Customer Reviews

Reaching for the Note

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

 

 

I know I'd have trouble coming up with just what exactly should fit on Bernstein "sampler" (if I may call it that), but the folks at DG have done an exceptional job on this anthology. This is a very well balanced collection, taking excellent moments from LB's Broadway-oriented works and his symphonic fare, as well as some of his greatest conducting achievements. The Mahler performances here are particularly fine, including the fantastic ending of the 2nd Symphony (with the NYPO) and the famous performance of the Adagietto from the 5th (with the Vienna PO). Also the Sacrificial Dance from the Rite of Spring is a treat, having been given a spectacularly clear and vibrant reading (here with the Israel PO). All in all, this collection really shows the musicianship of Leonard Bernstein in a very fair, unbiased way, and I would recommend it without hesitation. Along with the "Artist's Album" this recording offers a great overview of the musicality of one of America's greatest musicians.

First of all I want to say the PBS video that goes with this CD is amazing. I would recommend getting it. I got the video, and a short time latter found this CD. I wanted a CD that had a lot of different peices with Mahler conducted, sort of like one the video. When I found this I purchased it and was amazed at the music on it. For the symphonies you don't get the whole thing, but you get a look at almost all his major styles over his career, but Some important pieces to him. Mahler was very important to him, Copland was his mentor, and Manfred Overture was on his emergancy program for the New Your Philharmonic. I would recomend getting this CD.