Mozart/Flute Concertos, Concerto for Flute and Harp (Galway/Marriner, 1995)

Mozart's "Flute Concerto No.1 in G major" is known as a graceful and splendid masterpiece making full use of the color and register of flute. "Flute Concerto No.2 in D major" is an adaptation of "Oboe Concerto in C major". "Concerto for Flute and Harp in C major" is a unique double concerto with a rare combination of flute and harp. The flute performed by Northern Ireland-born virtuoso flutist, James Galway. Sir Neville Marriner conducts Academy of St. Martin in the Fields. The harp performed by Marisa Robles. Released on RCA. Galway had recorded these pieces many times. The flute concertos are his fourth recordings, and "Flute and Harp" is his fifth recording.

Mozart/Piano Concertos Nos. 20 & 21 (Gulda/Abbado, 1974)

Includes Mozart's two popular piano concertos composed in his prime, No.20 in D minor (K.466) and No.21 in C major (K.467). The original is Deutsche Grammophon. Symphonic writings with the integration of piano and orchestration. No.20 is the first minor concerto written by Mozart. A dark and emotional piece, like later romantics. The beautiful melody of the second movement was used in the the film "Amadeus". No.21 is a swinging piece in a bright and clear atmosphere, featuring flowing sounds of piano solo. Performed by Friedrich Gulda (piano), Claudio Abbado (conductor) and Wiener Philharmoniker.

Satie/Orchestral Works (Kaltenbach, 1997) *

Erik Satie's orchestral Works (Naxos). "Parade" is music for a humorous and bizarre ballet on traveling entertainer's street performance to attract audience. It has noises of unmusical items such as a typewiter and siren. "Trois Gymnopédies" (Three Gymnopédies) is orchestrated renditions (by Debussy, Roland-Manuel) of famous piano pieces. Also includes ballet music "Mercure" and ballet music "Relâche" (No Performance Today). Jérôme Kaltenbach conducts Orchestre Symphonique et Lyrique de Nancy.

Telemann/Twelve Fantasias for Flute Solo (Rampal, 1972)

German Baroque music composer, Georg Philipp Telemann's Twelve Fantasias for Flute Solo (Denon). A piece full of ornamentations in the Rococo style, for Flauto Traverso (baroque flute) without bass part. Composed in around 1727-1728. The variety of musical styles and changing tempos keep the audience from being bored. A classical performance by a great flutist of the 20th century France, Jean-Pierre Rampal on modern flute. A digital recording in Saitama Kaikan Hall in Japan, on October 30, 1972.

Mozart/Symphonies Nos.25, 29 and 35 "Haffner" (Bernstein, 1984-1988)

Includes two popular pieces of Mozart's symphonies composed in his younger days (teenager), No.25 in G minor (known as the opening music of the film "Amadeus") and No.29 in A major, and the first one of his late six symphonies, No.35 in D major (DG). No.35 "Haffner" is a magnificent piece in festive atmosphere, based on a serenade to celebrate the ennoblement of Sigmund Haffner. Moderate performance in a relaxed tempo, conducted by Leonard Bernstein and performed by Wiener Philharmoniker (live recording).

Toshiro Mayuzumi/Nirvana-Symphony (Iwaki, 1972)

The volume 1 of the Odaka Prize-winning Japanese contemporary music works performed by NHK Symphony Orchestra. Toshiro Mayuzumi's "Nirvana-Symphony" (1958) (conducted by Hiroyuki Iwaki) is a stereoscopic piece with "Campanology Effect" technique (the orchestra reproduces the sound of Buddhist temple bell based on its data analysis) and Buddhist (Zen and Tendai) texts performed by three groups of male chorus and orchestra, like Shomyo (Japanese Buddhist chant). Recommended to those who like Messiaen's "Turangalîla Symphonie". Also includes Akira Miyoshi's "Concerto for Orchestra" (1964) (conducted by Hiroyuki Iwaki) and Michio Mamiya's "Two Tableaux for Orchestra '65" (1965) (conducted by Yuzo Toyama).

Beethoven/String Quartets Nos.15 & 16 (Smetana Quartet, 1983/1985)

Beethoven's two string quartets full of maturity in technique in his later days, No.15 in A Minor, Op.132 and No.16 in F Major, Op.135. No.15 is a joyful, mleodic five-movement piece with beautiful harmonies, known for its long, impressive third movement with Phrygian mode (one of the old church modes). No.16 is one of his last works, and a small, compact piece in open and upbeat atmosphere, like Haydn. selected from Smetana String Quartet's complete string quartets digital recordings (1976-1985).

Schoenberg/Moses und Aron, Chamber Symphony No.2 (Boulez, 1974/1980)

An unfinished three-act opera "Moses and Aaron" is one of Schoenberg's master works. Features speech-style vocals (Sprechstimme), solos and choruses. Composed by twelve-tone technique. The German libretto was based on 'Exodus' (Old Testament), but interpreted uniquely from the viewpoint of the Jews. The first and second acts were completed including orchestrations, but the third was unfinished. One of the greatest atonal operas, appeared after his disciple, Alban Berg's "Wozzeck". Conducted by Pierre Boulez and performed by BBC Symphony Orchesatra. Also includes 'Chamber Symphony No.1' (Op.38). (Sony, 2 CDs)

Shostakovich/Symphonies No.5 & No.9 (Haitink, 1979/1981)

Includes No.5 and No.9 from Shostakovich complete symphonies recording on Decca UK, conducted by a Dutch conductor Bernard Haitink, performed by Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and London Philharmonic Orchestra. No.5 is a popular piece featuring a classical composition, symmetry and theme of victory over repression, like Beethoven's No.5. The light, refined and humorous style of No.9, as if to poke fun at Stalin, was heavily criticized by Soviet authorities, and it led to later Zhdanov Doctrine.

Britten/War Requiem (Britten, 1963)

An English composer of the 20th century, Benjamin Britten's "War Requiem" (Decca). A requiem mass composed for the 1962 reconsecration of St Michael's Cathedral in Coventry after the the original structure was destroyed in a World War II bombing raid by German forces. A large-scale piece for an orchestra, a chamber orchestra, soprano, tenor and baritone soloists, mixed chorus in four voices and boys' choir. They sing the traditional Latin Requiem texts and Wilfred Owen's English poems. The pity of war and prayer for peace. A historical recording featuring Galina Vishnevskaya (soprano) from the former Soviet Union, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau (baritone) from Germany, Peter Pears (tenor. Britten's life-long partner) from England, with the London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Britten. This recording is old, but the vocal solos are beautiful. 2 CDs (about 90 minutes).

J.S. Bach/Die Kunst der Fuge, Clavierübung II (Leonhardt, 1965-1969) *

"Die Kunst der Fuge" (The Art of Fugue) is J.S. Bach's incomplete work in his last days. The instrument was not specified. A culmination of Bach's counterpoint technique. It contains 14 fugues and 4 canons. Each of the 14 fugues except the final unfinished one use the same subject with transformations and inversions. A historic performance by a well-known Dutch keyboard player, Gustav Leonhardt (also known for playng the role of J.S. Bach in Straub-Huillet's film "Chronik der Anna Magdalena Bach") on cembalo. A set of 2 CDs also includes Clavierübung II (Partita (French Overture)/Italian Concerto/Prelude, Fuga and Allegro). Includes Leonhardt's expository text in which he argues in detail that "The Art of Fugue" is a complete work written for cembalo.

Schoenberg/Die Jakobsleiter (Boulez, 1980)

Schoenberg's "Jacob's Ladder". An oratorio for soloists, choruses and orchestra (Sony). A mystical vocal music inspired by 'Genesis' (Old Testament), Balzac's 'Seraphita' and Strindberg's 'Jacob Wrestles'. Composed in his expressionism/atonality period before his his transition to twelve-tone technique. Features speech-style vocals, like his 'Pierrot Lunaire', and hexachords. Unfinished, but the orchestration of the first part was completed by his student Winfried Zillig. Conducted by Pierre Boulez and performed by BBC Symphony Orchesatra with BBC Singers. Also includes his early piece, 'Chamber Symphony No.1' (Op.9) and 'Accompaniment to a Film-Scene' (Op.34).

Mozart/Kegelstatt-Trio, Duos für Violine und Viola (Kremer, 1984)

Mozart's "Kegelstatt-Trio, Duos für Violine und Viola" (DG). "Kegelstatt Trio" is a unique performance, for originally composed as "The Trio for Clarinet, Viola and Piano in E-flat" (K.498), but Gidon Kremer plays the clarinet part on the violin. Mozart's two duos for violin and viola, G major (K.423) and B-flat major (K.424) are rarely performed and recorded, but they are both pretty good. The highlights are exquisite ensemble of Kremer on violin and an Armenian-American female violist, Kim Kashkashian. Elegant performances and in a calm atmosphere.

J.S. Bach/Preludes, Fughettas and Fugues (Gould, 1979-1980) *

One of Glenn Gould's great recordings in his last days. A collection of Bach's small clavier pieces composed in around 1720. The compositions themselves are not as spectacular as "The Goldberg Variations", but Gould's piano performances are excellent. All the tracks are included in the disc 2 of "Glenn Gould Edition - Bach: Partitas, Preludes & Fugues" (2 CDs), so if you have it, you don't have to buy this CD separately.

Mozart 13 Berg (Mozart/Gran Partita, Berg/Chamber Concerto) (Boulez/Tetzlaff/Uchida, 2008)

Two compositions with 13 wind instruments, Mozart's Serenade in B flat major for 13 wind instruments "Gran Partita" and Berg's "Chamber Concerto for piano, violin and 13 wind instruments" (DECCA). Pierre Boulez conducts Ensemble Intercontemporain. Boulez's first Mozart recording, "Gran Partita" is a clear and minute performance. "Chamber Concerto" with Christian Tetzlaff (violin) and Mitsuko Uchida (piano) has a late-romantic rendering. Boulez and Uchida did a great recording of Schoenberg's "Piano Concerto" in 2000. This "Chamber Concerto" is pretty good too.

Haydn/Die Schöpfung (Gardiner, 1995)

An oratorio for three vocal soloists (soprano, tenor, bass), choir and orchestra "The Creation" written by Haydn, who was inspired by Handel's oratorios such as "Messiah" during his visits to England (Archiv, complete recording, 2 CDs). The text is a German translation (by Baron van Swieten) of English text based on "Genesis" of the Old Testament and John Milton's "Paradise Lost". A picturesque and scenic piece which depicts the creation of the world and the birth of Adam and Eve. Clear and delicate performance by John Eliot Gardiner (conductor), the Monteverdi Choir and the English Baroque Soloists. On authentic instruments.

Mahler/Symphonie No.8 (Boulez, 2007)

The Symphony No.8 in E-flat major by Gustav Mahler, also known as 'the Symphony of a Thousand', is an extraordinary piece like oratorio or cantata, with the largest scale of Mahler's compositions, with a big orchestra, two mixed choirs, a boy's choir and eight soloists. It consists of two parts: The first part with medieval Latin hymn 'Veni, Creator Spiritus' and the second part with German lyrics based on Goethe's drama 'Faust' (the last of the second part). The last of Mahler's all symphonies recordings (Mahler Zyklus) conducted by Pierre Boulez on DG since 1994. He had recorded this piece with BBC Symphony Orchestra on mono in 1975. This 2007 recording is performed by Choir der Deutschen Staatsoper Berlin, Rundfunkchor Berlin, Aurelius Sängerknaben Calw and Staatskapelle Berlin.

Bellini/Norma (Callas/Serafin, 1960)

An Italian opera composer in the early 19th century, along with Rossini and Donizetti, Vincenzo Bellini's opera "Norma" (complete, 3 CDs). The highest peak of Italian Bel canto opera with extremely high difficulty level of soprano singer. The aria "Casta diva" is especially famous for its beautiful melody. The second studio recording by Maria Callas (soprano) and Tullio Serafin (conductor). Performed by Orchestra/Coro del Teatro alla Scala, Milano.

Brahms/Symphony No.4 (Walter, 1959)

An archaic piece with Phrygian mode (one of the old church modes) in the first movement and chaconne/passacaglia (a variation form in the baroque period) in the last movement, but full of romanticism and sentimental lyricism (sense of loneliness). One of Brahms' complete symphony recordings by Bruno Walter (conductor) in his last days and Columbia Symphony Orchestra (Sony).

Mahler/Symphony No.6 (Tennstedt, 1991)

Mahler's Symphony No.6 in A minor. Sometimes called with the subtitle "Tragische" (Tragic). Pessimistic gloom and heroic tragedy. Multilayered polyphony-writing. Innovative harmony. Full use of winds and percussions (including timpani, cowbells, deep bells, tamtam, glockenspiels, xylophone, rute and hammer). Schöenberg, Berg and Webern praised this symphony for its modernity. Live recording by Klaus Tennstedt (conductor) and London Philharmonic Orchestra (EMI).

Villa-Lobos/Complete Music for Solo Guitar (Kraft, 1998-1999)

The Brazilian composer, Heitor Villa-Lobos is known for his numerous works, but his compositions for solo guitar are few, and they are all included on this one CD (NAXOS). Includes " Choros" No.1, "Suite Populaire Bresilienne" Nos.1-5, "12 Etudes" and "5 Preludes". Exotic, melancholy and smoochy music based on Brazilian folk music. The guitar performed by a Canadian guitarist, Norbert Kraft.

Beethoven/Symphonie Nr.4 (Kleiber, 1982)

Symphony No.4. More classical than No.3 and No.5. A bright and cheerful piece. Robert Schumann described as a 'slender Greek maiden between two Norse gods', referring to No.3 and No.5. Performed by Carlos Kleiber (conductor) and Bayerisches Staatsorchester. Live recording in Nationaltheater München, on May 3, 1982. Ultrafast performance like driving a sports car.

(Various Artists)/Music of the Crusades (Munrow, 1970)

Includes elegies, motets and conductus in the period of the Crusades (Christian, mainly Catholic countries' invading force, in the name of recapturing Jerusalem and the Holy Land from Muslim, in medieval Europe from 11th to 13th centuries). A great Early Music recording performed by the Early Music Consort of London and conducted by David Munrow, along with their "Music of the Gothic Era". Soothing music with simple melodies and a secular atmosphere.

Schoenberg, Sibelius/Violin Concertos (Hahn/Salonen, 2007) *

A unique coupling of Schoenberg's "Concerto for Violin and Orchestra" (Op.36), which is known as a super challenging piece based on tweleve-tone technique and rarely given in concert or on recordings, and Sibelius' popular "Concerto for Violin and Orchestra in d minor" (Op.47). Deutsche Grammophon. Sharp and modernistic performance filled with the late Romantic lyricism, by an American violinist, Hilary Hahn with Esa-Pekka Salonen conducting the Swedish Radio Symphony Orchestra. Hilary Hahn's violin solo with superhuman technique in Schoenberg's concerto is worth listening to. A hit album that recorded #1 on Billboard classical chart.

