Customer Reviews

Mozart at Midnight

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4 star:		(3)
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Mozart lived in what the music world calls the "Classical Era" where most of the music composed was typically in three movements: Fast - Slow - Fast. Theme collections like this CD here "cherry pick" some of the nicer slow movements Mozart wrote and put them on one disc of similar tone and temperament. Featured in this collection are movements with the Italian music terms, "adagio" (very slow) or "andante" (moderate pace) - but not the "allegros" or "Rondos" (which are fast and lively). Such a grouping allows 60-70 minutes of music that is more condusive to reading, lounging or entertaining without the sudden or loud surges from the fast movements. Of course, the most pure and educational way to listen to classical music is in its complete form of all three or four movements. But, especially for the classical newcomer, this can be too much for cartain parts of one's day, so these compilation CD's of easy-going classical melodies can be a better way to enjoy classical music much of the time.

The selections here are an excellent representation of Mozart's music with performances that are quite good (but maybe not THE best for the experienced classical fan which is fine). Highlights are the dreamy clarinet and wind pieces and the famous slow and enchanting movements from the piano concertos (solo piano + orchestra) - a form of music Mozart perfected to extraordinary levels. But because some selections are full symphonies, concertos, or scored in those dramatic minor-keys that can be somewhat stimulating, the music is more a pleasant companion for late-night reading or conversation and less of a means to cure insomnia at midnight. But, otherwise, you will be experiencing here some of Mozart's finest music - which spotlights some of his more lyrical & musically-rich slow movements. If you want the most scerene music to fall asleep to, the best choices in this series are: "Baroque for Bathtime" and "Bach for Bedtime."

We bought this CD for the purpose of exposing our son (2 yrs) to classical music while providing good music to help relax him and put him to sleep for the evening. It works great! In fact, I often lay with my son as he goes down and I find myself lost in this CD. It makes it hard to get up. One slight flaw is that the music can be a tad Peaky at times and can sometimes wake a heavy eyed boy.

Although I don't much about classical music I do appreciate the occasional seranade. There are certain times that lend more to listening to this type of music so maybe that is why they came up with the night-night title. It is extremely relaxing and if you are not careful or too tired you might begin cutting some zzz's. Actually I find that this is perfect music for reading before bedtime as it stimulates just enough to perk your attention but doesn't grab it and take you away from concentrating on your book. Although I'm not a big classical music person some of the music sounds very familiar so maybe for those in the know you might recognize some of old Wolfgang's best or most well known works. After looking over the liner notes and credits it seems that most of these recording are older but put together here for a theme. Some of the recording date back as far as 1970 with the newest being from 1994. I guess this is classical music for the novice, a sort of compilation of some of his Adagio's, Andannte's and Larghetto's. Now if I only knew how to differenciate between these identifying terms! It just sounds real soothing. The price is right for people that just dabble in this type of music occasionally and are not hard core serious classical music listeners. It is part of the Phillips Classics releases that includes a whole line of various major composers music set to a theme. For example, they have another one for Mozart that is more lively that is entitled "Mozart in the Morning" . I guess anytime is the right time for hearing some of these symphonies. Try it you just might like it.

I find that often Mozart's most profoundly beautiful music occurs in the slow movements, particularly in the slow movements of the concertos. This is a fine selection of slower movements. The overall quality of the performances is exceptional. This relatively inexpensive gem always satisfies. It is an excellent gift.

We bought this cd for my 4-year-old was has trouble going to sleep. We have been very pleased with it. The music selections are pleasant and relaxing, and there is a good variety of songs. I would highly recommend this cd.

Great CD to help body and mind relax and unwind. Enjoy falling to sleep by this delightful music. Sweet dreams.

I've used this CD to help my 2 little ones sleep. Nice and relaxing. And good for their brains, too!

I just can't pass up a good CD, and here is another Mozart miracle. Take my word for it, this rocks too.