Penguin Guide Rosette CDs - Sorted by Composer

Complete from 1989

Adams
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Shaker loops [also Glass, Reich and Heath] -- LCO, Warren-Green. Virgin VC7 91168-2. PG91: rosette - inspired performance; outstandingly vivid recording.

Albeniz o Cantos de Espana: Cordoba, Op. 234/4; Mallorca, Op. 202; Suite espanola, Op. 47; .. -- Julian Bream, . RCA RCD 14378. PG90: rosette - for both albeniz and granodos:superb form, slendid recital. o Cantos de Espana: Cordoba, Op. 234/4; Mallorca, Op. 202; Suite espanola, Op. 47; .. -- Julian Bream, . RCA Navigator 74321 17903-2. PG95: rosette - reissue added the Rodrigo; not the single finest recital of Spanish guitar music; bargain of bargains. o Iberia; navara; Suite espanola -- Alicia de Larrocha, . London 417 887-1. PG90: rosette - masterly command of kb and coulor, light articulation and beautifully judged rubato.

Auber
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Le domino noir -- Jo, Vernet, Ford, Power, ..., London Voices, ECO, Bonynge. London 440 646-2 (2). PG96: rosette - ECO is outstanding and casting i near perfect; sparkle from first to last. Overtures [also Suppe, Overtures ***] -- Detroit SO, Paray. Mercury (M) 434 309-2. PG94: rosette - dazzling performances; mercury at its best engineering (1959).

Auric
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L'Eventaio de Jeanne; Les Maries de la Tour Eiffel (Ballets) -- Philh. O, Simon. Chandos CHAN 8356. PG90: rosette - little short of spectaular.

Bach
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Bach and Tureck at home -- Rosalyn Tureck (piano), . TROY 007-010 (4). PG91: rosette - playing is legendary; a wide dynamic and expressive range with consummate artistry. Brandenburg concertos 1-6, Orchestra suites 1-4 -- Busch Chamber Players, Busch. EMI (M) CHS7 64047-2 (3). PG94: rosette - (in mono, on modern instruments) greater authenticity of spirit than many rigid modern performances.

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Cantata #82, Ich habe genug -- Hotter, Philh O, Bernard. EMI (M) CDH7 63198-2. PG90: rosette for both - one of greatest cantata performances ever; fine transfer (1950). Cantatas 82, 159 and 170 -- Baker, Tear, St Anthony Singers, ASMF, Marriner. London 430 260-2. PG91: rosette - among the half-dozen or so contata records that ought to be in every collection. Cello suites 1-6 (unaccompanied) -- Rostropovich, . EMI CDS5 55363-2 (2). PG95: rosette - revelatory, in may ways the most powerful recroding of all, positive and personal, full of individual perceptions. Chorales, various orchestral arrangements -- Stokowski, . RCA (M) GD 60922. PG94: rosette - (mono) no technical apologies; collectors item is the Chaconne. Chromatic fantasia and Fugue in D min BWV 903; 4 duets BWV 802-5; Italian concerto in F BWV 971; Partita in B min MWV 831 -- C. Rousset, . OL 433 054-2. PG94: rosette - authority and flair; strongly recommended. Complete Organ Music -- Hurford, . London (B) 444 410-2 (17). PG96: rosette - (1972-84)Hurford influenced a complete change in approach; splendedly transfered; supreme investment. Fantasia & imitato in B min BWV 563; Fugue in C BWV 575; 2 fugues on themes of Albinoni BWV 950/1; 8 short preludes BWV 553-60; Tocattas in G minor and major -- Kevin Bowyer, organ, . Nimbus NI 5377. PG94: rosette - few more invigorating Bach organ recitals than this. Fantasia and fugue in G min BWV 542; Passacaglia and fugue in c min BWV 582; Schuebler chorales BWV 645-50; Toccata and fugue in F BWV 540; Toccata, adagio and fugue in C BWV 564 -- Preston, . DG 435 381-2. PG94: rosette - magnificent demo of the splendor and power of BA's more ambitious organ statements; one of the very finest B collections of the digital cd era. Goldberg variations -- Rosalyn Tureck, . Vai Audio VAIA 1029. PG94: rosette - very special: no other Bach played on the piano quite as compelling as this. Organ Works, Vol 12: Pastorale BWV590; Prelude and fugue in G minor BWV 542, A minor BWV543; Toccatas in C, D minor; T & F in F BWV540 - Maire-Claire Alain, . Erato (M) 4509 96745-2. PG95: rosette - magnificent Dutch organs; ideally chosen group;recital of the highest order; superbly recorded. Organ works, vol 3 -- Hurford, . London (M) 421 617-2 (3). PG90: rosette - huge range. St John's Passion -- Pears, Harper, Hodgsonm tear, Howell, Shirley-Quirk, Wandsworth B Ch, ECP, Britten. London Double 443 859-2 (2). PG95: rosette - wonderfully vivid 1971 recording; freshness of interpretation; superb bargain. The Well-tempered Clavier, Book II -- Andras Schiff, . London 417 236-2 (2). PG90: rosette - no one more imaginative or persuasive; pianistic. The Well-tempered Clavier, Book I -- Andras Schiff, . London 414 388-2 (2). PG90: rosette - no one more imaginative or persuasive; pianistic.