Ligeti, Reich/African Rhythms (Aimard/Aka Pygmies, 2001-2002) *

A pianist, Pierre-Laurent Aimard's unique project aiming for interaction between African music and György Ligeti/Steve Reich's contemporary music inspired by African music, by alternately including them on one album (teldec). Includes Aimard's recordings of three pieces from Ligeti's 'Études pour piano' Book III (Nos.16-18. No.18 is the world's first recording), his re-recordings of three pieces from other Books (Nos.4, 8 and 12), Reich's 'Clapping Music' and 'Music for Pieces of Wood' (originally for 5 pairs of tuned claves. Arranged for piano), and Central Africa, Aka Pygmies' polyphonic vocal music (8 pieces). Performed by Pierre-Laurent Aimard (clapping, piano) and Aka Pygmies. Aimard himself calls this disc 'mosaic of polyrhythms' and 'celebration of rhythm and pulse'.

Brahms/Violin Concerto in D, Op.77 (Neveu, 1948)

Brahms' Violin Concerto in D major, Op.77 is a heavy-sounding piece like a symphony. A French violinist, Ginette Neveu's live recording at the Hamburger Musikhalle on May 3rd 1948, with Hans Schmidt-Isserstedt (conductor) and Sinfonieorchester des NWDR (North German Radio Symphony Orchestra). Recorded in mono. Neveu's bold, energetic, dense and passionate solo performance is worth listening to.

Mozart/Violin Concertos Nos.3-5 (Kremer/Harnoncourt, 1984/1987)

Includes three popular pieces (No. 3, 4 and 5) from Mozart's five violin concertos in his younger days (late-teens). Deutsche Grammophon. The most famous one is No.5, also known as "Turkish" or "Turkish Concerto", for it features music in the Turkish march (military bands) style in the third movement (rondo). Unique and fresh performance with a sharp touch, by Gidon Kremer (violin), Nikolaus Harnoncourt (conductor) and Wiener Philharmoniker.

Meredith Monk/Book of Days (Meredith Monk and Vocal Ensemble, 1989) *

Meredith Monk is an American composer, voice performer, director, filmmaker and choreographer, born in 1942. Known as one of the pioneers of "extended vocal technique" and "interdisciplinary performance". Her 1989 album recorded for ECM New Series (ECM's series for classical/contemporary music). Very beautiful, clear and minimalistic vocal ensemble. This is a work for both images and music, and an independent film of the same title was also created, featuring medieval Jews as characters.

Messiaen/Messiaen Edition (various artists, 2005/1963-2000) *

The 20th century French composer also known as an organist/ornithologist, Olivier Messiaen's works. A 18-CD set which offers a comprehensive overview of his major works. The original 17-CD set was released by the Erato label in celebration of Messiaen's 80th birthday in 1988. The Warner Classics label rereleased this with adding "Turangalîla-Symphonie" (Kent Nagano conducts Berliner Philharmoniker, Teldec) in 2005. Includes piano pieces such as "Préludes", "Visions de l'Amen/Visions of the Amen", "Vingt Regards sur l'Enfant-Jésus/Twenty Contemplations on the Infant Jesus", "Quatre Études de rythme/Four Studies in Rhythm", "Catalogue d'oiseaux/Catalogue of Birds", organ pieces such as "Le Banquet céleste/The Heavenly Banquet", "La nativité du Seigneur/The Lord's Nativity", "Méditations sur le mystère de la Sainte-Trinité/Meditations on the Mystery of the Holy Trinity", song cycles such as "Poèmes pour Mi/Poems for Mi", "Chants de terre et de ciel/Songs of Earth and Heaven", "Harawi", choral music "Cinq Rechants", chamber music "Quatuor pour la fin du Temps/Quartet for the End of Time", orchestral music such as "L'Ascension/The Ascension", "Turangalîla-Symphonie", "Et exspecto resurrectionem mortuorum/And I Await the Resurrection of the Dead", "Des canyons aux étoiles.../From the Canyons to the Stars...", "Sept Haïkaï/Seven Haikai" for piano solo and orchestra, and others. The performers are Yvonne Loriod (piano, Messiaen's widow), Pierre-Laurent Aimard (piano), Messiaen himself (organ), Marie-Claire Alain (organ), Marius Constant (conductor), Pierre Boulez (conductor), Orchestre Philharmonique de l'ORTF, Ensemble Ars Nova and others. The 18th CD includes Messiaen's interview. Features a 311-page French/English booklet which includes a full English translation of the interview.

Purcell/Songs and Airs (Kirkby, 1982)

A collection of major 16 songs and airs composed by Henry Purcell, an English baroque composer (17th century). Released on L'Oiseau Lyre label. "O, O let me weep" from semi-opera "The Fairy-Queen", a song "If music be the food of love", "I attempt from love's sickness to fly" from semi-opera "The Indian Queen", "Dear pretty youth" from semi-opera "The Tempest or The Enchanted Island", "The cares of lovers" from semi-opera "Timon of Athens", a sacred songs "An Evening Hymn" and others. Performed by Emma Kirkby (soprano), Christopher Hogwood (organ and spinet), Anthony Rooley (lute) and others. The highlights are the leading female singer in the early music filed, Emma Kirkby's clear, beautiful voice like an angel and non-vibrato singing.

(Various Artists)/Spanish Guitar Favorites (Williams, 1964/1969)

A compilation album which includes the classical guitarist from Australia, John Williams' great performances of Spanish guitar music in his twenties (1964 and 1969). Features Granados' "Spanish Dance No. 5", "Valses Poéticos", "La Maja de Goya", Tárrega's "Recuerdos de la Alhambra", Albéniz's "Asturias", "Tango", De Falla's "The Corregidor's Dance" and "The Miller's Dance" from "The Three Cornered Hat", "Fisherman's Song" from "Love the Magician", A Catalonian folk song "El Testamen de Amelia", and Rodrigo's "Fandango". Clear-cut and unemotional performances with dry lyricism. His master Andrés Segovia also acclaimed his virtuosity.

Prokofiev/Piano Concerto No.3 (Argerich, 1967)

'Concerto for Piano and Orchestra No.3 in C major' (op.26) is the most widely-known one of the five piano concertos written by Prokofiev. A dynamic and crisp piece balanced between the romantic lyricism, melodiousness and modern sounds with lots of dissonances. The Argentine pianist, Martha Argerich's spectacular performance recorded on Deutsche Grammophonwith Claudio Abbado (conductor) and Berliner Philharmoniker in her young days (26 years old). Also includes Ravel's 'Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in G major' and 'Gaspard de la nuit'.

Prokofiev/Violin Sonatas Nos.1 and 2 (Shoji, 2003)

Prokofiev's two sonatas for violin and piano, Nos.1 and 2, written under the policy of socialist realism in the Soviet Union. No.1 is an introspective piece filled with gloomy lyricism, and No.2 is a cheerful piece with classical simplicity. Delicate and nuance-filled performances by Sayaka Shoji (violin), who is the first Japanese and youngest winner (sixteen years old) at the Paganini Violin Competition in 1999, and Itamar Golan (piano), a Lithuanian-born Israeli pianist. Also includes Shostakovich's "4 Preludes" and "10 Preludes" (from "24 Preludes", Op.34. Arranged for violion and piano by Dmitri Zyganov).

Shostakovich/Piano Concerto No.1, Haydn/Piano Concerto No.11 (Argerich, 1993)

Shostakovich's "Piano Concerto No.1" (The Concerto in C minor for Piano, Trumpet, and String Orchestra, Op.35) is a rhythmic and roaring piece full of humor and wit, like circus acrobats. It has lots of quotations of his own pieces and parodies of other composers' compositions such as Beethoven's Piano Sonata No.23 "Appassionata" and "Rage Over a Lost Penny" (The Rondo a capriccio). Recommended to those who like Stravinsky. Performed by Martha Argerich (piano), Guy Touvron (trumpet), Jörg Faerber (conductor) and Württembergisches Kammerorchester Heilbronn. Also includes Haydn's "Concerto for Piano and Orchestra in D major" (Hob.XVIII:11).

Mendelssohn/Symphonien Nos.3 & 4 (Abbado, 1984/1985)

A German composer of the early Romantic period, Felix Mendelssohn's symphonies No.3 "Schottische/The Scottish" and No.4 "Italienische/The Italian". No.3 is a fantastic piece filled with rich romanticism, and No.4 is a popular piece with dynamic rhythms and cheerful melodies. From Mendelssohn's complete symphony recordings by Claudio Abbado (conducter) and London Symphony Orchestra. Also includes the orchestral overture "The Hebrides (Fingal's Cave)".

Xenakis/Iannis Xenakis (ed. RZ 1015-16) (Various Artists, 2003/1969-1974) *

A compilation (2 CDs) featuring the historical recordings (from the late 1960s to the early 1970s) of Iannis Xenakis's essential works. Released on a German contemporary music label, EDITION RZ in 2003. Most of the tracks had been released on LP on a French label Erato, but Erato has not reissued them on CD, so this is a valuable reissue. Disc 1 includes his orchestral works such as "Polytope de Montréal" (spectacle of light and sound for 4 identical orchestras of 15 musicians. Composed for the French Pavilion at the Montreal Expo of 1967. Marius Constant conducts Ensemble Ars Nova de l'O.R.T.F.) and "Nomos Gamma" (for 98 musicians dispersed among the audience. Charles Brück conducts Orchestre Philharmonique de l'O.R.T.F.). Disc 2 includes two pieces of electroacoustic music on 8-track tape with clear sound, "Persepolis" (A noisy musique concrète with tremendous roar. Remastered and mixed by Daniel Teige at the Electronic Music Studio of Technical University of Berlin in 2003) and "Polytope de Cluny".

Dvorák/Slavonic Dances, opp.46 & 72 (Kubelik, 1973-1974)

One of the leading composers of Czech nationalist school and Bohemian school along with Smetana, Dvorák's 'Slavonic Dances' (opp.46 & 72, all the 16 pieces). Originally composed for piano duet, and later arranged as orchestral pieces, like Brahms' 'Hungarian Dances'. Pan-slavistic music based on Czech, Slovak, Polish, Ukrainian and Yugoslavian folk dance forms. No.10 (op.72-2) is the most famous piece filled with lyricism and romanticism. A Czech conductor, Rafael Kubelik conducts Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks (Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra).

Mahler/Symphony No.2 (Solti, 1980)

Mahler's Symphony No.2 in C minor "Resurrection" is a large-scaled symphony (five movements, over 80 minutes) with a big orchestra including organ, an offstage ensemble of brass and percussion, soprano/alto solos and a mixed choir. The lyrics of the last movement is based on German poet, Klopstock's lyrics for a choral "Die Auferstehung/The Resurrection" (touched up by Mahler). Sir Georg Solti conducts Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Solti had recorded Mahler's all symphonies with Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra and London Symphony Orchestra in the 1960s and he recorded them again with Chicago Symphony Orchestra from 1970 to 1983.

Chopin/14 Piano Waltzes (Lipatti, 1950)

A Polish composer/pianist, Frédéric Chopin's waltzes (Nos.1-14). A Romanian pianist, Dinu Lipatti's historic performance (EMI). Recorded in mono in 1950. The sound quality is not good, but the performance itself is neat, elegant and technically excellent. You can enjoy Chopin's waltzes full of poetic sentiment and melancholy. Also includes Nocturne No.8, Mazurka No.32 and others.

Mozart/Requiem (Gardiner, 1986)

A mass for mourning the dead, "Requiem" (K.626) is Mozart's last and unfinished composition. Completed by Mozart's pupil Franz Xaver Süssmayr. Fresh performance on authentic instruments, without too much pathos like the Romantics. The pure chorus is good too. John Eliot Gardiner conducts English Baroque Soloists and Monteverdi Choir. Also includes Mozart's another impressive church music, "Kyrie" in D minor (K.341).

Messiaen/Vingt Regards sur l'Enfant-Jésus (Aimard, 1999) *

The French composer, Olivier Messiaen's 'Vingt Regards sur l'Enfant-Jésus' ('Twenty Contemplations on the Infant Jesus') is a long piano suite (about two hours) based Catholicism. One of his masterpieces featuring lots of his original musical languages, such as 'modes of limited transposition', 'irreversible rhythms' and use of 'Songs of the Birds' as materials. It contains twenty movements, and the whole suite is organically constructed by using cyclic themes as leitmotifs. Clear and exquisite performance by a French pianist, Pierre-Laurent Aimard. Great. A set of 2 CDs.

Liszt/André Watts Plays Liszt (Watts, 1984/1985)

A pianist from Germany, noted for his playing romantic composers, especially Franz Liszt, André Watts plays Liszt's "Six Grand Etudes after Paganini: No.3, La Campanella", "No4 in E", "No.5, La Chasse", "Au lax de Wallenstadt", "Les jeux d'eau a la villa d'este", "Hungarian Rhapsody No.13 in A minor", "Nuages Gris", "Bagatelle sans tonalité", "Transcendental Etude No. 10" and others. 12 tracks selected from two albums on EMI, "André Watts Plays Liszt: Album 1" and "2". Songful, virtuoso and delicate performances. "La Campanella" is worth listening to. "Nuages Gris" and "Bagatelle sans tonalité" are atonal pieces in Liszt's last days.

Brahms/3 Intermezzi Op.117, 6 Klavierstücke Op.118, 4 Klavierstücke Op.119 (Afanassiev, 1992) *

"Late Piano Works" by Brahms. A Russian extraordinary pianist also known as a writer, Valery Afanassiev's recording. Includes "3 Intermezzi" (Op.117), "6 Klavierstücke" (Op.118) and "4 Klavierstücke" (Op.119). Unique interpretations with the tempos sometimes extremely slow. Beautiful performance filled with loneliness and tranquility. "Brahms at degree zero". Glenn Gould's recordings of Brahms late piano works are excellent, but this is quite good too.

Chopin/Polonaises, Andante Spianato and Grande Polonaise (Rubinstein, 1950-1951)

A Polish composer/pianist, Frédéric Chopin's works for piano solo, 7 Polonaises and "Andante Spianato and Grande Polonaise". 'Polonaise' is a slow dance form of Polish origin, in 3/4 time. No.3 in A, Op.40-1 "Military" and No.6 in A-flat, Op.53 "Heroic" are quite famous. No.7 in A-flat, Op.61 "Polonaise-Fantaisie" is a fantasia-style piece with a dreamy atmosphere in his last days. "Andante Spianato and Grande Polonaise" is a cheerful and spectacular piece in his early days. A Polish virtuoso, Artur Rubinstein had recorded Chopin's Polonaises three times (in 1934-1935 on SP (EMI), in 1950-1951 on mono LP (RCA), in 1964 on stereo LP (RCA)). This is the second.

Haydn/String Quartets, Op.76, Nos.3-4, Hob.III:77 "Emperor", Hob.III:78 "Sunrise" (Takács Quartet, 1987/1988)

The Austrian composer, Franz Joseph Haydn composed many string quartets and was called "Father of the String Quartet". The quartet in C Major, Hob.III:77, Op.76, No.3 "Emperor" is his most popular string quartet. The seconde movement is a variation of Austria's anthem "Gott erhalte Franz den Kaiser/God Save Emperor Francis" (Kaiserhymne/Emperor's Hymn) composed by Haydn, which is still Germany's national anthem. Performed by the Takács Quartet. Also features Haydn's string quartet in B flat major, Hob.III:78, Op.76, No.4 "Sunrise" and Dvorák's string quartet No.12 in F Major, Op.96 "American".

