Zoltán Kodály (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zolt%C3%A1n_Kod%C3%A1ly) (1882–1967), Hungarian. A contemporary of Bartók, he wrote in a similar style, but is generally considered a lesser composer. None the less, there must be plenty of gems to discover.
Thus far I have heard the two string quartets (http://www.amazon.com/Kodaly-String-Quartets-Nos-Quartet/dp/B00000305G/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1237648196&sr=1-4), both of which are recommendable to fans of the early-mid 20th century 'rugged tonal' style and a disc of cello music on Naxos (http://www.amazon.com/Kod%C3%A1ly-Music-Cello-Maria-Kliegel/dp/B000038I7R/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1237648323&sr=1-9), which I found surprisingly drab, despite his reputation as a master cellist. It probably merits some relistens...
I have the following CD in the mail, after several recommendations attesting to it being a superb set of performances and it seems a fine introduction to those interested in this composer:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416PY67ERBL._SL500_AA240_.jpg) (http://www.amazon.com/Kodaly-Dances-Galanta-Hary-Janos/dp/B000004235/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1237648225&sr=1-5)
Any other fans, or recommendable introductions to his music?
I also had those quartets and suites for solo cello, which I found dreary. If you have the pair of CDs shown you have enough Kodaly to last a lifetime, IMO. If you don't have them, you're living a wasted life.
You can lock the thread now, there is nothing further to say about Kodaly, I'm afraid. ;D
The Naxos CD is not the best place to hear his cello works I'm afraid. The Solo cello sonata is one of the masterpieces for the instrument, probably the greatest solo cello piece after the Bach Suites. It was the first major composition for solo cello since the Bach Suites. The cellist accompanies herself, playing all parts and is converted into a chamber ensemble of one - every single colouristic possibility of the time is exploited and put into a framework of astonishing power, beauty and intensity. It's a really major work. There are many fine versions on record - Janos Starker's pioneering recording is always cited as the favourite, but I am also very fond of Antony Cooke too.
The cello sonata is in many ways just as fine, though just not so revolutionary. There is a fantastic cello sonatine too.
I vote for Kodály's Clandestine Communion! :D
And in fact, all this rooting for that double-Decca set is making me seriously consider it. I don't think I've heard any Kodály.
I thoroughly enjoy Kodaly's bright, colourful, tuneful blend of folk-inspired romanticism :)
While it is perfectly true to say that a double cd set which contains the Hary Janos Suite, the Peacock Variations, the Dances of Galanta and the Dances of Marosszek-four of Kodaly's most attractive, brilliantly orchestrated pieces-along with the under-rated Concerto for Orchestra and the less impressive Symphony will give you virtually all Kodaly's orchestral works you will be missing out on his three great choral compositions.
The 'Psalmus Hungaricus' of 1923, the Budavari Te Deum of 1936 and the Missa Brevis of 1944/51) are tremendous works, dramatic, powerful, exuberant. The 'Psalmus Hungaricus' is the most famous of the three-although even then not known as much as it should be-but the other two are, in my opinion, equally fine and well worth searching out.
I'm very surprised at this distaste for/boredom with the cello music (no suites amongst it, nut-job) - it's the first I have ever read, and I've probably read quite a lot about these pieces over the years, as I love them very much I have multiple versions of most of them. It's music which I've only ever seen praised to the hilt, superlatives abounding, as Guido has done. And as Guido says, the solo cello sonata is simply the finest writing for the (solo) instrument after Bach, (with IMO Britten's Cello Suites also in the running). 'Boring', I would have thought, would be the last possible adjective to apply to a piece which pushes the performer to his limits to such an unprecedented extent and to such great effect. So I'd advise those who haven't heard any Kodaly to take the opinions of the cello music at the top of this thread with a large bag of salt - though by their nature opinions can't be argued with it is possible in this case to say that they are remarkably unrepresentative!
The solo sonata is often paired with the violin/cello duo and, though I don't find it quite as compelling as the cello solo piece, that's one well worth hearing too, FWIW
Count me in as a fan of Kodalys solo cello music too.
In general, he was like a Schubert, but with strings - the less intruments he writes for, the better the music! The orchestral works have thus far left me cold.
For solo cello there is also a very spiffy and rarely played Cappriccio - his talent for solo string writing shows through here again, but this one is a bonbon.
Agreed that the sonata for violin and cello is also fantastic, and the only one I have come accross that can hold a candle to Ravel's effort in the genre.
I have an intermezzo for string trio, and I think there's a serenade too which is meant to be great.
Quote from: Guido on March 21, 2009, 09:02:07 AM
The Naxos CD is not the best place to hear his cello works I'm afraid. The Solo cello sonata is one of the masterpieces for the instrument, probably the greatest solo cello piece after the Bach Suites. It was the first major composition for solo cello since the Bach Suites. The cellist accompanies herself, playing all parts and is converted into a chamber ensemble of one - every single colouristic possibility of the time is exploited and put into a framework of astonishing power, beauty and intensity. It's a really major work. There are many fine versions on record - Janos Starker's pioneering recording is always cited as the favourite, but I am also very fond of Antony Cooke too.
The cello sonata is in many ways just as fine, though just not so revolutionary. There is a fantastic cello sonatine too.
I have the solo cello sonata on the Naxos release, which interested me enough to motivate me to get another, a recording on Harmonia Mundi France. Neither really convinced me. Quite likely a better performance would help. Excerpts I found of a Starker recording online seemed worse than what I have (never was a big Starker enthusiast) but excerpts of this one appealed more.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51F7JV7S4RL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000DN5XCY/ref=ord_cart_shr?_encoding=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&v=glance
Quote from: sul G on March 21, 2009, 10:17:43 AM
It's music which I've only ever seen praised to the hilt, superlatives abounding, as Guido has done.
You never know what marvels a new day will bring.
Quote from: nut-job on March 21, 2009, 04:43:00 PM
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51F7JV7S4RL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
I have this and really enjoy it (if 'enjoy' is the right word for music like this). I can't make a recommendation though since it's all I've ever heard of Kodaly. It does bring Bartok to mind, which of course is a good thing. :-)
Quote from: rickardg on March 22, 2009, 05:16:11 AM
I have this and really enjoy it (if 'enjoy' is the right word for music like this).
And why wouldn't it be?!
I don't understand all this negativity! The Kodaly is the only piece in the solo cello repertoire that I've seen someone being given a standing ovation for - such was the enjoyment of the audience!
Quote from: Guido on March 22, 2009, 10:57:14 AM
And why wouldn't it be?!
Well, it isn't all sunshine and butterflies is it? Touching and powerful music but enjoyable in the same way as, let's say, winter swimming or marathon running. IMHO, naturally...
Quote from: Guido on March 22, 2009, 10:57:14 AM
I don't understand all this negativity!
I didn't mean to sound negative but I suppose I phrased myself poorly: I like this disk and the works on it very much, but I don't feel comfortable making a recommendation not having heard any alternatives (or anything else by Kodaly).
I am puzzled and perplexed by this thread so far!
I just find it hard to accept that so few people seem familiar with some of the most exciting, tuneful, colourful music of the 20th century.
The Hary Janos Suite used to be a more popular work than I suppose it is now but it has been described as "one of the most accomplished and satisfying orchestral showpiece orchestral suites of the 20th century". In the performances I have on disc-Solti and Dorati-it is immense fun and hugely enjoyable. If you don't know it then I very strongly recommend the work!! If you love, say, Prokofiev's Lieutenant Kije you will love Hary Janos :)
Quote from: Dundonnell on March 22, 2009, 04:02:06 PM
I am puzzled and perplexed by this thread so far!
I just find it hard to accept that so few people seem familiar with some of the most exciting, tuneful, colourful music of the 20th century.
The Hary Janos Suite used to be a more popular work than I suppose it is now but it has been described as "one of the most accomplished and satisfying orchestral showpiece orchestral suites of the 20th century". In the performances I have on disc-Solti and Dorati-it is immense fun and hugely enjoyable. If you don't know it then I very strongly recommend the work!! If you love, say, Prokofiev's Lieutenant Kije you will love Hary Janos :)
I am perplexed by your perplexity. I didn't see any disparaging remarks about the orchestral music, which has been praised without exception in the board in the last day or so. It was only the cello sonata which was described as a "room clearer" by Lethe. I find the work obtuse, but I've ordered the recording reference above (based on favorable notices and a favorable impression of excerpts). Maybe that will do the trick for me. But expressions of astonishment that we don't like Kodaly more than we do doesn't make a terrible compelling argument. :-\
I don't recall the phrase 'room clearer'...
FWIW, I think Kodaly's orchestral music is just great. But IMO it doesn't stand out from the orchestral pack as his cello music does in its respective repertoire.
