade. Soundstage was broad and deep presenting a concert grand into my listening room.
The liner notes include an interview style commentary.
-- What does the work mean to you? Why do you enjoy performing it?
"I first heard this music at the age of fifteen when I saw a TV documentary in which Vladimir Ashkenazy played one of the pieces. It really touched a chord with me. I had been obsessed with Bach’s Well-Tempered Clavier for some time, and I was immediately fascinated by this twentieth-century variant. Over the years, I’ve frequently returned to this work, and each time, I’ve been struck by the madness and loneliness it contains."
-- A continuous series of preludes and fugues could become a bit monotonous for the listener. But when I heard you play these pieces, I noticed that with each new piece, a whole new world opened up.
"That’s exactly what Shostakovich was going for. When I started to perform the work in concert, I briefly wondered whether it might end up being too much of the same. But the movements are all so different. Plus there’s the alternation between major and minor."
I concur. I was not bored at all and enjoyed each piece. As you progress through the music there is great variety. Of course, you have to love solo piano works. I'll be very interested in professional reviews, especially comparing Minnaar's performance with the Levit recording. I've watched several of Minnaar's videos and I can see great emotion in his mannerisms and facial expressions as he plays. This emotion translates into his playing and impresses me greatly."
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD and download. The sound engineer, Bert van der Wolf is now offering Auro 3D and Binaural (for headphones) versions on his website, Spirit of the Turtle (https://spiritofturtle.com/ (https://spiritofturtle.com/).
Original Recording format: DXD
Catalog # CC72907
Venue: Muziekcentrum van de Omroep, MCO-1, Hilversum
Recording Date: 22-24 December 2021 (Preludes and Fugues Nos. 1-12) & 1-3 May 2022
Sound Engineer: Bert van der Wolf
Bach: Goldberg Variations
Marcus Thoughts: I wasn't sure I would like two full discs of Bach music. But, I was very surprised by both the sonics and engaging music. Here he plays on his signature Chris Maene Straight Strung Concert Grand CM005. The second disc, a Daan Manneke composition, was even more delightful. Here is a track from his YouTube channel: Gedanken zu Bach Ach wie flüchtig, ach wie nichtig A.D. 2020: VI. Toccata secundo (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B41Oxh9DWv0&list=OLAK5uy_l8rPofStP7HNgrZjAewisGAMuDTZVaxz4&index=38 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B41Oxh9DWv0&list=OLAK5uy_l8rPofStP7HNgrZjAewisGAMuDTZVaxz4&index=38). The entire concert from a live performance is also available on YouTube.
Tal Agam, The Classic Review. "Minnaar holds this masterpiece together as a complete whole that will reveal itself more with repeated listening."
Jed Distler, Classics Today. "Hannes Minnaar brings many positive assets to Bach’s Goldberg Variations. His superb finger independence helps vivify and characterize the contrapuntal writing at any tempo, abetted by varied articulations and imaginative yet discreet use of the sustain pedal. The pianist clearly enjoys modifying voicings, amplifying textures, and shifting accents on the repeats (which he observes in full, including the Aria da capo), not to mention unfettered and creative ornamentation."
Tech Specs:
Available as a CD, SACD and download.
Catalog # CC72859
Original Recording Format: DXD
Sound Engineer Bert van der Wolf.
Venue: De Waalse Kerk in Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Recording Date: August 3-6, 2020
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=245603)
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=245604)
Marcus
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There are two eminently audiophile solo piano works Goldberg Variations and Diabelli Variations op.120. in 2008 I was fortunate to found the best version of Beethoven work recorded in 24/192.
https://www.sa-cd.net/showtitle/4532
(https://www.suigenerismusic.com/images/SGSA01_750.jpg)
(https://www.suigenerismusic.com/images/SGSA01_bc750.jpg)
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Hard to believe an entire year has gone by since my last post. I was going to let the thread die off but so much wonderful music has come out in the past year, I felt I had to restart the thread. Almost 15,000 views. Thank you everyone.
The Schumann Collection, Vol. 2
Nicolas van Poucke, Piano
I was very much looking forward to this release as I have Vol. 1. The melodies are absolutely wonderful. What's exceptional is the recording quality. Each note is distinct and you can hear the right and left hands as clearly as if you were standing next to the piano.
Reviews:
Adrian Quanjer, HRAudio.net: "His careful and well-considered approach to Schumann’s five ‘Gesänge der Frühe’ is a clear and most imposing example of van Poucke’s understanding and empathy for a composer whose feelings in this late work hover between poetry and Introspection. It sets a tone that resonates in the rest of the programme, making this release, like the previous one, irreplaceably wonderful."
