The Mozart Sessions

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Composer), Bobby McFerrin (Conductor, Performer), Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra (Orchestra), Chick Corea (Performer) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Performer: Bobby McFerrin, Chick Corea
• Orchestra: Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra
• Conductor: Bobby McFerrin
• Composer: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
• Audio CD (October 1, 1996)
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Sony
• ASIN: B0000029R6
• Also Available in: Audio Cassette  |  MiniDisc  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (21 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #30,188 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)
  • #72 in Music > Classical > Forms & Genres > Sonatas > General

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

29 of 29 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Subtle treatment -- Ingenuity, Creativity, and Precision, June 26, 2001

By 

Nichomachus - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Mozart Sessions (Audio CD)

Apparently some of the previous reviewers were disturbed that this CD contains the music of Mozart, instead of more schlock like "Don't Worry, Be Happy." With an expansive collection of Mozart recordings, especially piano works, I found this to be an utterly brilliant addition.

I was initially highly skeptical of a Chick Corea improvising in the cadenzas; but when I heard the first notes of McFerrin's introductory vocals, I immediately knew that this album was something special. If you haven't heard recordings of the concerti with other artists and the typical scored treatment, you have no conception of what this album is about.

The genius of it is that not only is Corea a brilliant improvisationist, but he can play Mozart with a crisp and subtle touch that highlights all the emotions from major to minor. Just tune out the right hand a bit, and hear the precision and deftness of the left hand's accompaniment. This lends credence and passion to his cadenza improvisations. Consequently, the brilliance of Mozart's writing and the brilliance of sheer improvisation make an incredible combination. All the poetic essences of continuity and change are flung at the listener. I listened to the entire first movement of K.488 in the store and it brought tears to my eyes.

Neither McFerrin nor Corea abuse the music either; the vocal introductions and Corea's embellishments and explorations only heighten awareness, and do not undermine the essence of the works.

The final Adagio from the F Sonata that they convert into the "Song For Amadeus" is a wonderful tribute to the most brilliant of composers. I played it simultaneously with other recordings of the movement, just for fun. Try it.

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Ah, that's nice!, June 21, 2000

By 

Daniel (Lakewood, CO, United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Mozart Sessions (Audio CD)

I can see why this was on of Time Magazines top releases of the year (1996). I listen to this CD at work and in the car. It's been number one on my personal playlist since I first heard it in March, 2000. Chick Corea's piano playing and Bobby McFerrin's direction of the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra is all I imagine Mozart should be, light, jaunty, and GUARANTEED to improve your mood! I highly recommend it, whether your a fan of Chick Corea, Bobby McFerrin, or (especially) Mozart, you will enjoy this CD!

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Mozart interpretation & improv - truly innovative., October 18, 1999

By 

Maria Novales (USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Mozart Sessions (Audio CD)

I am a "classical" pianist and a lover of jazz music. I have followed Chick's career since the '70's when he dazzled us with Return to Forever. To hear him perform both Mozart and himself was quite a delightful experience. This cd is a must for music lovers...especially classical pianists who have never given jazz music a serious thought.