What are your favourite records?
Mine would be:
Ravel – Ysaÿe
Fauré (opus 121) – Via Nova
Debussy – Juilliard (Testament)
For the Debussy Quartet, there are too many fun recordings – Italliano; Tokyo; Orlando. Maybe even The Capet and the Talich. I like the energy and colour of that early Juiliard recording tremendoously.
And some of those groups did good versions of the Ravel too.
For Fauré Op 121, the great recordings seem harder to find. Via Nova seem streets ahead of all others I know for colour, drama, sweetness of tone, balance.
At the moment I like the Carmina Qt for the Debussy & Ravel string quartets - coupled with the Debussy (early work), Ravel & Fauré piano trios done by Rouvier, Kantorow and Müller (Brilliant). I dig the Capet for the Ravel & Debussy quartets - a very special experience (EMI Références), then I like the Italian (Philips) & Juilliard Qts (1970 CBS LP) too. I cannot quite get a hold on the Fauré String Qt (which I only have with the Parrenin) though I love the piano quartets and quintets, in which latter I actually prefer the older recordings by Hubeau & Via Nova Qt (Erato LP) or the classic Parrenin to the more recent Ortiz & Fine Arts Qt, which I cannot recommend despite its positive reviews.
Is the Faure 121/Via Nova the one on Erato (or is it Pierre Verany?)? I haven't heard a nod to this version before. What are the timings?
Herman? ;D
Check out the Faure Thread. Trust me, I caffeinated that one, haha.
I'll match you with the Loewenguth/Vox (with the best Roussel SQ) as the most unbeatablely reliable Faure. I don't necessarily like it the best, but I stand behind it. Also, nothing wrong with Ysaye/Aeon (w/EXCELLENT Magnard!), aaaaaaaaaaand...
everyone's new fav, the Ebene/Virgin (w/DebRav).
I need the DebRav/Italiano cd with the old jewel box, with the red tray and dreary garden/roses pic. ANYONE? I must be this one. RU willing?
I also like the newer Julliard/Sony, with the Dutilleux. Yes,... the word is FUN!
I have Kantarow in the Deb and Lekeu Sonatas, w/Ravel, the other sonata (Denon). Nice recording. There really are too many good recordings of the Deb Sonatas. I usually choose based on discmates (Deb Cello Sonata usually comes w/Britten, Honegger, Poulenc, Prokofiev, DSCH, Carter, Myaskovsky, ... the usual suspects).
My fav of all is the Turovsky/Chandos disc of French Duos for vln/vlc,...Ravel, Honegger, Martinu, Rivier. Besides the whole disc being a delight, the Ravel is most certainly the most Modern thing, deliciously suave and sleek and slithery.
Ultimately, for me, it all boils down to this:
flute, harp, & string quartet
Between 1888-1928, the 'French', whether French, European, or American, certainly revitalized 'chamber music'. The above instrumentation seems to epitomize the lusciousness of this renaissance, which, I think, calcifies into this instrumentation:
clarinet, violin, cello, piano (Messiaen)
which, I think, begins to represent the turn from the pre-war ultra-florid/post-romantic style, to the serial/post-war style. No? Boulez vs. D'Indy?
The thing is, Poulenc didn't write a String Quartet. Milhaud did.
Debussy didn't write a Piano Quintet. Hahn did.
Ravel didn't write a Cello Sonata. Prokofiev did (so to speak).
You see? Unlike Brahms, and such, these composers hopscotched over the received tradition, so, if you want to hear the Poulenc String Quartet, you have to go to Milhaud's SQ No.6 (dedicated to Poulenc, and, for all in tents and purposes, IS the Poulenc SQ (Milhaud knows what he is doing)).
If you want to hear the Ravel Cello Sonata you have to go to,...who? (Guido?)
And so on.
Does this make sense?
I love the French influence on chamber music in the 20th century.
...otherwise, Koechlin and Martinu probably cover all the bases...
Quote from: toucan on May 16, 2010, 07:25:11 AM
The title says: "Chamber Music" but the two posts focus on String Quartets: I am confused.
Finally, interesting renderings of Faure's first Piano QUartet and of his Second Piano Quintet, by Germaine Thyssens-Valentin, whose recordings of Faure solo piano music are recommendable.
.
Available here:
http://www.i12.ch/musiqueouverte/index.php/accueil/toutafficher
I will check it out, since I am fond of her Nocturnes recording-- at least for the early nocturnes. Perfumed and exotic playing.
Somehow it seems to me the Quartetto Italiano recording of the Debussy / Ravel Quartets has outlived itself. When you listen to it now, it's pretty obvious that Ravel and especially Debussy were supposed to be the antidote to virtually all other music [edit: at the time]. This was vacation music. Beautiful, but fatally non-urgent.
The Italiano Philips recording used to be the central recommendation. Now I think it's a peripheral recommendation. Beautifully played, but not the way it should be played.
For the Fauré (and the Ravel) I like the Ebene Quartet a lot. For the Debussy the live Ysaye (Wigmore Hall).
Just yesterday I heard a very nice recording of the Ravel Violin / Cello sonata by the Capuçon brothers.
For the Ravel and Debussy Quartets I own versions by the Italiano, Carmina, Ebène and Alban Berg. I know the Berg makes the music sound as if you are sitting in a Viennese café, eating Torte, listening to fin de siècle music composed by Hans Schnitzengruben and Karl-Heinz Baumschlager--but theirs is my favorite version of the French fraternal twins.
Sarge
A nice one-stop for Ravel's chamber music is this disc:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518A2VABWDL._SS400_.jpg)
Although in all honesty it's for the piano trio and the sonata for violin and cello that this disc is invaluable, overshadowing the other works on account of the inclusion of Gautier Capuçon's glorious cello. But the rest ain't chopped liver, however, they just don't include Gautier's cello. :)
Quote from: Dancing Divertimentian on May 16, 2010, 06:31:16 PM
A nice one-stop for Ravel's chamber music is this disc:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518A2VABWDL._SS400_.jpg)
Although in all honesty it's for the piano trio and the sonata for violin and cello that this disc is invaluable, overshadowing the other works on account of the inclusion of Gautier Capuçon's glorious cello. But the rest ain't chopped liver, however, they just don't include Gautier's cello. :)
That CD was my first encounter with les freres Capucon. It has always been a source of somewhat juvenile amusement for me to see that the taller brother is the violinist, and the shorter brother is the cellist; there is something a trifle absurd in the arrangement.
Passing on to other recordings:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41NBS9MSQAL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
I'd like to say it's a good recording, but in honesty I can't remember how it sounds, which probably means I wasn't too impressed with it the last time I listened to it. Will remedy that lack of memory tomorrow, with a little luck.
I don't know why toucan was confused, since every discussion has to start somewhere, and mine picked up on the string quartets and added the piano quartets & quintets. I will come out and say that of all this music, I like best the Debussy Violin Sonata and his Sonata for flute viola & harp, the Ravel Introduction & Allegro, Violin Sonata and Piano Trio. I do not possess enough recordings of most of these to confidently recommend particular performances. For the Debussy violin sonata I love the Thibaud, Neveu and Ferras recordings. The Szigeti recordings of the Debussy w/Bartók and Ravel w/Bussotti are sui generis, among my favorite recordings of anything. As regretful mention has been made of a non-existent Debussy piano quintet, I will recall Caplet's Conte Fantastique, based on Poe, for harp and string quartet (Debussy wrote an unfinished opera based on "The Fall of the House of Usher"), très fin de siècle.
Ravel
Quartet - my favorite is old Galimir Quartet Vienna, occasionally also like Hagens with their custom sharpness and aggression, Ebene I'm still processing, they can get very slow at times.
Piano Trio - like very much older 70s recording by Rouvier-Kantorow-Muller on Erato. From excerpts I've heard on radio new young French Trio Dali on Fuga Libera sounds superb, French critics are going silly over it.
Violin/Cello Duo - Capucon brothers are really good
Violin Sonata - Mullova-K.Labeque then Kantorow-Rouvier, didn't like at all G.Capucon-Braley, sounded horribly labored to me.
Debussy
Quartet - many good ones Julliard (Sony), Italiano, currently I'm listening to Ebene and it's excellent. The one that struck me as anonymous was Talich, same with their Ravel.
Violin Sonata - Ferras-Barbizet
Cello Sonata - Fournier-Poulenc is not bad but I prefer Gendron-Fevrier
I'm shamefully ignorant of Faure's chamber music. Would EMI France box (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Faure-Complete-Chamber-Music-Various/dp/B000A7KLRU) be a good start?
Quote from: Drasko on May 17, 2010, 11:44:21 AM
[Ravel's] Violin Sonata - Mullova-K.Labeque......
I'd really like to hear this one. Mullova's Debussy violin sonata with Anderszewski (on Philips) is superb.
Quote from: kishnevi on May 16, 2010, 07:10:20 PM
Passing on to other recordings:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41NBS9MSQAL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
I'd like to say it's a good recording, but in honesty I can't remember how it sounds, which probably means I wasn't too impressed with it the last time I listened to it. Will remedy that lack of memory tomorrow, with a little luck.
Having listened to it, I decided to report back with an update: the reason I wasn't impressed with it the first time is because to my ears the performance makes it into salon music. Even the Ravel, which is rather hard to do. Pretty much everything that bored me about chamber music: two musicians trotting along making 'nice' music, but nothing more.
My favorite recordings of the Debussy and Ravel Quartets are with the old Fine Arts Quartet (Leonard Sorkin, Abraham Loft, Gerald Stanick, and George Sopkin), on LP, Concert-Disc CS 253. These performances are full of life and contrast, and the recordings, probably made in the 1960s, are excellent. As far as I know, they were never reissued on CD, more's the pity. I think they are more interesting than even the famous recording by the Quartetto Italiano.