Aart van der Wal, Opus Klassiek: "Van Poucke makes it a real gem, with the theme under his hands truly 'Leise, innig', the shades of shadow nevertheless beautiful in color, with as an absolute highlight the third variation ('Etwas belebter') with that fabulous, so strongly contrasting interplay between left and right hand."
Tech Specs:
Available as CD, SACD and download. Now offering Auro 3D version. Vol 1 is available on Vinyl. Go to TRPTK or Native DSD to purchase.
Original Recording format: DSD
Catalog TRPTK TTK 0107 https://trptk.com/shop/downloads/the-schumann-collection-vol-2/ (https://trptk.com/shop/downloads/the-schumann-collection-vol-2/)
Venue: Muziekcentrum van de Omroep - Studio 1, Hilversum (NL)
Recording Date: October 2022
Sound Engineer: Brendon Heinst
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=259017)
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Thanks for the suggestions, much appreciated.
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Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5, Schulhoff: Five Pieces for String Quartet (arr. Honeck/Ille)
Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, Manfred Honeck, music director.
I love this music. Movement #1 is so compelling, I feel like getting up and marching around my listening space. Huge orchestra sound which is typical of Honeck and the PSO. Excellent sonics, of course, by the Soundmirror team.
---- Review by David Hurwitz: Review: Honeck's Thrillingly Visceral Tchaikovsky Fifth https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sedKJn597Ds
---- Review on HRAudio: https://www.hraudio.net/showmusic.php?title=16101#reviews
Review by Graham Williams - June 30, 2023, "This is without doubt the finest modern recording of Tchaikovsky’s 5th Symphony in both musical and sonic terms that I have heard, and I cannot recommend it highly enough."
Tech Specs:
-- Available as CD, SACD and download. Reference Recordings available for download at Native DSD.
-- Catalog # FR752
-- Venue: Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts, Pittsburgh, PA
-- Sound Engineer: Mixing and Mastering: Mark Donahue (Soundmirror, Boston).
-- Original Recording Format: DSD 256
-- Recording Date: June 17-19, 2022
-- Release Date: July 28, 2023
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=259134)
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For those that can spin vinyl, this an excellently recorded lp. Both the early US pressings and the later Dutch ones.
(https://i.discogs.com/Ik1sLus40t4YDHg_HyRbJjylxccZViCvfg5AJkidKz4/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:600/w:595/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTk0MzM3/ODMtMTUyNTk2ODc4/Ni0zODE2LmpwZWc.jpeg)
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Chiaroscuro Quartet: Haydn, String Quartets Op. 33 1-3.
I've never been a fan of HIP (Historically Informed Performance) style. In this case, however, it is absolutely stunning. The quartet plays on 1700's instruments using gut strings. The whole conception of chamber music changes for me. The artists noted how different it was for them to use gut strings. For example, they had to make changes in timing to accommodate the swift drop off in sound. Soundstage is broad and deep. The Quartet surrounds the center channel, each with appropriate distance from one another. The strings sound warm and robust, as they should.
Reviews:
-- Charlotte Gardner from Gramophone writes, "...this is a set begging to be served up with lashings of joy, and that’s precisely what the Chiaroscuro Quartet have done... ...It’s that combination of crisp, earthy clarity and lively, virtuoso sparkle that marks these readings out..."
-- A review of one of their other albums. Adrian Quanjer - May 10, 2017, "Perfection. Pure perfection. That’s what we have here and in multi-format. Not only the playing but also the bowing, the minute phrasing, the ‘justesse’, the musical involvement… and all the rest."
All of their releases are listed here: https://www.hraudio.net/search.php?format=0&keywords=Chiaroscuro+Quartet (https://www.hraudio.net/search.php?format=0&keywords=Chiaroscuro+Quartet)
Tech Specs:
-- Available as CD, SACD and download (at eClassical)
-- Catalog # BIS-2668
-- Venue: Menuhin Hall, The Yehudi Menuhin School, Stoke d'Abernon, England
-- Recording Date: 26th—29th October 2021
-- Release Date: May, 2023.
-- Recording Engineer: Editing and mixing: Oscar Torres
-- Original Recording Format: PCM 24/192
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=259167)
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The new recording of Michael Jarrell's orchestral works on BIS is another reference level recording, and its of some quite adventurous very modern classical music. It's pretty angular, but never devolves into the pure ugliness of the serialists:
(https://www.chandos.net/artwork/BI2672.jpg)
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Mahler: Symphony No. 8
Minnesota Orchestra
Omso Vänskä (conductor)
This symphony is complex and exhausting. I've listened to it a few times and the quality of the performance and the sonics are both superb.