(unaccompanied) Violin Sonatas 1-3 BWV1001/3/5; Violin Partitas 1-3 BWV1002/4/6 -- Itzhak Perlman, . EMI CDS7 49483-2 (2). PG90: rosette - insight brings out deepest qualities in these 6 searching masterpeices. Violin Concertos Nr 1 BWV1041 (i), 2 BWV1041 (ii), double Violin Concerto (iii) BWV 1052, Double Concerto for Violin and Oboe BWV 1060 (iv) -- Grumiaux (i-iv), Krebbers (ii), Holliger (iv), Les Solistes Romands (iiii), New Philh O (iv), Gerecz (i-iii), de Waart (iv). Philips (M) 420 700-2. PG90: rosette - outstanding success. Violin sonatas 1-6; sonatas for violin and continuo BWV1020-24 -Grumiaux, Jaccottet, Mermoud, . Philips Duo 454 011-2 (2). PG96: rosette - marvelously played with great vitality; endless treasure to be discovered. Violin Sonatas (for violin and harpsichord) Nrs 1-6 BWV1014/9 -- Grumiaus, Jaccottet, Mermound, . Philips (M) 426 452-2 (2). PG90: rosette - endless treasure to be discovered here. Violin sonatas (unaccompanied) 1-3; Violin partitas 1-3 -- Oleg Kagan, . Erato 2292 45805-2 (2). PG94: rosette - worthy momento; magnetism of liver performances; technically almost flawless.

Balakirev o Islamey -- Berezovsky (piano), . Teldec 4509 96516-2. PG96: rosette - amazing account of Islamey; remarkable transcription of NOBM [also Liadov, Medtner, Rachmaninov ***].

Barber o Violin concerto, op 14 [Maxwell Davies, VC ***] -- Stern, NYPO, Bernstein. Sony Stern Edition SMK 64506. PG96: rosette - 1964 premiere, consistently inspired and superlative quality. o Violin concerto, op 14 -- Shaham, LSO, Previn. DG 439 886-2. PG95: rosette - the Barbar has great virtuosity and a reading of strong profile; worthy to rank along side the Stern/Bernstein.

Bartok
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14 Bagatelles. op. 6; 2 Elegies, op 8b; 3 Hungarian forlk tunes; 6 Rumanian fork tunes; Sonatina -- Zoltan Kocsis, . Philips 434 104-2. PG94: rosette - Bartok playing doesnt come much better than this.

Beethoven o Fidelio -- Ludwig, Vickers, ... Philh Ch and O, Klemperer. EMI (M) CMS7 69324-2. PG90: rosette - admirably fresh, incandescent. o Fidelio -- Ludwig, Vickers, Frick, Berry, Crass, Philh. Ch/O Klemperer, . EMI CDS5 55170-2 (2). PG95: rosette - reissued at full price, superbly remastered; well worth the cost. o Missa solemnis in D, op 123 -- Margiono, Robbin, Kendall, Miles, Monteverdi Ch, E Bar Soloists, Gardiner. DG 429 779-2. PG91: rosette - a breakthrough in period performance of B; inspired reading matches even greatest of traditional. o Piano Concerto 5, Grosse Fugue in B Flat, op 133 -- Kovacevich, Australian CO, . EMI (M) CD-EMX 2184. PGB92: rosette - unsurpassed as an interpreter of this most magnificant of concertos; first choice. o Piano Concerto Nr 5; Choral Fantasia, Op. 80 -- Tan, Schuetz Choir, London Classical Players, Norrington. EMI CDC7 49965-2. PG90: rosette - original insruments contrast Bishop-Kovacevich but every bit as stimulating. o Piano Concerto Nr 5; Piano Sonata Nr 30 in E, Op. 109 -- Bishop-Kovacevich, LSO, C. Davis. Philips 422 482-2. PG90: rosette - one of the most deeply satisfying versions. o Piano sonatas 1-32 -- Kempff, . DG (B) 447 966-2 (8). PG96: rosette - the earlier of his two cycles is even more intensely conveyed (1951-6); more personal, individual. o Piano Sonatas 1-32 -- Schnabel, . EMI (M) CHS7 63765-2 (8). PG91: rosette - one of the towering classics of the gramaphone; an indispencable reference point.. o Piano Sonatas 21, 23, 26 -- Gilels, . DG 419 162-2. PG90: rosette - three of G's finest analogue recordings (1972-5); relish and study. o Piano sonatas 30, 31 [also Bach, Brahms, Granados, Mendelssohn and Scarlatti] -- Myra Hess, . EMI CDH7 63787-2. PG91: rosette - 1953 celebrated performances; these thoughtful and deeply jusical performances will be essential. o Piano sonatas 8, 21, 23 -- Gilels, . DG Beethoven Edition 447 914-2. PG96: rosette - 21 and 23 among finest ever made;. o Serenade in D for flute, violin and viola, Op. 25 -- Israel Flute Trio, . Pickwick/CDI PWK 1139. PG90: rosette - superb flautist, wonderfully natural sound and balance. o Sonatas 28-32 -- Solomon, . EMI (M) CDH7 64708-2. PG94: rosette - classic performances: magisterial, thoughtful, deeply lyrical and commanding. o Sonatas 8, 14. 23. 26 -- Rubenstein, . RCA (M) 09026 61443-2. PG94: rosette - sense of live interpretation is especially vivid; fuller sound than on lp. o Sonatas 8, 23, 31 -- Gilels, . DG (B) 439 426-2. PG94: rosette - remarkable bargain; 31 is a performance of real stature. o String Qts 1, 9, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16; Violin sonata 3 [Schubert SQ 8 ***] -Busch Qt; Busch, Serkin;, . EMI (M) CHS5 65308-2 (4).