Quote from: nut-job on March 22, 2009, 04:11:49 PM
I am perplexed by your perplexity. I didn't see any disparaging remarks about the orchestral music, which has been praised without exception in the board in the last day or so. It was only the cello sonata which was described as a "room clearer" by Lethe. I find the work obtuse, but I've ordered the recording reference above (based on favorable notices and a favorable impression of excerpts). Maybe that will do the trick for me. But expressions of astonishment that we don't like Kodaly more than we do doesn't make a terrible compelling argument. :-\
Having gone back and re-read all of the posts on this thread I can only find praise for the orchestral works from myself and from yourself so far. No one else appears to have heard the orchestral music or be prepared to praise it-although Luke has done so since you added your most recent post.
You suggested in your first post that the thread could be locked as "there was nothing more to say". I appreciate that this was a light-hearted comment but there was, of course, more to say. I raised the subject, for example, of Kodaly's choral music-which no one else has yet commented on.
"Expressions of astonishment" is perhaps a little strong to describe my 'perplexity' but can I just say that I would not wish to characterise my 'surprise' as an 'argument'. It isn't; it is an expression of surprise ;D
I see the source of the misunderstanding. The discussion of Kodaly is a continuation of some discussion that took place on the "Orchestral Dances" thread where Kodaly's Dances of Galanta came up
http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,11695.msg288817.html#msg288817
Quote from: Dundonnell on March 22, 2009, 04:32:08 PM
Having gone back and re-read all of the posts on this thread I can only find praise for the orchestral works from myself and from yourself so far. No one else appears to have heard the orchestral music or be prepared to praise it-although Luke has done so since you added your most recent post.
Allow me!
I absolutely love Kodály's orchestral music. The
Peacock Variations and
Dances of Gálanta I listen to perhaps once a week because they are so superbly endlessly tuneful and expertly-crafted they make me feel really good! ;D
And
Háry János should indeed be much better-known. It's worth listening to for the amazing sound of the cimbalon alone, an instrument I wish was more frequently utilised (Howard Shore used it to great effect in the music to the Lord of the Rings films, mostly in reference to Golum's character).
Since i'm plugging Mr Szell this month, I heartily recommend this disc, which has what many say (and i'm inclined to agree of course!) is the best version of each of the respective pieces on the disc:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41Q21BTT40L._SL500_AA240_.jpg)
Hehe, re. the "room-clearer" thing - it is partially due to the perceived austerity of the cello as a solo instrument. My friends aren't big classical fans, and this form is rather opposed to the kind of classical a non-convert can enjoy.
I suspect my negative reactions to the cello music may be the performance, but I doubt that it is that bad - I'll just give it some relistens at some point. Opinions are always under review :P
Quote from: nut-job on March 22, 2009, 04:53:40 PM
I see the source of the misunderstanding. The discussion of Kodaly is a continuation of some discussion that took place on the "Orchestral Dances" thread where Kodaly's Dances of Galanta came up
http://www.good-music-guide.com/community/index.php/topic,11695.msg288817.html#msg288817
Ah...I hadn't seen that thread! Thanks for the clarification :)
as half-an-Hungarian, I enjoy Kodaly's music very much. I've mentioned his choral works before ( some of it is of the highest order IMO), and discovered "The spinning room" - a short opera full of great tunes! Hary Janos is fantastic and should be revived as a stage work . However, the Hungarian language does not help....
And yes : both stringquartets are superb.
P.
Quote from: Dundonnell on March 21, 2009, 09:50:30 AM
I thoroughly enjoy Kodaly's bright, colourful, tuneful blend of folk-inspired romanticism :)
While it is perfectly true to say that a double cd set which contains the Hary Janos Suite, the Peacock Variations, the Dances of Galanta and the Dances of Marosszek-four of Kodaly's most attractive, brilliantly orchestrated pieces-along with the under-rated Concerto for Orchestra and the less impressive Symphony will give you virtually all Kodaly's orchestral works you will be missing out on his three great choral compositions.
The 'Psalmus Hungaricus' of 1923, the Budavari Te Deum of 1936 and the Missa Brevis of 1944/51) are tremendous works, dramatic, powerful, exuberant. The 'Psalmus Hungaricus' is the most famous of the three-although even then not known as much as it should be-but the other two are, in my opinion, equally fine and well worth searching out.
Howcome the two of us seem to be in total agreement, here! :D Even about the "underratedness" of the Concerto for Orchestra, another longtime favourite of mine? I would add, as another personal favourite, the Theater Overture (1927) - and perhaps the jolly Kálló Double Dance as well.
Quote from: Benji on March 22, 2009, 04:58:14 PM
And Háry János should indeed be much better-known. It's worth listening to for the amazing sound of the cimbalon alone, an instrument I wish was more frequently utilised (Howard Shore used it to great effect in the music to the Lord of the Rings films, mostly in reference to Golum's character).
Haven't listened to this in a while, but Hary Janos is a fave of mine, and I know I feel the need to dig deeper into some of the other works cited in this thread.
I agree about the Cimbalom-- but I play a similar instrument, which is why I love it so much. Also like Stravinsky's use of it.
I do recall hearing one of Kodaly's string quartets years back on radio that had a deep impression on me, and I must confess I don't usually go for quartets.
Having listened again to the Sonata for unaccompanied cello again (in two different recordings) my impression is more defined. I do enjoy the first movement quite a bit, but the continuation of the piece falls apart for me. I can see how the finale is a favorite of performers, juxtaposing every conceivable performance technique (I assume this is why there are so many recordings of the piece) but musically it strikes me as a mishmash. Similarly for the Adagio. In Bach's suites counterpoint was implied by melody lines which jumped between different registers, suggesting two voices. Kodaly sticks to a monotonous texture in which a bowed melody is accompanied by repetitive plucked notes, gets very annoying after a short time. In the finale there is an extended passage with the cello playing in very high register (would be high for a violin) with lower strings being strummed. From the notes to the recording, I gather that this is an extraordinarily imitation of a violin being accompanied by a zither. But, if that is the sort of music I want to hear, why wouldn't I get some recordings of violin and zither music? Is this the best way to exploit the sound of the cello?
Much is made of how expressive this music is, but expressiveness in art comes from the tension between expression and constraint. In this music that latter is entirely missing, this music is emotional jestures slashing without restraint. I don't find the piece to be a success, as a whole (although I do like the first movement).
The Concerto for Orchestra is indeed a fine work. I can only imagine its neglect is because it gets compared unfavorably to the heavier, darker Bartok. The best recording I've heard is Ormandy, which doesn't seem to have made it to commercial CD. I also recently picked up the Ferencsik, which is very good. The Hary Janos Suite on the flipside has some beautiful solo turns. Otherwise you can't go wrong picking up all the Kertesz recordings you can find.
Quote from: Daverz on March 28, 2009, 07:58:03 PM
The Concerto for Orchestra is indeed a fine work. I can only imagine its neglect is because it gets compared unfavorably to the heavier, darker Bartok. The best recording I've heard is Ormandy, which doesn't seem to have made it to commercial CD. I also recently picked up the Ferencsik, which is very good. The Hary Janos Suite on the flipside has some beautiful solo turns. Otherwise you can't go wrong picking up all the Kertesz recordings you can find.
It's so damn tuneful, indeed. There is another underrated concerto for orchestra from the same time-period by Lutosławski (which I think Corey got me into) - these three are a fine trinity, and compliment each other nicely. (Dreams of a 1 CD coupling of all three.)
Quote from: Lethe on March 29, 2009, 01:19:48 PM
It's so damn tuneful, indeed. There is another underrated concerto for orchestra from the same time-period by Lutosławski (which I think Corey got me into) - these three are a fine trinity, and compliment each other nicely. (Dreams of a 1 CD coupling of all three.)
Yes, the Lutaslawski CfO is
very good.
I picked up the 2 CD set mentioned at the front of this thread and am enjoying it a lot. I concur on the recommendations- Peacock Variations is really great-- it's more more evocative then the name (or idea of variations on a theme) would indicate. I would aslo suggest Summer Evening as worthy of repeat listenings.
There's now a 5 CD Decca set (http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp?album_id=443081) with Dorati and Kertesz recordings.
Quote from: Daverz on April 09, 2010, 07:27:51 AM
There's now a 5 CD Decca set (http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp?album_id=443081) with Dorati and Kertesz recordings.
Bugger - it contains a piece that the much missed Dundonnell recommended (Psalmus hungaricus). I suppose the twofer would make an ideal gift to someone, which could warrant a purchase of the new box...