Ravel's Introduction and Allegro for harp, flute, clarinet and string quartet is a lovely work. I followed the Penguin Guide's recommendation and got the recording by the Melos Ensemble with Ossian Ellis, harp, available on London 421 154-2, coupled works by Debussy and Franck. It's very beautiful.
http://www.amazon.com/Franck-Debussy-Sonatas-Introduction-Ensemble/dp/B0000041TM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1274156366&sr=1-1
Quote from: Drasko on May 17, 2010, 11:44:21 AM
I'm shamefully ignorant of Faure's chamber music. Would EMI France box (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Faure-Complete-Chamber-Music-Various/dp/B000A7KLRU) be a good start?
Absolutely. :)
Q
There are earlier versions of both the Debussy and Ravel quartets by the Quartetto Italiano from the mono and early stereo eras respectively (on EMI). The Debussy isn't quite as good as I'd like but the Ravel is masterful, surpassing their later Philips effort by virtue of their greater flexibility and spontaneity. Top rank rendition.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41geT%2BwEsOL._SS400_.jpg)
As far as the Debussy I heartily recommend the Casals Quartet on Harmonia Mundi:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51T4SYPEGFL._SS400_.jpg)
For Debussy's cello sonata this is a very nice disc:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51e7Kv1QCGL._SS500_.jpg)
I am not so impressed by the Ebène – not in Debussy, nor Ravel nor Fairé nor Haydn. I think they are rough toned , heavy and stiff.
Neither am I so taken by the Ysaÿe's Fauré Op. 121, which is just a bit too slick and polished for me.
I am rather more positive about the Chilingarian in Debussy Op.10 especially. Their style is rather different from a tradition set donkeys' years ago ( by the Capet Quartet I suppose ) They are rather more solidly articulated than we expect in Debussy. Still I think their CFP CD is pretty fine, and a useful antidote to my other favourites (like The Juilliard)
Apart from the Juiliard, my favourite Debussy is from The Tokyo – for mood, lyricism, colour, the way the manage the structure, the form: I haven't heard better.
I'm surprised this thread hasn't generated more interest. For more of Debussy's chamber music there's the Chansons de Bilitis for speaker, two flutes, two harps, and celesta. The two discs below are recommended for this piece as well as for the sonata for flute, viola, and harp, and the haunting Syrinx for solo flute.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51FjNAZv7cL.jpg)
Unfortunately neither one of these discs is currently in print so any updated recommendations are welcome.
Fairly cheap and excellently played:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51MZ12TN29L._SS500_.jpg)
Miss this recording at your peril:
http://classicstoday.com/review.asp?ReviewNum=12636
Quote from: Peregrine on May 18, 2010, 11:26:15 PM
Fairly cheap and excellently played:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51MZ12TN29L._SS500_.jpg)
Mmm, Boston Symphony Chamber Players.
Quote from: GKC on May 21, 2010, 08:05:25 AM
Miss this recording at your peril:
http://classicstoday.com/review.asp?ReviewNum=12636
Yes, that Trio Wanderer disc of Faure's piano quartets has been on my 'to buy' list for a couple of months. I should pull the trigger soon.
Quote from: Drasko on May 17, 2010, 11:44:21 AM
I'm shamefully ignorant of Faure's chamber music. Would EMI France box (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Faure-Complete-Chamber-Music-Various/dp/B000A7KLRU) be a good start?
If you don't have the Cortot Tibaud recordings on Biddulph, then maybe that is a good place to start.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Faure-Violin-Sonata-Quartet-String/dp/B000001ZFE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1274465605&sr=8-3
I don't know the EMI box -- but I can vouch for the box with Via Nova on Erato.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Faur%C3%A9-Chamber-Via-Nova-Qt/dp/B000001Z3I/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1274465636&sr=1-3
Quote from: Dancing Divertimentian on May 16, 2010, 06:31:16 PM
A nice one-stop for Ravel's chamber music is this disc:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/518A2VABWDL._SS400_.jpg)
Although in all honesty it's for the piano trio and the sonata for violin and cello that this disc is invaluable, overshadowing the other works on account of the inclusion of Gautier Capuçon's glorious cello. But the rest ain't chopped liver, however, they just don't include Gautier's cello. :)
After a first couple of listens I was a little disappointed. The Trio - a big, big work - just doesn't really impress me here. Nor did the Violin Sonata, which is a very tricky work.
The Violin - Cello Sonata is the most succesful work on the disc, in my view as yet.
These works were recorded in 2002, when the younger Capucon, the cellist, was barely tenty years old. You have to start recording at some point, but maybe they can give these works more depth sometime later.
For me the big elusive crown jewel is Fauré's Op 121 Piano Trio. I love this work, have done so for decades, but there is no recording (in my collection) that fully satisfies me. This is perhaps inevitable given how much I like this piece.
Part of the problem is the serenity - hysterics balance. People tend to perform late Fauré as a kind of serene chant, and maybe that's the way the composer wanted it. But if you go back in back in time, for instance to Hubeau et al, there's quite a bit of stridency in the performance. I can't say the results are always pleasing, and there's no telling if this generation of performers was closer to Fauré's sound ideal, or, conversely, reacting against the first generation of performers. (Hubeau started performing in the thirties; his Erato recordings are from the seventies.)
This summer BBC 3 will air a documentary on Fauré, by Jessica Duchen. Apparently she's going to talk about this problem, too. And of course I won't be able to hear the program, living on the continent.
Quote from: Herman on May 21, 2010, 11:23:33 PM
This summer BBC 3 will air a documentary on Fauré, by Jessica Duchen. Apparently she's going to talk about this problem, too. And of course I won't be able to hear the program, living on the continent.
I guess BB3 is streamed. Somebody chime in?
Do you know the Tellefsen, Helmersson, Pålsson trio performance on BIS? On of the first BIS discs (BIS 26) and possibly OOP: but always a firm favorite (with great sound) in my LP collection.
Quote from: Drasko on May 17, 2010, 11:44:21 AM
I'm shamefully ignorant of Faure's chamber music. Would EMI France box (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Faure-Complete-Chamber-Music-Various/dp/B000A7KLRU) be a good start?
I rank Fauré among the very best composers of chamber music. That EMI France box is a nice place to start. The Cello Sonatas are especially good in that set.
Quote from: 71 dB on May 22, 2010, 12:11:19 AM
I rank Fauré among the very best composers of chamber music.
I totally agree.
Quote from: Bulldog on May 21, 2010, 08:19:01 AM
Yes, that Trio Wanderer disc of Faure's piano quartets has been on my 'to buy' list for a couple of months. I should pull the trigger soon.
Sadly, my collection of Harmonia Mundi releases is limited by the fact they are very difficult to get for reasonable price (same goes for BIS and Hyperion). Sure, these labels release discs of very high quality but that doesn't make me any richer...
Quote from: Herman on May 21, 2010, 11:03:05 PM
After a first couple of listens I was a little disappointed. The Trio - a big, big work - just doesn't really impress me here. Nor did the Violin Sonata, which is a very tricky work.
The Violin - Cello Sonata is the most succesful work on the disc, in my view as yet.
These works were recorded in 2002, when the younger Capucon, the cellist, was barely tenty years old. You have to start recording at some point, but maybe they can give these works more depth sometime later.
It's an interesting phenomenon, Herman, that over the years the two of us have very seldom seen eye to eye on matters of musical taste. So with that in mind I'm not even going to ask you who YOU like in the trio because I know
de facto I won't like it. ;D
When that Capuçon recording came out I played it a lot. I remember it was a very clean and correct sounding performance, and quite atmospheric. Was that the recording used in the film – Un coeur en Hiver?
The recording of the trio which reverberates the most with me is the one with Oistrakh. Dégagé. But maybe not very French sounding.
I haven't heard Rubinstein's -- can anyone comment on it?
Quote from: Mandryka on May 22, 2010, 09:09:22 AM
When that Capuçon recording came out I played it a lot. I remember it was a very clean and correct sounding performance, and quite atmospheric. Was that the recording used in the film – Un coeur en Hiver?
No, film is ten years older than Capucon recording. One of the reissues of Kantorow-Muller-Rouvier Erato recording was advertised as soundtrack from the film, but endcredits of the film itself list Jean-Jacques Kantorow, Keith Harvey and Howard Shelley as musicians.
Quote from: Herman on May 21, 2010, 11:23:33 PM
For me the big elusive crown jewel is Fauré's Op 121 Piano Trio. I love this work, have done so for decades, but there is no recording (in my collection) that fully satisfies me. This is perhaps inevitable given how much I like this piece.
Herman - Just joined the forum so this is my first post. I just listened to the lovely Faure Trio the other day, played by the Fontenay Trio and was dismayed by the approach of their pianist, Wolf Harden, who bangs on his instrument in an unpleasantly aggressive way.
One recording that needs to be mentioned is the Domus recordings of the two Faure Quintets. Beautiful pieces, very sensitively played. Sonics are bit trebly for my taste but still high quality.
Quote from: Drasko on May 22, 2010, 10:00:59 AM
No, film is ten years older than Capucon recording. One of the reissues of Kantorow-Muller-Rouvier Erato recording was advertised as soundtrack from the film, but endcredits of the film itself list Jean-Jacques Kantorow, Keith Harvey and Howard Shelley as musicians.
I've got them on a
Denon CD playing the trios by Fauré, Debussy and Ravel, and will add it to my listening stack and comment later.
Is there someone here who can say whether the Golub Kaplan Carr Trio playing French trios is a good disc?
