Customer Reviews

Handel: Music for the Royal Fireworks / Water Music

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

First, the performance. Using authentic instruments, Boston baroque conjure up a radically different world of sound to the frequently plodding, homogenised recordings of the pre-period days. This is Handel full of variety and incident. Faster tempi really dance and the slower movements are more intimate than on many performances, with some especially lovely oboe and upper-string duets, which have a chamber feel about them even in the midst of all that outdoorsy grandeur.

For those not familiar with period instruments, the sound of the serpent may be unusual at first and yes, the brass instruments are quite limited at times, but that simply changes the nature of the sound, - it doesn't limit the interpretations.

Also, for those familiar only with brass and wind recordings of "Fireworks", this version is accompanied by the strings which Handel wanted but the George II didn't. Handel subsequently played the peice with strings as well as without. They change the tone of the music without affecting its nobility, -in fact they enhance it though adding subtlety to the sound of the period brass and wind.

Boston Baroque clearly revel in both the music itself and their virtuosity, whilst outstanding, is at its service. Excellent shaping of the sound by Pearlman.

The sound throughout is marvellous. It captures both the chamber-like intimacy of some passages as well as the blazing nobility of others. The soundstage is wide without being artificial, stereo separation is excellent without being of the "hey, look at me variety" and instruments are clearly heard without being spotlit or too closely miked.

For my money and to my ears, this is one of the most natural (and yet still audio-technophile) recordings Telarc have produced.

Its also one of the most enjoyable and fresh disc of any kind I've heard for a while. More of the same please !!!!

First, the performance. Using authentic instruments, Boston baroque conjure up a radically different world of sound to the frequently plodding, homogenised recordings of the pre-period days. This is Handel full of variety and incident. Faster tempi really dance and the slower movements are more intimate than on many performances, with some especially lovely oboe and upper-string duets, which have a chamber feel about them even in the midst of all that outdoorsy grandeur.

For those not familiar with period instruments, the sound of the serpent may be unusual at first and yes, the brass instruments are quite limited at times, but that simply changes the nature of the sound, - it doesn't limit the interpretations.

Also, for those familiar only with brass and wind recordings of "Fireworks", this version is accompanied by the strings which Handel wanted but the George II didn't. Handel subsequently played the peice with strings as well as without. They change the tone of the music without affecting its nobility, -in fact they enhance it though adding subtlety to the sound of the period brass and wind.

Boston Baroque clearly revel in both the music itself and their virtuosity, whilst outstanding, is at its service. Excellent shaping of the sound by Pearlman.

The sound throughout is marvellous. It captures both the chamber-like intimacy of some passages as well as the blazing nobility of others. The soundstage is wide without being artificial, stereo separation is excellent without being of the "hey, look at me variety" and instruments are clearly heard without being spotlit or too closely miked.

For my money and to my ears, this is one of the most natural (and yet still audio-technophile) recordings Telarc have produced.

Its also one of the most enjoyable and fresh disc of any kind I've heard for a while. More of the same please !!!!

Hayden classical music that does not disappoint.Sonically excellent performance is wonderful.Light non tiring almost ethereal performance.this is a must have for any collection .