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PG95: rosette - no group has penetrated deeper into the heart of the scores; excellently remastered. Symphonies 3, 7, 8; Consecration of the house overture -- BPO, van Kempen. Philips (M) 438 533-2 (2). PG94: rosette - (mono) both 3 and 8 are worth a rosette;very impressive. Symphonies 4, 6 -- Columbia SO, Walter. Sony Bruno Walter Edition SMK 64462. PG95: rosette - affectionate and completely integrated performances; beautifully balanced sound. Symphonies 5, 7 -- VPO, Kleiber. DG (M) 447 400-2. PG95: rosette - 5th islegendary and one of the greatest performances ever recorded; 7th controversial. Symphony 7 -- RPO, Davis. EMI forte CZS5 69364-2 (2). PG96: rosette - 1961 great performance, on par with Kleiber 5; unforgettable. Violin concerto in D, op 61 [Mozart, Violin concerto 5 ***] -- Schneiderhan, BPO, Jochum. DG (M) 447 403-2. PG95: rosette - among the greatest recordings of this work; new coupling more generous. Violin Concerto in D, Op.61; Romances Nrs 1/2 -- Schneidermhan, BPO, Jochum; Oistrakh, RPO, Goosens, . DG (B) 427 197-2. PG90: rosette - outstanding - serene beauty of slow movement in VC truly memorable. Violin concerto in D; Romances 1-2 -- Kremer, ECO, Harnoncourt. Teldec 9031 74881-2. PG94: rosette - one of the most commanding recordings, both polished and full of flair, magnetically spontaneous with tone ravishingly pure. Wellingtons victory, op 91 -- LSO, Dorati. Mercury (M) 434 360-2. PG96: rosette - most famous of all Mercury records; spectacle is quite extraordinary.

Berlin
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Annie get your gun -- Amb Ch., L. Inf., McGLinn. EMI CDC7 54206-2. PGO93: rosette - most delectable of all show records.

Berlioz o 8 Songs -- Hampson, Parsons, . EMI CDC5 55047. PG94: rosette - unfogettable collection of romantic songs; H in magnificent voice pwerfully accompanied by P; a winning disc very well recorded. o Les Nuits d'ete ... -- Baker, New Philh O ..., Barbirolli .... EMI (M) CDM7 69544-2. PG90: rosette - ravishing results. o Les Troyens Parts 1&2 -- Veasey, Vickers, ..., Davis. Philips 416 432-2 (4). PG90: rosette - Vickers a ringing Aeneas. o Les Troyens -- Lakes, Pollet, Voigt, Montreal Schubert Ch & SO, Dutoit. London 443 693-2 (4).

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PG95: rosette - controversial - RL retains allegiance to the Davis set passionate committment of Dutoit's reading. Overture: Beatrice et Benedict -- Chicago SO, Monteux. RCA (M) GD 86805. PG90: rosette - M exerts a unique grip on this highly charged symphony .... Overtures [Saint Saens: e rouetd'Omphale ***] -- Boston So, Munch. RCA (M) 9026 61400-2. PG94: rosette - dazzingly brilliant performances.

Bernstein o Candide, Westside Story -- Hadley, Anderson, ... LS Ch/O; Te kanawa, Carreas, ..., Bernstein. DG 447 958-2 (3). PG96: rosette - two rosetted performances coupled together (but missing the witty naration in Candide). o Candide -- Hadley, Gedda, etc, Bernstein. DG 429 734-2. PG91: rosette. o West Side Story -- Te Kanawa, Carreras, etc, Bernstein. DG 415 253-2 (2). PG90: rosette - highly successful.

Bliss
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Checkmate -- E N Philh O, Lloyd Jones. Hyperion CDA 66436. PG91: rosette - horoscope is a sheer delight, excellent playing and first-class sound.

Boieldieu o Harp Concerto in 3 tempi in C -- Marissa Robles, ASMF, Brown. London (M) 425 723-2. PG91: rosette - this collection makes one of the most rewarding harp anthologies ever issued.

Borodin o Polovtsian dances -- RPO, Beecham. EMI CDC7- 47717-2. PG90: rosette - 1957 - exrtraordinary drama and charisma.

Bouzignac o Te Deum; Motets -- Les Pages de la Chapelle, Les Arts Florissants, Christie. HM HMC 901471. PG95: rosette - thrilling discovery helped by vividly immediate sound.

