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Home  » Top CDs  »Best in Classical

Best in Classical
 
1.
Bach: Suites for Unaccompanied Cello / Yo-Yo Ma (CD)
 
Bach: Suites for Unaccompanied Cello / Yo-Yo Ma (CD)
Yo-Yo Ma (Performer)
Sony Classical Great Performances


$16
99
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In Stock
This CD brings two great musical loves together: Bach and the cello. The fact that the cello is unaccompanied, and played exquisitely by Yo Yo Ma, makes listening such pure joy. You‘ve probably heard the prelude to Bach‘s Cello Suite #1 in G, whether you know the title or not; it‘s been featured in many movies and advertisements. Suite #1 is absolutely gorgeous and full of emotion, and absolutely worth your time to listen to - and Yo-Yo Ma plays not just the first but all six suites wonderfully on this two-disc album.
      
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2.
Mozart: Flute Concertos no 1 & 2, etc / Gallois, et al (CD)
 
Mozart: Flute Concertos no 1 & 2, etc / Gallois, et al (CD)
Swedish Chamber Orchestra (Ensemble), Fabrice Pierre (Performer) and Patrick Gallois (Performer)
2003-10-21
Naxos (USA)


$6
99
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In Stock
In these performances the flutist is the renowned French player, Patrick Gallois, student of Jean-Pierre Rampal and former principal flute of the Orchestre National de France. He is a subtle, technically secure and musical player and he does a superlative job here. He is joined in the flute and harp concerto by Fabrice Pierre; together they perform admirably, accompanied by the fine Swedish Chamber Orchestra.
      
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3.
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons (CD)
 
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons (CD)
Orpheus Chamber Orchestra (Ensemble) and Sarah Chang (Performer)
2007-10-02
EMI Classics


$12
99
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In Stock
Sarah Chang and the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra have given us an absolutely fabulous recording. There are plenty of Vivaldi Four Seasons renditions, but this is our favorite. Sarah‘s playing is fluid and delicate. This is not only a vibrant and fresh interpretation of Vivaldi, but it is a well thought-out and intellectual adventure. Bravo Sarah!
      
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4.
One Chance - Puccini, etc (CD)
 
One Chance - Puccini, etc (CD)
Paul Potts (Performer)
2007-09-18
Columbia (USA)


$11
76
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In Stock
While many critique his "untrained" voice and the fact that he made a recording too soon, the truth is that this CD is amazing. It is an amazing gift that this man has, to elicit such a profound emotional reaction in the listener. The Nella Fantasia is just heartbreakingly lovely. The last note on "Music of the Night" is absolutely beautifully rendered. A great CD especially for classical music and tenor solos.
      
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5.
Bach for Meditation (CD)
 
Bach for Meditation (CD)
Bach for Meditation
2005-05-17


$6
99
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In Stock
This thoroughly enjoyable CD has excellent selections of some of Bach‘s most well-known pieces, with some transcriptions to other instruments, such as guitar. All of the selections fit together into one flowing whole, even though put together as a compilation from different original compositions. The recording quality is crystal clear. The quality of the performances is first rate. This CD compares very favorably, and is equal to, "Bach for Relaxation." Definitely recommended for soothing, beautifully played music.
      
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6.
Paganini, Spohr: Violin Concertos / Hillary Hahn, Eiji Oue (CD)
 
Paganini, Spohr: Violin Concertos / Hillary Hahn, Eiji Oue (CD)
Paganini, Spohr
2006-10-10
DG Deutsche Grammophon (USA)


$12
80
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In Stock
Violinist Hilary Hahn performs concertos by two predominant violin virtuosos of the early Romantic era, Italian Niccolo Paganini and German Louis Spohr. The Paganini and Spohr are spectacular, each in its own way. The Paganini does not fail in being a thrilling showpiece - indeed, the orchestra and soloist become a breathtaking sort of circus act, with the violinist as the featured performer. The Spohr, a lesser known work, was written in the style of an opera scene and possesses a darker demeanor.
      
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7.
Romanza (CD)
 
Romanza (CD)
Andrea Bocelli (Artist)
1997-12-09
Polydor


$11
99
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In Stock
The best arrangements on the album are, of course, "Con Te Partiro", and then "Il Mare Calmo della Serra" (very atmospheric, very Mediterranean) and "Machina de Guerra". It‘s an easy song to get lodged in your head; you‘ll be humming it all day! The insert provides both the Italian lyrics and English translations. Bocelli, whose voice is more beautiful and clear (and less overblown) than Pavoratti, sings with such wonderful empathy that you can not help be moved. Bocelli is joined by several feature performers, including John Miles and Sarah Brightman of "Phantom of the Opera" fame.
      
