Britten's "The Young Person's Guide To The Orchestra", Op 34

[dave b]

I could use a recommendation or two about this work. Just listened to it on YouTube, but could not find a CD of that ensemble and conductor---Cologne Philharmonic, Conductor Jukka-Pekka Saraste.
If anyone has any CD recommendations, I would appreciate them. Thanks in advance.

Another example of discovering works (mentioned in a book) that I would probably otherwise not hear.

http://www.amazon.com/Classical-Music-Insights-Understanding-Enjoying/dp/1426994206/ref=tmm_pap_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1369880847&sr=8-1

I just recommended this book to fellow beginners in that Beginners section.

[TheGSMoeller]

Also, I own this book which I think is very good. It covers everything from a beginners standpoint, and gives many great recommendations for pieces to explore.

[dave b]

Thanks--I just saw that first CD a minute ago, but could not figure out how to post it here..and I will take a look at that book right now. Much appreciated.

[Cascade]

[alkan]

I would recommend the version by English Chamber Orchestra conducted by Britten himself (see TheGSMoeller post).     It's a classic recording, very vivid and full of energy and grandeur.    The sound is really excellent too.      And the cherry(s) on the cake are the two other works  (Simple Symphony and Bridge Variations).     If you like the Young Person's guide, you are sure to like the Simple Symphony.     The Bridge Variations are one of my all-time favourite works, by any composer.      A series of wonderful creations, ranging from the comic (parody of an operatic soprano) to solemn (funeral march).    I listen to this CD very often .....

[val]

My choice goes to an older version: Karel Ancerl with the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra. Very clear and balanced and a remarkable dynamic.