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February 23, 2005
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This bargain-priced recording confirms Sir Charles Mackerras's reputation as an outstanding interpreter of French music. His gripping account of Berlioz's masterpiece is faster than most other readings, but with one exception: the eerie March to the Scaffold. Here he takes almost two minutes longer ... more |
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February 19, 2005
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This multi-channel recording is the first account of Mahler's First that easily accommodates the massed sound of the brass instruments in the closing stages (especially the seven horns to be played standing). It sets new standards for dynamic range and spatial definition, but the drawback is a more ... more |
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February 19, 2005
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Jane Glover, formerly artistic director of the London Mozart Players, gives very fine performances of Mozart's last two symphonies. This is "big band" Mozart at its best, apparently without any concessions to the authenticity movement. Those who believe that a large body of players is unsuitable for ... more |
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February 18, 2005
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My impression of this recording is somewhat different. Technically, it is not quite up to the highest standard. Although billed as a DSD recording, the sound could be more detailed and transparent. The violins are not sufficiently prominent because they are often submerged by the brass, which should ... more |
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February 15, 2005
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This is a mouth-watering compilation. Although it is unlikely that the items on this multi-channel sampler were originally recorded in surround, some extracts are quite breathtaking - especially the overture to Bernstein's "Candide" and Copland's "Fanfare for a common man". The sound is a bit ... more |
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