Quote from: Dancing Divertimentian on May 17, 2010, 10:55:23 PM
There are earlier versions of both the Debussy and Ravel quartets by the Quartetto Italiano from the mono and early stereo eras respectively (on EMI). The Debussy isn't quite as good as I'd like but the Ravel is masterful, surpassing their later Philips effort by virtue of their greater flexibility and spontaneity. Top rank rendition.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41geT%2BwEsOL._SS400_.jpg)
I like that early Quarteto Italiano recording a lot -- even the rather spacious Debussy (why don't you like it?)
Have you tried any other Columbia/EMI QI recordings -- like the Mozart/Haydn/ Schubert disc on Testament? I'm feeling tempted.
Quote from: Mandryka on June 15, 2010, 01:07:27 PM
I like that early Quarteto Italiano recording a lot -- even the rather spacious Debussy (why don't you like it?)
Lemme give it a fresh listen and I'll get back to you.
QuoteHave you tried any other Columbia/EMI QI recordings -- like the Mozart/Haydn/ Schubert disc on Testament? I'm feeling tempted.
No, I haven't. But I'd like to hear some of these early recordings, myself...
Quote from: Mandryka on June 04, 2010, 03:14:33 AM
Is there someone here who can say whether the Golub Kaplan Carr Trio playing French trios is a good disc?
I'm auto-citing because just to signal that this is a brilliant performance of the Fauré .
The problem I have with many of these late Fauré pieces is that, all too often, the interpretation doesn't make clear the development of the musical ideas. You just have annoying amorphous musical stuff.
The Golub Kaplan Carr Trio are intelligent enough to completely grasp how this music goes. And the interpretation is achingly beautiful.
This is the recording which made me see why other people here were so enthusiastic about this trio: it's music which you can certainly get into big time.
Finally reaquired the QI/Philips cd in the original red tray and cheesy red/leaf cover. Ahhhh,....it's like the cornerstone of the Library. I really just wanted the jewel case, but I listened anyhow,... and wow, such nice, tight readings. Is it the best single cd of all time?
The QI and the Julliard/Sony have the exact timing for the Ravel pizz so what?
I finally tuned into the exquisite melodic appeal towards the end of the Deb slow mvmt, the notes just perfectly rising.
Also, the vehemence of the finales creates quite a charge.
I ended up listening to the whole cd three times, never tiring. Memories, memories,...ah, and more memories!!! :-* :-* :-*
One of the Amazon reviews really liked the Orpheus/Channel Classics,...anyone?
My two favorites
(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/2c/88/59ed024128a08b27f0322010.L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61K1ATSHWCL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
big contrast between Grumiaux and Borodin on the Debussy Sonatas - The Borodin is a very impassioned, romantic take whereas AG is restrained & much cooler or classical
Quote from: snyprrr on September 27, 2010, 07:16:38 AM
Finally reaquired the QI/Philips cd in the original red tray and cheesy red/leaf cover.
originally this was a vinyl LP, the cd you're talking about is just the nth iteration of this recording.
QuoteAhhhh,....it's like the cornerstone of the Library. I really just wanted the jewel case, but I listened anyhow,... and wow, such nice, tight readings. Is it the best single cd of all time?
I don't think so. I used to like the Italiano Debussy / Ravel a lot, and I have played it many many times, but I think it has become a historical record, meaning it doesn't feel like a reflection of what these pieces can mean to us anymore. The Italiano opts for a rather detached and philosophical look at these pieces, whereas they are more characterful and passionate.
Quote from: Herman on September 27, 2010, 11:29:18 AMI think it has become a historical record,
The Italiano opts for a rather detached and philosophical look at these pieces, whereas they are more characterful and passionate.
Who are you liking? I also have the Julliard (w/Dutilleux/SONY), which I can't complain about, and the New Hungarian on Vox (which I haven't listened to lately,...timings are pretty quick, though,...will have to check).
but, yea, I just like the QI for the warm fuzzy, "historical" feeling I get,.... kinda like a big slab of lasagna on a rainy day!
Quote from: Herman on May 16, 2010, 10:47:09 AM
For the Fauré (and the Ravel) I like the Ebene Quartet a lot. For the Debussy the live Ysaye (Wigmore Hall).
I recently bought these...
[asin]B000002ZI8[/asin]
[asin]B000002ZVF[/asin]
[asin]B000038I6C[/asin]
[asin]B0000041TM[/asin]
Does anyone have any comments about these recordings? The audio samples sounded fantastic.
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 25, 2011, 08:03:08 PM
I recently bought these...
[asin]B000002ZI8[/asin]
[asin]B000002ZVF[/asin]
[asin]B000038I6C[/asin]
[asin]B0000041TM[/asin]
Does anyone have any comments about these recordings? The audio samples sounded fantastic.
Aren't they the standard?
Quote from: snyprrr on January 25, 2011, 09:41:20 PM
Aren't they the standard?
They are the digital standard; of course there were standard recordings before the eighties like the chamber music cycle by Jean Hubeau et al on Erato, and the EMI box.
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 25, 2011, 08:03:08 PM
I recently bought these...
[asin]B000002ZI8[/asin]
[asin]B000002ZVF[/asin]
[asin]B000038I6C[/asin]
[asin]B0000041TM[/asin]
Does anyone have any comments about these recordings? The audio samples sounded fantastic.
I have the Domus on Faure and the Melos on Debussy and love them both. I have the Florestan on Brahms and love that, so I would assume this recording would be very good as well. Looks like you have some wonderful listening in your future; enjoy!
I'll match you with the Loewenguth/Vox (with the best Roussel SQ) as the most unbeatablely reliable Faure.
I have that copy too.
Quote from: Mandryka on May 14, 2010, 10:03:55 PM
What are your favourite records?
Mine would be:
Ravel – Ysaÿe
Fauré (opus 121) – Via Nova
Debussy – Juilliard (Testament)
For the Debussy Quartet, there are too many fun recordings – Italliano; Tokyo; Orlando. Maybe even The Capet and the Talich. I like the energy and colour of that early Juiliard recording tremendoously.
And some of those groups did good versions of the Ravel too.
For Fauré Op 121, the great recordings seem harder to find. Via Nova seem streets ahead of all others I know for colour, drama, sweetness of tone, balance.
It's ravissante. A beautiful French word to describe beautiful French music.
Quote from: Dancing Divertimentian on May 17, 2010, 05:58:34 PM
I'd really like to hear this one. Mullova's Debussy violin sonata with Anderszewski (on Philips) is superb.
Mullova's Ravel as well. Might be on another CD, coupled with the Debussy.
Quote from: Leon on January 26, 2011, 04:12:14 AM
I have the Domus on Faure and the Melos on Debussy and love them both.
The Melos is lovely. :)
Quote from: RJR on January 28, 2011, 06:39:32 AM
I'll match you with the Loewenguth/Vox (with the best Roussel SQ) as the most unbeatablely reliable Faure.
I have that copy too.
Yes. Yes. Check out Loewenguth performing
Roger-Ducasse SQ No.2 (Mandala) to Complete the Triangle.
Quote from: cosmicj on May 26, 2010, 09:02:51 AM
One recording that needs to be mentioned is the Domus recordings of the two Faure Quintets. Beautiful pieces, very sensitively played. Sonics are bit trebly for my taste but still high quality.
Quote from: Herman on September 28, 2010, 01:11:18 PM
Quote from: Mirror Image on January 25, 2011, 08:03:08 PM
I recently bought these...
[asin]B000002ZI8[/asin]
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Does anyone have any comments about these recordings? The audio samples sounded fantastic.
Quote from: Leon on January 26, 2011, 04:12:14 AM
I have the Domus on Faure and the Melos on Debussy and love them both. I have the Florestan on Brahms and love that, so I would assume this recording would be very good as well. Looks like you have some wonderful listening in your future; enjoy!
Are we still going with Domus/Hyperion in the Faure Quintets, or perhaps is the new Naxos to be 'sonically' preferred? I notice the comment of a wee bit of treble in the Domus recordings. The Naxos got an equal rewiew to the Domus, by J. Scott Morrison.
I did end up choosing the Nash over Domus in the Piano Quartets.
Herman, have you found a suitable Faure Piano Trio yet?
MI, I wasn't around here when you bought those, but the first three are some of my absolute favorite recordings. Did you enjoy them?
I wonder if the Fauré op121 quartet here, with the Pro Arte Quartet on a Biddulph release, is special and interesting? I'm especially interested in that one because fine recordings are rarer than with the Debussy and the Ravel. Has anyone here heard it?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/616JXIYixEL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Also, any recommendations for the second Fauré violin sonata? The only one I have is with Boffard and Mutter.
Quote from: Bulldog on May 21, 2010, 08:19:01 AM
Yes, that Trio Wanderer disc of Faure's piano quartets has been on my 'to buy' list for a couple of months. I should pull the trigger soon.
Did you? And . .
Their Haydn is not at all bad, I think. But it didn't bowl me over enough to make another purchase on a whim.
I'd also be very interested to know if anyone likes/doesn't their Ravel Trio CD
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Quote from: Drasko on May 17, 2010, 11:44:21 AM
Ravel
. . . From excerpts I've heard on radio new young French Trio Dali on Fuga Libera sounds superb, French critics are going silly over it.
Did you ever check this out?
Quote from: snyprrr on April 23, 2011, 08:04:13 AM
Are we still going with Domus/Hyperion in the Faure Quintets, or perhaps is the new Naxos to be 'sonically' preferred? I notice the comment of a wee bit of treble in the Domus recordings. The Naxos got an equal rewiew to the Domus, by J. Scott Morrison.
I did end up choosing the Nash over Domus in the Piano Quartets.
The Nash Ensemble are one of my favorite chamber groups. I'll checkout their Faure recordings.
