add to wish list | library


27 of 28 recommend this,
would you recommend it?

yes | no

Support this site by purchasing from these vendors using the paid links below. As an Amazon Associate SA-CD.net earns from qualifying purchases.
 
amazon.ca
amazon.co.uk
amazon.com
amazon.de
 
amazon.fr
amazon.it
 
 

Reviews: Copland: Appalachian Spring, El Salon Mexico etc. - Bernstein

read discussion

Reviews: 2

Review by Russell May 31, 2003 (7 of 7 found this review helpful)
Performance:   Sonics:
Another true classic recording has arrived on SACD, courtesy of Sony. This time it's Leonard Bernstein's vital and inspired interpretations of four Copland favorites: Appalachian Spring, Billy the Kid, Rodeo, and El Salon Mexico. Lenny is fully in his element here, and IMO these performances, recorded in 1959-61, have never been equalled for spontaneity, spunk, and rhythmic snap, even bettering the composer's own recordings (also on SACD). I compared the sound of this new MCH SACD (in stereo) to the SBM'd CD in Sony's 'Bernstein Century' series, and the SACD beats it handily. The CD sounded quite good actually, but the SACD was much more open and three-dimensional, with a wider, deeper soundstage and a more palpable presence. The SACD has a brighter and more extended treble than the CD (and it's brighter than what we usually hear from present-day orchestral recordings), but it never becomes harsh or strident. Being 40+ year-old recordings, there's also a trace of hiss, but it's not intrusive.

IMO this is the most impressive Sony SACD reissue so far, and an outstanding example of how wonderful early stereo recordings can be; perhaps not quite equal to what RCA and Decca were doing then, but it still has many of the right qualities (and it's certainly lots better than what Columbia would produce later on).

Russell

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no

Review by Dr. O August 7, 2005 (8 of 8 found this review helpful)
Performance:   Sonics:  
A wonderful recording AND a super transfer!

Copland with Bernstein as his musical interpreter - who could ask for more?! Pure "Americana" (specially when one considers Mexico as ALSO "in America" - North America that is!)

Appalachian Spring shines, and Rodeo makes one want to get up and dance! This is Copland as only Bernstein can deliver!

The sonics are clean and clear. Balances are always superb. In short, a MUST HAVE for lovers of Aaron Copland!

Was this review helpful to you?  yes | no