Quote from: Lethe on April 09, 2010, 09:16:22 AM
Bugger - it contains a piece that the much missed Dundonnell recommended (Psalmus hungaricus). I suppose the twofer would make an ideal gift to someone, which could warrant a purchase of the new box...
Even though Decca marked the cover as a 5 CD set, it is really a 4 CD set, according to their own web site track listing. The extra discs are mostly full of the unabridged Hary Janos in addition to the Hary Janos suite. For my part, I think that 2-fer is all the Kodaly I will ever need.
Quote from: Scarpia on April 09, 2010, 02:38:16 PM
Even though Decca marked the cover as a 5 CD set, it is really a 4 CD set, according to their own web site track listing. The extra discs are mostly full of the unabridged Hary Janos in addition to the Hary Janos suite. For my part, I think that 2-fer is all the Kodaly I will ever need.
I was wondering why they needed 5 CDs. Here's the twofer of the complete Hary Janos:
http://www.amazon.com/Zoltan-Kodály-Psalmus-Hungaricus-Variations/dp/B000004249
Listening to this marvelous disc, although the cover is different on mine (Karussel Label)
Kodály
Háry János Suite
Dances of Galanta
Variations on a Hungarian Folk Song (The Peacock)
London Symphony Orchestra
Kertesz
[asin]B000025ULP[/asin]
I would like also to join Kodály's Covert Clan !
In my old LP collection I had a recording of his solo Cello suite by André Navarra. After getting rid of all the LP's the need to recover some of the works slowly grows on you. And it is very telling to see which one you need to get back first. This suite was not in the first batch, but it came shortly after.
I understand that one can find the work austere and maybe with limited unity between movements. You can also say that of Liszt B minor for the piano. But what majesty, what sense of nobility... I just love this work. I chose a fairly recent recording, mostly because from one generation to the next the conception that cellist have of their instrument change, and I wanted to hear that.
While I was familiar with the dances of Galanta and Hary Janos suite, which I believe I never heard entirely, my interest was drawn to his sacred music, Psalmus Hungaricus and Missa Brevis, already discussed in the thread. I do not know how many singers there are in the chorus but these works feel like they are of huge proportion, both by the musical polyphony but also in sheer sound. The type of stuff that grows on you.
The pieces I tend to listen to are the Solo Cello Sonata (various recordings, usually a somewhat subdued one emotionally), the Sonatina and Sonata for Cello & Piano (especially with Varga/Sandor), and the Hary Janos Suite in the stereo Fricsay DG recording.
Classical CD Of The Week: Bartók & Kodály, Toothsome Hungarian Twosome
(http://blogs-images.forbes.com/jenslaurson/files/2016/08/Forbes_Classical-CD-of-the-Week_Kodaly-Bartok_String-Quartets-Alexander_Foghorn_Laurson-1200-1200x469.jpg) (http://bit.ly/CDoftheWeek023)
(https://images-eu.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61zXpWnjA2L._SS500.jpg)
These ASV series have earned a very good reputation over time, and this one about Kodály is not an exception. I've enjoyed each work on the CD, being the colourful Symphony in C major the meatiest work on it. If you know the exuberant Galanta Dances and the stunning Peacock Variations, you'll like this. It's quintessential Hungarian, imbued with delicious exotic Magyar airs throughout (above all in the 2nd movement). There are some catchy orchestral effects and some fireworks-like passages, almost like a 2nd Concerto for orchestra. A great work that should not lie into oblivion.
Quote from: SymphonicAddict on October 03, 2018, 04:31:14 PM
(https://images-eu.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61zXpWnjA2L._SS500.jpg)
These ASV series have earned a very good reputation over time, and this one about Kodály is not an exception. I've enjoyed each work on the CD, being the colourful Symphony in C major the meatiest work on it. If you know the exuberant Galanta Dances and the stunning Peacock Variations, you'll like this. It's quintessential Hungarian, imbued with delicious exotic Magyar airs throughout (above all in the 2nd movement). There are some catchy orchestral effects and some fireworks-like passages, almost like a 2nd Concerto for orchestra. A great work that should not lie into oblivion.
I love Kodaly's Symphony in C major, a delightful and surprisingly neglected work. The slow movement is rapturously beautiful and the finale is very energetic and catchy. I also love his colorful Peacock Variations and Concerto for Orchestra.
Quote from: kyjo on October 03, 2018, 05:36:27 PM
I love Kodaly's Symphony in C major, a delightful and surprisingly neglected work. The slow movement is rapturously beautiful and the finale is very energetic and catchy. I also love his colorful Peacock Variations and Concerto for Orchestra.
The first time I listened to the Symphony I wasn't impressed (some years ago), but now, wow, a totally different experience.
Quote from: SymphonicAddict on October 04, 2018, 11:58:35 AM
The first time I listened to the Symphony I wasn't impressed (some years ago), but now, wow, a totally different experience.
Thanks, helps me to re-discover it again. Always adored the Kodály of the Concerto for Orchestra, Theater Overture, Peacock, AllDances and much more - but found the symphony a bit trepid.
Quote from: Christo on October 04, 2018, 12:44:15 PM
Thanks, helps me to re-discover it again. Always adored the Kodály of the Concerto for Orchestra, Theater Overture, Peacock, AllDances and much more - but found the symphony a bit trepid.
I hope it can grow on you ;)
I've liked everything I've heard from Kodaly but actually have very little in my collection, Harry Janos on LP, Psalmus Hungaricus (on Chandos) and the Naxos CD with Peacock Variations etc) - oh dear - more temptation ::))
Quote from: vandermolen on October 05, 2018, 02:35:42 AMtemptation
Speaking about temptations, I always found his personal life intriguing: first marrying Emma, almost twice his age, and happily married for 48 years til her death at the age of 95; then, himself a 76-year-old, marrying the 19-year-old Sarolta Péczely who could have been his granddaughter. Together the span of two complete lifetimes, happily spent in music:
http://www.interlude.hk/front/two-hearts-one-soul-zoltan-kodaly-emma-gruber
(http://www.interlude.hk/front/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/november-22-kodaly-emma-300x212.jpg) (http://dombopedia.hu/files/0/a/0a307c1ad8e3ebf82d5b9636e7f88385.jpg)
Quote from: Christo on October 05, 2018, 08:54:15 AM
Speaking about temptations, I always found his personal life intriguing: first marrying Emma, almost twice his age, and happily married for 48 years til her death at the age of 95; then, himself a 76-year-old, marrying the 19-year-old Sarolta Péczely who could have been his granddaughter. Together the span of two complete lifetimes, happily spent in music:
http://www.interlude.hk/front/two-hearts-one-soul-zoltan-kodaly-emma-gruber
(http://www.interlude.hk/front/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/november-22-kodaly-emma-300x212.jpg) (http://dombopedia.hu/files/0/a/0a307c1ad8e3ebf82d5b9636e7f88385.jpg)
Very interesting. Didn't know any of that.
I've yet to hear the Concerto for Orchestra or Symphony, but I should. I spent a time with a fascination with the Suite for Solo Cello which never converted to love for the work.
The recordings I am frequently listening to this year. Thinking about buying the disc of Concerto For Orchestra issued from Naxos as well.
The last time I compared recordings of the Concerto for Orchestra, the one that came out on top was actually Frühbeck de Burgos, though I don't recall the coupled Bartok as being anything special.
https://www.amazon.com/Bartok-Kodaly-Orchestra-London-Symphony/dp/B004P9MSJI
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/714djtJgMkL._SX522_.jpg)
Quote from: Daverz on March 02, 2021, 02:44:20 AM
The last time I compared recordings of the Concerto for Orchestra, the one that came out on top was actually Frühbeck de Burgos, though I don't recall the coupled Bartok as being anything special.
https://www.amazon.com/Bartok-Kodaly-Orchestra-London-Symphony/dp/B004P9MSJI
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/714djtJgMkL._SX522_.jpg)
I checked it via streaming. Yes, the recording sounds vivacious and wonderful. I will order the CD!
Quote from: vandermolen on October 05, 2018, 02:35:42 AM
I've liked everything I've heard from Kodaly but actually have very little in my collection, Harry Janos on LP, Psalmus Hungaricus (on Chandos) and the Naxos CD with Peacock Variations etc) - oh dear - more temptation ::))
Have you ever heard his Sonata for Solo Cello Jeffrey? I did notice the date of your posting, so you may have gotten around to it in the meantime. I haven't heard his Psalmus Hungaricus before now...will have to see whether I can find a copy to listen to. :)
PD
Any opinion on the Serebrier's recording? Thanks.