Speaking of the Nash Ensemble, this 2-CD set on Virgin Classics of Ravel and Debussy chamber music has brought me a lot of joy:
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Boy, I've owned a lot of chamber music of these composers for years and not even part of this thread until now, but just to respond to MI's request concerning the 4 discs he asked about, I just own the one w/ the Florestan Trio - for the Faure Piano Quartets - the Nash Ensemble & for his Piano Quintets - Quintetto di Roma + Ortiz w/ the Fine Arts Quartet. :)
Quote from: SonicMan46 on May 23, 2011, 08:47:52 AM
Boy, I've owned a lot of chamber music of these composers for years and not even part of this thread until now, but just to respond to MI's request concerning the 4 discs he asked about, I just own the one w/ the Florestan Trio - for the Faure Piano Quartets - the Nash Ensemble & for his Piano Quintets - Quintetto di Roma + Ortiz w/ the Fine Arts Quartet. :)
That Florestan Trio recording is one of my absolute favorite cds Dave. :) Are the other ones you mentioned from the brilliant set?
Quote from: SonicMan46 on May 23, 2011, 08:47:52 AM
Boy, I've owned a lot of chamber music of these composers for years and not even part of this thread until now, but just to respond to MI's request concerning the 4 discs he asked about, I just own the one w/ the Florestan Trio - for the Faure Piano Quartets - the Nash Ensemble & for his Piano Quintets - Quintetto di Roma + Ortiz w/ the Fine Arts Quartet. :)
Thanks, Dave, but I ended up buying both Hyperion discs of Faure's PQs. I also bought that disc of Faure, Ravel, and Debussy PTs with the Florestan Trio on Hyperion. In fact, I ended up buying all the recordings I was inquiring about. :)
Quote from: haydnfan on May 23, 2011, 09:39:10 AM
That Florestan Trio recording is one of my absolute favorite cds Dave. :) Are the other ones you mentioned from the brilliant set?
Hi
David - a listing of the performers in the Brilliant box can be found HERE (http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp?album_id=91300) - the
Piano Quintets are indeed the same group, i.e. Quintetto Faure di Roma - however, the
Piano Quartets are listed as performed by the Ames Piano Quartet. The Nash Ensemble is in the box on several other performances. Dave :)
Oh I see Dave, thanks! You have indulged in multiple-recorditis for Faure it seems, cool.
So now let me ask which set do you like for his piano works? :)
Quote from: haydnfan on May 23, 2011, 02:34:57 PM
Oh I see Dave, thanks! You have indulged in multiple-recorditis for Faure it seems, cool.
So now let me ask which set do you like for his piano works? :)
There aren't that many choices for the complete set. The Stott set is very fine, the sound is gorgeous, but I get annoyed that during one of the sessions the piano had a bad hammer that makes a little "ping" whenever a certain note is struck. Tends to disrupt the flowing arpeggios. There is the Collard, which is very fine but has EMI france sound which is a bit brittle. Unfortunately the Doyen set on EMI is out of print and very yard to find. I recently got the Hubeau set from Erato (Warner) but have not listened to it. I resisted it because he was 80 when he recorded it and I was skeptical as to whether he could still be at his best.
I think I would take consistently brittle to the "ping", your ears can adopt to the former but the other one will leave a sour note. ;)
Quote from: haydnfan on May 23, 2011, 02:48:54 PM
I think I would take consistently brittle to the "ping", your ears can adopt to the former but the other one will leave a sour note. ;)
Oddly, others say they don't hear the "ping" at all. I've made my peace with it.
I got the Heidsieck recordings of the Nocturnes and Barcarolles from hmv japan; also some Thyssens-Valentin on Testament, such as the wonderful op 103 Preludes
Quote from: SonicMan46 on May 23, 2011, 08:47:52 AM
Boy, I've owned a lot of chamber music of these composers for years and not even part of this thread until now, but just to respond to MI's request concerning the 4 discs he asked about, I just own the one w/ the Florestan Trio - for the Faure Piano Quartets - the Nash Ensemble & for his Piano Quintets - Quintetto di Roma + Ortiz w/ the Fine Arts Quartet. :)
What do you think of those Nash/CRD
Piano Quartet recordings? I like the playing, but doesn't it seem like the strings of not so loud? I have a non-commercial recording by another group, which happens to be very 'present', and I hear so much more than on that CRD recording. Maybe I just have to turn it up, but, it's still not a very up front... the piano is closer. The Hyperion recording of the
Piano Quintets is supernatural by comparison (though I will haaave to check out that di Roma recording: I think they may be the One for me).
Quote from: haydnfan on May 23, 2011, 02:34:57 PM
Oh I see Dave, thanks! You have indulged in multiple-recorditis for Faure it seems, cool.
So now let me ask which set do you like for his piano works? :)
Good morning
David - not sure if you're asking about the chamber works or now the 'solo' piano ones? Actually, I've not really duplicated much of Faure except for the Piano Quintets - the
Quintetto di Roma has been my 'gold standard' for years (and I've culled out a number of others previously) - I only bought the Ortiz recording because of a superlative review by Dubins in Fanfare HERE (http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp?album_id=221698) (and the Naxos price, of course - :)) - decided to put both in the CD player now.
If you're interested in the solo piano works,
Scarpia has added some discussion - I just have one set, Stott (inexpensive BRO purchase a while back), although Doyen has been on my 'wish list' for a long time, just not in print AFAIK? Dave
And no ping to your ears Dave? That might settle it, I'll get the Stott at bro. Well if they still have it when I place an order (not doing so now).
Quote from: haydnfan on May 24, 2011, 07:15:07 AM
And no ping to your ears Dave? That might settle it, I'll get the Stott at bro. Well if they still have it when I place an order (not doing so now).
Well, I just checked BRO (assume you did also), the
Stott 4-disc is 'in stock' for only $24 - however, I've not listened to it in a while, so cannot confirm the 'ping' issue; on Amazon there is 1 'used' 4-disc set w/
Doyen going for $54 - no thanks!
Another set of historic performances that comes up on occasion are those of
Germaine Thyssens-Valentine - Amazon has 3 discs of her doing Faure on the Testament label, but the price pretty much adds up to the Doyen box!
So, if you decide on the current 'bargain' box, then
Stott is your obvious choice - if you decide on a purchase, then we can both try to hear the elusive 'ping' - but w/ my aural abilities I'd likely miss it? May have Susan take a listen - she is a pianist w/ pretty much perfect pitch - Dave :)
Quote from: haydnfan on May 23, 2011, 02:34:57 PM
Oh I see Dave, thanks! You have indulged in multiple-recorditis for Faure it seems, cool.
So now let me ask which set do you like for his piano works? :)
I have heard Stott, Valentin and Collard and Collard is my favorite, by far. Cheap and on Brilliant Classics, too!
Quote from: George on May 24, 2011, 08:06:20 AM
I have heard Stott, Valentin and Collard and Collard is my favorite, by far. Cheap and on Brilliant Classics, too!
Eric Heidsieck is a fairly essential Fauré performer.
Quote from: Herman on May 24, 2011, 08:52:14 AM
Eric Heidsieck is a fairly essential Fauré performer.
I really have to get his Nocturnes when I next order from Japan, they've been on my wishlist for too long. Check out his complete Brahms op.118 on youtube, very interesting.
Of complete/partial sets I've heard Thyssens-Valentin is closest to my idea how should Faure sound.
Quote from: snyprrr on May 23, 2011, 06:28:07 PM
What do you think of those Nash/CRD Piano Quartet recordings? I like the playing, but doesn't it seem like the strings of not so loud? I have a non-commercial recording by another group, which happens to be very 'present', and I hear so much more than on that CRD recording. Maybe I just have to turn it up, but, it's still not a very up front... the piano is closer. The Hyperion recording of the Piano Quintets is supernatural by comparison (though I will haaave to check out that di Roma recording: I think they may be the One for me).
Snyprrr - just finished listening to the Nash recording on CRD on my den stereo (not sure if you are listening to web snippets or on what system?) - indeed, the piano is more 'up front' and can be at times dominant but the strings are there in the mix and not really backstage; still enjoy that recording but now I am curious about the Domus one on Hyperion - might add a second performance to my collection? :D
Quote from: Herman on May 24, 2011, 08:52:14 AM
Eric Heidsieck is a fairly essential Fauré performer.
I agree about the Nocturnes. He is by far the best modern recording I have heard in the 12 and 13. I haven't heard his Barcarolles. And I'm very curious about the recording of the Preludes. I like those preludes a lot (mostly I listen to Jean Doyen for them)
In his last ten years of his life there is some really fine instrumental music -- Op. 121 String Quartet in E minor, Op. 120 Piano Trio, Nocturnes 12 and 13, the Violin Sonata No. 2, Op. 103 Préludes, maybe a couple of Barcarolles too. They are I think real summits of French music: I owe a thank you to Herman for his enthusiastic advocacy.
By the way many of Thyssens-Valentin's CDs are out of copyright and can easily be found for free download. Two other interesting pianist in this material is Marguerite Long and Madeleine de Valmalette. Ignace Tiegerman too.
Quote from: Mandryka on May 24, 2011, 09:28:50 AM
In his last ten years of his life there is some really fine instrumental music -- Op. 121 String Quartet in E minor, Op. 120 Piano Trio, Nocturnes 12 and 13, the Violin Sonata No. 2, Op. 103 Préludes, maybe a couple of Barcarolles too. They are I think real summits of French music: I owe a thank you to Herman for his enthusiastic advocacy.
You're very welcome, I'm happy to hear that.
I love nocturne nr 9, too.