Brahms o German Requiem -- Margiono, Gilfry, Monteverdi Ch, Orch R&R, Gardiner. Philips 432 140-2. PG91: rosette - reolutionary account; one could not ask for a more complete rennovation. o Horn trio in E flat, op. 40, String sextet no 2 in G. op 36 -- Bloom, Tree, Serkin, etc, . Sony SMK 46249. PG91: rosette - horn trio unforgettable. o Hungarian Dances 1-21 -- Budapest SO, Bogar. Naxos 8.550110. PG91: rosette - sheer delight. o Lieder -- Hotter, Philh O, Bernard. EMI (M) CDH7 63198-2. PG90: rosette for both - one of greatest cantata performances ever; fine transfer (1950). o Piano Concerto No 1 in D Minor op 15; 2 songs, op 91 -- Kovacevich, LPO/Sawallisch; Murray, Imai, . EMI CDC7 54578-2. PG94: rosette - pc is finest to have appeared in years; one of hte outstanding records of the year and deserves the strongest recommendation. o Viola Sonatas 1, 2 [Schumann, Maerchenbilder ***] -- Lars Anders Tomter, Leif Ove Andsnes, . Virgin VC7 59309-2. PG94: rosette - best account now on cd; altogether rather special.

Bridge
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Elegy; Scherzetto -- Julian Lloyd Weber, John McCabe, . ASV CDDCA 807. PG94: rosette - collection offers LW's finest performances on disc.

Britten o Lachrymae; Prelude and Fugue; Simple Symphony; Variations on a theme by Frank Bridge; Elegy for solo viola -- Norwegian CO/Brown; Lars Anders Tomter, . Virgin VC5 45121-2. PG95: rosette - SS and Variations match and even surpass Brittens; demonstration bracket recording. o Paul Bunyan -- Lawless, Dressen, Nelson, Ch & O of Plymouth Music Series, Brunelle. Virgin VCD 790710-2 (2). PGO93: rosette - clean vivid sound; richly deserves the prizes it has won. o Peter Grimes -- Pears, Watson, ..., Britten. London 414 577-2. PG90: rosette - one of the first fine achievements of the stereo era; definitive. o The Holy Sonnets of John Donne, op 35; ... -- Bostridge, Johnson, . Hyperion CDA 66823. PG96: rosette - a lyrical beauty that encompasses a wider range of tone and dynamic than Pears; inspired performances. o The Prince of the Pagodas -- L. Sinf, Knussen. Virgin VCD 791103-2 (2). PG90: rosette - glorious richness. o Violin Concerto, op 15; Canadian carnival overture; Mont Junc -- Lorraine McAslan, ECO, Bedford. Collins 1123-2. PG91: rosette - performance of consummate and commanding artistry;.

Bruch
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Violin Concerto 1 in G minor, Op. 26; Scottish Fantasy, op. 46 -- Cho-Laing Lin, CSO, Slatkin. CBS MK 42315. PG90: rosette - radiantly beautiful performances. Violin concerto 2 in D minor, op 44 -- Nai-Yan Hu, Seattle SO, Schwarz. Delos DE 3156. PG96: rosette - sympathetic warmth and concert-hall fullness.

Bruckner o Masses 1-3 -- Mathis, Schiml, OPchman, Ridderbusch; Stader, Hellman, Haefliger, Borg; Bav R Ch/O, Jochum. DG (M) 447 409-2 (2). PG95: rosette - remarkable achievement and splendid choice. o Symphony #8 -- VPO, Karajan. DG 427 611-2. PG90: rosette - most impressive of all K's versions; awe-inspiring. o Symphony #9 -- Columbia SO, Walter. CBS (M) MYK 44825. PG90: rosette - 1959, superb achievment. o Symphony 9 -- NYPO, Walter. Sony Bruno Walter Edition SMK 64483. PG96: rosette - one of the highlights of the entire edition.

Brumel o Missa, Et ecce terrae motus, etc -- Huelgas Ens, van Naevel. Sony SK 46348. PG91: rosette - 15th cent, revelation.

Busoni
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Sarabande and cortege (Dr Faust) -- RPO, Revenaugh. EMI (M) CDM7 69840-2. PG90: rosette - exceptional interest; first rate - rec'd with all possible enthusiasm.

Byrd
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Mass for 3 voices; Mass for 4 voices; Mass for 5 voices -- King's College, Cambridge Ch, Willcocks. London 433 675-2. PG96: rosette - masses for 3-4 voices remain classics of the gramaphone (1961). My Lady Nevells Booke, 1591 -- Hogwood, . O-L 430 484-2 (3). PG94: rosette - the finest keyboard writing in the 16th cent; masterly keyboard technique and artistic sensitivity; recording is exemplary; a landmark in records of early keyboard music.

Canteloube o Chants d'Auvergne, series 1-5; appendix -- Davrath, de la Roche, Kingsley, . Vanguard (M) 08.8002.72. PGB92: rosette - pioneer recording;two hours of enchanting music. o Chants d'Avuergne -- Gomez, R Liverpool PO, Handley. EMI (M) CD-EMX 9500. PGB92: rosette - memorable characterful recording; spendid bargain.

Cardosa o Requiem, magnificat, motests -- Tallis Scholars, Phillips. Gimell CDGIM 021. PG90: rosette - renaissance prtugal; glorius issue.

Chabrier o Briseis -- Rodgers, Padmore, Keenleside, Harries, George, BBC Schottish SO, Ossonce. Hyperion CDA 66803. PG95: rosette - passionate performance; full atmospheric sound. o L'Etoile -- Alliot-Lugas, Gautier, Bacquier, ... Lyone Opera Ch/O, Gardiner. EMI CDS7 47889-8 (2). PG90: rosette - this fizzing opeeretta is a winner: subtelty and refinement of score, performance sparkles bewitchingly.

Charpentier o Medee -- Feldman, Ragon, ..., Christie. Harmonia Mundi HMC90 1139/41. PG90: rosette - period instruments, soloists first rate, excellent recording.