I thought I would rundown the three wide-release CD's available of Zoltán Kodály's Háry János since I revisited it today. The folk opera is an odd one, but fun for those who want to explore outside the famous orchestral suite. Not meant to be exhaustive, I may have missed some I am unfamiliar with:
(https://ia801401.us.archive.org/27/items/mbid-462164cc-1045-4823-8bd4-09edd8c8af68/mbid-462164cc-1045-4823-8bd4-09edd8c8af68-29520401088.jpg)
István Kertész's 60's performance is studio bound. The narration is in English, but the singing is in Hungarian with an all-Hungarian cast. It is very apparent that Peter Ustinov recorded the work separately as narrator, and noticeable recording effects were added in post-production. My family had fun with this recording the last time we listened to it!
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61KYfdMxivL._SX466_.jpg)
János Ferencsik on Hungaroton from the early 80's has no narration, but is sung in Hungarian, and the orchestra and choirs are Hungary-based. Perhaps the best sung, and maybe in the best sound too, this might be my preference for getting to the actual music without the radio play aspect. I think I remember an older Ferencsik LP too...
(https://cdns-images.dzcdn.net/images/cover/bea0b821223cf57c0ef45deb0b564ddd/500x500.jpg)
This most recent live recording (2000's) is led by Friedemann Layer and narrated by Gérard Depardieu, although others speak as well. That means the narration is in French and the singing is in Hungarian. I am unfamiliar with the Montpellier ensembles in this recording, but who knows the next time Háry János will get a recording.
Summation:
For the comedy aspect of this story, I still look to the early Kertész. For the music, both vocal and instrumental, Ferencsik is the way to go. Since I don't speak French, the Layer performance isn't for me, but there is a contemporary orchestral feel to that performance compared to the others. I wonder if there is any interest in this work anymore...?
Zoltán Kodály
Psalm 114
Hymn to Zrinyi
Laudes Organi
Brighton Festival Chorus
László Heltay (1975 & 1977)JF:
If you like choral music, I urge you to seek out Kodály's
Hymn to Zrinyi. It is a staggering difficult, a cappella tour-de-force for chorus and baritone solo, and we need more epically-scaled a cappella choral works from the 19th & early 20th Century. Similarly for pipe organ lovers,
Laudes Organi is a star vehicle for that instrument. Both of these works, plus
Psalm 114, remind me of Britten; the music chugs along merrily and then Kodály suddenly breaks into polytonality or light dissonance. Very fun music.
Finally finishing this, I still think I prefer János Ferencsik on Hungaroton over the László Heltay led choral works with organ, particularly for Ferencsik's performance of the orchestrated
Missa Brevis and additional
Te Deum with his Hungarian choir and orchestra. Nonetheless, the Brighton Festival Chorus is beautiful here, and I love Benjamin Luxon's baritone. István Kertész's
Psalmus Hungaricus is the headliner, though.
(https://ia801403.us.archive.org/13/items/mbid-585b6c09-7572-4b6a-873d-6fe566f916f2/mbid-585b6c09-7572-4b6a-873d-6fe566f916f2-29547376953.jpg) (https://ia601403.us.archive.org/13/items/mbid-585b6c09-7572-4b6a-873d-6fe566f916f2/mbid-585b6c09-7572-4b6a-873d-6fe566f916f2-29554845012.jpg)
Quote from: VonStupp on June 07, 2021, 07:39:21 AM
Zoltán Kodály
Psalmus Hungaricus, op. 13
London Symphony Orchestra
István Kertész
Missa Brevis
Pange Lingua
Brighton Festival Chorus
László Heltay
I am convinced that Kodály's Psalmus Hungaricus is a masterpiece. Kertesz's performance from 1970 in London is a grand, Romantic version that wears its exotic, Hungarian emotions on its sleeve. Having heard Mackerras' Danish recording a week or so ago, I miss his heldentenor's weight, but this one's not-so-heavy, Italianate style is still attractive.
The Missa Brevis and Pange Lingua are more traditional sounding to my ears, with nary a Nationalistic peep. If you like English cathedral-esque, classically-harmonized Mass settings, these will please greatly, probably moreso considering the British choir. Most interesting is a remarkable tribute to Palestrina in the a cappella middle section of Pange Lingua, and Kodály's general delight in chant and older choral influences of Haydn, Handel, and Bach.
János Ferencsik has an orchestrated version of Kodály's Missa Brevis on Hungaroton, and it is probably my preference. This one with organ sounds a little chaste, but it is still beautiful. I won't be able to get to the 2nd half of this recording until midweek.
It's official, VonStupp, you're biggest Kodály fan I've ever seen. :D
Quote from: Mirror Image on June 09, 2021, 10:12:31 AM
It's official, VonStupp, you're biggest Kodály fan I've ever seen. :D
Actually, I am done with Kodály for a while. It has been interesting exploring him, since I mainly know him for his music education philosophies. Until I attempt Hungaroton's many complete editions (far from complete I am sure), I am content with my recent survey. For most of us, I can't say he is essential aside from the
Hary Janos Suite and
Psalmus Hungaricus, but I really liked the
Hymn of Zrinyi from this last set. His
Peacock Variations and orchestral sets of dances have their place too, I suppose. Plus, my family really liked listening to the complete Hary Janos, so that alone was worth something.
Quote from: VonStupp on June 09, 2021, 10:45:18 AM
Actually, I am done with Kodály for a while. It has been interesting exploring him, since I mainly know him for his music education philosophies. Until I attempt the Hungaroton 14-disc complete edition (far from complete I am sure), I am content with my recent survey. For most of us, I can't say he is essential aside from the Hary Janos Suite and Psalmus Hungaricus, but I really liked the Hymn of Zrinyi from this last set. His Peacock Variations and orchestral sets of dances have their place too, I suppose. Plus, my family really liked listening to the complete Hary Janos, so that alone was worth something.
Hmmm...there's a 14-disc
Complete Edition from Hungaroton? I might just have to look into this as I've been meaning to explore more of his music.
Quote from: Mirror Image on June 09, 2021, 11:28:26 AM
Hmmm...there's a 14-disc Complete Edition from Hungaroton? I might just have to look into this as I've been meaning to explore more of his music.
Not as a box I don't think, but there are separate multi-disc compilations of 'complete' piano music, 'complete' organ music, 'complete' vocal music, 'complete' choral, etc. that amount to as much. In other words, they are separate sets of genre compilations rather than a collated complete edition in one place. I guess I misspoke, but I was looking at my Kodaly haves and wants...those are on hold for now.
Quote from: VonStupp on June 09, 2021, 11:46:36 AM
Not as a box I don't think, but there are separate multi-disc compilations of 'complete' piano music, 'complete' organ music, 'complete' vocal music, 'complete' choral, etc. that amount to as much. In other words, they are separate sets of genre compilations rather than a collated complete edition in one place. I guess I misspoke, but I was looking at my Kodaly haves and wants...those are on hold for now.
Yeah, that's what I figured as I did a little research and couldn't find a set that has this many discs. Hungaroton did something similar with their Bartók
Complete Edition, but they did eventually box these up.
I heard the Kodaly symphony many moons ago, when it was given the title Symphony 1961.
In three movements, like the Rachmaninoff Third.
https://www.youtube.com/v/u8k5nG337mE
Quote from: Cato on June 09, 2021, 12:58:09 PM
I heard the Kodaly symphony many moons ago, when it was given the title Symphony 1961.
Like you, that is one I haven't heard in some time as well. The
Symphony didn't leave an impression on me at the time; maybe I will revisit it again. Your video of Tortelier on Chandos is one I have, paired with a
Concerto for Orchestra and
Theatre Overture I am not remembering too well either.
Quote from: VonStupp on June 09, 2021, 10:02:21 AM
Zoltán Kodály
Psalm 114
Hymn to Zrinyi
Laudes Organi
Brighton Festival Chorus
László Heltay (1975 & 1977)
JF:
If you like choral music, I urge you to seek out Kodály's Hymn to Zrinyi. It is a staggering difficult, a cappella tour-de-force for chorus and baritone solo, and we need more epically-scaled a cappella choral works from the 19th & early 20th Century. Similarly for pipe organ lovers, Laudes Organi is a star vehicle for that instrument. Both of these works, plus Psalm 114, remind me of Britten; the music chugs along merrily and then Kodály suddenly breaks into polytonality or light dissonance. Very fun music.
Interesting. Thanks for the suggestions.
Quote from: VonStupp on June 09, 2021, 01:51:11 PM
Like you, that is one I haven't heard in some time as well. The Symphony didn't leave an impression on me at the time; maybe I will revisit it again. Your video of Tortelier on Chandos is one I have, paired with a Concerto for Orchestra and Theatre Overture I am not remembering too well either.
Concerto for Orchestra is my personal favorite while I like his other works as well.