Quote from: Leon on May 24, 2011, 07:48:47 AM
This set is a favorite in my collection and played very often:
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That is one of my favorite sets of any chamber music. I linked this set earlier but nobody said much, if anything, about it. Glad to see somebody enjoys these Nash Ensemble performances as much as I do.
Quote from: Drasko on May 24, 2011, 08:58:08 AM
Of complete/partial sets I've heard Thyssens-Valentin is closest to my idea how should Faure sound.
Quote from: Herman on May 23, 2011, 05:54:11 PM
Thyssens-Valentin on Testament, such as the wonderful op 103 Preludes
Quote from: SonicMan46 on May 24, 2011, 07:32:38 AM
Another set of historic performances that comes up on occasion are those of Germaine Thyssens-Valentine - Amazon has 3 discs of her doing Faure on the Testament label, but the price pretty much adds up to the Doyen box!
The more I listen to her the less I like her, though I prefer her in Op 103 to the Nocturnes.
Most of her stuff is out of copyright and downloadable from musique ouverte
Quote from: Mandryka on June 07, 2011, 08:10:55 AM
The more I listen to her the less I like her, though I prefer her in Op 103 to the Nocturnes.
Most of her stuff is out of copyright and downloadable from musique ouverte
Yeah, I have yet to understand the acclaim for her. :-\
Mandryka & George - so guys, appears that the Germaine Thyssens-Valentine recordings are not worth pursuing for me?
Now, I've never been to that French download site but looks interesting - is it safe? Thanks - Dave :)
Quote from: SonicMan46 on June 08, 2011, 05:58:51 AM
Mandryka & George - so guys, appears that the Germaine Thyssens-Valentine recordings are not worth pursuing for me?
Now, I've never been to that French download site but looks interesting - is it safe? Thanks - Dave :)
Yes. It's safe.
I am embarrassed to say that l listened to Nocturne 9 from Thyssens-Valentine last night and thoroughly enjoyed it (though I liked Heidsieck's restraint just as much if not more.) The wind must have changed direction. Download them and see what you think,
SonicMan46.
Quote from: SonicMan46 on June 08, 2011, 05:58:51 AM
Mandryka & George - so guys, appears that the Germaine Thyssens-Valentine recordings are not worth pursuing for me?
That's a question only you can answer. For me, Collard's Brilliant Classics set is all the solo Faure I need.
Quote from: George on June 08, 2011, 08:06:00 AM
For me, Collard's Brilliant Classics set is all the solo Faure I need.
I don't want it, I just need it to breath, to feel I'm alive... ;D
Quote from: DavidW on June 08, 2011, 08:13:47 AM
I don't want it, I just need it to breath, to feel I'm alive... ;D
relax, turn around and take my hand...
Quote from: George on June 08, 2011, 08:15:08 AM
relax, turn around and take my hand...
jeje you're a fast one! ;D
Quote from: Mandryka on June 08, 2011, 07:25:26 AM
Yes. It's safe.
I am embarrassed to say that l listened to Nocturne 9 from Thyssens-Valentine last night and thoroughly enjoyed it (though I liked Heidsieck's restraint just as much if not more.) The wind must have changed direction. Download them and see what you think, SonicMan46.
Well, I went on my old Linux lappie and did the FLAC downloads (Rar archives) - converted to MP3 and then 'burned' a CD-R - would only work on my computers - UGH! But I've got them on FLAC for free, so not a problem - will listen soon! Thanks for the advise! Dave :)
Quote from: Mandryka on June 08, 2011, 07:25:26 AM
Yes. It's safe.
I am embarrassed to say that l listened to Nocturne 9 from Thyssens-Valentine last night and thoroughly enjoyed it (though I liked Heidsieck's restraint just as much if not more.) The wind must have changed direction. Download them and see what you think, SonicMan46.
this happens to me all the time.
Quote from: SonicMan46 on May 24, 2011, 09:22:14 AM
Snyprrr - just finished listening to the Nash recording on CRD on my den stereo (not sure if you are listening to web snippets or on what system?) - indeed, the piano is more 'up front' and can be at times dominant but the strings are there in the mix and not really backstage; still enjoy that recording but now I am curious about the Domus one on Hyperion - might add a second performance to my collection? :D
Today I got
The Schubert Ensemble of London playing the
Piano Quartets (formerly ASV; now Sanctuary Recs.), and i must say I think we have a Contender here! All the ardor of the Nash performance, with a different recording perspective.
As a matter of fact, this group blazes through this music, sometimes very fast, yet always surging and on top of things. The finale of Op.45 is the prime example. Compare your timings with their 8:34! This movement blazes with Romantic fervor like nothing! You can't seem to play this music too passionately.
Compared with the Nash, Roge/Ysaye, and a private label Italian group, the SEL breathe fire into these two apparent warhorses, reinvigorating my appreciation of them. I haven't heard Domus here, but a reviewer said Domus and Nash were at the opposite ends of the passion meter. If you like your Domus and want a to try a surging and passionately on fire performance, this is it.
I paid .50cents Used, but I think you can get these ASV reissues cheap still. Really, I want everyone to try this. I had a feeling about this group, as if they were an alternative to Domus (SEL also do Brahms and Mendelssohn PQ4ts), and they more than fit the bill. I would seriously consider the Brahms/Mendelssohn discs seeing as their pretty cheap too.
Get this! ;) I'm selling the rest.
Quote from: snyprrr on June 10, 2011, 09:56:07 PM
I'm selling the rest.
Why do that if you paid only fifty cents for the new cd?
you may enjoy them some time later.
Quote from: Herman on June 11, 2011, 12:03:59 AM
Why do that if you paid only fifty cents for the new cd?
you may enjoy them some time later.
Binge 'n' Purge,... it's not a pretty sight! Not saying I haven't made mistakes, but, over the years, I've only bought back a very small percentage of Castaways.
I gotta tell ya tho,... seeing the price, I'd really like you to try these. Seeing your interest in this music, surely these... I was going to say 'hair raising' but I don't know if you'll shy from that... these very very 'ardent' performances should put you on your ear (for good or no). Please Please,... Is one allowed to play Faure like this?
And the recording is transparent,... usually that's the problem with the 'Competition' (whenever I'm culling Castaways)... please, look into this group! :-*
For a highly unusual Debussy Violin Sonata:
Gitlis and Argerich -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjQJ5kpDE8U
Quote from: DieNacht on June 12, 2011, 01:05:56 PM
For a highly unusual Debussy Violin Sonata:
Gitlis and Argerich -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjQJ5kpDE8U
Welcome to the forum DieNacht
Yes that's a strange and interesting performance. I know it in fact from this CD, and I play it quite often.
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I think Ivry Gitlis is interesting, not least because of the work he did with Yoko Ono. I don't care about his gypsyness myself -- the vibrato, inaccurate intonation etc. I even have him playing a Mozart sonata and the big Bach Chaconne.
Recommendations appreciated for recordings of the Poulenc Clarinet Sonata
Quote from: Mandryka on July 31, 2011, 08:50:45 PM
Recommendations appreciated for recordings of the Poulenc Clarinet Sonata
Aren't there just... too many? ???
I haven't gotten past the Hyperion set, though, there must be at least 10-20 solid choices, depending on whom/what you like for disc mates. Who's gonna **** that one up?
Quote from: Mandryka on July 31, 2011, 08:50:45 PM
Recommendations appreciated for recordings of the Poulenc Clarinet Sonata
Of several I heard clear favorite is Van Spaendonck/Tharaud on Naxos (vol.2 of Complete Chamber Music).
edit:spelling
Quote from: Drasko on August 01, 2011, 02:00:41 AM
Of several I heard clear favorite is Van Spaendonck/Tharaud on Naxos (vol.2 of Complete Chamber Music).
edit:spelling
Thanks -- that's easy to get.
I must say I am enjoying Pulenc right now -- he seems to be a majorly undervalued composer. Dialogues des Carmilites must be one of the finest twentieth century operas, There's the Concerto Champêtre too (which I only know through Gilels' recording -- did Landowska record it?), some very fine songs (I have a nice CD of them sung by Flott, and others sung by Cuénod) a glorious a capella prayer/poem setting called La Voix Humaine, the Mouvements Perpetueles (which I only know through a wonderful old perforrmance from Gieseking.)
Quote from: Mandryka on August 01, 2011, 10:42:45 AM
Thanks -- that's easy to get.
Grab the whole Naxos Poulence box set it's excellent!
QuoteI must say I am enjoying Pulenc right now -- he seems to be a majorly undervalued composer. Dialogues des Carmilites must be one of the finest twentieth century operas, There's the Concerto Champêtre too (which I only know through Gilels' recording -- did Landowska record it?), some very fine songs (I have a nice CD of them sung by Flott, and others sung by Cuénod) a glorious a capella prayer/poem setting called La Voix Humaine, the Mouvements Perpetueles (which I only know through a wonderful old perforrmance from Gieseking.)
I olove Poulenc. His Music is like a carnival. :D Tacchino is great in the solo works. He knew the composer.
Quote from: Mandryka on August 01, 2011, 10:42:45 AM
I must say I am enjoying Pulenc right now -- he seems to be a majorly undervalued composer. Dialogues des Carmilites must be one of the finest twentieth century operas, There's the Concerto Champêtre too (which I only know through Gilels' recording -- did Landowska record it?), some very fine songs (I have a nice CD of them sung by Flott, and others sung by Cuénod) a glorious a capella prayer/poem setting called La Voix Humaine, the Mouvements Perpetueles (which I only know through a wonderful old perforrmance from Gieseking.)
I'm big fan of Poulenc.