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8.
The Best Of Andrea Bocelli: Vivere (CD)
 
The Best Of Andrea Bocelli: Vivere (CD)
Andrea Bocelli (Artist)
2007-10-30
Decca (USA)


$13
74
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In Stock
Andrea Bocelli, the world‘s most popular tenor (and best selling) and pop sensation as well, has recorded The Best of Andrea Bocelli, Vivere. The Songs include a nice selection of some of Bocelli‘s best work. Bocelli has a beautiful voice that expresses much emotion. His tone and diction are superb. Tracks include La Voce Del Silenzio, Songo, Il mare calmo della sera, Dare to Live (Vivere), Canto Della Terra, A Te, Besame Mucho, Time to Say Goodbye (Con te partire), Io Ci Saro, Romanza, Vivo Per Lei, Melodramma, Bellissime Stelle, The Prayer and Because We Believe.
      
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9.
Mozart: Symphonies (Complete) (CD)
 
Mozart: Symphonies (Complete) (CD)
Mozart
2006-01-02
Deutsche Grammophon (UK)


$100
99
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Ships within 3 to 7 days
Leinsdorf‘s Mozart is beautifully crafted. Erich Leinsdorf is best known in the United States from his RCA recordings of Romantic and 20th century repertoire with the Boston Symphony from the 1960s, but he also recorded with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. The overall result is very musical, graceful, and well: Mozartean. Repeats are almost never taken, even in 1st movement Allegros which are in Sonata-Allegro form: the custom of the mid-late 1950s when these recordings were made in London.
      
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10.
Yo-Yo Ma - Appassionato (Import) (CD)
 
Yo-Yo Ma - Appassionato (Import) (CD)
Yo-Yo Ma - Appassionato
2007-01-29
Sony Classical


$18
39
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In Stock
Yo-Yo Ma - Appassionato reflects an extraordinary range of collaborators and includes so many of the most important musical relationships of Yo-Yo‘s life. The works selected here have never before been available on one single compilation. The album also represents the entire span of Yo-Yo‘s recording career, beginning with his first recordings for the label (Saint-Saens‘ The Swan) and culminating with three new tracks recorded this past fall especially for the collection. The most admired and beloved classical artist of his generation, cellist Yo-Yo Ma delivers an album of romance and passion; featuring some of the most beautiful music he has ever recorded.
      
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11.
The Ultimate Most Relaxing Mozart for Strings (CD)
 
The Ultimate Most Relaxing Mozart for Strings (CD)
The Ultimate Most Relaxing Mozart for Strings
2007-08-07
Warner Classics (USA)


$10
99
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In Stock
The Ultimate Most Relaxing Mozart in the Universe is, for the most part, a collection of slow movements extracted from sonatas, chamber works, and concertos, covering a broad range of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart‘s instrumental works. For people who make few demands of their classical recordings, this set of pleasant and melodious excerpts will be serviceable as background music, since the playing in almost all the selections is first-rate and the sound quality high throughout.
      
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12.
Music From The Pirates Of The Caribbean Trilogy (CD)
 
Music From The Pirates Of The Caribbean Trilogy (CD)
City Of Prague Philharmonic (Artist) and Crouch End Festival Chorus (Artist)
2007-09-25


$11
99
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In Stock
Silva Screen Records has brought film music to another level in soundtracks, flawless from the very first note to the last. This outstanding, fantastic and moving release will have film music collectors crying for more! Contributing to this awesome and thunderous recording are Nic Raine (Conductor), James Fitzpatrick (Producer & Conductor), David Temple (Choir Master), Crouch End Festival Chorus and The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra.
      
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13.
Amor (CD)
 
Amor (CD)
Andrea Bocelli (Artist)
2006-02-28
Universal Music Latino


$12
99
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In Stock
Every song is beautiful - This album is definitely worth the wait! Amore is produced by David Foster along with co-producers Humberto Gatica and Tony Renis and the music hear is wonderful as well a stellar line up of the world‘s finest instrumentalists appear on Amore, Electric and acoustic guitarists, Dean Parks (Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, BB King) and Michael Landau (Pink Floyd, Joni Mitchell, Miles Davis); on Spanish guitars, mandolin, charango, bajo-sexto and vihuela Ramon Stagnaro (Luis Miguel, Alejandro Sanz, Enrique Iglesias); on bass Nathan East (Eric Clapton, Phil Collins); on drums Vinnie Colaiuta (Sting, Marcus Miller, David Sanborn); on piano and keyboards Randy Waldman (Barbara Streisand, Kenny G, George Benson); on percussion Paulinho Da Costa (Prince, Quincy Jones, Herbie Hancock) and Rafaela Padilla (Gloria Estefan, Alejandro Sanz); on trumpet the acclaimed soloist Chris Botti as well as others.
      