No mention (recently at least) for Kodaly's chamber music or works for unaccompanied chorus. These are two fields where I think he particularly excelled. Much as I enjoy the (quite small) body of orchestral music I can't say it sticks with me in a way other works do....
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiNzk3MzEyNy4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDM2MjM5ODV9)
The frustrating thing is that apart from some hard to find and expensive Hungaraton discs the chorus works are all but impossible to source.
Quote from: Roasted Swan on June 09, 2021, 11:07:23 PM
No mention (recently at least) for Kodaly's chamber music or works for unaccompanied chorus. These are two fields where I think he particularly excelled. Much as I enjoy the (quite small) body of orchestral music I can't say it sticks with me in a way other works do....
The frustrating thing is that apart from some hard to find and expensive Hungaraton discs the chorus works are all but impossible to source.
Plus there are
so many volumes of unaccompanied choral works on Hungaroton. But, it was this folk-based music that he centered his music education philosophies around, so they remain important. I don't know them nearly as well as I probably should. For another day...
Quote from: VonStupp on June 10, 2021, 03:06:07 AM
Plus there are so many volumes of unaccompanied choral works on Hungaroton. But, it was this folk-based music that he centered his music education philosophies around, so they remain important. I don't know them nearly as well as I probably should. For another day...
yes indeed but there are some discs which focus more on the concert rather than educational works and there is a lot of glorious music there. Also, there is such a strong central European tradition in their choirs that the actual sound these groups make is wonderful (I think much the same about Smetana and Jancek's choral music)
Quote from: Roasted Swan on June 10, 2021, 03:21:40 AM
Also, there is such a strong central European tradition in their choirs that the actual sound these groups make is wonderful (I think much the same about Smetana and Jancek's choral music)
Agreed!
Quote from: Roasted Swan on June 09, 2021, 11:07:23 PM
No mention (recently at least) for Kodaly's chamber music or works for unaccompanied chorus. These are two fields where I think he particularly excelled. Much as I enjoy the (quite small) body of orchestral music I can't say it sticks with me in a way other works do....
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiNzk3MzEyNy4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6MzAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDM2MjM5ODV9)
The frustrating thing is that apart from some hard to find and expensive Hungaraton discs the chorus works are all but impossible to source.
I haven't heard his string quartets before but will see if I might be able to listen to them online....looking forward to it! :)
Quote from: VonStupp on June 10, 2021, 03:23:39 AM
Agreed!
VonStupp,
Are you a fan of his music for cello and cello/piano? That was how I was first introduced to his music. When I heard his Sonata for Solo Cello, my jaw dropped!
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on June 11, 2021, 03:27:27 AM
I haven't heard his string quartets before but will see if I might be able to listen to them online....looking forward to it! :) Are you a fan of his music for cello and cello/piano? That was how I was first introduced to his music. When I heard his Sonata for Solo Cello, my jaw dropped!
I am afraid my knowledge of Kodály ends with his choral and orchestral music. I will make sure to check out this sonata you mentioned!
VS
Quote from: VonStupp on June 11, 2021, 11:47:22 AM
I am afraid my knowledge of Kodály ends with his choral and orchestral music. I will make sure to check out this sonata you mentioned!
VS
I did find this video for you with Janos Starker. If you're not familiar with his recordings, you should really check them out. He was an amazing cellist and was justly identified with this work. I was trying to find an earlier film of him (from the 1950's) which I had stumbled across once but am unable to now. The sound level is a bit low here; I would suggest either using headphones or if you have a decent pair of computer speakers hooking them up. There are also other recordings of him on youtube from either LPs, concerts, etc. too. I don't play the cello or any other instrument, but it looks to me to be an exceedingly difficult piece to play.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5D4_cZ0f0s
PD
p.s. The Kodaly starts about 30 minutes in (see comments...think that it was the third one down for timings).
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on June 12, 2021, 06:16:44 AM
I did find this video for you with Janos Starker. If you're not familiar with his recordings, you should really check them out. He was an amazing cellist and was justly identified with this work. I was trying to find an earlier film of him (from the 1950's) which I had stumbled across once but am unable to now. The sound level is a bit low here; I would suggest either using headphones or if you have a decent pair of computer speakers hooking them up. There are also other recordings of him on youtube from either LPs, concerts, etc. too. I don't play the cello or any other instrument, but it looks to me to be an exceedingly difficult piece to play.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5D4_cZ0f0s (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s5D4_cZ0f0s)
PD
p.s. The Kodaly starts about 30 minutes in (see comments...think that it was the third one down for timings).
I do have a couple of János Starker on Mercury Living Presence; the Dvorak
Cello Concerto and the Bach
Cello Suites come to mind. I see there was a 'Starker plays Kodaly' on Delos; I may check it out too. Thanks and I will check out that video the next time I can sit at a computer! VS
Quote from: Lethevich on March 21, 2009, 07:13:40 AM
I have the following CD in the mail, after several recommendations attesting to it being a superb set of performances and it seems a fine introduction to those interested in this composer:
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/416PY67ERBL._SL500_AA240_.jpg) (http://www.amazon.com/Kodaly-Dances-Galanta-Hary-Janos/dp/B000004235/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1237648225&sr=1-5)
Just ordered this, knowing little of Kodály's music, but liking what I heard. I reckon it should be a good introduction.
Quote from: VonStupp on June 12, 2021, 07:31:13 AM
I do have a couple of János Starker on Mercury Living Presence; the Dvorak Cello Concerto and the Bach Cello Suites come to mind. I see there was a 'Starker plays Kodaly' on Delos; I may check it out too. Thanks and I will check out that video the next time I can sit at a computer! VS
VonStupp,
Have you managed getting around to listening to his Sonata for Solo Cello yet? :)
Quote from: vers la flamme on June 12, 2021, 02:50:41 PM
Just ordered this, knowing little of Kodály's music, but liking what I heard. I reckon it should be a good introduction.
How did you like it VLF?
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on July 13, 2021, 09:24:59 AM
VonStupp,
Have you managed getting around to listening to his Sonata for Solo Cello yet? :)
How did you like it VLF?
PD
I finally just got it a couple of days ago, and haven't even listened to any of it yet. Will rectify that ASAP.
Quote from: vers la flamme on July 13, 2021, 02:34:48 PM
I finally just got it a couple of days ago, and haven't even listened to any of it yet. Will rectify that ASAP.
I haven't listened to any Kodály in years, so I'll definitely be interested in reading your impressions of the music. IIRC,
The Peacock Variations was the piece that won me over, but I could be misremembering. I'd like to get his chamber music, particularly the SQs at some juncture.
Just listened to the Háry János Suite, which might be his most famous piece. I liked it! Very colorful orchestration, quite Bartókian.
Quote from: vers la flamme on July 13, 2021, 03:20:35 PM
Just listened to the Háry János Suite, which might be his most famous piece. I liked it! Very colorful orchestration, quite Bartókian.
Oh I so love the Háry János Suite. It's honestly, one of my favourite orchestral works of any composer.
I particularly love the Kertesz and London Symphony Orchestra recording.
Quote from: vers la flamme on July 13, 2021, 03:20:35 PM
Just listened to the Háry János Suite, which might be his most famous piece. I liked it! Very colorful orchestration, quite Bartókian.
Yes, but the Bartók of
Hungarian Sketches and not the
Sonata for Two Pianos and Percussion obviously. ;)
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on June 11, 2021, 03:27:27 AM
I haven't heard his string quartets before but will see if I might be able to listen to them online....looking forward to it! :)
VonStupp,
Are you a fan of his music for cello and cello/piano? That was how I was first introduced to his music. When I heard his Sonata for Solo Cello, my jaw dropped!
PD
Indeed, those cello works, especially the solo sonata, are absolutely essential repertoire for that instrument ...
Quote from: vers la flamme on July 13, 2021, 03:20:35 PM
Just listened to the Háry János Suite, which might be his most famous piece. I liked it! Very colorful orchestration, quite Bartókian.
Glad that you enjoyed it! I have this recording of it (on CD):
(https://www.popsike.com/pix/20170621/322561882671.jpg)
Quote from: MusicTurner on July 13, 2021, 10:37:35 PM
Indeed, those cello works, especially the solo sonata, are absolutely essential repertoire for that instrument ...
Reading your posting--and quoting my posting--reminded me that I still need to hunt down his quartets. ::)
Whose recording(s) of the cello works do you like MT?
PD
I've assembled these, yet a lot of the bigger names missing:
CD Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Ullner/classcd 353-54
cd Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Bengtsson/daco 425
LP Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Varga/vox box 75 svbx 560
LP Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Turovsky/chan 84 abrd 1102
LP Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Petras/sup 81 1111 2847
LP Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Perenyi/hg st 78 slpx 11864
Initially I liked the Miroslav Petras a lot. On the LP cover photo, he looks like a boring accountant with huge glasses (1981), but his recording was good. Now I'd find it much more difficult to choose; would have to compare in detail. Some are more subdued or lyrical, some are highly dramatic or aggressive, and one's listening preferences can change from time to time ...