Dialogues des carmélites is a very fine piece, but don't miss Les mamelles de Tirésias (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Les_mamelles_de_Tir%C3%A9sias) on Apollinaire's play, you'll never hear nothing like it, try to find if you can Denise Duvall with Cluytens and Opera Comique.
I haven't heard any but there should be, maybe even more than one, recording of Concerto Champêtre with Landowska.
La Voix Humaine is monodrama for soprano and orchestra. The choral a capella piece you were thinking of is Figure humaine, wich is in my opinion one of
the great 20 century choral works. Poulenc was first rate choral composer, both secular and sacred music, his motets are amazing.
Concert Champêtre - Landowska / NYPSO / Stokowski 1949
http://www.youtube.com/v/A5Afw5YfAGUhttp://www.youtube.com/v/i3rfix2tVOg
Quote from: Drasko on August 01, 2011, 11:55:39 AM
I'm big fan of Poulenc.
Dialogues des carmélites is a very fine piece, but don't miss Les mamelles de Tirésias (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Les_mamelles_de_Tir%C3%A9sias) on Apollinaire's play, you'll never hear nothing like it, try to find if you can Denise Duvall with Cluytens and Opera Comique.
I haven't heard any but there should be, maybe even more than one, recording of Concerto Champêtre with Landowska.
La Voix Humaine is monodrama for soprano and orchestra. The choral a capella piece you were thinking of is Figure humaine, wich is in my opinion one of the great 20 century choral works. Poulenc was first rate choral composer, both secular and sacred music, his motets are amazing.
ah yes. Thanks for finding the Landowska -- I think he wrote it for her. That sounds completely different than with Gilels at the piano. It looks like there are at least two recordings with Landowska both hard to find and expensive when you do. I found one uploaded to symphonyshare with Zuzana Ruzickova and Sanderling -- let me know if you want the link. I have Zuzana Ruzickova's Bach concertos with Ancerl (I think -- can't check now) and they are good. Very.
One the things that's interesting is that he has a fun loving urbane side and a spiritual catholic side. I think he found religion relatively late in life. Motets sound interesting. I've always avoided Les mamelles de Tirésias partly because of the title -- I mean, what the hell can that be about? Les nichons de Tirésias aurait été mieux :)
Quote from: Mandryka on August 01, 2011, 12:34:33 PM
I've always avoided Les mamelles de Tirésias partly because of the title -- I mean, what the hell can that be about?
QuoteSynopsis
Act 1
Thérèse tires of her life as a submissive woman and becomes the male Tirésias when her breasts turn into balloons and float away. Her husband is not pleased by this, still less so when she ties him up and dresses him as a woman.
Meanwhile, a pair of drunken gamblers called Presto and Lacouf affectionately shoot one another and are mourned by the assembled townspeople. Thérèse marches off to conquer the world as General Tiresias, leaving her captive husband to the attentions of the local gendarme, who is fooled by his female attire.
Off-stage, General Tiresias starts a successful campaign against childbirth and is hailed by the populace. Fearful that France will be left sterile if women give up sex, the husband vows to find a way to bear children without women. Lacouf and Presto return from the dead and express both interest and scepticism.
Act 2
The curtain rises to cries of "Papa!" The husband's project has been a spectacular success, and he has given birth to 40,049 children in a single day. A visiting Parisian journalist asks how he can afford to feed the brood, but the husband explains that the children have all been very successful in careers in the arts, and have made him a rich man with their earnings. After chasing the journalist off, the husband decides to raise a journalist of his own, but is not completely pleased with the results.
The gendarme now arrives to report that, because of overpopulation, the citizens of Zanzibar are all dying of hunger. The husband suggests getting ration cards printed by a tarot-reading fortune-teller. Just such a fortune-teller immediately appears, looking rather familiar under her mask.
The fortune-teller prophesies that the fertile husband will be a multi-millionaire, but that the sterile gendarme will die in abject poverty. Incensed, the gendarme attempts to arrest her, but she strangles him and reveals herself as none other than Thérèse. The couple reconcile, and the whole cast gathers at the footlights to urge the audience:
Ecoutez, ô Français, les leçons de la guerre
Et faites des enfants, vous qui n'en faisiez guère
Cher public: faites des enfants!
You know I had no idea it was so surreal. I vaguely remember from when I was at school that Tyresias, the mystic prophet in Sophocles's plays, was transsexual, and so I had always assumed it was about classical culture.
Quote from: toucan on August 01, 2011, 02:01:19 PM
Just in the nick of time...
Missed one of the photos, Biddulph with portrait of Faure displaying his fierce mustache.
Those two Marguarite Long CDs look interesting, unfortunately both long out of print.
I have maybe half of the rest, fine choices.
Quote from: toucan on August 02, 2011, 04:31:25 AM
The moustache was restored to its owner 8)
abomination (noun): faicial hair that defies logic!! see: soul patch, handlebars, muttonchops, etc.,...
Quote from: toucan on August 01, 2011, 02:01:19 PM
I am not sure why Poulenc got into neo-classicism instead of Impressionism. Perhaps it is a generational thing.
One may ask whether Debussy and Ravel were really "into" impressionism. In a way Debussy last sonatas ushered in neo-classicism.
By the time Poulenc was born Debussy was 36 years old. By the time Poulenc started composing music WWI (the clear marker of the end of the belle époque) was well under way.
Quote from: toucan on August 01, 2011, 02:01:19 PM
For the Debussy quartet, however, I doubt one could do any better than the venerated Quartetto Italiano. In truth, their Debussy is among their best recordings, alongside Beethoven's late quartets:
For a long time the Italiano recording was regarded as the go-to recording of the Ravel and the Debussy, making people believe that this music was as static and undramatic as the Italiano performed it.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51dJX1R8YPL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
I'm not sure how much interest there is in period performance of this genre but I just got this recording. I'm finding it to be really rewarding listening.
Thank you, milk! That one goes straight into my shopping cart.
I've lately come to believe (although it probably belongs on the "Unpopular Opinions" thread) that Liszt benefits more than any other post-Classical composer from performance on a period piano. He was so concerned with specific coloristic effects, some of which get lost in translation on a modern instrument. I've had few opportunities to hear impressionist music on period instruments, but what's true for Liszt (to my ear) is true for this repertoire as well...
Quote from: PaulSC on November 17, 2011, 09:17:26 AM
Thank you, milk! That one goes straight into my shopping cart.
I've lately come to believe (although it probably belongs on the "Unpopular Opinions" thread) that Liszt benefits more than any other post-Classical composer from performance on a period piano. He was so concerned with specific coloristic effects, some of which get lost in translation on a modern instrument. I've had few opportunities to hear impressionist music on period instruments, but what's true for Liszt (to my ear) is true for this repertoire as well...
Oh I'm glad someone benefitted from my post. I'm guessing you have the Daniel Grimwood Liszt recording? I have it but haven't listened to it enough yet. I also quite like this (and almost anything by Immerseel):
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Cduw5iNiL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Quote from: toucan on August 01, 2011, 02:01:19 PM
(http://i335.photobucket.com/albums/m465/Phil1_05/RavelPoulencDebussyFaure013.jpg)
What is the (glorious) picture on this CD?
Well, it's obviously Joan Miró — his signature is visible at the bottom right, above the larger red form. But I can't give you a title or put it in context.
Quote from: milk on November 18, 2011, 05:30:54 AM
Oh I'm glad someone benefitted from my post. I'm guessing you have the Daniel Grimwood Liszt recording? I have it but haven't listened to it enough yet. I also quite like [Immerseel/Istomen]
Actually, I have neither the Grimwood nor the Immerseel, although I would probably enjoy them both.
I have Carole Carniel playing book 1 of the Annees De Pelerinage (Suisse), and mixed recitals by Dag Achatz and Pascal Mantin.
Finally, to bring things back on topic I'll note that I'm eyeing a Debussy disc played by Immerseel on a turn-of-the-century Erard, also pictured below.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51%2BLHkbgk%2BL._SS500_.jpg)(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41P3PGQ0PML._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51iTNOj1-kL._SS500_.jpg)(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51KZ5QyMcCL._SS500_.jpg)
Quote from: PaulSC on November 18, 2011, 01:14:10 PM
Actually, I have neither the Grimwood nor the Immerseel, although I would probably enjoy them both.
I have Carole Carniel playing book 1 of the Annees De Pelerinage (Suisse), and mixed recitals by Dag Achatz and Pascal Mantin.
Finally, to bring things back on topic I'll note that I'm eyeing a Debussy disc played by Immerseel on a turn-of-the-century Erard, also pictured below.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51%2BLHkbgk%2BL._SS500_.jpg)(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41P3PGQ0PML._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51iTNOj1-kL._SS500_.jpg)(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51KZ5QyMcCL._SS500_.jpg)
Yeah I've got the Immerseel and quite enjoy it. But I'm musically uneducated so I wonder if others with knowledge can say more about how period performances compare to modern. Here are some others in my collection:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41WP5T054RL.jpg)
(1897 Bechstein)
(http://image.allmusic.com/00/acg/cov200/cl500/l581/l58165w93nv.jpg)
(period instuments)
(http://i43.tower.com/images/mm111705005/claude-debussy-en-blanc-et-noir-music-for-inge-spinette-cd-cover-art.jpg)
(http://image.allmusic.com/00/acg/cov200/cn000/n090/n09000dfo2i.jpg)
I wanted to add one more - and thank the readers of this thread for their indulgence. I'm endlessly fascinated by this recording of Debussy's piano rolls. I just find it
a real pleasure to listen to. But, as with most things musical, I know so little about it. I mean I'm not really sure what I'm listening to. How accurate is this
as a reproduction of Debussy's playing? The written material on the recording is pretty convincing. But I'll have to trust the opinions of others about it.