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14.
Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (CD)
 
Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (CD)
GOULD, GLENN
2002-09-23
Glenn Gould Edition


$16
08
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Ships within 2 to 4 weeks
This is an excellent showcase of Gould‘s talent and his true passion, playing the works of Bach. The level of expertise that Gould could play a Bach piece at break-neck speed was what made him famous. This is an excellent disk that any Gould fan should own! Excellent music when studying or relaxing and one can never tire of this amazing and timeless recording.
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15.
Bizet: Carmen / Solti, Troyanos, Domingo, Van Dam, Te Kanawa (CD)
 
Bizet: Carmen / Solti, Troyanos, Domingo, Van Dam, Te Kanawa (CD)
Sir Georg Solti (Conductor), Haberdashers' Aske's School Boys Choir (Ensemble) and John Alldis Choir (Ensemble)
London/Decca


$34
29
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In Stock
The London Philharmonic Orchestra, under Solti, is in impeccable form. The entire cast is inspired under the inimitable Solti. Tatiana Troyanos is a vocal temptress and seductress, both irresistible and insidious in her interpretation. Domingo, a champion of the honorable but thick role, is a definitive Don José. Few others have captured the same explosive drama and tension Solti, a spiteful and venomous Troyanos, and an enraged and enamored Domingo created in the homicidal finale of Act IV.
      
 
16.
Karajan Gold - Bruckner: Symphonie no 7 / Wiener PO (CD)
 
Karajan Gold - Bruckner: Symphonie no 7 / Wiener PO (CD)
Karajan Gold - Bruckner
1996-07-23


$13
99
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In Stock
This recording of Bruckner‘s Seventh Symphony was Maestro Karajan‘s very last recording. Karajan, of course related to Bruckner more than with any other composer, so what a great recording to go out with. This album is truly majestic. Karajan, like no other, is able to bring out the mystical aspects of Bruckner‘s symphonies that make them so unique. Karjan is able to bring forth great emotional intensity from the piece and all of it is recorded in superb digital sound. For fans of Bruckner or for a great introduction to his work, this disk is a must have.
      
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17.
A Bride's Guide to Wedding Music (CD)
 
A Bride's Guide to Wedding Music (CD)
A Bride's Guide to Wedding Music
2002-02-20


$11
60
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In Stock
This collection is designed to give the bridal couple some key pointers to navigate the world of classical music for their wedding day. The package includes over 3 1/2 hours of music on 3 CDs for all portions of the wedding service, all from the Naxos classical label (known for high-quality recordings at inexpensive prices). Wedding day favorites are there, along with new discoveries and tunes you may have never considered for a wedding. All pieces are hand selected by professional wedding musicians and consultants. Everything you need to create your own unique personal wedding soundtrack.
      
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18.
Chopin: The Complete Nocturnes / Daniel Barenboim (CD)
 
Chopin: The Complete Nocturnes / Daniel Barenboim (CD)
Chopin
1998-06-09


$15
99
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In Stock
With Chopin‘s nocturnes unquestionably being among the most graceful and beautiful compositions ever written for solo piano, Daniel Barenboim‘s 1981 recording pretty much sums up their "nocturnal" mood. Somber, low-key and thoughtful, these interpretations are played to never cause much stir or startle the listener -- maybe with the exception of the most rousing and splendid highlight, No.48/2. Barenboim feels at ease with the pieces, never trying to astonish with the technique in the first place.
      
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19.
Luciano Pavarotti - The Best - Farewell Tour (CD)
 
Luciano Pavarotti - The Best - Farewell Tour (CD)
Luciano Pavarotti - The Best - Farewell Tour
2005-09-13


$13
99
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In Stock
Luciano Pavarotti will live on forever. His powerful voice is so uplifting and soothing. One favorite track is the lively "La Donna E Mobile" composed by Verdi. We also love Pavarotti‘s rendition of Verdi‘s "Libiamo Ne Lieti Calici". This song is a celebration of life. "La Danza" or the dance is an up tempo track from Rossini. "O Sole Mio" is such a pretty romantic song. This track is a pure gem. His voice sounds so elegant on the track "Nessum Dorma". "Mappari" is another standout track. Pavarotti sounds so peaceful here singing about a place where sound never dies. This is beautiful music from a singing legend.
      
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20.
Glass:  Einstein On The Beach (Import) (CD)
 
Glass: Einstein On The Beach (Import) (CD)
PHILIP GLASS ENSEMBLE/WILSON
1993-01-21
Sony Bmg (Germany)


$37
99
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In Stock
This is a bizarre and relentless opera-as the surreal title implies, more dream than drama. Where the earlier recording had an abrasive edge, this new one is more refined, melding the different elements, electronic alongside acoustic, more subtly and persuasively than before. Even so, the first train episode, over 20 minutes long, remains mind-blowing in its relentlessness. The impact is heightened by the vividness of the recording, with spoken voices in particular given such presence that they startled me as if someone had burst into my room. The vision remains an odd one, but with a formidable group of vocalists and instrumentalists brilliantly directed, often from the keyboard, by Michael Riesman, the new recording certainly justifies itself.
      