If curious, some Petras MP3 : https://www.supraphonline.cz/album/266711-strauss-kodaly-sonaty?trackId=3131657
I have the Truls Mørk, Miklós Perényi, and Natalie Clein recordings. With the caveat that Kodály is not a composer I collect, or know much about, the solo cello sonata is in my view a masterpiece and unwisely inspired me in my youth to write several extremely difficult pieces for solo cello.
The most immediately obvious feature of the work is its scordatura tuning, with the C and G strings tuned down to B and F-sharp. Thus, the lower three open strings produce a B minor triad, also coincidentally (or not) the tonality of the sonata. The other immediately obvious feature is that it is the largest-scale individual piece for solo cello written.... maybe ever? An average performance lasts about 32 minutes. Almost certainly there's some minimalist/drone pieces by e.g. John Cage or Eliane Radigue or Tony Conrad with a longer runtime, but the very much non-minimalist language here, using a relatively conventional late romantic musical language highly dependent on harmony and counterpoint, somehow makes listening to this more exhausting. I expect this may put off prospective listeners. For cellists, in difficulty and endurance demands, it is roughly the equivalent of Beethoven's "Hammerklavier" sonata and seems to be approached with a similar degree of either reverence or distaste.
The complete cello music takes up three CDs (with the ever-reliable Perényi doing the honours; the Hungaroton set is the only one I know of). I have presumably listened to all of it at some point, but apart from the much smaller-scale Sonata for Cello and Piano, I don't remember any of it as well.
Quote from: MusicTurner on July 14, 2021, 02:47:11 AM
I've assembled these, yet a lot of the bigger names missing:
CD Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Ullner/classcd 353-54
cd Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Bengtsson/daco 425
LP Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Varga/vox box 75 svbx 560
LP Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Turovsky/chan 84 abrd 1102
LP Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Petras/sup 81 1111 2847
LP Kodaly:"Sonate f. Cello Solo" op.8 (1915)/Perenyi/hg st 78 slpx 11864
Initially I liked the Miroslav Petras a lot. On the LP cover photo, he looks like a boring accountant with huge glasses (1981), but his recording was good. Now I'd find it much more difficult to choose; would have to compare in detail. Some are more subdued or lyrical, some are highly dramatic or aggressive, and one's listening preferences can change from time to time ...
If curious, some Petras MP3 : https://www.supraphonline.cz/album/266711-strauss-kodaly-sonaty?trackId=3131657
The first recording that I ever heard of it was with Jiri Barta on Supraphon (a recentish recording of it) [With Jan Cech on piano for the other works]. Like you, I also have the Hungaroton recording with Perenyi. I happened to stumble across a used recording for a very reasonable price and greedily grabbed it! ;D There's a very nice CD of it with some other works which I also enjoyed. It's this one:
(https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftse1.mm.bing.net%2Fth%3Fid%3DOIP.KjWSAjPB4aQ9r9g_egwyFAHaFj%26pid%3DApi&f=1)Think that I paid 5 or 8 dollars for it? I did see that one could buy downloads of it with more music at Presto C: https://www.prestomusic.com/classical/products/7973837--kodaly-works-for-cello-complete
Thank you for the link by the way. Interesting to hear how people's interpretations vary. The musicians' names Varga and Turovsky sound familiar...not certain whether or not I have any recordings with them though? :-\ The others I don't know.
One suggestion: I would urge you to get ahold of a recording with Janos Starker. I have one on Delos; he had recorded them a number of times (forget the number off the top of my head...actually, there are 6 recordings listed in his book).
Best wishes,
PD
Quote from: amw on July 14, 2021, 04:08:06 AM
I have the Truls Mørk, Miklós Perényi, and Natalie Clein recordings. With the caveat that Kodály is not a composer I collect, or know much about, the solo cello sonata is in my view a masterpiece and unwisely inspired me in my youth to write several extremely difficult pieces for solo cello.
The most immediately obvious feature of the work is its scordatura tuning, with the C and G strings tuned down to B and F-sharp. Thus, the lower three open strings produce a B minor triad, also coincidentally (or not) the tonality of the sonata. The other immediately obvious feature is that it is the largest-scale individual piece for solo cello written.... maybe ever? An average performance lasts about 32 minutes. Almost certainly there's some minimalist/drone pieces by e.g. John Cage or Eliane Radigue or Tony Conrad with a longer runtime, but the very much non-minimalist language here, using a relatively conventional late romantic musical language highly dependent on harmony and counterpoint, somehow makes listening to this more exhausting. I expect this may put off prospective listeners. For cellists, in difficulty and endurance demands, it is roughly the equivalent of Beethoven's "Hammerklavier" sonata and seems to be approached with a similar degree of either reverence or distaste.
The complete cello music takes up three CDs (with the ever-reliable Perényi doing the honours; the Hungaroton set is the only one I know of). I have presumably listened to all of it at some point, but apart from the much smaller-scale Sonata for Cello and Piano, I don't remember any of it as well.
Thank you for your insight into the musical structure of the work. :) Impressive that you were inspired to write some works for cello after listening to it! I must admit, the first time listening to the CD my reaction was something like: "Augh! No, no, no!!" It felt very modern and jarring to me. Several months later I put it back on and this was when I had the jaw-dropping moment. Obviously, it had more to do with the mood that I was in at the time rather than the work. I like the few Truls Mork recordings that I have and have heard of Natalie Clein so will keep my eyes open.
Yet again, I'm rather surprised that neither of you two gents own a recording by Janos Starker. If you haven't heard any of them before, there are a few youtube uploads of him playing it. Alas, one that I really enjoyed (from the 1950's I believe?) which showed him performing it, has been removed.
Do you still play the cello now AMW?
PD
I agree, Starker is a very good candidate for any further exploration.
Perenyi, as others have stated, tends to do some fine stuff, such as the Beethoven set with Schiff, and for example, there's also a catchy cello concerto by the Hungarian composer Mihaly too. It's been a while though since I heard his Kodaly recording.
Quote from: MusicTurner on July 14, 2021, 04:20:56 AM
I agree, Starker is a very good candidate for any further exploration.
Perenyi, as others have stated, tends to do some fine stuff, such as the Beethoven set with Schiff, and for example, there's also a catchy cello concerto by the Hungarian composer Mihaly too. It's been a while though since I heard his Kodaly recording.
I'll have to look into Mihaly now! :)
PD
EDIT: Found a Hungaroton recording of his cello concerto; by the way, I had to look through a list on Wiki, but did find the composer (there are a fair number of Mihalys). András Mihály https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_35b-OSIck
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on July 13, 2021, 09:24:59 AM
VonStupp,
Have you managed getting around to listening to his Sonata for Solo Cello yet? :)
PD
I have not. I am saving myself for Starker on Delos to arrive in my post box, which shouldn't be long.
Quote from: VonStupp on July 14, 2021, 07:43:11 AM
I have not. I am saving myself for Starker on Delos to arrive in my post box, which shouldn't be long.
Oh, good! :) Meanwhile, I'm enjoying listening to a recording that he made when he was 26 for Period in 1951 (according to his discography, but someone on YT said was from 1950) and won him the Grand Prix du Disque. Must get ahold of this Period recording!
PD
The other day I was listening to the Kodály's Sonata from this disc and I thought it was magnificently played and recorded. No doubts it's one of the authentic pinnacles of solo cello music.
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41ZQic-arlL._SY355_.jpg)
Quote from: Symphonic Addict on July 14, 2021, 08:59:03 AM
The other day I was listening to the Kodály's Sonata from this disc and I thought it was magnificently played and recorded. No doubts it's one of the authentic pinnacles of solo cello music.
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/41ZQic-arlL._SY355_.jpg)
Nice! How do you like the other works on the CD SA?
I'm truly astounded each time I listen to this work; I remember initially thinking something along the lines of: "How do they get all of these amazing sounds out of a cello?!" And was also fascinated when I watched an old black and white video of Janos Starker performing it...looks like it would be so hard to play?
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on July 14, 2021, 09:45:03 AM
Nice! How do you like the other works on the CD SA?
I'm truly astounded each time I listen to this work; I remember initially thinking something along the lines of: "How do they get all of these amazing sounds out of a cello?!" And was also fascinated when I watched an old black and white video of Janos Starker performing it...looks like it would be so hard to play?
PD
Actually, I only heard the Kodály. I'll give a listen to the other works in due time.