Holst/The Planets (Tomita, 1976)

The Japanese composer/arranger and synthesizer player, Isao Tomita performed Gustav Holst's orchestral suite 'The Planets' with the Moog synthesizer and Mellotron. His fourth album released under the name of 'Tomita' in 1977 on the US RCA records, following "Snowflakes are Dancing" (Debussy, 1974), "Pictures at an Exhibition" (Mussorgsky, 1975), and "The Firebird Suite" (Stravinsky, 1976). A spectacular stereophonic work, as if to simulate a spaceship trip through the solar system, with sound effects such as a rocket fire and contacts with control tower. One of the pioneering masterpieces of the early electronic music in the 1970s.

Handel/12 Concerti Grossi, Op.6 (Pinnock, 1981-1984)

A German-born British baroque composer, George Frideric Handel's Concerti Grossi (all the 12 pieces, 3 CDs). Based on Corelli's concerto grosso form (ensemble with a group of soloists (concertino) and full orchestra (ripieno)), but Handel expanded the ripieno to include wind instruments. Open and natural, lyrical and pastoral music. Not so dense in structure as J.S.Bach's Brandenburg Concerti, so can be listened to in a relaxed manner. Also includes Concerto grosso in C major "Alexander's Feast" and "Concerto a due cori" Nos.2, 3. Trevor Pinnock directs the English Concert.

J.S. Bach/Switched-On Bach (Wendy Carlos, 1968)

Wendy Carlos is an American composer and synthesist (he underwent sex reassignment surgery (gender change operation) in 1972 and changed his gender to female. His male name before the surgery was Walter Carlos). This 1968 album is a selection of pieces by Johann Sebastian Bach, such as "Air on a G String", "Two-Part Inventions", "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring", "Prelude and Fugue" #2 and #7 (from "Book I of the Well-Tempered Clavier"), "Wachet auf" and "Brandenburg Concerto No. 3", performed on a Moog synthesizer and overdubbed on an 8 track tape recorder. The first classical album sold 500,000 copies and certified platinum. It won three Grammy Awards such as Best Classical Album. This album popularized synthesizer, which was only used in experimental contemporary music, and greatly influenced later music scene.

Brahms/21 Hungarian Dances (Abbado, 1982)

The German composer, Johannes Brahms' "Hungarian Dances" (all the 21 tunes). Nos.11, 14 and 16 are Brahms' original compositions. Others are Brahms' arrangements based on Roma (Gypsy) folk music. The originals are written for piano 4 hands. This is the orchestral arrangements. Nos.1, 3, and 10 are arranged by Brahms, and others are arranged by Dvorák and so on. No.5 is a very famous tune everyone knows. Claudio Abbado conducts Wiener Philharmoniker.

Honegger/Jeanne d'Arc au Bûcher, Une Cantate de Noël (Baudo, 1966/1974) *

A Swiss composer born in France and a member of Les Six, Arthur Honegger's dramatic oratorio "Jeanne d'Arc au Bûcher" (1935) and "A Christmas Cantata" (1953). A set of 2 CDs. "Jeanne d'Arc au Bûcher" (Serge Baudo conducts Czech Philharmonic Orchestra) is a dramatic and emotional stage work featuring vocal solos, voices, children's chorus, mixed chorus and Ondes Martenot (electronic musical instrument), like an opera or passion. His last composition "A Christmas Cantata" (Serge Baudo conducts Prague Symphony Orchestra) is also an impressive vocal music.

Poulenc/Piano Works (Rogé, 1986/1989)

A composer of French modern music and a member of the French group Les Six, Francis Poulenc's piano works (2 CDs). Includes "Les soirées de Nazelles", "Trois Novelettes", "Trois Mouvements perpetueles", "Trois pieces", "Humoresque", "8 Nocturnes", "2 Intermezzi" and others. Smart and refined style with the dominance of melody and harmony. Simple and clear music like the classical school, especially Mozart. The piano performed by Pascal Rogé.

Boulez/The Three Piano Sonatas (Jumppanen, 2004) *

A French composer/conductor of contemporary music, Pierre Boulez's avant-garde piano works in his young days, Piano Sonata No.1, No.2 and No.3. No.3 is based on the method of 'Controlled chance', which was inspired by John Cage's "chance music" and Mallarmé's "Livre" concept. The piano performed by Paavali Jumppanen, a young pianist from Finland, who was chosen by Boulez in an audition.

Schubert/Winterreise (Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, 1972)

Austrian composer, Franz Schubert's "Winterreise/Winter Journey". A song cycle (24 songs) based on poems by German lyric poet, Wilhelm Muller. A gloomy music on the subject of unrequited love. Images of the scenes in despair and hopelessness. Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau (Baritone) had recorded "Winterreise" seven times. This was recorded in 1972 (Deutsche Grammophon). The piano accompaniment by Gerald Moore.

Vaughan Williams/Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis, The Lark Ascending, Five Variants of Dives and Lazarus, Fantasia on Greensleeves (Marriner, 1972)

The English composer, Ralph Vaughan Williams' orchestral works. Simple and idyllic style like the English countryside landscape. "Fantasia on Greensleeves" is an arrangement (by Ralph Greaves) of an intermezzo from Vaughan Williams' opera "Sir John in Love", and its melody based on a British folk song is quite famous. Also includes "Fantasia on a Theme of Thomas Tallis (Tallis Fantasia)", "The Lark Ascending" and "Five Variants of Dives and Lazarus". Sir Neville Marriner conducts Academy of St Martin-in-the-Fields.

Canteloube/Chants d'Auvergne (selection) (Kiri Te Kanawa, 1982-1984)

Includes 21 songs selected from "Songs of the Auvergne" (5 volumes, 27 songs in total), the French composer, Joseph Canteloube's collection of orchestrated and arranged folk songs from his birthplace, the Auvergne region. Refreshing and beautiful like the French countryside landscape. Performed by Kiri Te Kanawa (soprano), Jeffrey Tate (conductor) and English Chamber Orchestra.

Brahms/Piano Concerto No.2, Mozart/Piano Concerto No.27, K595 (Böhm/Backhaus, 1967/1955)

Brahms' Piano Concerto No.2 in B flat major, op.83 and Mozart's Piano Concerto No.27 in B flat major, K.595 (on Decca). A collaboration between the two virtuosi, pianist Wilhelm Backhaus and conductor Karl Böhm with Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. They are both filled with beautiful melodies. Brahms' No.2 is a long and heavy piece like 'a symphony with piano solo' (performed by Backhaus in his last days). Mozart's No.27 is a masterpiece with clear sound and melancholy atmosphere, composed in his last days.

Janáček/String Quartets No.1 "Kreutzer Sonata" and No.2 "Intimate Pages" (Smetana Quartet, 1979)

The Czech composer from Moravia, Leos Janacek's two string quartets, No.1 "Kreutzer Sonata" and No.2 "Intimate Pages". No.1 is a dramatic piece inspired by Tolstoi's novel of the same title. No.2 is a rhapsodic piece full of rapidly-changing tempo/rhythm, and it was inspired by his long and spiritual friendship with Kamila Stosslova, a married woman 40 years his junior. They are both technical and contemporary pieces written in his last years of the 20th century. The Smetana Quartet's fourth recording. Recorded live in Prague in 1979.

Beethoven/String Quartets Nos.12 & 14 (Alban Berg Quartett, 1981/1983)

Beethoven's two string quartets full of maturity in technique in his later days, No.12 in E Flat Major, Op.127 and No.14 in C Sharp Minor, Op.131. No.12 is bright and peaceful, No.14 is more romantic and introspective, and one of masterpieces at his zenith, along with No.13 and No.15. Selected from the first complete string quartets recorded by Alban Berg Quartett.

Ligeti/György Ligeti Edition 3, Works for Piano: Études, Musica Ricercata (Aimard, 1995/1996) *

A Hungarian composer born in Romania, György Ligeti's piano works. Post-Bartók style. 'Études pour piano' (Book I, six etudes, 1985; Book II, eight etudes, 1988-1994; No.15 'White on White' from the Book III, 1995) are polyrhythmic pieces inspired by Scarlatti, Chopin, Schumann, Debussy, African music, jazz piano technique such as Thelonious Monk and Bill Evans, and Conlon Nancarrow's works for the player piano. 'Musica Ricercata' is an early work (in the 1950s) using limited notes. Performed by Pierre-Laurent Aimard.

Dvorák/String Quartet No.12 in F Major, Op.96 "American", Tchaikovsky/String Quartet No.1 in D Major, Op.11 "Andante Cantabile" (Smetana String Quartet, 1966)

Dvorák's String Quartet No.12 in F Major, Op.96 "American" is the most popular piece in his chamber music. Sentimental and pop-oriented piece using the idiom of American music such as black spirituals and Indian's folk songs. Earthy and catchy melodies. Tchaikovsky's String Quartet No.1 in D Major, Op.11 "Andante Cantabile" is a good piece filled with sensitive and beautiful melodies. The famous opening melody of the second movement, which is based on Ukrainian folk music, is often performed as a single piece. Performed by the Smetana String Quartet (Czech).

Schubert/Piano Quintet in A Major "The Trout" (Richter, 1980)

Schubert's Piano Quintet in A Major, D.667 "The Trout". Refreshing chamber music filled with delicate lyricism. Played with piano, violin, viola, cell and double bass. The fourth movement is a set of variations with the melody of Schubert's earlier lied, "Die Forelle (The Trout)". Performed by Sviatoslav Richter (piano), members of the Borodin Quartet with Georg Hörtnagel on double bass. A live recording in a chamber music concert in Schloss Hohenems, Austria in 1980.

Beethoven/Piano Sonatas No.17 "Tempest", No.14 "Waldstein", No.26 "Les Adieux" (Gilels, 1972/1974/1981)

Beethoven's Piano Sonata No.21 in C major, op.53 "Waldstein" is one of masterpieces in his middle days, along with No.23 "Appassionata". The former Soviet Union's virtuoso, Emil Gilels' recording in his last days. Low-sweetness and large-boned performances. Also features No.17 in D minor, op.31-2 "Der Sturm" and No.26 in E flat major, op.81a "Das Lebewohl/Les Adieux".

Yuji Takahashi Plays Xenakis/Evryari, Herma, Messiaen/Quatre Études de rythme (Takahashi, 1976) *

Yuji Takahashi plays Iannis Xenakis and Olivier Messiaen's contemporary piano solo pieces. Xenakis's "Evryari" and "Herma" are both extremely-difficult to play, as if it is not assumed that they are played by humans. "Evryari" is the first piece compsed by the technique based on mathematic 'tree diagram/tree structure'. Characterized by its melodies as 'branching lines' and pulse structure. "Herma" (organized by operation of combined piano-key sets) is a piece composed for Takahashi and based on mathematical/semiotic logic (Boolean algebra). Also features Messiaen's "Quatre Études de rythme".

Brahms/String Sextets op.18 & op.36 (Members of the Berlin Philharmonic Octet, 1966-1973)

Brahms' "String Sextets No.1" in B flat major (op.18) is one of the Romantic chamber music masterpieces. Heavy sound by two violins, two violas and two cellos. Sober atmosphere. The second movement with passionate and romantic melody is quite famous, and also known as the music used in Louis Malle's film "Les Amants/The Lovers". Performed by Members of the Berlin Philharmonic Octet (Berliner Philharmoniker Oktet). Also features "String Sextets No.2" in G major (op.36), "Piano Quintet" in F minor (op.34) and "Clarinet Quintet" in B minor (op.115).

Penderecki/Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima, Canticum Canticorum Salomonis, De Natura Sonoris Nos. 1 & 2 (Penderecki, 1972-1975)

The recordings in which the Polish composer and conductor, Krzysztof Penderecki conducted his own works (No.5 of EMI Classics Matrix series). "Threnody for the Victims of Hiroshima" for 52 string instruments is a famous piece which makes great use of tone clusters. Also features "Anaklasis", "De Natura Sonoris (Concerning the Nature of Sound)" Nos. 1 & 2, "Capriccio" for violin and orchestra, "Canticum Canticorum Salomonis"for chorus and orchestra, and others. Sound effects to inflame fears and tensions. Best for the BGM of sci-fi movie or horror film. "Anaklasis" is performed by London Symphony Orchestra. The others are performed by Polish Radio National Symphony Orchestra.

Varèse/Arcana, Octandre, Offrandes, Intégrales, Déserts (Lyndon-Gee, 2000) *

The French-born American composer of contemporary music, Edgard Varèse's works. Released on Naxos. Includes "Arcana" for orchestra, "Offrandes" for soprano and chamber orchestra, "Octandre", "Intégrales" and "Déserts" for an ensemble of 14 winds, piano, 5 percussionists and two-track tape. Vivid and energetic music using lots of percussions and featuring an emphasis on timbre and rhythm. Performed by Christopher Lyndon-Gee (conductor), Maryse Castets (soprano) and Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra.

Elgar/Enigma Variations, Pomp and Circumstance Marches (Solti, 1974/1976)

The English modern composer, Edward Elgar's orchestral works. "The Enigma Variations" (Variations on an Original Theme for Orchestra, Op.36) are a set of a theme and its fourteen variations for orchestra. "Pomp and Circumstance Marches" (Op.39) are a series of five marches for orchestra. The melody of the March No.1 is very famous and it has been performed in a variety of contexts. Romantic and nationalistic style. Sir Georg Solti conducts Chicago Symphony Orchestra (The Enigma Variations) and London Philharmonic Orchestra (Pomp and Circumstance).

Messiaen/Éclairs sur l'Au-Delà... (Rattle, 2004) *

Olivier Messiaen's "Eclairs sur l'au-dela" (Illuminations of the Beyond) is a large-scale orchestral piece in his last days. Commissioned for the New York Philharmonic's 150th anniversary in 1992. A vast work of 11 movements, written for a 128-piece orchestra. The five movements based on Catholicism (the Book of Revelation) and other movements (birdsongs and star music) inserted between them. Sharp performance by Sir Simon Rattle (conductor) and Berliner Philharmoniker. Recommended to those who like Messiaen's "Turangalîla Symphonie".

Ligeti, Nono, Boulez, Rihm/Wien Modern (Abbado, 1988)

Recorded in the first Wien Modern (festival of contemporary music started by the conductor Claudio Abbado in 1988). Includes Wolfgang Rihm's "Départ", György Ligeti's "Atomosphères" and "Lontano", Luigi Nono's "Liebeslied", and Pierre Boulez's "Notation I-IV". Ligeti's "Atomosphères for large orchestra" is a famous orchestral piece with so-called 'tone cluster' technique and micropolyphony. Clear and sharp performance by Claudio Abbado (conductor), Wiener Philharmoniker and Wiener Jeunesse-Chor.

Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli Plays Debussy (Michelangeli, 1971/1978/1988)

Includes Debussy's piano works, "Préludes" book one and two, "Children's Corner", and "Images" one and two (2 CDs). Imaginative music characterized by use of whole tone scale and arpeggio, parallel motion of harmonies, and variety of rhythms and colors. Manieristic perfoemance by Italian pianist, Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli (on Deutsche Grammophon). I recommend "Images" one and two.

Takemitsu/November Steps, Viola Concerto "A String around Autumn", Requiem for Strings, Ceremonial, My Way of Life (Ozawa, 1989-1996)

The Japanese composer of contemporary music, Toru Takemitsu's works. He is known for his unique style influenced by Olivier Messiaen and John Cage. "November Steps for Orchestra with Shakuhachi and Biwa" is a famous piece by using Shakuhachi (Japanese bamboo flute) and Biwa (Japanese lute). "Requiem for Strings for String Orchestra" is his early work critically acclaimed by Stravinsky. Also includes his later three pieces, Viola Concerto "A String around Autumn", "Ceremonial for Orchestra with Sho" and "My Way of Life -In Memory of Michael Vyner- for Baritone, Mixed Chorus and Orchestra". Seiji Ozawa conducts Saito Kinen Orchestra.

Stockhausen/Stimmung (Singcircle Version) (Rose/Singcircle, 1983)

A meditative and mysterious vocal ensemble with six voices (two sopranos, mezzo soprano, tenor, baritone and bass). The harmonic overtone vocals singing the names of the gods and goddesses (called 'magic names') from different cultures of the world, such as the Aztecs, Aborigine and ancient Greece. Performed by Singcircle (an avant-garde vocal group based in London). Directed by Gregory Rose.

Stockhausen/Kontakte (Stockhausen, 1960)

Stockhausen's electronic music 'Kontakte' (Contact). Electronic sounds (pulse) with piano and percussion.

Berio/Sinfonia, Eindrücke (Boulez, 1981/1984) *

An Italian composer of contemporary music, Luciano Berio's 'Sinfonia: for Eight Voices and Orchestra' is an avant-garde orchestral work in the context of the social events in the late 1960s, such as the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and the May-Revolution in Paris. The first movement quotes the text of structuralist anthropologist Claude Lévi-Strauss. The second is a hommage to Rev. King. The third is a collage of pieces of various music and words: the scherzo from Mahler's symphony No.2 'Auferstehung/Resurrection', Bach, Beethoven, Debussy, Ravel, Stravinsky, graffiti, slogan, Samuel Beckett's poem and so on. Conducted by Pierre Boulez. Performed by New Swingle Singers and Orchestre National de France.

Nono/Como una ola de fuerza y luz, .....sofferte onde serene..., Contrappunto dialettico alla mente (Pollini/Abbado, 1973/1977) *

An Italian composer of contemporary music, Luigi Nono's works. Electronic music by using taped material, and avant-garde music with extreme political messages. "Como una ola de fuerza y luz" (Like a Wave of Strength and Light) (for soprano, piano, orchestra and tape) is a piece based on the poem dedicated to Lusiano (Luciano) Cruz, a Chilean revolutionary, and composed with the cooperation of Maurizio Pollini and Claudio Abbado. Performed by Slavka Taskova (soprano), Maurizio Pollini (piano), Claudio Abbado (conductor) and Symphonie-Orchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks. ".....sofferte onde serene... (.....serene waves suffered...)" (for piano and magnetic tape) is composed for Pollini, and performed by Maurizio Pollini (piano) himself. "Contrappunto dialettico alla mente (Dialectic Counterpoint for the Mind)" (for magnetic tape) is a piece with electronic voices and texts such as a poem about the assassination of Malcolm X and a pamphlet opposing the Vietnam War. Performed by Liliana Poli (soprano), Coro de camera della RAI, Roma and others, directed by Nino Antonellini.

Xenakis/Pléiades, Psappha (Kroumata Percussion Ensemble, 1981/1990)

Greek composer of contemporary music, Iannis Xenakis's percussion works. 'Pléiades' (1979) is a piece for six percussionists, and it has four movements (in random order): 'Métaux' with the original metal instrument 'SIXXEN', 'Claviers' with three vibraphones, marimba, xylophone and xylorimba, 'Peaux' with bongos, tom-toms, drums and so on, and 'Mélanges' (Mixtures) with all of these instruments. The sound is like Indonesian Gamelan. Performed by Swedish percussion group, the Kroumata Percussion Ensemble. Also includes 'Psappha' (1975) performed by Gert Mortensen.

Xenakis/Eonta, Metastasis, Pithoprakta (Maurice Le Roux/Simonovic, 1965) *

Greek composer of contemporary music, Iannis Xenakis's works. Includes two early orchestral works, 'Metastasis' and 'Pithoprakta' (conducted by Maurice Le Roux, performed by Orchestre National de l'ORTF), and a masterpiece of ensemble, 'Eonta' for piano and 5 brass (conducted by Konstantin Simonovic, preformed by Ensemble Instrumental de Musique Contemporaine de Paris/Yuji Takahashi on piano). 'Stochastic' music based on theories of statistical probability.

Bernstein/Candide (Bernstein, 1989)

The American composer and conductor, Leonard Bernstein's musical (Bernstein called it comic operetta) "Candide" for New York's Broadway. The complete edition conducted by Bernstein himself (the 1989 final revised version). A rhythmic and cheerful stage play based on the novella "Candide, ou l'Optimisme" by Voltaire. Filled with excellent music, such as the famous overture and "Glitter and Be Gay" featuring coloratura soprano. "Quiet" is a piece using twelve-tone technique. A recording in concert style. Performed by Jerry Hadley (Candide/tenor), June Anderson (Cunegonde/soprano) and others, London Symphony Orchestra and London Symphony Chorus.

Britten/The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra, Prokofiev/Peter and the Wolf, Saint-Saëns/Carnival of the Animals (Dorati/Henderson, 1960/1965)

"The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra: Variations and Fugue on a Theme of Purcell", composed by British composer Benjamin Britten, is music for an educational film "The Instruments of the Orchestra", which introduces a variety of instruments of the orchestra to young people and the general public. The theme is a rondeau from Henry Purcell's incidental music for the play "Abdelazar, or the Moor's Revenge". Prokofiev's "Peter and the Wolf" is a musical tale for the children and an adaptation of a Russian folk tale. Saint-Saëns' suite "Carnival of the Animals: Fantaisie Zoologique" is a humorous piece describing the animals by the instruments. "The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra" and "Peter and the Wolf" are performed by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Antal Dorati and narrated (in English) by the actor Sean Connery. "Carnival of the Animals" is performed by London Symphony Orchestra and conducted by Skitch Henderson.

John Cage/Sonatas and Interludes for Prepared Piano (Takahashi, 1975) *

'Prepared piano' developed by John Cage is a piano with objects, such as metals (bolts, nuts and screws), rubbers and pieces of plastic, placed between the strings. It has unpredictable, accidental tones, and makes percussive noises. Subtle and profound music influenced by the Oriental thoughts such as Indian philosophy. The piano prepared and played by Yuji Takahashi.

John Cage/Music for Keyboard 1935-1948 (Kirstein, 1969) *

Includes the American experimental music composer, John Cage's early keyboard music (a set of 2 CDs). Mainly features the pieces for prepared piano. "Metamorphosis" is a piece based on serialism. "Bacchanale" is the first piece for prepared piano. "Suite for Toy Piano" is a piece in a limited range of tone (only the nine white keys). Performed by Jeanne Kirstein (prepared piano, piano and toy piano). Cage himself raved about her playing. The world's first release on CD in Japan in 2002.

Messiaen/Turangalîla Symphonie, Quatuor pour la fin du temps (Rattle, 1986) *

The French composer, Olivier Messiaen's 'Turangalila Symphony' is a big orchestral piece featuring Ondes Martenot (electronic musical instrument) and a masterpiece of contemporary music. A monument of orchestral music in the 20th century. Filled with sensual beauty in full color. Simon Rattle conducts City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Also features 'Quatuor pour la fin du temps (Quartet for the End of Time)'.

Varese/Ionisation, Ohana/Quatre Études Chorégraphiques, Kabelac/Huit Inventions, Xenakis/Perséphassa (Les Percussions de Strasbourg, 1967/1970/1971)

Includes 4 pieces of contemporary music featuring percussion instruments: Edgar Varese's "Ionisation", Maurice Ohana's "Quatre Etudes Choregraphiques", Miloslav Kabelac's "Huit Inventions", and Iannis Xenakis' "Persephassa". Performed by the Strasbourg Percussion Group.

Shostakovich/Symphony No.7 'Leningrad' (Barshai, 1991) *

Shostakovich's seventh symphony 'Leningrad' is an exciting and entertaining piece of work can be listened without reference to the historical background (German Nazi invasion of Soviet Union and the Siege of Leningrad) and the political context (Stalin's oppression). The highlights are the violent repetitive motif with the rhythm of snare drum in the development of the first movement (like Ravel's 'Bolero') and the explosive finale of the last movement featuring brass fanfares. Live recording by Rudolf Barshai (conductor), Junge Deutsche Philharmonie with Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra.

Shostakovich/Symphony No.5, op.47 (Bernstein, 1979)

The Russian composer of the Soviet period, Dmitri Shostakovich's Symphony No.5. Also known as the music of Sergei M. Eisenstein's movie "Battleship Potemkin". Leonard Bernstein conducts New York Philharmonic. This live recording in Tokyo Bunka Kaikan, Japan in 1979 is his masterpiece in the LP era.

Khachaturian/Gayne (the complete ballet) (Gorkovenko, 1997)

The composer of the former Soviet Union (an Armenian born in Georgia), Aram Il'ich Khachaturian's ballet "Gayne" (spelled also "Gayane"). The complete recording (a set of 2 CDs) of the 1957 Bolshoi Theater version. The suite version for orchestra is more famous than the original ballet. His modernized orchestration built up the south Caucasian (Georgian, Armenian and Azerbaijani) folk music into a spectacular ballet full of wild rhythms. "Lezginka (Dance of the Young Men)" (act 1, scene 1) is based on the traditional folk dance of the Lezghian. "Sabre Dance" (act 3, scene 7) is a famous piece based on the Kurdish war dance. Stanislas Gorkovenko conducts St. Petersburg Radio Symphony Orchestra.

Rodrigo/Concierto de Aranjuez (Yepes/Argenta, 1958?)

The Spanish composer, Rodrigo's "Aranjuez Concerto" is a famous concerto with guitar. The second movement is famous for its excellent melody filled with melancholiness. A virtuoso on the guitar, Narciso Yepes' performance in his young days. Ataulfo Argenta conducts Spain National Orchestra.

Kurt Weill/Die Dreigroschenoper (Lemper/Kollo/Milva/RIAS Berlin/Mauceri, 1988)

A kind of musical theater called Singspiel (sung play) in German, "The Threepenny Opera", adapted by Bertolt Brecht from John Gay's ballad opera "The Beggar's Opera", and composed by Kurt Weill. A pop-oriented piece with lots of catchy songs. "Die Moritat von Mackie Messer" (Mack the Knife) is famous as a jazz standard. The singers are René Kollo, Ute Lemper, Milva and others. Conducted by John Mauceri.

Copland/The Copland Collection: Orchestral & Ballet Works 1936-1948 (Copland, 1965-1976)

A compilation (3 CDs) of the recordings in which American composer, Aaron Copland conducts his own orchestral works. Known for his perspicuous and popular style that introduced American folk music. "El Salón México" (the title comes from a dance hall in Mexico City) is a famous piece using Mexican folk music as theme. "Billy the Kid", "Rodeo (Four Dance Episodes)" and "Appalachian Spring" are suites extracted from his three ballets set in the Wild West. "Music for the Movies" is a suite consisting of excerpts from his film music, 'The City', 'Of Mice and Men' and 'Our Town'. "Symphony No. 3" is an integration of American style of his orchestral works with Mahler-like symphonic form. "Concerto for Clarinet" commissioned by clarinetist Benny Goodman is a piece with the jazz idiom. Performed by New Philharmonia Orchestra, Philharmonia Orchestra, London Symphony Orchestra, New England Conservatory Chorus, Columbia Symphony Strings and Benny Goodman.

Gershwin/Rhapsody in Blue, An American in Paris, Grofé/Grand Canyon Suite (Bernstein, 1959/1964)

Orchestral works by two American composers. Includes George Gershwin's 'Rhapsody in Blue' (a famous piece fusing classical music and jazz. The orchestral version arranged by Ferde Grofe. Performed by Columbia Symphony Orchestra) and 'An American in Paris' (performed by New York Philharmonic), and Ferde Grofe's 'Grand Canyon Suite' (performed by New York Philharmonic). Conducted by Leonard Bernstein.

Orff/Carmina Burana (Jochum, 1967)

The German composer Carl Orff's secular songs 'Carmina Burana'. A secular cantata based on the anthology of Medieval European poems mainly written in Latin. Monophonic, repetitive and simple music. Bawdy lyrics. Concucted by Eugen Jochum. Performed by Chorus and Orchestra of the Deutsche Oper, Berlin. The vocal solos (Gundula Janowitz in soprano, Gerhard Stolze in Tenor, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau in Baritone) are brilliant.

Hindemith/The 3 Piano Sonatas (Gould, 1966/1967/1973) *

One of the great contemporary music recordings by Glenn Gould (piano). Features the German composer, Paul Hindemith's three piano sonatas (published in 1936), No.1 "Der Main", No.2 and No.3. Atonal, but lucid and full of lyricism. Characteristic style described by Gould as "amalgam of ecstasy and reason: repose". Relatively accessible as contemporary music. Recommended.

Hindemith/Mathis Der Maler, Trauermusik, Symphonic Metamorphoses on Themes of Weber (Blomstedt, 1987)

The German composer, Paul Hindemith's works in his neoclassical years. "Mathis Der Maler" is a symphony compiled from the three parts of his opera of the same title, which is based on the historical fact of Matthias Grünewald, the German painter in the 16th century. A concentrated piece with post-romantic modern harmony and classical counterpoint. "Trauermusik" (Funeral Music) for viola and string orchestra is a piece to commemorate the death of King George V of England. "Symphonic Metamorphoses on Themes of Weber" is a popular symphonic piece with using the themes of Weber's piano works and incidental music. Herbert Blomstedt conducts San Francisco Symphony.

Honegger/5 Symphonies (complete) (Baudo, 1960/1963/1973)

A set of 2 CDs that includes all the five symphonies and other three orchestral works composed by Arthur Honegger, a Swiss composer born in France and a member of Les Six. Modernistic orchestraton with lots of heavy dissonances. Constructional and sharp music based on classical counterpoint. Post-impressionist/neoclassical sytle. Symphonies No.2, No.3 "Liturgigue (Liturgical)", No.4 "Deliciae Basiliensis (The Delights of Basel)" and No.5 "Di tre re" are popluar works frequently performed and recorded. The 'Symphonic Movement No.1 "Pacific 231" is an orchestral work which describes the movement of a steam locomotive. Serge Baudo conducts Czech Philharmonic Orchestra.

