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Classical Music for Aficionados

I would like to start a thread, similar to Orpheus’ jazz site, for lovers of classical music.
I will list some of my favorite recordings, CDs as well as LP’s. While good sound is not a prime requisite, it will be a consideration.
  Classical music lovers please feel free to add to my lists.
Discussion of musical and recording issues will be welcome.

I’ll start with a list of CDs.  Records to follow in a later post.

Berlioz: Symphonie Fantastique.  Chesky  — Royal Phil. Orch.  Freccia, conductor.
Mahler:  Des Knaben Wunderhorn.  Vanguard Classics — Vienna Festival Orch. Prohaska, conductor.
Prokofiev:  Scythian Suite et. al.  DG  — Chicago Symphony  Abbado, conductor.
Brahms: Symphony #1.  Chesky — London Symph. Orch.  Horenstein, conductor.
Stravinsky: L’Histoire du Soldat. HDTT — Ars Nova.  Mandell, conductor.
Rachmaninoff: Symphonic Dances. Analogue Productions. — Dallas Symph Orch. Johanos, cond.
Respighi: Roman Festivals et. al. Chesky — Royal Phil. Orch. Freccia, conductor.

All of the above happen to be great sounding recordings, but, as I said, sonics is not a prerequisite.


rvpiano

Showing 7 responses by david_ten

david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@jcazador Thank you.  Previn, based on my prior reading, is recommended given his jazz roots. I will look into Julius Katchen II's recordings of Rhapsody. Thanks for your response!

[Side note...I just missed the Previn years with the Pittsburgh Symphony...lived there during the Maazel years]
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Classical Aficionados: Which recording / version of Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue do you recommend?  I'm looking for two standout (and different) versions for system evaluation. Thanks!

[I have searched online, but would love feedback from those active in the thread / knowledgeable about this composition]
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@jim204  @twoleftears  @newbee   Thank you very much. I'm excited and looking forward to listening to all of your recommendations.
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Want to add that I’m really enjoying the Gershwin Plays Gershwin solo piano version from 1924.

Here is additional information for those who, like myself, are not at aficionado levels.... : )

http://www.openculture.com/2016/02/the-original-recording-of-rhapsody-in-blue-1924.html

http://www.classicalnotes.net/classics/gershwin.html

david_ten
5,480 posts
 
To all who addressed my query regarding Rhapsody in Blue...

I’ve been able to find all of your recommended recordings. Next up, sorting through album recording quality (access is via Tidal and Qobuz).

I’ll report back in a few days.

Thanks again for your help.
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
I went with the Rhapsody In Blue: Saint-Säens, Ravel, Gershwin performed by Benjamin Grosvenor and The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, James Judd. It's a fantastic performance.

Secondary to this was Gershwin Plays Rhapsody In Blue (First Recording 1924 from Rare Piano Rolls). I like this performance, especially the 'music history' significance and story, however the quality (for the recording I have access to) isn't high quality.

The Benjamin Grosvenor recording helped with my component and power cable evaluations.

Thanks to all who helped out with their suggestions and guidance.
david_ten
5,480 posts
 

For those interested (from 'Audiophilia'):

 

Wigmore Soloists - Schubert Octet

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