Chausson o Chanson perpetuelle, op 37 -- Janet Baker, Melos Ens, . London (M) 425 9482. PG91: rosette - magical.

Chopin o Ballades 1-4; Etudes in E, C Sharp; Mazurkas in F minor, A minor, D; Nocturne in F, Waltzes in E flat, A flat -- Perahia, . Sony SK 64399. PG95: rosette - does not come better than this; masterly recital in a class of its own. o Les Sylphides (also Delibes Coppelia, Offenbach Gaite parisienne) -- BPO, Karajan. DG (B) 429 163-2. PG90: rosette - one of K's finest recordings. o Les Sylphides (also Delibes, Offenbach, Gounod, Ravel, Tchaikovsky) -BPO, Karajan. DG Double 437 404-2 (2).

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PG90: rosette - one of K's finest recordings; no coupled with more ballet music. Various -- Evgeny Kissin, . RCA 09026 60445-2. PG94: rosette - C playing of real quality and well recorded. Waltzes 1-14; ... -- Dinu Lipatti, . EMI (M) CDH7 69802-2. PG90: rosette - classic performances.

Cimerosa o Il matrimonio segreto -- Fischer-Dieskau, Auger, Varady, Hamari, Rinaldi, Davies, ECO, barenboim. DG (M) 437 696-2 (3). PGO93: rosette - a fizzing performance; outstanding cast; vividly transferred to cd.

Clarke, Rebecca o Piano Trio, Viola Sonata [Beach, Piano quintet ***] -- Roscoe, Watkinson, Waterman, Jackson, . ASV CDDCA 932. PG96: rosette - not many chanber works match RC's two masterpeices for power and passion; performances are masterly, with full-bodied well-balanced recording.

Clemens non papa o Mass and motets -- Tallis Scholars, Phillips. Gimell CDGIM 013. PG90: rosette - superb performance, uncannily real and superbly balanced.

Copland o Appalachian Spring, Billy the kid, Rodeo, Symph#3, etc -- NTPO, Bernstein. Sony (M) MK 42265. PG91: rosette - racy rhythmic exuberance.

Cornysh o 9 pieces from the Eton Choir Book -- Tallis Scholars, Philips. Gimell CDGIM 014. PG90: rosette - magnificent totally committed accounts of these glorious pieces.

Couperin o L'Art de toucher le calvecin: Preludes, ... -- Skip Sempe (harpsichord), . HM RD 77219.

PG91: rosette - playing of real insight and flare; an outstanding issue and an ideal starting point for any colector embarking on C..

Crusell o Clarinet concerto No 2 in F min, op 5 -- Johnson, ECO, Groves. ASV CDDCA 559. PG90: rosette - made emma johnson a star. o Clarinet concertos No 1-3 -- Johnson, RPO/Hebig, ECO/Groves, . ASV CDDCA 784. PG96: rosette - generous recoupling; first choice above all others.

Cy
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On the Twentieth Century -- CH & O, Paul Gemignani, . Sony SK 35330. PGO93: rosette - score is a winner all the way; difficult to imagine better.

Debussy o 2 Arabesques; Berceuse heroique, D'un cahier d'esquisses; Hommage a Haydn; Images Books 1/2; ... -- Zoltan Kocsis, . Philips 422 404-2. PG90: rosette - quite outstanding; piano is among most realistic we have heard. o Berceuse heroique; Dances sacre et profane; Imagesl Jeux; Marche ecossaise; La Mer; Nocturnes; Prelude a l'apri-midi d'um faun; Rhapsodie for clarinet and orch -- Concertgebouw O, various. Philips Duo 438 742-2 (2). PG94: rosette - this must now rank as the finest D collection on CD and one of the greatest bargains on offer at present. o Etudes, Books 1,2 -- Mitsuko Uchida, . Philips 422 412-2. PG94: rosette - her finest recording, but arguably one of the best ever recordings of the instrument. o Images, Iberia -- Chicago SO, Reiner. RCA (M) GD 60179. PG90: rosette - both - none more refined, marvelously evocative. o Jeux; La Mer; Prelude a l'apres-midi d'un faune -- LPO, Boulez. EMI (M) CDEMX 9502. PG90: rosette - excellence and electricity (but not without recording problems). o Nocturnes; Le Martyre de S.Sebastien; 2 Fanfares and S. fragments; Printemps -- Ch O de Paris, Barenboim. DG (M) 435 069-2. PGB92: rosette - one of B's very finest records. o Preludes: Books 1/2 (complete) -- Walter Gieseking, . EMI (M) CDH7 610042. PG90: rosette - testifies to this legends magic. o Sonata for flute, viola and harp; Violin sonata in G minor -- Kyung Wha Chung, Radu Lupu, . London (M) 421 154-2. PG90: rosette - glorius accounts, beautifully recorded.

Delius
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Choral Works -- Lott, Walker, Rolfe-Johnson, Amb. S., RPO, Fenby. Unicorn DKPCD 9029. PG90: rosette - the most ravishingly beautiful of all delius' discs. Orchestral music -- RPO, Beecham. EMI CDS7 47509-8 (2). PG90: rosette - G 1987 award remastering historical material; as rewarding as the finest live performances. Vol 1 - Dance rhapsody 1, 2; Fantastic Dance; Preludes 1-3; Zum carnival; Song of the High Hills -- RPO, Del Mar, Fenby, Parkin, Ambrosian S., . Unicorn UKCD 2071. PG95: rosette - best of the 7 volumes issued so far.

d'India o Il primo Libro de Madrigali -- Chiaroscuro, L. Baroque, Rogers, . Virgin Veritas VER5 61165-2. PG95: rosette - outstanding collection in every way.