Prokofiev/Romeo and Juliet (Dutoit, 1990) *

Prokofiev's ballet music, "Romeo and Juliet", based on Shakespeare's play, is one of the greatest masterpieces of modern ballet. The excerpt (highlights) version by Charles Dutoit (conductor) and Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal. Vivid and dynamic piece of work with aggressive sounds of percussion and inharmonic tones, but it also contains lyrical and beautiful music.

Prokofiev/Symphony 1 "Classical", Symphony 5 (Dutoit, 1988)

Prokofiev's Symphony No.1 "Classical" is a short (about 15 minutes) and brisk piece of work, something like a contemporary version of Haydn's symphony. The symphony No. 5 is one of the greatest symphonies of the 20th century. A magnificent piece blending modernism and traditional Russian lyricism. Charles Dutoit conducting Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal.

Ibert/Escales (Dutoit, 1992)

Jacques Ibert is a 20th-century French composer who had close relations with Dalius Milhaud and Arthur Honegger of "Les Six (The Sextet)". Features his elegant orchestral pieces full of humor, wit (esprit) and clearness like neoclassical music: "Escales/Ports of Call -Trois Tableaux Symohonique", Flute Concerto, Suite Symphonique "Paris" and others. Exquisite orchestration. Performed by Charles Dutoit (conductor) and Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal.

Villa-Lobos/Bachianas Brasileiras (Capolongo, 1973)

Includes the Nos.2, 5, 6 and 9 from the cycle "Bachianas Brasileiras (Brazilian Bach-like Pieces)" (9 pieces in total), composed by the Brazilian composer, Heitor Villa-Lobos in the 1930s and 1940s. Based on Bach's style (polyphony, counterpoint) and Brazilian folk/popular music (choro and others). Various composition of the musical instruments, such as orchestral music (No.2), soprano and 8 violoncellos (No.5), and string orchestra (No.9). Paul Capolongo conducts Orchestre de Paris.

Holst/The Planets (Dutoit, 1986) *

The English composer, Holst's orchestral suite. An exquisite and delicate performance by Charles Dutoit (conductor) and Montréal Symphony Orchestra.

Berg/Violin Concerto, Three Orchestral Pieces (Kremer, 1983/1984) *

Alban Berg's violin concerto is a tonal piece based on twelve-tone technique. Sir Colin Davis conducts Gidon Kremer (violin) and Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra.

Berg/Wozzeck, Lulu (Böhm, 1965/1968)

Includes the two operas composed by Alban Berg, the Austrian composer and one of the Second Viennese School. "Wozzeck", based on the play by Georg Büchner, is a famous opera with atonal music based on twelve tone technique. Karl Böhm conducts Orchestra of the Deutsche Oper, Berlin, Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau (as Wozzeck), Evelyn Lear (as Marie), Fritz Wunderlich (as Andres) and others. "Lulu" is an uncompleted opera (2 acts) based on the plays by Frank Wedekind.

Stravinsky/Pétrouchka, Prokofiev/Sonate No.7, Webern/Variationen op.27, Boulez/Sonate No.2 (Pollini, 1971/1976) *

Includes four contemporary piano works of the 20th century, recorded by Maurizio Pollini in the 1970s. His superhuman technique is incredible, for he plays with ease the most difficult piano pieces to play, such as Stravinsky's Three Movements from "Petrouchka" and Boulez's "Second Sonata for Piano". Also features Prokofiev's "Piano Sonata No.7" and Webern's "Variations for Piano".

Stravinsky/Histoire du Soldat (Markevitch, 1962)

"The Soldier's Tale", a kind of theater piece "to be read, played and danced". Written in French by novelist Charles-Ferdinand Ramuz, based on the Russian folktale "The Deserter and the Devil", and composed by Stravinsky for a small ensemble of seven musicians (violin, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet, trombone, double bass and percussion) with a narrator and actors (the devil, the soldier and the princess). Bizarre and unique music using lots of odd time signatures and assimilating American ragtime/Dixieland jazz. Conducted by Igor Markevitch. Performed by Ensemble de Solistes. The narrator is the French writer/poet, Jean Cocteau.

Stravinsky/The Firebird, Bartók/The Miraculous Mandarin (Boulez, 1971/1975)

Includes Stravinsky's ballet 'The Firebird' (the complete original 1910 version) and Bartok's ballet 'The Miraculous Mandarin' (the uncut original version). Colorful and vivid performances by Pierre Boulez (conductor) and New York Philharmonic. 'The Miraculous Mandarin' is a decadent piece influenced by Stravinsky's 'The Rite of Spring'.

Stravinsky/The Rite of Spring, Petrushka (Dorati, 1980/1981) **

Includes Stravinsky's two ballet masterpieces, 'The Rite of Spring' and 'Petrushka'. 'The Rite of Spring' is an exciting piece by using primitive and ferocious rhythms, irregular beat and inharmonic tone. Antal Dorati conducts Detroit Symphony Orchestra.

(Various Artists)/The Art of Segovia (Segovia, 1952-1970)

A compilation album (2 CDs) of the Spanish guitarist called 'the father of the modern classical guitar playing', Andrés Segovia's recordings on the US Decca label (released on Deutsche Grammophon). Includes Francisco Tarrega's "Recuerdos de la Alhambra", Fernando Sor's "Variations on a Theme From Mozart's The Magic Flute", Heitor Villa-Lobos' "Preludio" Nos.1 and 3, Handel's Sarabande from "Suite for Harpsichord No.4 in D minor", J.S.Bach's Tempo di Bourrée from "Partita for solo violin No.1 in B minor", Courante from "Suite for solo cello No.3 in C major", Gavotte en Rondeau from "Partita for solo violin No.3 in E major", Debussy's "La fille aux cheveux de lin" from "Préludes" Livre I, No.8 and others (41 tracks in total).

Respighi/Pini di Roma, Feste Romane, Fontane di Roma (Dutoit, 1982)

Includes three symphonic poems (Roman Trilogy) by Italian composer Respighi: 'Pini di Roma/The Pines of Rome', 'Feste Romane/Roman Festivals' and 'Fontane di Roma/The Fountains of Rome'. Colorful and gorgeous orchestrations. Beautiful and elegant performances by Charles Dutoit (conductor) and Montreal Symphony Orchestra.

Kodaly/Háry-János-Suite, Marosszéker Tänze, Tänze aus Galánta, Psalmus hungaricus (Fricsay, 1953/1954/1961)

The Hungarian composer, Zoltan Kodaly's orchestral works. Greatly influenced by Hungarian folksongs. The music full of rustic flavor and ethnicity. "Hary Janos Suite" is an arrangement of the opera (Singspiel) "Hary Janos". Also features "Marosszeker Tanze (Marosszeker Dance)", "Tanze aus Galanta (Dances of Galanta)" and "Psalmus hungaricus (Hungarian Psalm)". Performed by Ferenc Fricsay (conductor), Ernst Haefliger (tenor) and RIAS-Symphonie-Orchester Berlin.

Bartók/Zoltán Kocsis Plays Bartók (The Works for Solo Piano) (Kocsis, 1991-1999) *

The Hungarian pianist, Zoltan Kocsis plays all of Bartok's solo piano music (8 CD set). "14 Bagatelles" is an avant-garde work in his early days. "Allegro Barbaro" is a masterpiece of 'barbarian' Bartok. "Suite" (Op.14) is a great piece summarizing his techniques of composition based on eastern European (Hungarian and Romanian) folk music materials. "Mikrokosmos" is a famous series of etudes for piano lessons. Also features "6 Romanian Folk Dances", "For Children", "Sonata for Piano", "Outof Doors", "Fifteen Hungarian Peasant Songs" and others.

Bartók/String Quartets Nos.1-6 (Alban Berg Quartett, 1983-1986) *

Bartók's all the 6 String Quartets. A Gem of chamber music in the 20th century. Performed by Alban Berg Quartett.

Bartók/Sonate für 2 Klaviere und Schlagzeug, Ravel/Rapsodie espagnole, Ma Mère l'Oye (Argerich/Freire/Sadlo/Guggeis, 1993)

Bartok's "Sonata for 2 Pianos and Percussion" is a percussive and sharp-edged piece which modernized and restructured the material of Eastern European folk music, under the influence of neoclassicism. The pianos played by Martha Argerich and Nelson Freire. The percussion played by Peter Sadlo and Edgar Guggeis. Also features Ravel's "Rapsodie espagnole (Spanish Rhapsody)" and "Ma Mère l'Oye (Mother Goose)", which are arranged for 2 pianos and percussion.

Bartók/Concerto for Orchestra, Music for Strings, Percussion & Celesta (Solti, 1981/1989)

Includes two masterpieces of orchestral works by Bartok. Stirring performances by Georg Solti and Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The 3rd movement (Adagio) of 'Music for Strings...' is also known as the BGM of horror movie 'The Shining'.

Bartók/Klavierkonzerte Nr.1 & 2 (Abbado/Pollini, 1977)

The modern composer from Hungary, Bartok's Piano Concertos Nos.1 and 2. The No.2 is famous as a masterpiece featuring wind instruments and piano playing in a style like a percussion instrument. Conducted by Claudio Abbado, performed by Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Maurizio Pollini on piano.

Falla/El Sombrero de Tres Picos, El Amor Brujo (Ansermet, 1955/1961)

'El Sombrero de Tres Picos/The Three Cornered Hat' is an excellent ballet music by Spanish composer Manuel de Falla. Based on the novel by Alarcon. A humorous and cheerful piece with the style of Spanish folk dance. Colorful orchestration. Conducted by Ernest Ansermet. Performed by L'Orchestre de la Suisse Romande and Teresa Berganza (mezzo-soprano). Also features 'El Amor Brujo/Love the Magician', the ballet with the style of Andalusian gypsy music, and the orchestral interlude and dance from his first opera, 'La Vida Breve/Life is Short'.

Schöenberg, Webern, Berg/Piano Works of New Viennese School (Takahashi, 1977) *

The complete piano works of Neue Wiener Schule/New Viennese School. Includes Schöenberg's 'Suite für Klavier/Suite for Piano' (Op.25), Webern's 'Variationen/Variations' (Op.27), Berg's 'Sonate für Klavier/Piano Sonata' (Op.1) and others. Played by Yuji Takahashi (piano), a Japanese pianist/composer of contemporary music. Ryuichi Sakamoto joined on 2nd piano in Schöenberg's 'Sechs Stücke für Klavier zu vier Händen/Six Pieces for Piano for Four Hands'.

Webern/Das Gesamtwerk Opp.1-31 (Boulez, 1967-1972/1932) *

The complete works. Includes all Webern's works with opus numbers. 'Five Movements for string quartet', 'Six Pieces for large orchestra', 'Five Pieces for orchestra', 'String Trio', 'String Quartet', 'Cantatas' Nos.1, 2 and so on. Strict application of tweleve-tone technique and serialism. Extremely purified and compressed music in concise form. Conducted by Pierre Boulez. Performed by Juilliard String Quartet and London Symphony Orchestra. Also includes J.S. Bach's 'Fuga/Ricercata' (from 'Musical Offering', arranged by Webern) and F.Schubert's 'German Dances' (arranged and conducted by Webern).

Schoenberg/Piano Concerto, Klavierstücke, opp.11 & 19, Berg/Sonata, Webern/Variations (Uchida/Boulez, 1998/2000) *

The "Concerto for Piano" (op.42), which was composed by Schoenberg in 1942 when he was in exile in the United States, is composed with twelve-tone technique (dodecaphonism), but a clean-cut piece returning to traditional, as if "Viennese classical school meets serialism". Performed by . Also includes Schoenberg's early two piano solo works, "3 KMitsuko Uchida (piano), Pierre Boulez (conductor) and the Cleveland Orchestralavierstücke" and "6 Kleine Klavierstücke", Webern's "Variations for Piano", and Berg's "Piano Sonata".

Schöenberg/The Piano Music (Pollini, 1974) *

Includes all Schoenberg's piano pieces with numbers. Lucid and unemotional performance by Maurizio Pollini. 'Three Piano Pieces' (op.11) is atonal works in his early days. In 'Six Little Piano Pieces' (op.19), tonality is almost totally deserted, and then in 'Five Piano Pieces' (op.23) and 'Suite for Piano' (op.25), the twelve-tone technique is established.

Schöenberg/Gurrelieder (Rattle, 2001)

Schoenberg's "Songs of Gurre". Large-scale vocal music with five soloists, reciter, chorus & an extremely large orchestra (a total of 400 performers). A ghost from late-Romanticism filled with sensuality. The live recording by Simon Rattle (conductor) and Berliner Philharmoniker.

Schöenberg/Pierrot Lunaire (Boulez/Schäfer, 1997/1998) *

Schoenberg's "Pierrot Lunaire" is a weird, morbid piece of vocal music for reciter (female voice in between speech and song. A way of singing called "Sprechstimme"), piano, flute, clarinet, violin and cello. A masterpiece of expressionistic music based on atonality. Conducted by Pierre Boulez, performed by Members of Ensemble InterContemporain. The third recording by Boulez. Features Christine Schäfer on soprano/reciter.

Schoenberg, Berg, Webern/Orchesterwerke (Karajan, 1972-1974)

Second Viennese School's orchestral works (3 CDs). Schoenberg's symphonic poem "Pelleas und Melisande/Pelleas and Melisande" (op.5) is his early work in the post-romanticism style. Schoenberg's "Variation für Orchester/Variation for Orchestra" (op.31) is the first orchestral work based on twelve-tone technique (cool). "Drei Orchesterstücke/Three Orchestral Pieces" (op.6/1929 revised version) is Berg's only orchestral work. Also features Schoenberg's "Verklärte Nacht" (revised version for string orchestra), Berg's "Drei Stücke aus der Lyrischen Suite/Three Pieces from Lyric Suite" (version for string orchestra), Webern's "Passacaglia für Orchester/Passacaglia for Orchestra" (op.1), "Fünf Sätze für Streichquartett/Five Movements for String Quartet" (op.5/version for string oechestra), "Sechs Stücke für großes Orchester/Six Pieces for Large Orchestra" (op.6), and "Symphonie/Symphony" (op.21). Herbert von Karajan conducts Berliner Philharmoniker. Sensuous performance accessible for those who don't like contemporary music.

Schöenberg/Verklärte Nacht, Streichtrio (Lasalle Quartet, 1982) *

Includes "Transfigured Night" (The string sextet version. An omen of breakup of tonality in the late romanticism) and String Trio (Serialism). Performed by Lasalle Quartet.

Varèse/Amériques, Ives/Symphony No.4, The Unanswered Question (Dohnányi, 1992-1994) *

A French composer (naturalized in the United States), Edgard Varese's 'Amériques' is scored for a massive orchestra with eleven percussionists, including two sets of timpani and a siren. A noisy music features colorful timbres and razor-sharp rhythms, influenced by Italian Futurism and Stravinsky. An American composer, Charles Ives' Symphony No.4 is an ultra-polyphonic piece of music collecting fragmentary quotations such as hymns, marches and college songs. More Mahler-ish than Mahler. Performed by Christoph von Dohnányi (conductor), the Cleveland Orchestra and Chorus.

