looking for ideas on must have classical music


Hello classical devotees!

A friend had me rip quite a few of his CDs for his trip abroad. most were classical, and many were like 'best of' compilations. one or two were whole symphonies.

armed with these at least and no others I felt it time to wade into the classical waters and increase that genre in my library.

what then, are your fav, 3 or 4, go to, gotta have composers, movements, and or conductors out there on CD at least?

if also available in HD or otherwise, please point towards them as well, if you don't mind.

your input is sincerely appreciated and this input will initiate my list for current and future additions to the catalog, so again, thanks very much!!
blindjim
 Holst's Planets, Aaron Copeland, Grofe's Grand Canyon Suite, Vivaldi's Four Seasons, Vaughan Williams
to really explore this, take a Music Appreciation class at your local college...and take up an instrument
to really explore this, take a Music Appreciation class at your local college...and take up an instrument
More excellent advice. Classical music appreciation benefits from understanding.  


A few suggestions which are off the beaten track:

Gorecki: Symphony #3 (Sorrowful Songs)
David Hykes and the New Harmonic Choir: Hearing Solar Winds
Anonymous 4: 1000 A Mass for the End of Time
The Harp Consort: Missa Mexicana

Good listening!
No. I think, the OP wants to hear the voice. Start with most famous operas or/and most famous performers. Nothing beats the power of the voice, not even full orchestra.