D'Indy o Symphonie sur un chant ... -- Chicago SO, Monteux. RCA (M) GD 86805. PG90: rosette - M exerts a unique grip on this highly charged symphony ....

Dittersdorf o Harp Concerto in D -- Marissa Robles, ASMF, Brown. London (M) 425 7232. PG91: rosette - this collection makes one of the most rewarding harp anthologies ever issued.

Dohnanyi o Rural hungarica; variations on a nursery tune; serenade in C -- Budapest SO, Lehel. Hungariton White Label HRC 121. PG90: rosette - an outstanding bargain.

Donizetti o La fille du regiment -- Sutherland, Pavarotti, Malas, Sinclair, Coates, ROHCG Ch. & O, Bonynge. London 414 520-2 (2). PGO93: rosette - brilliant, happy opera set.

Dutilleux o Symphonies 1, 2 -- BBC PO, Tortelier. Chandos CHAN 9194. PG94: rosette - marvelously resourceful and invertive scores given vivid and persuasive performances; definitiely the CD to have. o Symphony Nr 1; Timbres, espace, mouvement -- O. Nat. de Lyon, Baudo. HM HMC 905159. PG90: rosette - orchestral textures luminous and iridescent; superb engineering.

Dvorak o Cello concerto in B minor -- Rostropovich, BPO, karajan. DG (M) 447 413-2. PG95: rosette - unmatched for intensity of lyrical feeling and spontaneity; ideal choice. o Piano quartets Nos 1 and 2 -- Domus, . Hyperion CDA 66287. PG90: rosette - glorius pieces, inspired playing; altogether outstanding. o Requiem op 89; 6 Biblical songs from op 99 -- Stader, Wagner, Haeflinger, Borg, Czech PO/Ch/Ancerl, Fischer-Dieskau. DG Double 437 377-2 (2). PG95: rosette - superb set from 59, inspired performance; F-D at his superb best in the songs. o Slavonic Dances 1-16 -- Cleveland O, Szell. Sony (M) SBK 48161. PG94: rosette - exuberant, elegant and marvelously played; charisma unforgettable; orchestral playing of extraordinary distinction. o Slavonic dances no 1-8, op 46; 9-16, op 72 -- Cleveland O, von Dohnanyi. London 430 171-2. PG91: rosette - splendid set superbly played and recorded. o Symphonies 1-9; Overtures;... -- LSO, Kertesz. London (B) 430 046-2 (6). PGB92: rosette - easy first choice; full-bodied and vivid. o Symphony #5, Othello Overture, Scherzo capriccioso -- Oslo PO, Jansons. EMI CDC7 49995-2. PG90: rosette - as persuasive as any and more refined. o Symphony 8; Legends 4,6,7; Scherzo Capriccioso -- Halle O, Barbirolli. EMI (M) CDM7 64193-2. PGB92: rosette - immense vitality and forward impetus; electrifying illusion of the concert hall.

Dyson
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Concierto leggiero; Concerto da camera; Concerto de chiesa -- Eric Parkin, City of L Sinfonia, Hickox. Chandos CHAN 9076. PG94: rosette - wonderfully fresh and committed; highly recommended. Violin concerto; Children's suite -- Mordkovitch, City of L Sinfonia, Hickox. Chandos CHAN 9369. PG95: rosette - light work of formidable technical dificulties; two rarities to treasure.

Elgar
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Cello Concerto in E minor, op 85, etc -- Navarra, Halle O, Barbirolli. EMI (M) CDM7 63955-2. PG91: rosette - most fascinating and desirable of all the Barbirolli reissues. Cello concerto in E minor -- Du Pre, LSO, Barbirolli. EMI CDC7 47329-2. PG90: rosette - both - rhapsodic. Cockaigne overture; Enigma variations; Intro and allegro for strings; Serenade for strings -- BBC SO, Andrew Davis. Teldec 9031 73279-2. PG94: rosette - electrifying; surely a worthy successor to Barbirolli in this repertoire; outstanding in every way. Coronation ode, the Kingdom -- Lott, Hodgson, Kings C Ch. ..., New Phil O/Ledger; Price, Minton, Young, shirley-Quirk, LPO Ch/SO, Boult, . EMI (M) CMS7 6420902 (2). PG94: rosette - CO is an Elgarian treasure and in demonstration bracket; Kingdom is a glorious performance. Intro and allegro for strings, serenade for strings in E minor; Elegy op 58, Sospiri, op 70 -- Sinfonia of L, Allegri Qt, NPO/Barbirolli, . EMI CDC7 47537-2. PG96: rosette - inspirational coupling; a triumph. Introduction and allega for strings, ... -- LCO, Warren-Green. Virgin CUV5 61126-2. PG90: rosette - radiant account of the lark ascending; great ardor and breadth. Introduction and allega for strings, ... -- LCO, Warren-Green. Virgin VCY 790819-2. PG90: rosette - both - impressive debut, electric and immediate. Scenes from the Saga of King Olaf, op 30 -- Cahill, Langridge, Rayner-Cook, LPO Ch, LPO, Handley. EMI CDS7 47659-8. PG90: rosette - finest elgar work before enigma; demonstration class. Sea Pictures -- Du Pre, LSO, Barbirolli. EMI CDC7 47329-2. PG90: rosette - both - rhapsodic. Symphony 1 -- Halle O, Judd. Carlton PCD 2019. PG95: rosette - authentic; outshines in pacing and phrasing; Halle's most beaut\. Symphony 1 -- Halle O, Judd. Pickwick PCD 956. PGB92: rosette - authentic; outshines in pacing and phrasing; Halle's most beautiful disc in years. The Black Knight; Part songs; Scenes from the Saga of King Olaf -- RLPO Ch/Groves, Cahill, Langridge, Raynor Cooke, LPO Ch/Handley, . EMI (M) CMS5 60104-2 (2). PG94: rosette - BK a strong fresh performance; clear full recording. Violin Concerto in B min, op 61 -- Kennedy, LPO, Handley. EMI (M) EMX 2058. PG91: rosette.