Still, I love listening to it whether or not it is dubious as a representation of the composer's performance of his works.
(http://pavane.blog.so-net.ne.jp/_images/blog/_dd3/pavane/CLAUDE20DEBUSSY20The20composer20as20Pianist.jpg)
The Ravel Trio from Menuhin, Kenter and Cassado has been entertaining me a lot this week. Well worth picking up I would say on this amateur transfer, which is good enough to appreciate the music making:
http://vinylfatigue.blogspot.com/2010/06/menuhin-kenter-cassado-play-ravel-trio.html
I'm thinking of getting this one from Jeffrey Solow, Jaime Laredo and Ruth Laredo now that it's been released on CD by in what appears to be an arkivmusik/sony arrangement
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/non-muze/full/588454.jpg)
http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/Drilldown?name_id1=17378&name_role1=2&bcorder=2&name_id=9930&name_role=1
What could have gotten into the Beaux Arts Trio to have played the Partoum so strangely? Surely that must be far from what Ravel wanted. Do they always take it like that, even in their mono records?
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51BB0jqnbbL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
http://open.spotify.com/track/7fJQ3ynuoK9ufV6eY28jzL
(http://www.arkivmusic.com/graphics/covers/non-muze/full/588454.jpg)
The trio here from Jeffrey Solow, Jaime Laredo and Ruth Laredo is hugely enjoyable
Try some Roussel. Take a tip from Marilyn Monroe: 'You'd be surprised'.
Quote from: toucan on November 19, 2011, 01:53:11 PM
There is one thing I have to say about Albert Ferber: he was a student of Walter Gieseking. He was born in Switzerland but settled in Great Britain. He probably was more of a teacher than a performer. He did gain a reputation dutrng the 1950's but has fallen out of view more recently. His playing style is laidback & straightforward. He plays the notes with clarity and a good, if somewhat even-handed (unvariagated) touch, without drama or exageration. This no-nonsense approach is well suited to Fauré, a composer who could seem too heavy, oppressively emotive, when played with excessive intensity. There is something else that ought to be said about Albert Ferber. He was also a student of Marguerite Long's; it has not been ascertained whether it is Marguerite Long or Gieseking who got him into French music, or whether he was born that way. EMI has recently released a 4-CD box of Debussy pieces, performed by Ferber. The first time that's ever happened, on CD.
I have him playing Faure preludes. I thought some of them worked and some of them didn't. He is no nonsense as you say, but in some of the preludes I thought he was a bit too mundane. I'd need to listen again to identify which ones.
Having said that it's not easy to find a really satisfying record of Faure Preludes, but if I want to listen to these works I tend to go to Thyssens-Valentin or Doyen rather than Ferber.
I'm not really a fan of the post war French piano style in fact. I've never got on with Long's recordings, I'm very ambivalent about Leferbure too -- though in her case I've kept the concerto with Furtwangler and the record of Tombeau de Couperin.
Someone mentioned Debussy's trio for Flute, Viola and Harp, and that got me listening today. And you know what, the performance which bowled me over was probably the very first one - with Moyse, Ginot and Laskine, recorded in 1927, and sounding very good. Amazingly good.
What I hear more and more is that the early Debussy players were often wide awake, hip and jazzy. Here in the trio , but also in Cortot's solo work and the Capet Quartet's recording. They're colourful, exotic and lively. The dreamy, veiled world came later I suppose -- with Gieseking's first recordings.
Anyway, this is a very strong and modern performance of the trio -- try it for yourself:
http://www.youtube.com/v/z8_J3UiRM_s
I also listened to some violin sonata recordings -- Poulet, Thibaud, Suk. Gerard Poulet is the the outstanding one, with Noel Lee. I'd remembered it was good, but I hadn't remembered how good! They're totally inspired, spontaneous, and yet exotic and French.
Anyone heard this record?
(http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2002/Apr02/Debussy_A303.jpg)
Oh and I'll mention my latest discovery, even though it's not chamber music. Debussy composed some orchestral music to accompany a recitation of Pierre Louys's 12 Chansons de Bilitis. The manuscript was lost, but a partial score remained. Boulez took the incomplete score and -- lo! here it is:
http://www.youtube.com/v/5iSKNthmboA
Anyone heard this record?
(http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2002/Apr02/Debussy_A303.jpg)
I have this one and it's great! And all on period instruments.
Quote from: milk on January 01, 2012, 06:48:51 PM
Anyone heard this record?
(http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2002/Apr02/Debussy_A303.jpg)
I have this one and it's great! And all on period instruments.
Meaning what? Baroque Cello?
Quote from: toucan on January 01, 2012, 11:25:07 AM
Interesting; you wouldn't happen to know if this is available in CD form?
(It's still chamber music, btw: 2 flutes, 2 harps and a celesta: an ensemble Boulez might have used, in fact!)
Not as far as I know.
I shouldn't have said all. Perhaps someone can explain this more. The piano is a period Erard. But I don't understand what period means in terms of the other instruments. Nor do I have any idea about the strings or how the performers chose the instruments.
Thanks for the replies about the Kuijiken CD.
I've been following the discussion on a French website about the Ravel trio --they've been in involved in a blind listening of
Yvon Carracilly, Klaus Heitz, Henri Barda (Calliope, 1974)
David Oïstrakh, Sviatoslav Knouchevitski, Lev Oborine (Melodiya/DG, 1952)
Jascha Heifetz, Gregor Piatigorsky, Artur Rubinstein (RCA Victor, 1950)
Joshua Bell, Steven Isserlis, Jean-Yves Thibaudet (Decca, 1990)
Beaux Arts Trio - Daniel Guilet, Bernard Greenhouse, Menahem Pressler (Philips, 1966)
Trio Altenberg - Amiram Ganz, Alexander Gebert, Claus-Christian Schuster (Challenge Classics, 2002)
Beaux Arts Trio - Isidore Cohen, Bernard Greenhouse, Menahem Pressler (Philips, 1983)
Jean Pasquier, Étienne Pasquier, Lucette Descaves (Erato, 1954)
Trio Dali : Vineta Sareika, Christian-Pierre La Marca, Amandine Savary (Fuga Libera, 2008)
Trio Chausson : Philippe Talec, Antoine Landowski, Boris de Larochelambert (Mirare, 2007)
Nash Ensemble : Marcia Crayford, Christopher van Kampen, Ian Brown (Virgin, 1990)
Jean-Jacques Kantorow, Philippe Müller, Jacques Rouvier (Erato, 1973)
Renaud Capuçon, Gautier Capuçon, Franck Braley (Virgin, 2002)
Florestan Trio : Anthony Marwood, Richard Lester, Susan Tomes (Hyperion, 1999)
The one the panel preferred was the Florestan Trio recording, with Rouvier et al and the Capuçon CD both getting an honourable mention.
Not a decision I agree with, and I don't agree with the reasons they gave. And the selection seems to me to omit some very worthy ones.
But still, this is a major masterpiece I think, and it's good to see it being taken so seriously.
Quote from: Mandryka on January 02, 2012, 09:33:29 AM
I've been following the discussion on a French website about the Ravel trio --they've been in involved in a blind listening of ...
Was that on Le jardin des critiques? That seems like fine program, unfortunately I don't speak French.
I'm not familiar with Florestan Trio recording but they gave both of my favorites an honourable mention, so they did show some signs of taste.
It was also on BBC Building a Library last year (I think) and the reviewer chose Capucons over Florestan in the end, Rouvier et al wasn't in consideration as being out of print.
Which worthy ones were omitted?
It wasn't the Francemusque program (which can be fun if you understand French) . It was a forum thing, called autour de la musique classique -- just music lovers like us.
The big omission IMO was Richter, Kagan and Gutman. The guy running the listening thought it was too quirky to include, and it would never have been selected. I think that's a mistake. I love that performance, quirky or not. It's contemplative -- more so than Kantorow, Müller and Rouvier (which I also love), but surely no less deeply felt. I feel very strongly that what that trio do with the music is very fine and important -- even it is far from what people expect.
The other big omission is the very first record, with Gieseking, Gerhard Taschner et Ludwig Hoelscher . The reason for leaving it out is just that it would never have been selected because of the historical sound. But it is from memory really interesting and different and nice. I say from memory, because I can't find my CD!
Other things I would like to have seen included -- the one with Kentner, Menuhin and Cassado.Never on CD but there is a download easily findable on a blog and the amateur transfer from LP is nice enough. The performance is inspired -- maybe too inspired!
And one of my very favourite modern, conventional ones. : Jeffrey Solow, Jaime Laredo and Ruth Laredo.
It would be interesting to do something like that with another piece of music, and in English. The Shostakovich second trio would be a fun one to do!
(http://www.music-story.com/img/album_J_400/jan-michiels-le-tombeau-de-debussy.jpg)
This is performed on an 1892 Erard. It comes out at the end of the month...Looks promising.
That does look interesting, milk. Same title and concept as this disc by Randall Love playing a turn-of-the-century Bluthner.
[asin]B004UBB3EW[/asin]
At the time I discovered the Randall Love disc, I was mostly searching for performances of Debussy, so the mixed program lessened my interest. But the performances (judging from e.g. the clarity and nuance I hear in the preview of Jeux d'Eau) are attractive and the instrument sounds gorgeous.
Quote from: PaulSC on January 08, 2012, 10:45:32 AM
That does look interesting, milk. Same title and concept as this disc by Randall Love playing a turn-of-the-century Bluthner.
[asin]B004UBB3EW[/asin]
At the time I discovered the Randall Love disc, I was mostly searching for performances of Debussy, so the mixed program lessened my interest. But the performances (judging from e.g. the clarity and nuance I hear in the preview of Jeux d'Eau) are attractive and the instrument sounds gorgeous.
