Copland: Fanfare for the Common Man; Appalachian Spring Suite; Third Symphony

Minnesota Orch/Oue (Artist), E: cnd.. (Artist), Aaron Copland (Composer), Eiji Oue (Conductor), Minnesota Orchestra (Orchestra)

Product Details

• Orchestra: Minnesota Orchestra
• Conductor: Eiji Oue
• Composer: Aaron Copland
• Audio CD (August 15, 2000)
• SPARS Code: DDD
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Reference Records
• ASIN: B00004UDEQ
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #96,538 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

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Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

This release--part of a wave that will soon grow tidal in honor of the 100th anniversary of Aaron Copland in 2000--doesn't exactly rewrite the map on America's beloved composer. It collects three of his most familiar works created during (and, in varying degrees, reacting to) his country's experience of World War II: the version of "Appalachian Spring" for orchestral suite, the "Fanfare for the Common Man," and the Third Symphony (which incorporates the fanfare in its final movement and, as Copland himself wrote, reflects the "euphoric spirit of the country" following the war's conclusion). But the charismatic Eiji Oue proves to have a convincing and sensitive connection to these works.

A protégé of Leonard Bernstein, Oue was bequeathed the baton used by Bernstein in his final concert--the musical equivalent of a laying on of hands--and he opts to bring out a similar kind of multilayered American Romanticism, mixing transcendentalist vision with sinewy, driving vitality. The range of color and deep focus Oue elicits from the Minnesota Orchestra give yet another example of how the old "tier" hierarchy of American orchestras is eroding; there are excellent, tender wind solos, nicely balanced bodies of strings, and pulse-raising brass, especially in the Third. Oue finds a way to make the transitions between tempos and sections breathe effectively (above all when the music shifts to a faster gear), and his fine ear does justice to the vertical density of Copland's sound--as does the justly acclaimed Reference Recording range of clarity. While Oue doesn't really break any new interpretive ground (his Third feels too close in overall concept to Bernstein's own canonical recording--down to following the cut of several measures of triumphant D major on the score's final page), the glory of that ear-delighting dynamic range and subtlety is a definite advantage for audiophiles. --Thomas May

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Absolutely Incredible!!, August 15, 2001

By	John R. (Dayton, OH USA) - See all my reviews

I had the extreme pleasure of being under the conduction of Eiji Oue a few years ago for several concerts and rehearsals throughout the country. He is an inspiring individual both in his musical abilities and personal character and his ability to hear the smallest details of the music was amazing. He is by far the most extraordinary conductor I have ever worked with and no music collection is complete until it contains some of his works. I just can't say enough good things about him.

His interpretations of these Copland works is equally impressive as he brings out the little nuances of the music and accentuates the high points. His recordings are not to be missed and this one is no exception. The Third Symphony is first-rate in every way. This cd will become a treasured part of your collection for years to come and the HDCD format makes the performances that much more lifelike.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Best recording of the 3rd?, December 4, 2001

By	Ethan Sobotta "esobotta" (Tucson, AZ USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I would probably have to say so. My old fave used to be Bernstein's '86 version, but the ensemble overall is more together in this recording than Lenny's. Besides, Minnesota's strings sound better than virtually any other American orchestra today--particularly the basses (although I may be a bit biased--I study with one of them). Since I've seen them perform the 3rd twice, I can honestly say you would have to strain to hear a difference between listening to the CD and sitting in Orchestra Hall. In addition, despite it probably being a commercially-driven move, having Copland's 3 most well-known works all in one spot isn't too bad. Own this recording!!

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars MN is Copland land!, November 10, 2000

By A Customer

How could a recording of Copland music done by the Minnesota Orchestra be any better? Get Eiji Oue to direct the orchestra, that's how. Copland doesn't get any better than this... except maybe live on Minnesota Public Radio! Breath in the breath of American music at it's best... did I mention that the Minnesota Orchestra is the best of the best? Did I need to... Happy Birthday to us all!