Me too. At first I didn't care for this work that much, but on one of those days when you decide to revisit some works, I heard id and it clicked on me and I said: wow, how on earth didn't I like this piece before? With each listen the work grows on you.
Quote from: Symphonic Addict on July 14, 2021, 09:58:06 AM
Actually, I only heard the Kodály. I'll give a listen to the other works in due time.
Me too. At first I didn't care for this work that much, but on one of those days when you decide to revisit some works, I heard id and it clicked on me and I said: wow, how on earth didn't I like this piece before? With each listen the work grows on you.
lol You're not alone there! I don't know if you read my earlier comments about when I first heard it...reaction and then listening to it again some months later?
I need to re-dip into a few of those big-box sets that I have to visit other works (some anew and some revisits). ::) :) Why does life have to interfere? So much music to check out...and so many other things to do in life (including a number of daily 'musts')...
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on July 14, 2021, 10:15:59 AMWhy does life have to interfere? So much music to check out...and so many other things to do in life (including a number of daily 'musts')...
PD
Yes, life does and will always get in the way, but I write this in a thankful tone as life would be boring if all you did was listen to music all of the time, have breakfast/lunch/dinner (or just breakfast and dinner or just whatever) and then go to sleep. It's our positive interactions with other people that help keep that flame alive and this is what this forum represents to me. While I've had some tiffs with some other members and still do from time to time, you'll never find this kind of interaction with other people about classical music in real life unless you personally know a GMG member outside of the forum. :)
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on July 14, 2021, 10:15:59 AM
lol You're not alone there! I don't know if you read my earlier comments about when I first heard it...reaction and then listening to it again some months later?
I need to re-dip into a few of those big-box sets that I have to visit other works (some anew and some revisits). ::) :) Why does life have to interfere? So much music to check out...and so many other things to do in life (including a number of daily 'musts')...
PD
Yes, I did read them, and I felt identified with you.
Quite true. So much music to listen to but time doesn't help that much.
Quote from: Mirror Image on July 14, 2021, 11:21:13 AM
Yes, life does and will always get in the way, but I write this in a thankful tone as life would be boring if all you did was listen to music all of the time, have breakfast/lunch/dinner (or just breakfast and dinner or just whatever) and then go to sleep. It's our positive interactions with other people that help keep that flame alive and this is what this forum represents to me. While I've had some tiffs with some other members and still do from time to time, you'll never find this kind of interaction with other people about classical music in real life unless you personally know a GMG member outside of the forum. :)
Same here. I concur with all what you wrote, John.
Quote from: Mirror Image on July 14, 2021, 11:21:13 AM
Yes, life does and will always get in the way, but I write this in a thankful tone as life would be boring if all you did was listen to music all of the time, have breakfast/lunch/dinner (or just breakfast and dinner or just whatever) and then go to sleep. It's our positive interactions with other people that help keep that flame alive and this is what this forum represents to me. While I've had some tiffs with some other members and still do from time to time, you'll never find this kind of interaction with other people about classical music in real life unless you personally know a GMG member outside of the forum. :)
Re listening to music all of the time: No, I wouldn't want to do that either (regardless of how varied I could make it). And, yes, I do have other hobbies and interests in life too. :) I don't know how much time you need to spend on it, but I also cook and clean, garden and more. ;D And you never know who has classical music friends outside of the forum here....though I do enjoy and appreciate very much interacting with others here--sharing thoughts, recs and suggestions. :)
PD
Cross-post from the 'Purchases' thread -
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 04, 2021, 09:31:41 PM
Just bought a good bit of Kodály:
(https://static.qobuz.com/images/covers/2b/qc/m1z232iv1qc2b_600.jpg)(https://albumart.primephonic.com/s900/5991811283728.jpg)(https://albumart.primephonic.com/s900/5998309301414.jpg)(https://albumart.primephonic.com/s900/5991811236229.jpg)(https://albumart.primephonic.com/s900/5991811283926.jpg)(https://albumart.primephonic.com/s900/5991813154026.jpg)(https://albumart.primephonic.com/s900/5991811139223.jpg)(https://albumart.primephonic.com/s900/5991811139728.jpg)(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiNzk4NjQ1MC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE1NjQ3NDU0NDh9)
Upon revisitation of a Fischer disc I have owned for years and years (but also a 2-CD Dorati set on Decca), I thought it was time to dig a bit deeper into Kodály's oeuvre. I figured you couldn't go wrong with any of these recordings on Hungaroton, but I also sampled many of them and was rather enthralled by what I heard. I suppose the next purchases will be the songs and I think that'll be it as I don't have any interest in a cappella choral music and I know he wrote a lot of it. I like choral music that has some kind of accompaniment whether it be a large orchestra, a chamber ensemble, etc.
You went "all-in" there John! ;D
PD
What I find particularly striking about Kodály's music is it's almost Impressionistic use of color. In many regards, he's the opposite of his friend and contemporary Bartók. It seems Bartók made more use of dissonance and his music has a rawer, sometimes even more gnarly style in general. Kodály seems to be more on the lyrical side, but this doesn't mean that he can't get a bit raucous when the music calls for it.
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on August 05, 2021, 10:17:06 AM
You went "all-in" there John! ;D
PD
Well, I'm an 'all or nothing' kind of listener. ;) :D Looking forward to digging more into this composer's oeuvre.
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 05, 2021, 10:04:36 AM
Cross-post from the 'Purchases' thread -
Upon revisitation of a Fischer disc I have owned for years and years (but also a 2-CD Dorati set on Decca), I thought it was time to dig a bit deeper into Kodály's oeuvre. I figured you couldn't go wrong with any of these recordings on Hungaroton, but I also sampled many of them and was rather enthralled by what I heard. I suppose the next purchases will be the songs and I think that'll be it as I don't have any interest in a cappella choral music and I know he wrote a lot of it. I like choral music that has some kind of accompaniment whether it be a large orchestra, a chamber ensemble, etc.
I love the red cover Ferencsik disc!
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on August 05, 2021, 02:53:48 PM
I love the red cover Ferencsik disc!
Cool, have you heard any of these recordings?
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 05, 2021, 02:56:40 PM
Cool, have you heard any of these recordings?
I own only the red Ferencsik, and it's been one of my favorite recordings. I will check others you posted.
I don't know why but that Ferencsik disc with the Hary Janos Suite on Hungaroton is calling to me. I'm going to try and find a cheap copy.
Still been enjoying the Doráti/Philharmonia Hungarica Decca set from time to time. Kodály's piano music is cool, too. I have Klára Würtz's disc on Piano Classics which also features some Janácek. Would recommend.
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on August 05, 2021, 03:16:54 PM
I own only the red Ferencsik, and it's been one of my favorite recordings. I will check others you posted.
Ah, very cool. Good to read that you enjoy that much, too. 8) Are there any recordings in your Kodály collection that I didn't buy that stand out to you? I also own the Fischer and Dorati recordings (on Philips and Decca).
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 05, 2021, 04:10:10 PM
Ah, very cool. Good to read that you enjoy that much, too. 8) Are there any recordings in your Kodály collection that I didn't buy that stand out to you? I also own the Fischer and Dorati recordings (on Philips and Decca).
Do you have the Fricsay disc? Also Dutoit is good for my personal taste. Probably, the Dorati and I. Fischer are the best recordings though. :) :)
P.s. some people like Falletta.
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on August 05, 2021, 04:34:13 PM
Do you have the Fricsay disc? Also Dutoit is good for my personal taste. Probably, the Dorati and I. Fischer are the best recordings though. :) :)
You know now that you mentioned it, I believe I do own that Fricsay disc. I recall that its in very good mono. I'll definitely pass on the Dutoit. He's definitely not a conductor I'd turn to when it comes to Hungarian music.
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 05, 2021, 04:37:38 PM
You know now that you mentioned it, I believe I do own that Fricsay disc. I recall that its in very good mono. I'll definitely pass on the Dutoit. He's definitely not a conductor I'd turn to when it comes to Hungarian music.
Fair for Dutoit. As for the Fricsay, some pieces are stereo (sounding like mono 😄) and some others are mono.
Quote from: vers la flamme on August 05, 2021, 03:53:01 PM
I don't know why but that Ferencsik disc with the Hary Janos Suite on Hungaroton is calling to me. I'm going to try and find a cheap copy.
Still been enjoying the Doráti/Philharmonia Hungarica Decca set from time to time. Kodály's piano music is cool, too. I have Klára Würtz's disc on Piano Classics which also features some Janácek. Would recommend.
I will check the piano disc!
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on August 05, 2021, 04:40:26 PMI will check the piano disc!
I'd check out the 2-CD set I bought on Hungaroton first if I were you. It looks like there's only two works and one that is excerpts on that Piano Classics recording that flamme mentioned.