Emmanuel o Sontaine bourguigonne; Sonatine pastoral; Sonatine 3-6 -- Peter Jacobs, . Continuum CCD 1048. PG94: rosette - superbly played; not to be missed.

Enescu o Oedipe -- van Dam, Bacquier, Gedda, Quilico, ..., Orfeon Donostierra, Monte Carlo PO, Foster. EMI CDS7 54011-2 (2). PGO93: rosette - an almost ideal recording of a rare long-neglected masterpiece; a musical feast.

Falla
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El amor brujo; the three cornered hat -- Montreal So, Dutoit. London 400 0082. PG90: rosette - idiomatic, colourful and brilliant. El amor brujo -- Tourangeau, Montreal SO, Dutoit. London (M) 430 703-2. PG91: rosette - recording demonstration class, outstanding. Nights in the gardens of Spain -- del Pueyo, LAP, , Martinon. Philips (M) 442 751-2 (2). PG95: rosette - 55 recording has never been surpassed.

Faure
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Complete Piano Music -- Katheryn Stoff, with Martin Roscoe, . Hyperion CDA 66911/4 (4). PG95: rosette - a revelation; a masterly set. Piano quartets Nos 1 and 2 -- Domus, . Hyperion CDA 66166. PG90: rosette - requisite lightness of touch and subtlety. Piano quintets 1, 2 -- Domus, Anthony Marwood, . Hyperion CDA 66766. PG95: rosette - poetic readings; arguably the best-ever version of these two pieces. Songs -- Baker, Parsons, . Hyperion CDA 66320. PG90: rosette - magical performances. Violin sonatas 1, 2; andante in B flat op75, Berceuse, op 16, Romance in B flat, op28 -- Amoyal, Roge, . London 436 866-2. PG95: rosette - they play them as to the manner born; impeccable recording, a lovely disc. Violin Sonatas 1,2 [also Franck Sonata **(*)] -- Grummiaux, Crossley, . Philips 426 384-2. PG90: rosette - immensely refined and rewarding.

Fayrfax o Ave Dei patris filia; Miss O quam glorifica, ... -- Cardinall;s Muisick, Carwood. ASV CDGAU 142. PG95: rosette - inspired performances; crisp, dramatic as well as beautiful blended.

Ferranti o Guitar recital [Ferrer, vignettes ****] -- Simon Wynberg, . Chandos CHAN 8512. PG90: rosette - has the most subtle control of light and shade.

Field
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Piano concertos 2, 3 -- John O'Connor, SCO, Mackerras. Telarc CD 80370. PG94: rosette - beautifully recorded; plays with great distinction and always displays the lightest touch.

Foulds
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String Qts 9, 10 -- Endellion Qt, . Pearl SHECD 9564. PG90: rosette - passionate performances and excellent recording - a unique valuable issue.

Francaix o L'horloge de flore [ also Satie, Ibert, Strauss ***] -- John de Lance, LSO, Previn. RCA (M) GD 87989. PGB92: rosette - music of real memorability and much charm.

Franck o Symphonic variation for piano and orchestra [also Grieg Concerto *** and Schumann Concerto **(*)] -- Curzon, LPO, Boult. London (B) 433 628-2. PGB92: rosette - have stood the test of time: no finer version, even after 3 decades. o Symphony in D min, Piece heroique [D'Indy Istar ***] -- Chicago SO, SF SO, Monteux. RCA Monteux Edition 09026 61697-2. PG94: rosette - unique grip on this hightly charged romantic symph; splendid playing of CSO; sound far better than GD 86805. o Symphony in D min -- Chicago SO, Monteux. RCA (M) GD 86805. PG90: rosette - M exerts a unique grip on this highly charged symphony .... o Violin Sonata in A -- Kyung Wha Chung, Radu Lupu, . London (M) 421 1542. PG90: rosette - glorius accounts, beautifully recorded.

Frankel o Symphonies 2, 3 -- Queensland SO, Albert. CPO 999 241-2. PG95: rosette - rediscovery long overdue; 2nd is powerfully concentrated and finely argued.

Galuppi o Motets: Arripe alpestri ad vallem; Confitebor tibi, Domine -- Lesne, Gens, Harvey; Il Seminario Musicale, . Virgin VC5 45030-2. PG94: rosette - will worth seeking out.