Yes, the Love disc is an interesting disc. I have it, but I confess I haven't listened to it enough. I'm looking forward to the Jan Michiels because he plays the Études.
Quote from: Mandryka on January 01, 2012, 10:46:35 AM
What I hear more and more is that the early Debussy players were often wide awake, hip and jazzy. Here in the trio , but also in Cortot's solo work and the Capet Quartet's recording. They're colourful, exotic and lively. The dreamy, veiled world came later I suppose -- with Gieseking's first recordings.
Sometimes I wonder whether a similar thing happened to Fauré's music. There are a lot of older, French recordings that are quite passionate, but as time moves on this kind of flat, contemplative mood takes over.
Quote from: Mandryka on January 01, 2012, 10:46:35 AMI also listened to some violin sonata recordings -- Poulet, Thibaud, Suk. Gerard Poulet is the the outstanding one, with Noel Lee. I'd remembered it was good, but I hadn't remembered how good! They're totally inspired, spontaneous, and yet exotic and French.
I have Poulet and Lee in the Fauré sonatas.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51yqCTelgqL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
The music is far above me to comment on but the Erard sounds magnificent and I'm enjoying it immensely.
That Michiels disc is released today, right? I think I'll snap it up as well. Glad to hear you're enjoying it.
Quote from: PaulSC on January 23, 2012, 07:54:49 AM
That Michiels disc is released today, right? I think I'll snap it up as well. Glad to hear you're enjoying it.
Yeah, it was released on itunes so I downloaded it.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41WMcVpRNlL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Debussy: small piano pieces / Magaloff
Does anyone know this ? It´s available very cheaply here (LP), but I haven´t been impressed with Magaloff from what I´ve heard so far (Chopin, Stravinsky Capriccio live etc.), in spite of his partly "Romantic" image ...
Well, I´ll probably give it a try anyway :)
Quote from: Mandryka on January 02, 2012, 09:33:29 AM
Thanks for the replies about the Kuijiken CD.
I've been following the discussion on a French website about the Ravel trio --they've been in involved in a blind listening of
Yvon Carracilly, Klaus Heitz, Henri Barda (Calliope, 1974)
David Oïstrakh, Sviatoslav Knouchevitski, Lev Oborine (Melodiya/DG, 1952)
Jascha Heifetz, Gregor Piatigorsky, Artur Rubinstein (RCA Victor, 1950)
Joshua Bell, Steven Isserlis, Jean-Yves Thibaudet (Decca, 1990)
Beaux Arts Trio - Daniel Guilet, Bernard Greenhouse, Menahem Pressler (Philips, 1966)
Trio Altenberg - Amiram Ganz, Alexander Gebert, Claus-Christian Schuster (Challenge Classics, 2002)
Beaux Arts Trio - Isidore Cohen, Bernard Greenhouse, Menahem Pressler (Philips, 1983)
Jean Pasquier, Étienne Pasquier, Lucette Descaves (Erato, 1954)
Trio Dali : Vineta Sareika, Christian-Pierre La Marca, Amandine Savary (Fuga Libera, 2008)
Trio Chausson : Philippe Talec, Antoine Landowski, Boris de Larochelambert (Mirare, 2007)
Nash Ensemble : Marcia Crayford, Christopher van Kampen, Ian Brown (Virgin, 1990)
Jean-Jacques Kantorow, Philippe Müller, Jacques Rouvier (Erato, 1973)
Renaud Capuçon, Gautier Capuçon, Franck Braley (Virgin, 2002)
Florestan Trio : Anthony Marwood, Richard Lester, Susan Tomes (Hyperion, 1999)
The one the panel preferred was the Florestan Trio recording, with Rouvier et al and the Capuçon CD both getting an honourable mention.
Not a decision I agree with, and I don't agree with the reasons they gave. And the selection seems to me to omit some very worthy ones.
But still, this is a major masterpiece I think, and it's good to see it being taken so seriously.
Great, that helps in my quest!
Quote from: Mandryka on January 02, 2012, 09:33:29 AM
Thanks for the replies about the Kuijiken CD.
I've been following the discussion on a French website about the Ravel trio --they've been in involved in a blind listening of
Yvon Carracilly, Klaus Heitz, Henri Barda (Calliope, 1974)
David Oïstrakh, Sviatoslav Knouchevitski, Lev Oborine (Melodiya/DG, 1952)
Jascha Heifetz, Gregor Piatigorsky, Artur Rubinstein (RCA Victor, 1950)
Joshua Bell, Steven Isserlis, Jean-Yves Thibaudet (Decca, 1990)
Beaux Arts Trio - Daniel Guilet, Bernard Greenhouse, Menahem Pressler (Philips, 1966)
Trio Altenberg - Amiram Ganz, Alexander Gebert, Claus-Christian Schuster (Challenge Classics, 2002)
Beaux Arts Trio - Isidore Cohen, Bernard Greenhouse, Menahem Pressler (Philips, 1983)
Jean Pasquier, Étienne Pasquier, Lucette Descaves (Erato, 1954)
Trio Dali : Vineta Sareika, Christian-Pierre La Marca, Amandine Savary (Fuga Libera, 2008)
Trio Chausson : Philippe Talec, Antoine Landowski, Boris de Larochelambert (Mirare, 2007)
Nash Ensemble : Marcia Crayford, Christopher van Kampen, Ian Brown (Virgin, 1990)
Jean-Jacques Kantorow, Philippe Müller, Jacques Rouvier (Erato, 1973)
Renaud Capuçon, Gautier Capuçon, Franck Braley (Virgin, 2002)
Florestan Trio : Anthony Marwood, Richard Lester, Susan Tomes (Hyperion, 1999)
The one the panel preferred was the Florestan Trio recording, with Rouvier et al and the Capuçon CD both getting an honourable mention.
Not a decision I agree with, and I don't agree with the reasons they gave. And the selection seems to me to omit some very worthy ones.
But still, this is a major masterpiece I think, and it's good to see it being taken so seriously.
I ended up going for the Previn!! (RCA; how's that for a dark horse?), with the Debussy and Ravel. Haven't gotten it yet, looking forward.
(http://ring.cdandlp.com/pycvinyl/photo_grande/114723752.jpg)¨
Magaloff plays Debussy, LP
Bought it and it is better than expected, in general colourful and lively performances of the complete "Estampes", some "Preludes" and various individual pieces. The "Feux d´Artifice" from "Preludes II" receives one of the most improvisatory and wild, Whistlerian performances I´ve heard, comparable to the Argerich/EMI "Gaspard de la Nuit". At times one could perhaps long for slower, more meditative or pausingly mysterious playing, but still this LP has plenty of fine moments, displaying good pianism, and is worth a listen should one come across it, being more interesting than what I have heard elsewhere from this pianist. The "Reflets de l´Eau" reaches a impressively controlled and flowing quality, for instance, and "La Serenade Interrompue" is good in the rendering of some often "hidden "accompanying notes.
There is a you-tube of him playing "La Plus Que Lente", a work not included on this LP:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BceZPtNVmKE
Concerning the Debussy "Estampes", do others have favourite recordings of those wonderful pieces to recommend in particular ?
I´ve got
CD Fergus-Thompson/brilliant 89-01 7 cd 6126
LP Lee/telefunken 71 sma 25109 -13
LP Richter/dg 135 044
LP Gieseking/emi-col mono fcx 30.023
LP Demus/mhs or-d137
LP Magaloff /concert hall sms 2578
also had Arrau/philips but only for a while, will be getting them again, though.
Concerning the above-mentioned out of print Magaloff LP, I´ve uploaded the wild "Feux d´Artifice" and the quieter "Reflets dans l´Eau", some of the best items on that record:
http://www.mediafire.com/?0nqwgqqi4f7jx84 (http://www.mediafire.com/?0nqwgqqi4f7jx84)
http://www.mediafire.com/?i21nzt3hazhslhk (http://www.mediafire.com/?i21nzt3hazhslhk)
The sound is not top-notch, but OK. In "Reflets´..." I discovered a click at 0:57 happened, I´ll upload an improved version later.
A revised Magaloff "Reflets dans l´Eau , unfortunately the best I can do with my current very basic copying equipment, needing a stylus replacement also I think ...
http://www.mediafire.com/?46lxh3znkhj8pcc (http://www.mediafire.com/?46lxh3znkhj8pcc)
Searched my collection, but I have only very little else material as regards this subject that is out of print or not available at you-tube.
Would like to mention the old Jörg Demus set of the complete piano music which is on you-tube. His "Estampes" is among the best IMO, a lot of beautiful phrasing:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOq7jhJRB7s
I just discovered that Ericourt´s "Estampes" are there too & am looking forward to hearing them:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3F1HWaqbJY
I like Fiorentino in Estampes, and the live Richter from Salzburg in 1977. Nyeregyhazi recorded some of them too, and they're worth catching I think.
If you don't mind bad sound then I think Ricado Vines is unforgettable in Pagodes as is Moiseiewitch in Jardins sous la pluie, and Vines, Tureck and Moiseiwitsch in La soiree dans Grenade are not without interest. Tureck especially. There are some excellent early Rubinstein records: Rubinstein is at his best in Debussy and Ravel I think.
I wonder what people here think of Debussy on period instruments. I'm thinking of recordings by Alain Planes, Jos Van Immerseel, Paul Badura-Skoda, and Jan Michiels.
(http://www.grappa.no/sitefiles/site1/shop/alexei-lubimov-claude-debussy-preludes-livre-i-amp-ii-2cd_2_2012-05-28-23-06-14.jpg)
I'm enjoying this fairly new Debussy recording on period pianos by Alexei Lubimov. This seems to have received glowing reviews.