Vivaldi: The Four Seasons

Anne-Sophie Mutter (Artist), Antonio Vivaldi (Composer), Herbert von Karajan (Conductor), Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra (Orchestra) | Format: Audio CD

Product Details

• Orchestra: Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra
• Conductor: Herbert von Karajan
• Composer: Antonio Vivaldi
• Audio CD (October 25, 1990)
• SPARS Code: DDD
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: EMI Classics
• ASIN: B000002RMU
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #87,442 in Music (See Top 100 in Music)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent modern instruments performance., November 10, 2009

By 

Joseph M. Perorazio (Smyrna, TN USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Vivaldi: The Four Seasons (Audio CD)

For those who prefer their baroque music on modern instruments, this wonderful performance by Anne-Sophie Mutter stands out as the best in a vast number of other good choices. Karajan leads the Vienna Philharmonic in a sensuous, ultra-romanticzed performance of this overplayed warhorse, and Anne-Sophie's youthful exuberance shines through (at least as much as Karajan would allow.)

EMI has issued several fine versions of the 4 seasons, including the much celebrated/maligned Nigel Kennedy version, as well as readings by Perlman and other violin superstars. This present version stands out because of its lush and creamy sound. Without question, this is the modern-instruments version of choice.

9 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars mysterious red sweater, January 13, 2001

By 

"katja_r" - See all my reviews

This review is from: Vivaldi: The Four Seasons (Audio CD)

I am impressed with the music on this CD. This is a 1984 performance of Antonio Vivaldi's (c.1675-1741) Four Seasons. Herbert van Karajan (1909-1989) conducts the Vienna String Orchestra with soloist Ms. Annie-Sophie Mutter (b1963). Mr Klaus Geitel writes notes which describe the concertos from various perspectives. He considers the mixed blessing of having a popular hit and explains interesting details of the twelve concerto movements. The "third movement of Summer is one of the most exciting storm scenes in all music, and a miracle of compositional power and economy." The motivating element of this CD for me is the performance of a nineteen year-old, Ms Mutter, especially, in contrast to her more recent performance. This is a staid performance done extremely well. The orchestra sometimes overpowers the soloist. Not entirely unexpected since they outnumber her by a ratio of 23 to 1. ;D I am amazed at the skill and maturity of this young violinist who would only become better on her way to a world-reknowned reputation. If you are interested in the career of Ms Annie-Sophie Mutter, this CD will be interesting to you.

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Fine Big-Orchestra Version With Talented Young Soloist, October 5, 2009

By 

James Yelvington "Professor" (USA) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Vivaldi: The Four Seasons (Audio CD)

This recording sounds fine for what it is: a large group performance of a work originally played by the lesser forces of the Venetian orphanage where Vivaldi taught, conducted, and of course composed. If you especially value period authenticity in a recording this may not be the disk for you.

Related to the question of group size is that of leadership. In Vivaldi's own performances he may well have played the solo part and conducted simultaneously. Here, however, we have Werner Hinck leading the Vienna Philharmonic players, thus allowing Ms. Mutter to concentrate on her solo playing. (Karajan, Read, and Scholz offer continuo support via harpsichord and organ.)

A final probable departure from Vivaldi's early 18th century performances lies in what some have described as a "romanticization" of the music, especially by the soloist. Again, purists may find this unacceptable. On the other hand, this music is being played for 20th and 21st century ears, so it may well be more pleasurable overall than a strictly baroque performance. (For my part, I sense no unpleasant stylistic distractions when listening to this music.)

The liner notes are quite adequate. The digital sound quality is fine and well-balanced, with pleasing spatial disposition. The focus is not particularly close for the group, but Ms. Mutter is miked close enough to provide all the detail and nuance needed.

The bottom line for me is that this is a very satisfying, enjoyable, and artistically valid performance of one of the pillar works of the Italian Baroque. I'm pleased to have it in my collection and, in addition to 4 or 5 other recordings, I enjoy hearing it, especially at the turn of seasons.