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21.
Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone (CD)
 
Yo-Yo Ma Plays Ennio Morricone (CD)
Ennio Morricone (Conductor), Roma Sinfonietta Orchestra (Ensemble), Gilda Butta (Performer) and Yo-Yo Ma (Performer)
2004-09-28
Sony Classical


$13
82
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In Stock
Celebrate the career of indelible musical impressions courtesy of the most renowned film score composer of our time Ennio Morricone [conductor], Yo-Yo Ma [cello], Gilda Butta [piano] and Roma Sinfonietta Orchestra...each cue released into six film and director categories by "The Mission", "Giusppe Tornatore Suite", "Sergio Leone Suite", "Brian De Palma Suite", "Moses and Marco Polo Suite" and "The Lady Caliph"...Maestro Morricone creates visual moods for each film he scores, Yo-Yo Ma taps into each track with brilliant performances that will leave you spellbound. Yo-Yo Ma has done a magnificent job in bringing the music of a composer who wrote for over 250 films to a new level of appreciation to film-lovers worldwide.
      
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22.
Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies, 7 Overtures / Abbado, London SO (CD)
 
Mendelssohn: 5 Symphonies, 7 Overtures / Abbado, London SO (CD)
Mendelssohn
2002-05-14


$26
99
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In Stock
Deutsche Grammophon has united all of Abbado‘s Mendelssohn recordings with the London Symphony Orchestra in this inexpensive 4 CD set. Without question, Abbado‘s Mendelsson symphony cycle, recorded in the mid 1980‘s, remains among the best. The highlights include splendid performances of the 2nd, 4th and 5th symphonies, with the others almost as fine, with Abbado opting for brisk tempi and emphasizing the scores‘ broad orchestral textures. A splendid surprise is the inclusion of the orchestrated version of Scherzo in G minor for the Octet (Opus 20), which Mendelssohn regarded as an alternative 3rd movement for his first full-fledged symphony (Symphony No. 1 in C minor, Opus 11.). Other works included in this compilation include all of Mendelssohn‘s overtures, most notably "The Hebrides" (Opus 26), and the overture to Shakespeare‘s "A Midsummer Night‘s Dream" (Opus 21).
      
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23.
The Three Tenors (CD)
 
The Three Tenors (CD)
The Three Tenors / Carreras, Domingo, Pavarotti, Mehta
1990-09-11


$10
99
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In Stock
This is a wonderful disc, whether you are a serious classical/opera fan, or just want to add some variety to your collection. Domingo‘s rendition of "E lucevan le stelle" is very fine, as is Carreras in "Granada" and "Il lamento di Federico". Pavarotti‘s voice is fresh in "Recondita armonia", "Rondine al nido", and "Torna a Surriento". They are all beautifully done and they mostly stick to opera arias, with thankfully few Popular/Broadway tunes thrown in.
      
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24.
Orff: Carmina Burana / Jochum, Janowitz, Stolze, et al (CD)
 
Orff: Carmina Burana / Jochum, Janowitz, Stolze, et al (CD)
Eugen Jochum (Conductor), Berlin Deutsche Oper Chorus (Ensemble), Berlin Deutsche Oper Orchestra (Ensemble) and Schöneberg Boys Choir (Ensemble)
1996-05-01
DG The Originals


$9
99
  tower.com   
In Stock
This is the ultimate Carmina Burana rendition for the millennium. Eugen Jochum handles the orchestra and choir superbly and the soloists Fischer-Dieskau, Stolze, and Janowitz perform with first-rate magnificence. There have been other recordings (Dutoit, Thielemann, and Pople) that are also brilliant through presentation, but these simply do not come close to Jochum‘s excellent version. This one gets an A+!! Absolutely outstanding!
      
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25.
The Compact Opera Collection - Puccini: La BohŠme / Serafin (CD)
 
The Compact Opera Collection - Puccini: La BohŠme / Serafin (CD)
The Compact Opera Collection - Puccini
2002-08-13


$13
99
  tower.com   
In Stock
"The Perfect La Bohème." Bohème is easy to pull off, but nearly impossible to get right! It requires more than just a great cast and a great conductor. It requires a certain something more, a sort of magical spark that makes it ring true. Most productions fail in this. This one gets it right. The fireworks between the voices of Tebaldi and Bergonzi make them possibly the greatest opera duo ever to collaborate on stage. They match each other magnificently. Bastianini is flavorful and funny as Marcello, and the soprano playing Musetta is perfect for the role. The entire supporting cast is marvelous.
      
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