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 05, 2021, 05:01:49 PM
I'd check out the 2-CD set I bought on Hungaroton first if I were you. It looks like there's only two works and one that is excerpts on that Piano Classics recording that flamme mentioned.
Sounds good!
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 05, 2021, 05:01:49 PM
I'd check out the 2-CD set I bought on Hungaroton first if I were you. It looks like there's only two works and one that is excerpts on that Piano Classics recording that flamme mentioned.
Doesn't mean it isn't worth checking out. A fine performance from Ms. Würtz.
Quote from: vers la flamme on August 06, 2021, 01:33:38 AM
Doesn't mean it isn't worth checking out. A fine performance from Ms. Würtz.
Certainly I am looking forward to listening to the recording!
Quote from: vers la flamme on August 06, 2021, 01:33:38 AM
Doesn't mean it isn't worth checking out. A fine performance from Ms. Würtz.
This is true. I may have to check out that Würtz, too. :)
Indeed the Wurtz recording is a nice disc with a sensitive performance. Plus, both the works by Kodaly and Janacek are attractive compositions.
Great to read, Dry Brett. 8)
Cross-posted from the 'Listening' thread:
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 11, 2021, 11:57:47 AM
NP:
Kodály
Kádár Kata
Marta Szirmay, contralto
Budapest Symphony Orchestra
Gyorgy Lehel
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiNzk3MzIxMC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDQyMTAzOTJ9)
I could listen to these orchestrated songs from Kodály all day long. It's too bad he didn't orchestrate that many of them. I still want to hear the original versions for voice and piano, though. Kodály's songs will be what I'll explore later on for sure. I'm less interested in the a cappella choral works. I think I'm missing a few chamber works, so I definitely need to rectify this as well.
I think Rafael would like these orchestrated songs very much, but if he doesn't, then I'll have question his ears. ;) :P But, seriously, I highly recommend this set to all fans of this composer. I haven't listened to the
Spinning Room yet, but I'm definitely looking forward to it.
I ended up ordering the red cover Ferencsik disc on Hungaroton. Otherwise I've been listening to a lot of the Doráti Double Decca set. Very fine recordings, though I've spent a lot more time with the first of the two discs than the second.
Quote from: Dry Brett Kavanaugh on August 10, 2021, 05:42:47 AM
Indeed the Wurtz recording is a nice disc with a sensitive performance. Plus, both the works by Kodaly and Janacek are attractive compositions.
Glad you're enjoying it. I ordered it initially for the Janácek, but the Kodály are also very fine pieces.
Quote from: vers la flamme on August 11, 2021, 01:38:38 PM
I ended up ordering the red cover Ferencsik disc on Hungaroton. Otherwise I've been listening to a lot of the Doráti Double Decca set. Very fine recordings, though I've spent a lot more time with the first of the two discs than the second.
Sweet! I have to say that, so far, all of the Kodály Hungaroton recordings that I've received have been outstanding.
*Bumping* for recommendations for Kodály's sonata for solo cello. Preferably paired with the violin/cello sonata, and another preference for modern, non-historical recordings. Great sound is very important.
Quote from: OrchestralNut on February 23, 2023, 05:08:46 AM*Bumping* for recommendations for Kodály's sonata for solo cello. Preferably paired with the violin/cello sonata, and another preference for modern, non-historical recordings. Great sound is very important.
Well, as I've mentioned before, I'm a big fan the various Janos Starker performances (including some on the more recent side)...and I do think the sound of particularly his later performances of it are quite good. The first recording that I heard of this work is a relatively recentish one with Jiri Barta on Supraphon which I still enjoy. It's this one: https://www.supraphon.com/album/1405-kodaly-novak-cello-sonatas
It's with Jan Cech on the piano and includes two sonatas for cello and piano: one by Kodaly and another one by V. Novak (both which I enjoy).
Let us know what you decide on and how you like it/them!
PD
p.s. It's from 2003
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 23, 2023, 10:25:02 AMWell, as I've mentioned before, I'm a big fan the various Janos Starker performances (including some on the more recent side)...and I do think the sound of particularly his later performances of it are quite good. The first recording that I heard of this work is a relatively recentish one with Jiri Barta on Supraphon which I still enjoy. It's this one: https://www.supraphon.com/album/1405-kodaly-novak-cello-sonatas
It's with Jan Cech on the piano and includes two sonatas for cello and piano: one by Kodaly and another one by V. Novak (both which I enjoy).
Let us know what you decide on and how you like it/them!
PD
p.s. It's from 2003
Thank you PD. I'll add these to the sampling pile. :)
The Starker recording(s) are the "classic" (I admittedly have heard only one of them on youtube years ago and never managed to get a disc). A modern one I own that was cheap and coupled with the Duo is with Guido Schiefen on Arte Nova/Oehms, currently probably only available used.
ASIN : B0021JLO7G
ASIN : B01AXM17GU
Thank you both.
I have done some sound samples on numerous ones (mainly focused on the 3rd movement) and right now these two are on the short list:
Oren Shevlin
Julian Steckel
I'm far from done sampling though.
Quote from: OrchestralNut on February 24, 2023, 07:54:38 AMThank you both.
I have done some sound samples on numerous ones (mainly focused on the 3rd movement) and right now these two are on the short list:
Oren Shevlin
Julian Steckel
I'm far from done sampling though.
May I ask where/how you've been doing your sampling?
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 24, 2023, 01:06:56 PMMay I ask where/how you've been doing your sampling?
PD
At Presto Music.
A good portion of the recordings have sound samples (1st minute of each movement).
Quote from: OrchestralNut on February 24, 2023, 01:12:06 PMAt Presto Music.
A good portion of the recordings have sound samples (1st minute of each movement).
I just did a quick google and see that Oren Shevlin (himself) has posted his complete performance of it at Wigmore Hall. First movement here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INX3MKkbnF8
And when I googled (also on YT) I see that Julian Steckel took a master class with Starker. ;D
Also uploaded a performance of Julian S. there too: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlLDzCY85Q0
PD
My first encounter with the piece was through two recordings on Harmonia Mundi, one by Xavier and Jean-Marc Philips, the other by Luca and Deilteins. I've since accumulated recordings by Fourier (live, 1958) and Starker (old EMI mono).
Went back and listened to the first movement of Op 8 from Luca and Deilteins (long out of print, but available as a download from Presto and perhaps other places).
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODA1NjU1Ny4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MjMwNjcwNzN9)
I found it splendid. I seem to remember it being a challenge to grasp when I first listened to it years ago, but in this case the first movement goes down easy.
As I mentioned, I have Starker's EMI recording (1958?) and am considering his 1987 recording on Delos.
Quote from: Spotted Horses on February 25, 2023, 06:52:46 AMWent back and listened to the first movement of Op 8 from Luca and Deilteins (long out of print, but available as a download from Presto and perhaps other places).
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODA1NjU1Ny4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MjMwNjcwNzN9)
I found it splendid. I seem to remember it being a challenge to grasp when I first listened to it years ago, but in this case the first movement goes down easy.
As I mentioned, I have Starker's EMI recording (1958?) and am considering his 1987 recording on Delos.
Haven't heard of Luca nor Dieltiens before now, so will have to investigate.
First time that I listened to that work, I was left feeling something to the effect of "Yuck! Too modern/jarring...." something along those lines. Went back to it a few months later and my jaw dropped and "Yuck!" changed into "Wow!!". :) I've loved it ever since.
PD
I've settled and placed an order on the following three recordings:
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiNzkzNzM4Ni4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81aIK9sKJxL._SL1200_.jpg)
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODY1MTE4NC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE2MzY1NjA2MTN9)
Quote from: OrchestralNut on February 27, 2023, 05:57:34 AMI've settled and placed an order on the following three recordings:
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiNzkzNzM4Ni4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0MDE5ODI1NTd9)
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81aIK9sKJxL._SL1200_.jpg)
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODY1MTE4NC4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE2MzY1NjA2MTN9)
Looking forward to hearing your comments about these CDs. That BIS one has a number of works on it that I'm not familiar with too.
PD
Quote from: Pohjolas Daughter on February 27, 2023, 06:34:00 AMLooking forward to hearing your comments about these CDs. That BIS one has a number of works on it that I'm not familiar with too.
PD
Thank you. Will report. And thank you for the Barta recommendation. :)
To be released tomorrow:
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiOTY2NDcxMi4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwid2VicCI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0Ijoid2VicCJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE3MjQ4NTkzMjR9)
It includes Kodály's Dances of Galanta, but I posted it for the Symphonie Gaspésienne by the French-Canadian composer Claude Champagne (1891-1965). It could be worth listening.