Reviews:
HR Audio Review by Graham Williams https://www.hraudio.net/showmusic.php?title=16308#reviews (https://www.hraudio.net/showmusic.php?title=16308#reviews)
"... a triumphant performance in this penultimate release. ...The BIS 5.0 multi-channel recording is simply awesome."
Video Review by Dave Hurwitz
Review: Vänskä Thrills in a Sensational Mahler 8th! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eO5iJQtL1mw (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eO5iJQtL1mw)
Tech Specs:
-- Available as CD, SACD, and download (download at eClassical)
-- Catalog # BIS-2496
-- Venue: Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis
-- Recording Date: 14th—16th June 2022
-- Recording Engineer: Thore Brinkmann (Take5 Music Production)
-- Original format: 24-bit / 96 kHz
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=259952)
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Chiaroscuro Quartet: Haydn, String Quartets Op. 33 1-3.
I've never been a fan of HIP (Historically Informed Performance) style. In this case, however, it is absolutely stunning. The quartet plays on 1700's instruments using gut strings. The whole conception of chamber music changes for me. The artists noted how different it was for them to use gut strings. For example, they had to make changes in timing to accommodate the swift drop off in sound. Soundstage is broad and deep. The Quartet surrounds the center channel, each with appropriate distance from one another. The strings sound warm and robust, as they should.
Reviews:
-- Charlotte Gardner from Gramophone writes, "...this is a set begging to be served up with lashings of joy, and that’s precisely what the Chiaroscuro Quartet have done... ...It’s that combination of crisp, earthy clarity and lively, virtuoso sparkle that marks these readings out..."
-- A review of one of their other albums. Adrian Quanjer - May 10, 2017, "Perfection. Pure perfection. That’s what we have here and in multi-format. Not only the playing but also the bowing, the minute phrasing, the ‘justesse’, the musical involvement… and all the rest."
All of their releases are listed here: https://www.hraudio.net/search.php?format=0&keywords=Chiaroscuro+Quartet (https://www.hraudio.net/search.php?format=0&keywords=Chiaroscuro+Quartet)
Tech Specs:
-- Available as CD, SACD and download (at eClassical)
-- Catalog # BIS-2668
-- Venue: Menuhin Hall, The Yehudi Menuhin School, Stoke d'Abernon, England
-- Recording Date: 26th—29th October 2021
-- Release Date: May, 2023.
-- Recording Engineer: Editing and mixing: Oscar Torres
-- Original Recording Format: PCM 24/192
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=259167)
It is also available on Qobuz at 24/192, and sounds incredible. Thanks for the rec!
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Jeff, I super appreciate your comment. I listen to the Chiaroscuro Quartet regularly. Never boring. Anyone who is a bit timid about chamber music, as I was, should give this album a listen.
Marcus
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Sibelius: Lemminkäinen Suite, Karelia Suite, Rakastava
Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra
Susanna Mälkki (conductor)
Marcus' Comment: "I own several performances of this music. This one stands out and gets a lot of play time. I downloaded it in both stereo (for listening with headsets) and surround. Either way, the sonics are amazing, broad and deep. Solo instruments are clear. The composer paints a picture with his music and that comes through to the listener. The conductor and orchestra offer a warm and engaging sound. Everything was balanced and flows effortlessly. The wind instruments were particularly emotionally engaging."
HR Audio Review by Graham Williams - February 5, 2024: "In conclusion, Susanna Mälkki's latest collaboration with the Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra is a testament to her interpretative skill and the orchestra's exceptional musicianship, making this SACD a must-listen for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to Sibelius's orchestral repertoire." https://www.hraudio.net/showmusic.php?title=16451#reviews (https://www.hraudio.net/showmusic.php?title=16451#reviews).
Video Review by Dave Hurwitz: Review: Mälkki and the Home Town Team Deliver in Sibelius. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPM6nycppOc (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPM6nycppOc).
Tech Specs:
-- Available as CD, SACD and Download (at eClassical).
-- Catalog # BIS-2638
-- Venue: Helsingin Musiikkitalo (Helsinki Music Centre), Finland
-- Recording Dates: Karelia Suite: 1st—2nd October 2021, Rakastava: October 2020 (at public concerts), Lemminkäinen: 13th—16th February 2023.
-- Recording Format: 24-bit / 96 kHz
-- Recording Engineer: Enno Mäemets
(https://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=261973)