Rachmaninov/Piano Concertos No.2 & No.4 (Ashkenazy/Haitink, 1984)

Russian composer/pianist, Sergei Rachmaninov's "Piano Concerto No.2: In C Minor" (Op.18) is a masterpiece of post-romanticism, filled with subtle beauty. Also known as the music used in the movies: "Brief Encounter", "The Seven Year Itch" and "September Affair". The second theme of the third movement is famous for its sweet melody. Performed by Vladimir Ashkenazy (piano) and Concertgebouw Orchestra, Amsterdam. Conducted by Bernard Haitink. The third recording by Ashkenazy. Also features "Piano Concerto No.4: In G Minor" (Op.40).

Scriabin/Le Divin Poème, Le Poème de l'Extase, Rêverie (Ashkenazy, 1990)

"Le Poeme de l'Extase" (the Poem of Ecstasy, Symphony No.4) is the most well-known work by Russian composer/pianist Scriabin. A kind of symphonic poem, sensual and fascinating, with unique harmonics called "mystic chord". Vladimir Ashkenazy conducting Radio Symphony Orchestra, Berlin. Also features "Le Divin Poeme" (the Divine Poem, Symphony No.3) and the Symphonic Movement "Reveries" (Dreams).

Scriabin/Le Divin Poème, Le Poème de l'Extase, Rêverie (Ashkenazy, 1990)

Lehár/Die Lustige Witwe (The Merry Widow) (Gardiner, 1994)

An Austrian composer, Franz Lehár's operetta 'Die Lustige Witwe/The Merry Widow' (complete). A romantic drama depicting adult love affair. A popular Viennese operetta performed in many countries in the world and also cinematized in the US (directed by Ernst Lubitsch). Contemporary and sophisticated performance by John Eliot Gardiner (conductor), Wiener Philharmoniker and the Monteverdi Choir. Sung in German.

Satie/Entr'acte, Sonnerie, Musique d'ameublement, Vexations (Constant, 1980) *

Includes "Cinéma: Entr'acte symphonique de Relâche" (music for the film 'Entr'acte' by René Clair, shown in the intermission of the ballet 'No Performance Tonight'), "Musique d'ameublement" (Furniture Music), "Vexations" and so on. The roots of today's ambient/environmental music, BGM and minimalism. Conducted by Marius Constant, performed by Ensemble Ars Nova.

Satie/Integrale de la Musique pour Piano (Barbier, 1963/1968/1971) **

Erik Satie's complete piano works. "3 Gymnopedies" and "6 Gnossiennes" are famous. The piano played by Jean-Joël barbier. 4CDs.

Satie/Integrale de la Musique pour Piano (Barbier, 1963/1968/1971)

Cilea/Adriana Lecouvreur (Capuana, 1961)

The Italian composer, Francesco Cilea's opera 'Adriana Lecouvreur' (complete). A lyrical and romantic opera depicting the life of Adrienne Lecouvreur, an actress at the Comédie Française of the 18th century France. A good work of verismo (realism) opera or the Giovane Scuola (Young School). "Io son l'umile ancella del Genio creator (I'm the Humble Servant of the Creative Genius)" and "La dolcissima effigie" are well-known as beautiful arias. Renata Tebaldi (soprano), Mario del Monaco (tenor), Giulietta Simionato (mezzo-soprano) and others. Franco Capuana conducts Coro e Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia.

Nielsen/Symphonies 4 & 5 (Blomstedt, 1987)

Includes two great symphonies of Carl Nielsen, the composer from Denmark, the famous No.4 'The Inextinguishable' ('Det Uudslukkelige' in Danish) and No.5, which is regarded as his greatest symphony. Unique and modern/contemporary style based on the classical form of symphony, sort of like 'Shostakovich in North Europe'. Impressive use of percussion. In the last movement of No.4, two sets of timpani are pounded. Herbert Blomstedt conducts San Francisco Symphony.

Sibelius/Finlandia, The Swan of Tuonela, Valse triste, Tapiola (Karajan, 1984)

Finland's composer, Jean Sibelius' orchestral works. Clear and spirituel music based on post-romanticism and nationalism. The symphonic poem 'Finlandia' is an exhilarating nationalistic ode full of patriotic passion. 'The Swan of Tuonela' is a fantastic piece featuring English horn. 'Valse triste (Sad Waltz)' is a melancholy piece from the drama 'Kuolema (Death)'. The last symphonic poem 'Tapiola' is a great piece that describes the mystic ambience of Finland's woods. Herbert von Karajan conducts Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. Digital recording.

Sibelius/Symphony No.2 (Bernstein, 1986)

Finland's composer, Jean Sibelius' symphony No.2 is one of the 20th century's most popular symphonies. A dramatic and romantic piece with a northern-European flavor. Leonard Bernstein conducts Wiener Philharmoniker. A performance at a slow tempo. Live recording.

R. Strauss/Also Sprach Zarathustra, Till Eulenspiegel, Don Juan (Karajan, 1972/1973)

The German composer of the late Romantic era, Richard Strauss' tone poem (symphonic poem) "Also Sprach Zarathustra (Thus Spake Zarathustra)" is a gorgeous and magnificent orchestral work inspired by Nietzsche's philosophical book. The opening section is well-known for its use in Stanley Kubrick's film "2001: A Space Odyssey". Performed by Herbert von Karajan (conductor), Michel Schwalbé (violin) and Berliner Philharmoniker. Karajan's second recording of "Zarathustra". Also features the tone poem "Till Eulenspiegels lustige Streiche (Till Eulenspiegel's Merry Pranks)", the tone poem "Don Juan", and "Tanz der sieben Schleier (Dance of the Seven Veils)" from the opera "Salome".

Mascagni/Cavalleria Rusticana (Serafin, 1960)

Italian composer, Pietro Mascagni's opera "Cavalleria Rusticana" (complete). The title means something like "Rustic Chivalry". One of the early masterpieces of verismo (realism) opera, along with Leoncavallo's "I Pagliacci (Clowns)". Based on Giovanni Verga's novel of the same title. A sensational love-hate drama set in Sicilia. Giulietta Simionato (mezzo-soprano), Mario Del Monaco (tenor) and others. Tullio Serafin conducts Coro e Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, Roma.

Ravel/Oeuvres Pour Piano (Perlemuter, 1973)

The recordings by Vlado Perlemuter in his last years. "Miroirs" (Mirrors), "Pavane pour une infante defunte" (Pavane for a Dead Princess), "Jeux d'eau" (Fountains), "Gaspard de la nuit" (Gaspard of the Night), "Sonatine" and so on. 2 discs.

Ravel/Daphnis et Chloé (Dutoit, 1980) **

The comlete ballet 'Daphnis et Chloe' by Ravel. The greatest ballet of modern France. Composed at the request of Diaghilev from the Ballets Russes. Exquisite and colorful music with a mysterious atmosphere. Excellent performance by Charles Dutoit (conductor) and Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal.

Ravel/Piano Concertos, Jeux d'eaux, Sonatine (Rogé/Dutoit, 1973/1974/1982) *

Ravel's two piano concertos are excellent works (which introduced the idiom of jazz) in his later years. "Jeux d'eau" and "Sonatine" are popular piano pieces. Charles Dutoit (conductor), Pascal Rogé (piano) and Montreal Symphony Orchestra.

Ravel/L'Oeuvre pour Orchestre: Boléro, La Valse, Rapsodie Espagnole (Cluytens, 1961/1962)

Ravel's orchestral works. "Bolero" is a ballet which repeats the 2 melodies at a regular rhythm. Andre Cluytens conducts Orchestre de la Société des Concerts du Conservatoire.

Debussy, Ravel/String Quartets (Alban Berg Quartett, 1984) **

Features Debussy and Ravel's works known as the masterpieces of string quartets of the Impressionism. Performed by Alban Berg Quartett.

Debussy/La Mer, L'Après-Midi D'Un Faune, Nocturnes, Jeux (Boulez, 1966/1968)

Includes the symphonic poem "The Sea", "Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun", "Nocturnes" and "Jeux" (Games). Pierre Boulez conducts New Philharmonia Orchestra.

Debussy/La Mer, L'Apres-Midi D'Un Faune, Nocturnes, Jeux (Boulez, 1966/1968)

Mahler/Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen, Kindertotenlieder, 5 Rückertlieder, 5 Gesänge aus "Des Knaben Wunderhorn" (Furtwängler/Kempe, 1952/1955/1978)

Gustav Mahler's song (Lied) cycles sung by Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau (baritone). "Lieder eines fahrenden Gesellen/Songs of a Wayfarer" (Wilhelm Furtwängler conducts the Philharmonia Orchestra) and "Kindertotenlieder/Songs of the Death of Children" (Rudolf Kempe conducts Berliner Philharmoniker) are sentimental and pessimistic songs with orchestra. Also includes songs with piano (played by Daniel Barenmoim), five pieces from the song cycle "Des Knaben Wunderhorn/The Youth's Magic Horn" and "5 Rückertlieder/5 Ruckert Songs".

J.S. Bach/Kaffee-Kantate, Hochzeitskantate (Ameling, 1966/1967)

Includes 2 popular secular cantatas: BWV 211 'Coffee Cantata' (Schweigt stille, plaudert nicht/Be quiet, do not chat) and BWV 202 'Wedding Cantata' (Weichet nur, betrübte Schatten/Gloomy shadows, be gone!). 'Coffee Cantata' is a light and comical one like an opera buffa. Elly Ameling's clear soprano is beautiful. Performed by Collegium Aureum.

Mahler/Das Lied von der Erde (Walter, 1952)

Mahler's "The Song of the Earth". A symphony with vocal solos. The 3rd movement has the Chinese musical scale. A classical recording (mono, 1952) by Bruno Walter (conductor), Kathleen Ferrier (contralto), Julius Patzak (tenor) and Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

Mahler/Symphonie Nr.5 (Sinopoli, 1985)

Mahler's Symphony No.5. The 4th movement (Adagietto) is well-known for using as the music of Luchino Visconti's movie "Death In Venice". Giuseppe Sinopoli conducts Philharmonia Orchestra.

Mahler/Symphonie No.1 (Rattle, 1991)

Symphony No.1 "Titan". Originally composed as a symphonic poem that consists of five movements, but revised as a symphony of four movements later. Mahler's angst and tumultuous passions in his young days. The highlight is the loud explosion of the last movement with roaring brass. Also includes the "Blumine", the original second movement deleted. Conducted by Simon Rattle. Performed by City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (live recording).

Puccini/Madama Butterfly (Callas/Karajan, 1955)

The complete opera "Madama Butterfly (Madam Butterfly)" by the Italian composer, Giacomo Puccini. An exotic opera set in Nagasaki, Japan. The original story is David Belasco's play based on the novel written by John Luther Long. Performed by Maria Callas (soprano), Herbert von Karajan (conductor) and Orchestra e coro del Teatro alla Scala di Milano. Sung in Italian.

Leoncavallo/I Pagliacci (Molinari-Pradelli, 1959)

Italian composer, Ruggiero Leoncavallo's opera "I Pagliacci/Clowns" (complete). One of the early masterpieces of verismo (realism) opera, along with Mascagni's "Cavalleria Rusticana". Often performed with "Cavalleria Rusticana" in one night (so-called 'Cav and Pag'). Mario Del Monaco (tenor), Cornell MacNeil (baritone), Gabriella Tucchi (soprano) and others. Francesco Molinari-Pradelli conducts Coro e Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, Roma. The highlights are Del Monaco's vivid singings (at the age of 44) in the last of the Act 1 "Vesti la giubba/Put on your costume" and the last of the Act 2 "No! Pagliaccio non son/I'm not the Clown!".

Beethoven/Piano Sonatas Nos.8, 14, 21 & 23 (Backhaus, 1958/1959)

Includes Beethoven's four popular piano sonatas, No.8 in C minor, op.13 "Pathétique", No.14 in C sharp minor, op.27 "Moonlight", No.21 in C major, op.53 "Waldstein" and No.23 in F minor, op.57 "Appassionata". Romantic conception and lean, logical composition. Simple and sturdy performances by Wilhelm Backhaus.

Elgar, Delius/Cello Concertos (Du Pré, 1965)

Includes two cello concertos of the early 20th century, written by English composers, Sir Edward Elgar and Frederick Delius. Elgar's cello concerto is a masterpiece that features the melody full of pathos. The great female cellist, Jacqueline du Pré's recording at about age 20, with Sir John Barbirolli (conductor) and the London Symphony Orchestra. Delius' cello concerto is a recording with Malcolm Sargent (conductor) and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Milhaud/Le Bœuf sur le Toit, Chausson/Poème, Vieuxtemps/Fantasia appassionata (Kremer/Chailly, 1980)

Three pieces for violin and orchestra. One of the French "Les Six (The Sextet)", Darius Milhaud's "Le Bœuf sur le Toit/The Ox on the Roof (Cinéma-Fantaisie)" is a rhythmic and rhapsodic piece based on Brazilian folk music. French post-romantic composer (Franckist), Ernest Chausson's "Poème" is a lyric piece full of poetic sentiment. Also includes the 19th-century romantic composer/violinist (Belgium), Henri Vieuxtemps' "Fantasia appassionata". Performed by Gidon Kremer (violin), Riccardo Chailly (conductor) and London Symphony Orchestra.

Milhaud/Le Bœuf sur le Toit, Chausson/Poème, Vieuxtemps/Fantasia appassionata (Kremer/Chailly, 1980)

Janáček/Sinfonietta, Taras Bulba (Mackerras, 1980)

Includes the two orchestral pieces composed by the Czech composer from Moravia, Leos Janacek. "Sinfonietta" is a famous piece based on Moravian folk music, featuring the fanfare by a brass band (9 trumpets, 2 bass trumpets, 2 tenor tubas and timpani). "Taras Bulba" is a symphonic rhapsody inspired by Gogol's novel. Sir Charles Mackerras conducts Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

Fauré/Requiem (Cluytens, 1962)

The French composer, Gabriel Faure's "Requiem" is a masterpiece of sacred vocal music filled with limpid beauty and a tender feeling of prayer. Music for comfort and peace. An emotional performance by André Cluytens (conductor), Victoria de los Angeles (soprano), Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau (baritone), Chœurs Elisabeth Brasseur (Elisabeth Brasseur Choir) and Orchestre de la Société des Concerts du Conservatoire (Paris Conservatory Orchestra).

Rimsky-Korsakov/Scheherazade, Capriccio Espagñol (Dutoit, 1983)

One of the "Russian Five" of the late 19th century, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's symphonic suite "Scheherazade" is popular and famous for its gorgeous orchestration and exotic/oriental atmosphere. Elegant and sophisticated performances by Charles Dutoit (conductor), Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal with Richard Roberts on violin solo. Also features "Capriccio Espagnol".

Dvorák/Cellokonzert, Tchaikovsky/Rokoko-Variationen (Rostropovich/Karajan, 1968)

Dvorak's "Concerto for Violincello and Orchestra" is known as one of the greatest cello concertos of all time. An earthy and rustic piece fusing Bohemian folk music with American Indian's folk songs and black spirituals. Nostalgic and beautiful melodies. The historic performance by Mstislav Rostropovich (violincello), Herbert von Karajan (conductor) and Berlin Philharmoniker. Also includes Tchaikovsky's "Variations on a Rococo Theme for Violincello and Orchestra".

