Customer Reviews

Brahms for Relaxation

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When I first noticed this bright red CD in the record store, the image struck me at first as rather odd looking. At the time I didn't know exactly what I was responding to; but thinking back now about what it was that I noticed, I would have to say that it was the name "Brahms" in hot white neon letters with the word relaxation directly under it. This had seemed like a contradiction in terms to me; so I passed up buying this CD on several occasions; thinking that it may not have been very well produced.

In addition to that, I had already bought "Brahms for Book Lovers" and felt completely satisfied with the purchase, I saw no reason to have another "relaxation" CD dedicated to Brahms music. What changed my mind was noticing that with the exception of the Poco allegretto from the String Quartet in C minor, the pieces on this collection do not overlap with the "Brahms for Book Lovers" collection. I then purchased it with the hope of having it be a companion to the "Book Lovers" CD that I already owned.

As it turns out, this actually is a wonderful collection of Brahms music. It fulfills the idea of "Relaxation" quite well. The recordings and the playing are top notch. The C minor Quartet on track 10 sounds slightly strained in comparison to the one performed on the "Book Lovers" compilation; but this is only a minor point. Sir Colin Davis conducts the Bavarian Radio Symphony in a broad flowing Variation VII of the Haydn Variations Op. 56a. I have never heard this variation played so expansively. Gerhard Oppitz performs a sensitive interpretation of the B Minor Intermezzo that is clear and resonant. There is a lyrical beauty that pervades the Andante from the C Minor quartet; which is played so lovingly by the Boston Chamber players. I could go on but I think you get the idea.

If you already have the "Book Lovers" CD then get this as a companion to it. If you have neither then you are in for a real treat. This is a well-produced bargain CD that every Brahms lover should own. Also, If you are looking for a general introduction to Brahms, this would be a great way to start--wonderful music!

Save your money if you buy this CD simply for relaxation. There are a lot more choices better than this one. The music is slow, but they are not soothing and they are not attractive. The "For Relaxation" series is a large series. And I would say this series produce both good and bad quality CD. I would recommend you to try Bach for relaxation, Chopin for relaxation and guitar for relaxation. These three CDs are the best in the series. While apart from this CD, also DO NOT try Tchaikovsky for relaxation as this is also not a good one for relaxation. The music are sometimes too sad.