Dvorák/Symphonie No.9, Smetana/Moldau (Karajan, 1985) *

Includes Dvorak's symphony No.9, "From the New World" and Smetana's "The Moldau" (from the cycle of symphonic poems "My Fatherland"). Herbert von Karajan conducts Wiener Philharmoniker.

Tchaikovsky/The Nutcracker (Complete Ballet) (Ansermet, 1959)

The complete recording of Tchaikovsky's ballet, 'The Nutcracker'. A delightful music can be enjoyed by both children and adults. An historical, established performance by the conductor Ernest Ansermet and L'Orchestre de la Suisse Romande. The recording is old, but good in sound quality.

Tchaikovsky/Swan Lake (Ansermet, 1961)

'Swan Lake' is one of the classical masterpieces of ballet music, and the most famous one of Tchaikovsky's three ballets. The abridged version performed by Ernest Ansermet (conductor) and L'Orchestre de la Suisse Romande. A great performance with delicate orchestration, full of symmetrical beauty, and vivid rhythm.

Tchaikovsky/Piano Concerto No.1, Rachmaninov/Piano Concerto No.2 (Richter, 1959/1962)

Tchaikovsky's piano concerto No.1 is a magnificent and romantic piece noted for the transcendental technique in piano playing. Symphonic and exquisite intertwining of orchestra and piano. The first and third movements use Ukrainian folk music in the motifs. Performed by Svjatoslav Richter (piano), Herbert von Karajan (conductor) and the Vienna Symphony Orchestra. Also features Rachmaninov's piano concerto No.2 (conducted by Stanislaw Wislocki).

Tchaikovsky, Sibelius/Violin Concertos (Chung, 1970)

South Korean violinist, Kyung-Wha Chung's debut album. Features the two violin concertos by Tchaikovsky and Sibelius. Intense and youthful performances when she was about 22 years old. Conducted by André Previn. Performed by the London Symphony Orchestra.

Tchaikovsky, Mendelssohn/Violin Concertos (Heifetz, 1957/1959/1970)

Includes the two violin concertos by Tchaikovsky and Mendelssohn. Both very famous and popular as the dulcet melodies and transcendental technique. A virtuoso from Russia, Jascha Heifetz's performance with exquisite precision.

Tchaikovsky/Symphonies Nos.4, 5 & 6 "Pathétique" (Mravinsky, 1960)

Includes three popular symphonies by Tchaikovsky, the composer of Russia in the 19th century. The No.6 "Pathétique" is most famous. Beautiful melodies with a touch of melancholy and burst of passion like Romanticism. A historical recordings conducted by Evgeni Mravinsky and performed by Leningrad Philharmonic. Dynamic performances.

Mussorgsky/Pictures at an Exhibition, Night on the Bare Mountain, "Khovanshchina" Prelude (Ansermet, 1959/1964)

"Pictures at an Exhibition" is the orchestrated version of the original piano piece composed by Russian nationalist composer, Modest Mussorgsky. Colorfully orchestrated by Maurice Ravel. An example of musical inheritance from 19th-century Russia to 20th century France. Also features the symphonic poem, "Night on the Bare Mountain" (orchestrated by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov). Conducted by Ernest Ansermet, and performed by L'Orchestre de la Suisse Romande.

Bizet/L'Arlésienne Suites Nos. 1 and 2, Carmen Suites Nos. 1 and 2 (Dutoit, 1986)

A french composer known for his incidental music for plays and operas, Georges Bizet's popular orchestral works. The suites "L'Arlésienne/The Girl from Arles" Nos. 1 and 2 are the arrangements of the incidental music to the play written by Alphonse Daudet. Popular and approachable pieces using a Christmas folk song of Provence in southern France, "The March of the Three Kings". Also features the suite version of the opera "Carmen". Performed by Charles Dutoit (conductor) and Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal.

Saint-Saëns/Symphony No. 3 in C minor "Organ", Debussy/La Mer, Ibert/Escales (Munch, 1956/1959)

French composer, Camille Saint-Saëns' Symphony No. 3 is a splendid and magnificent piece by a large orchestra with organ and two pianos for four hands. Charles Munch conducts Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Berj Zamkochian plays organ. A classical masterpiece in the beginning of stereo recording on RCA Records. Also features Debussy's "La Mer" and Ibert's "Escales".

Borodin/String Quartets Nos.1 and 2 (Haydn Quartet, Budapest, 1993)

The Russian composer (a chemist by profession) and one of 'The Mighty Handful', Alexander Porfirevich Borodin's String Quartets Nos.1 and 2. Romantic pieces filled with lyrical beauty. The third "Nocturne" movement of the No.2 is immensely popular. Performed by Haydn Quartet, Budapest.

J. Strauss II/Die Fledermaus (Kleiber, 1975)

The operetta "Die Fledermaus" (The Bat) composed by Johann Strauss II, the composer of Vienna, Austria in the 19th century, is a three-act musical comedy and the most popular operetta by Johann Strauss. A light and comical piece with lots of Viennese waltz rhythm. The great recording by Carlos Kleiber (conductor), Bayerischer Staatsopernchor, Bayerisches Staatsorchester, Hermann Prey (baritone), Julia Varady (soprano), Lucia Popp (soprano), Bernd Weikl (baritone), Iwan Rebroff and others. The polka "Unter Donner Und Blitz" (Thunder and lightning) is played in the ballet scene of the second-act finale.

Bruckner/Symphony No. 4 "Romantic" (Böhm, 1973)

Austrian composer, Anton Bruckner's fourth symphony (so-called "Nowak edition" of the year 1953). One of his most accessible and easy-to-listen works. A magnificent and large-scaled symphony tinged with German Romanticism literally, as if to sing sublime beauty of nature. Orthodox performance at a relaxed tempo by Karl Böhm (conductor) and the Wiener Philharmoniker.

Smetana/Má Vlast (My Country) (Ančerl, 1963)

The Czech composer, Smetana's cycle of symphonic poems 'Ma Vlast/My Country' (all the six). Nationalistic music based on Bohemian myths, history and scenery. The second 'Vltava/The Moldau' is well-known for its excellent melody. Karel Ancerl conducts Czech Philharmonic Orchestra.

Franck/Sonata in A major (Grumiaux, 1961)

A composer of Belgian origin, César Franck's sonata for violin and piano in A major is a famous violin sonata of modern France. Tight-knit construction with the cyclic form (a motif occurs in more than one movement for unifying music). Performed by Arthur Grumiaux (violin) and Istvan Hajdu (piano).

Wagner/Parsifal (Solti, 1971/1972)

Richard Wagner's last musical drama "Parsifal", described as "Bühnenweihfestspiel (a festival play to consecrate the stage)" by the composer himself, the complete version. A long (more than four hours) opera based on the Christian mysticism, like a religious cultus. Conducted by Georg Solti, and performed by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. Features splendid singers such as Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau (baritone), Hans Hotter (bass), Christa Ludwig (mezzo-soprano), René Kollo (tenor), Lucia Pop (soprano), Kiri te Kanawa (soprano) and the Vienna Boys Choir.

Wagner/Tristan und Isolde (Böhm, 1966)

Richard Wagner's musical drama in three acts "Tristan und Isolde" (complete. 3 CDs). A long opera (over three hours) depicting romantic love ecstasy or 'Liebestod' (lovedeath). In terms of technique, known for its "unendliche Melodie" (unending melody), which means endless progression of entanglement melodies, "Tristan chord" in the beginning of the prelude, which is ambiguous in tonality, and harmonic progression with using lots of chromatic scales. The prelude and the last aria, so-called "Isolde's Lovedeath" are famous. Karl Böhm (conductor), Chor und Orchester der Bayreuther Festspiele, Wolfgang Windgassen (Tristan/tenor), Birgit Nilsson (Isolde/soprano) and others. Live recording in 1966 Bayreuth Festival.

Wagner/Orchestral Works: Tannhauser, Lohengrin, Tristan und Isolde, Die Meistersinger, The Flying Dutchman, Parsifal (Karajan, 1974)

Richard Wagner's orchestral works (2 CDs). Herbert von Karajan conducts Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra. Includes Overture and Venusberg Music from "Tannhäuser" (Paris version), Preludes to Act 1 and 3 from "Lohengrin", Prelude to Act 1 and Liebestod from "Tristan und Isolde", Prelude to Act 1 from "Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg", Overture from "Der fliegende Holländer", Preludes to Act 1 and 3 from "Parsifal". Flowing and beautiful performance. The sound quality is fine. Useful for overviewing Wagner's orchestral music.

Verdi/Messa da Requiem (Karajan, 1972)

Verdi's Requiem Mass. An operatic and dramatic sacred music. Performed by Karajan/Berliner Philharmoniker.

Liszt/Klaviersonate h-moll, Nuages Gris, Unstern!-Sinistre, La Lugubre Gondola I, R.W.-Venezia (Pollini, 1988/1989)

Franz Liszt's "Piano Sonata in B minor" is a masterpiece of romantic sonata with advanced technique and complex structure. Maurizio Pollini's accurate and elaborate performance. Also includes Liszt's four atonal piano pieces composed in his last days, "Nuages Gris (Grey Clouds)", "Unstern!-Sinistre (Evil Star!)", "La Lugubre Gondola I (The Funeral Gondola I)" and "R.W.-Venezia".

Schumann/Kinderszenen, Kreisleriana (Argerich, 1983)

Includes piano works "Scenes of Childhood" and "Kreisleriana".

Schumann, Grieg/Piano Concertos (Zimerman/Karajan, 1981/1982)

Includes the two popular pieces of Romantic piano concerto, Robert Schumann (Germany) and Edvard Grieg (Norway). Lyrical performance full of poetic sentiment by Krystian Zimerman (piano), Herbert von Karajan (conductor) and Berliner Philharmoniker.

The Glenn Gould Edition: Chopin/Piano Sonata No. 3, Mendelssohn/Songs without Words, Scriabin/Piano Sonatas Nos. 3, 5, Prokofiev/Piano Sonata No. 7 (Gould, 1967-1972)

One of Glenn Gould's recording series of piano works. Chopin's Piano Sonata No. 3 is the only recording in which Gould tried Chopin (though he was a pianist, Gould was prejudiced against the Romantics, especially Chopin). Unemotional performance with solid rhythms. Prokofiev's Piano Sonata No. 7 (the second of the so-called trilogy of 'War Sonatas') is an atonalistic and modern piece with percussive piano playing. Also features Scriabin's Piano Sonata Nos. 3 & 5, five pieces selected from Mendelssohn's "Songs without Words". Personally, I recommend Proko's No. 7.

Chopin, Liszt/Piano Concertos (Argerich, 1968)

Chopin's Piano Concerto No.1 is an early-romantic masterpiece full of poetic sensibility and sentimentality, as if to cherish sweet and wistful memories in his youth. Performed by Martha Argerich (piano) and the London Symphony Orchestra. Conducted by Claudio Abbado. Also features Liszt's Piano Concerto No.1.

Chopin/24 Préludes, op.28 (Pollini, 1974)

Chopin's 24 Préludes (op.28). A piano suite by using all the 24 major/minor keys under the influence of J.S. Bach's Well-tempered Clavier Book. Graceful and sentimental music. No.15 in D flat major "Sostenuto" is well-known. Performed by Maurizio Pollini.

Chopin/12 Etudes, op.10/25 (Pollini, 1972)

Pollini's transcendent virtuosity.

Berlioz/Symphonie Fantastique (Münch, 1967)

A masterpiece of romantistic 'program music' with a storyline. Gorgeous orchestration by full use of brass instruments. The historic performance by Munch/Paris Orchestra.

Brahms/Ballades Op.10, Rhapsodies Op.79 (Gould, 1982) *

Brahms' 4 ballades and 2 rhapsodies. Lyrical romantic character pieces. The last recording by Glenn Gould (piano).

Brahms/10 Intermezzi for Piano (Gould, 1960) **

Interludes for piano. Gould's meditative performance. Marvelous. Highly recommended.

Brahms/Symphonie No.1 (Karajan, 1987)

Symphony No.1. Maybe this is the most popular one of all his symphonies. Herbert von Karajan conducts Berliner Philharmoniker.

Schubert/Quartet No.14, No.13 (Alban Berg Quartett, 1984)

Schubert's string quartet No.14 in D minor, "Der Tod und das Mädchen" (Death and the Maiden) is a beautiful piece full of melancholy feelings like an elegy, and famous as a masterpiece of romantic chamber music. Performed by Alban Berg Quartett. Also includes the string quartet No.13 in A minor, "Rosamunde".

Schubert/Symphonies Nos.5 & 8 "Unfinished" (Walter, 1958/1960)

Includes the Austrian composer, Franz Schubert's two symphonies, No.5 in B flat major, D.485 (performed by Columbia Symphony Orchestra) and No.8(7) in B minor "Unfinished", D.759 (performed by New York Philharmonic) Conducted by Bruno Walter. Lyrical and old-fashioned performances in slow tempo.

Donizetti/L'Elisir d'Amore (complete) (Pidò, 1996)

Italian composer, Gaetano Donizetti's popular opera "L'Elisir d'Amore/The Elixir of Love" (complete). A romantic and comical opera (buffa) filled with entertaining elements and beautiful melodies. Evelino Pidò conducts Orchestre et Chœur de l'Opéra National de Lyon. The singers such as Roberto Alagna (tenor) and Angela Gheorghiu (soprano) are pretty good. The famous tenor aria in the second act "Una Furtiva Lagrima/One Furtive Tear" is based on the alternative version rescored by Donizetti fifteen years after the first performance.

Rossini/Il Barbiere di Siviglia (Gui, 1962)

Italian composer, Gioacchino Antonio Rossini's 'Il Barbiere di Siviglia/The Barber of Seville' is a light and refined comic opera (opera buffa) based on the satirical comedy written by French playwright Beaumarchais. The classical performance by Vittorio Gui (conductor), Victoria de los Angeles (as Rosina), Sesto Bruscantini (as Figaro), Luigi Alva (as Il conte d'Almaviva), Carlo Cava (as Basilio), Ian Wallace (as Bartolo), Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and Glyndebourne Festival Chorus.

Weber/Der Freischütz (Kleiber, 1973)

"Der Freischütz" (means "The Free-Shooter"), the opera in three acts composed by German composer Carl Maria von Weber, is a classic of German Romantic opera, which greatly influenced Berlioz, Wagner and many other composers. Carlos Kleiber (conductor), Gundula Janowitz (soprano), Edith Mathis (soprano), Peter Schreier (tenor), Theo Adam (bass) and others, Leipzig Radio Chorus and Staatskapelle Dresden. Kleiber's first studio-recording album.

Paganini/24 Caprices (Midori, 1988)

Includes all the 24 "Caprices" composed by Italian virtuoso violinist and composer, Niccolò Paganini. Known as a difficult piece to play, which uses all kinds of techniques of violin playing. Midori Goto's recording at age 17. A splendid performance with excellent technique and expressiveness.

Beethoven/The Complete Sonatas for Piano and Cello (Rostropovich/Richter, 1961-1963)

Includes all the five sonatas for piano and cello composed by Beethoven (2 CDs). Nos.1 and 2 are his early works. Nos.4 and 5 are introspective works in his later days. Sonata No.3 in A major (Op.69) is famous as a splendid classic filled with dramatic tension. Performed by the virtuoso duo in the former Soviet Union, Mstislav Rostropovich (cello) and Sviatoslav Richter (piano).

J.S. Bach/The Four Lute Suites (Williams, 1974/1975)

The guitarist John Williams plays Bash's lute suites on the six-string guitar. One of the classical masterpieces of Bach played by guitar. The suite No.3 in A minor (the original is G minor. BWV995) is an arrangement from cello suite No.5 in C minor (BWV1011). The suite No.4 in E Major (BWV1006a) is an arrangement from partita No.3 for violin solo (BWV1006).

Beethoven/Violin Concerto in D, Violin Sonata No.9 in A "Kreutzer" (Heifetz/Munch, 1955/60)

"Violin Concerto in D" is one of the most melodious pieces composed by Beethoven. A kind of symphonic quality with cheerful and peaceful atmosphere. An artful and fast performance by Jascha Heifetz (violin), Charles Munch (conductor) and Boston Symphony Orchestra. A classical masterpiece in the beginning of stereo recording on RCA Records (Heifetz's second recording). Also features Violin Sonata No.9 in A "Kreutzer".

Mozart, Brahms/Clarinet Quintets (Wlach/Vienna Konzerthaus Quartet, 1951)

Includes the two masterpiece (Mozart and Brahms) of clarinet quintet using the soft sound of clarinet. They are both composed of string quartet (two violins, viola, cello) and clarinet. Mozart's is one of his best work in his last years, and it has beautiful melancholy melodies. The classic performance by Leopold Wlach (the leading clarinetist of Wiener Philharmoniker) and Vienna Konzerthaus Quartet. An old recording in the early 1950s, but the sound quality is good (remastered from the original master tape).

Telemann/Musique de Table (Goebel, 1988)

A complete recording (a set of 4 CDs) of "Musique de Table" (Tafelmusik/Table Music), a collection of instrumental chamber music (three production in total) composed by German Baroque music composer, Georg Philipp Telemann. He published its musical score (in advance sale) by himself in the European countries, with the rise of the bourgeois civil society of the 18th century in the background. Each production consists of overture (suite), quartet, concerto, trio, solo and conclusion (finale). Lucid and graceful music. A summarization of European baroque instrumentation. Performed by Musica Antiqua Köln (on original instruments) and conducted by Reinhard Goebel. A crisp performance with a fast tempo.

Josquin Desprez/Motets & Chansons (The Hilliard Ensemble, 1983)

The composer of the Renaissance, Josquin Desprez' motets (sacred polychoral music) and chansons (secular polychoral music). One of the great recordings by the Hilliard Ensemble, the English male chorus group who are known for their clear and heavenly voices being perfectly on pitch. The motets are so beautiful that they sanctify our souls, especially "Ave Maria... Virgo serena".

Beethoven/Symphonie Nr.9 (Furtwängler, 1951) *

Symphony No.9 (Choral). Conducted by Wilhelm Furtwängler, Elisabeth Schwarzkopf (soprano), Elisabeth Höngen (alto), Hans Hopf (tenor), Otto Edelmann (bass), Chor und Orchester der Bayreuther Festspiele. This performance was one of the established classics in the LP era.

Beethoven/Symphonie Nr.7 (Kleiber, 1975/1976)

Symphony No.7. Dance rhythm at fast tempos. Conducted by Carlos Kleiber. Performed by the Wiener Philharmoniker.

Beethoven/Symphony No.6 (Walter, 1958)

Symphony No.6 (Pastorale). A masterpiece of 'scenic' music. Very influential for later symphonic poem, program music and film music. Conducted by Bruno Walter. Performed by the Columbia Symphony Orchestra.

Beethoven/Symphonie Nr.5 (Kleiber, 1974)

Symphony No.5. Tightknit constitution. A product of condensation. The tempo is kinda slow. Conducted by Carlos Kleiber. Performed by the Wiener Philharmoniker.

Beethoven/Symphony No.3 'Eroica' (Furtwängler, 1952)

Beethoven's Symphony No.3 "Eroica" is an epoch-making work that marked the beginning of later long and grand-scale symphony. Dramatic and heroic music. The funeral march of the second movement is famous. Conducted by Wilhelm Furtwängler. Performed by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

Mozart/The Complete Piano Sonatas (Gould, 1965-1974)

The set of four CDs that includes all the piano sonatas composed by Mozart. The most famous one is the No.11, which contains the third movement known as "Turkish March". The No.8, No.10 and No.14 are also famous. Light and elegant pieces full of grace notes in the Rococo/Galant style. Glenn Gould's unique performance based on his own interpretation (the tempos are sometimes extremely fast, and other times fairly slow). Also includes the two Fantasias (K.397 & K.475).

Mozart/Eine Kleine Nachtmusik K.525, Divertimenti K.136/137/138 (Koopman, 1988/1989)

An elegant string ensemble piece, Serenade No.13 "Eine Kleine Nachtmusik" (means "A Small Night Music" in German) is one of Mozart's most popular and accessible works. As is the case with his other chamber ensemble works, it is regarded occasional music for aristocrats, but the background is unknown. A vivid and uplifting performance (on authentic instruments) by Ton Koopman (conductor) and the Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra. Also features Divertimentos K.136, 137 and 138.

Mozart/Symphonies Nos.40 & 41 'Jupiter' (Blomstedt, 1981) *

Features the two great symphonies by Mozart in his last days, Nos.40 and 41 "Jupiter". The beauty of touching melody (No.40) and feeling of the cosmos (No.41).

Haydn/Symphonies No.94 'Surprise', No.100 'Military', No.104 'London' (Hogwood, 1983/1984)

The performances on authentic instruments in the 18th-century style.

Pergolesi/Stabat Mater, Salve Regina (Hogwood, 1988)

'Stabat Mater' (means 'the Mother was Standing' in Latin) is a masterpiece of the sacred vocal music composed by Pergolesi, the composer in eighteenth-century Italy. The music set to the Latin lyrics about the sorrow of the Blessed Virgin, who stands beside the cross on which Jesus is hanging. Full of limpid beauty and delicate shades. Performed by Emma Kirkby (soprano), James Bowman (countertenor) and the Academy of Ancient Music. Conducted by Christopher Hogwood. Also includes 'Salve Regina'.

J.S. Bach/Complete Sonatas and Partita for Flute (Brüggen, 1975)

Includes 5 sonatas/partita for flute: BWV1030, 1032, 1034, 1035 and 1013. Soft and delicate sounds of Flauto Traverso (Transverse Flute), the authentic instrument. Also includes the alternative instrumentations of BWV1013, Partita in A minor for Unaccompanied Flute.

J.S. Bach/Weihnachts-Oratorium (Gardiner, 1987)

Christmas Oratorio. Vocal music in a festive and secular mood.

J.S. Bach/Messe in H-Moll (Richter, 1961) *

Mass in B Minor. A summarization of masses based on the Latin Liturgy. A melodic vocal music featuring chorus.

J.S. Bach/Johannes-Passion (Richter, 1964)

St. John Passion. Sacred vocal music based on John of the New Testament. More dramatic than Matthew.

J.S. Bach/Matthäus-Passion (Richter, 1958) *

St. Matthew Passion. Sacred vocal music based on Matthew of the New Testament. An awe-inspiring performance on contemporary instruments.

J.S.Bach/Jagdkantate, Bauernkantate (Harnoncourt, 1988)

Includes 2 popular secular cantatas: BWV 208 'Was mir behagt, ist nur die muntre Jagd!' (My only joy is in the merry hunt!: so-called 'Hunting Cantata') and BWV 212 'Mer hahn en neue Oberkeet' (We've got a new governor, so-called 'Peasant Cantata'). This one can be enjoyed listening comfortably. Conducted by Nikolaus Harnoncourt.

J.S.Bach/Cantatas BWV106/118b/198 (Gardiner, 1989)

Includes 3 cantatas for funeral and memorial service: BWV106 'Gottes Zeit ist die allerbeste Zeit' (God's own time is the very best of times) and others. Conducted by John Eliot Gardiner, performed by the Monteverdi Choir and English Baroque Soloists.

J.S.Bach/Cantatas BWV4/78/80/140/147/199 (Harnoncourt, 1970-1988) *

Includes 6 popular sacred cantatas by Bach: BWV4 'Christ lag in Todes Banden' (Christ lay to death in bondage), BWV78 'Jesu, der du meine Seele' (Jesus, thou who this my spirit), BWV80 'Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott' (A mighty fortress is our God), BWV140 'Wachet auf, ruft uns die Stimme' (Wake, arise, the voices call us), BWV147 'Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben' (Heart and mouth and deed and living), and BWV199 'Mein Herze schwimmt im Blut' (My heart is bathed in blood). Selected from Bach's complete cantata works by Harnoncourt and Leonhardt.

J.S. Bach/Three Keyboard Concertos (BWV1052/55/56) (Takahashi, 1973) **

The Japanese contemporary music player/composer, Yuji Takahashi plays Bach's three Keyboard Concertos, No.1 in D Minor (BWV1052), No.4 in A Major (BWV1055) and No.5 in F Minor (BWV1056) on piano (partly electronic piano) with the Tokyo Bach Players.

J.S. Bach/Konzerte für Cembalo (BWV1052-1058)/Konzert für 2 Cembali (BWV1060) (Pinnock, 1979/1980)

Cembalo concertos Nos.1-7 and so on. The performance on original instruments. The 2nd movement of the No.5 is well-known as "Bach's Arioso".

J.S.Bach/The Six Partitas (Gould, 1957-1963) *

A summarization of classical suite in the form of dance music in the Baroque period.

J.S. Bach/The Goldberg Variations (Gould, 1981) **

The re-recording by Glenn Gould (piano) in his later years. Said to be composed for curing Count Keyserlingk's insomnia, but Gould's performance with ever-changing speed is vivid and crisp, as if to awaken people from sleep. Highly recommended.

J.S. Bach/The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book II (Gould, 1966-1971) *

The Book II. Gould's Bach once had been regarded as heterodoxy, but now it has been regarded as classic.

J.S. Bach/The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I (Gould, 1962-1965) **

This book is, so to speak, "the Old Testament" of the music on keyed-instruments.

J.S.Bach/Two-Part Inventions and Three-Part Sinfonias (Gould, 1964) *

Well-known as etudes for piano lessons.

The Glenn Gould Edition: J.S. Bach/Italian Concerto, Concerto After Marcello, Fugues on Albinoni Themes, Variations, Fantasies & Fugues, Scarlatti/Sonatas, C.P.E. Bach/Sonata (Gould, 1959-1980) *

The album released after Glenn Gould (piano) died and based on the project he had called "Bach in the Italian Style" before his death. "Concerto in D minor after Alessandro Marcello" (BWV 974) and "Italian Concerto" (BWV 971) are particularly splendid. "Concerto after A. Marcello" is a keyboard piece arranged from Italian composer, Alessandro Marcello's oboe concerto. "Italian Concerto" is famous as a keyboard piece in the style of Italian concerto grosso.

J.S.Bach/Das Orgelwerk (Walcha, 1956-1970) *

The organ works. Also features "The Art of Fugue". A box set of 12 discs. Severe and sublime.

J.S.Bach/Cello Suites (Casals, 1936/38/39) *

This recording is too old, but I like it.

J.S. Bach/Sonaten für Violine & Cembalo Nos.1-6 (Kuijken/Leonhardt, 1973)

6 sonatas for violin & harpsichord. Augustan performance by baroque violin.

J.S. Bach/3 Sonatas & 3 Partitas for Violin Solo (Kremer, 1980) **

Kremer's intellectual and subtle performance.

J.S. Bach/Musical Offering (Leonhardt/Kuijken, 1974)

An offering to the King of Prussia, Frederick the Great. A gem of contrapuntal chamber music.

J.S. Bach/Violinkonzerte (Pinnock, 1983) *

Violin concertos. Delicate performance on original instruments. Clear and pure sounds.

J.S.Bach/Brandenburgische Konzerte Nr.1-6 (Leonhardt, 1976/1977) **

Brandenburg concertos Nos.1-6. A masterpiece of Bach's ensembles.

J.S. Bach/4 Ouvertüren (Richter, 1960-1980)

The orchestral suites Nos.1-4. "Air on a G String" is an arrangement of the aria of the No.3.

Händel/Messiah (Gardiner, 1982)

Handel's oratorio. The "Hallelujah" chorus of the Part Two is well-known.

Händel/The Water Music, The Music for the Royal Fireworks (Hogwood, 1978/81)

Refreshing music for open-air events.

D. Scarlatti/Sonatas (Horowitz Plays Scarlatti) (Horowitz, 1962/64/68)

Includes 17 pieces selected from over 500 sonatas for cembalo composed by Italian composer Domenico Scarlatti. One of the origins of modern keyboard playing. Simple and clear like the music in the early classical period. Played by Vladimir Horowitz on a modern piano.

Vivaldi/Le Quattro Stagioni (I Musici, 1982)

The concertos "The Four Seasons". A famous Baroque masterpiece. Scene-descriptive conception.

Pachelbel/Canon & Gigue (Hogwood, 1980)

A collection of popular Baroque instrumental works. Includes Pachelbel's "Canon & Gigue", Vivaldi's "Concerto for 4 Violins & Cello", two pieces from Gluck's opera "Orfeo ed Euridice"; "Dance of the Furies" and "Dance of the Blessed Spirits", Handel's "Arrival of the Queen (Sinfonia)" from oratorio "Solomon", Vivaldi's "Concerto for 2 Trumpets", three pieces (Overture, Minuette and Gigue) from Handel's opera "Berenice", and two pieces (Air and Hornpipe) from Handel's "Water Music". Original-based performances on authentic instruments. Christopher Hogwood conducts the Academy of Ancient Music.

Corelli/12 Concerti grossi, op.6 (Pinnock, 1988)

Concertos Nos.1-6. A standard of the later-baroque instrumental music. The beauty of moderation and symmetry.

Monteverdi/Vespro della Beata Vergine (Gardiner, 1989)

"Vespers of the Blessed Virgin". Sacred vocal music in the 17th century.

Josquin des Prés/Missa Pange Lingua, Missa La sol fa re mi (The Tallis Scholars, 1986)

The composer of the Renaissance, Josquin Desprez' mass, "Missa Pange Lingua" based on the melody of Gregorian chant is noted as a masterpiece of the polyphonic vocal music in the Renaissance. Performed by the Tallis Scholars, the famous English chorus group. Directed by Peter Phillips. The clear female chorus is beautiful. Also features "Missa La sol fa re mi". This disc received the England's Gramophone magazine's Record of the Year Award in 1987.