Gay
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The Beggars Opera -- Morison, Cameron, Sinclair, Wallace, Brannigan, Pro Arte Ch/O, Sargent. Classics For Pleasure Silver Double CDCFPSD 4778. PG96: rosette - in every way first class, one of the finest things he did on record; compelling remastering.

Gershwin o An American in Paris; Rhapsody in Blue -- NYPO; Columbia SO, Bernstein. CBS MK 42264. PG90: rosette - 1959 record sets standards for all subsequent couplings; indispensible. o Porgy and Bess -- White, Haymon, Clackwell, Clarey,Evans, Glyndbourne, LPO, Rattle. EMI CDS 49548-2 (3). PG90: rosette - rich and colorful.

Glazunov o Violin Concerto in A Minor [Sibelius **, Thaikovsky ***] -- Heifetz, LPO, Barbirolli. EMI (M) CDH7 64030-2. PGB92: rosette - 1934 when composer was still alive; never been surpassed.

Gluck
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Ihpigenie en Tauride -- Montague, Aler, Allen, Argenta, Massis, Monteverdi Ch, Lyon Op O, Gardiner. Philips 416 148-2 (2). PG90: rosette - G's electrifying reading is a revelation.

Goldmark o Violin concerto -- Nai-Yan Hu, Seattle SO, Schwarz. Delos DE 3156. PG96: rosette - sympathetic warmth and concert-hall fullness.

Gounod

Faust -- Hadley, Gasdia, Ramey, Mentzer, Agache, Fassbaender, Welsh NOp Ch/O, Rizzi. Teldec 4509 90872-2 (3). PG94: rosette - a relevation.

Gouvy
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Aubade, Ghiribizzi, 6 morceaux, Scherzo, Sonatas in C min, D min, F -- Yaara Tal, Andreas Groethysen, . Sony SK 53110. PG94: rosette - as piano duet playing it is absolutely outstanding; so too is the recording.

Grainger o Folksong Arrangements -- Monteverdi Ch, English Country Gardiner O, Gardiner. Philips 446 657-2. PG96: rosette - hard to imagine a more exhilarating disc of G's music; virtuosity of singing is breathtaking; supperb sound.

Granados o Cuentos de la juventud, Op. 1; Spanish Dances, Op. 37/4; Tonadillas al estil antiguo; ... -- Julian Bream, . RCA RCD 14378. PG90: rosette - for both albeniz and granodos:superb form, slendid recital. o Cuentos de la juventud, Op. 1; Spanish Dances, Op. 37/4; Tonadillas al estil antiguo; ... -- Julian Bream, . RCA Navigator 74321 17903-2. PG95: rosette - reissue added the Rodrigo; not the single finest recital of Spanish guitar music; bargain of bargains. o Escenas romanticas; Goyescas (complete); 6 piezas sobre cantos populares espanoles [Albeniz, Sonata; Soler, 8 Sonatas ***] -- Alicia de Larrocha, . London (M) 433 920-2 (2). PG94: rosette - indispensable for those with an interest in spanish piano music. o Goyescas [Albeniz, Iberia, etc ***] -- Alicia de Larrocha, . London Double 448 191-2 (2). PG96: rosette - special insights and sympathy, top drawer 1977 Decca sound.

Gregorian Chant o Gregorian chant according to the Aquitaine tradition - 2 masses -- Schola Hungarica, Dobszay/Szendrei, . HM (B) HMA 190 3031. PG94: rosette - recommended without reservation; remarkable feeling and rich clean textures.

Grieg

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Agitato; Album leaves op 28.1/4; Lyric pieces op 43, 54; Paino sonata in E min op 7; Poetic tone pieces op 3.4-6 -- Leif Ove Andsnes, . Virgin VC7 59300-2. PG94: rosette - A's virtuosity is always at the service of the composer; real imagination and lightness of touch. Lyric Pieces (selections) -- Gilels, . DG 419 749-2. PG90: rosette - altogether outstanding record. Piano concerto in A minor; Lyric pieces ... -- Ronan o'Hara, RPO/Judd, . Tring TRPO 24. PG95: rosette - comparable to Solomon in the 50s, Kovacevich in the 70s, Perahia of the 80s; one of the great bargains as well. Songs -- Anne Sofie von Otter, Bernt Forsberg, . DG 437 521-2. PG94: rosette - altogether a captivating recital beautifully recorded.

Grofe
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Grand canyon suite -- NYPO; Columbia SO, Bernstein. CBS MK 42264. PG90: rosette - 1959 record sets standards for all subsequent couplings; indispensible.

Handel o 12 Concerti grossi, op 6/1-12 -- ASMF, Brown. Philips 410 048-2 (3). PG90: rosette - recommended strongly. o 12 Concerti grossi, op 6.1-12 -- I Musici de Montreal, Turovsky. Chandos CHAN 9004/6. PG96: rosette - refreshing and stimulating set; first choice. o Arias -- Kathleen Ferrier, LPO, Boult. London (M) 433 474-2. PG94: rosette - unforgetable performances. o Concerti grossi op 3.1-6, 6.1-12 -- ASMF, Marriner. London (M) 444 532-2 (3). PG95: rosette - permanent memorial to the partnership with Thurston Dart; superb cd transfers. o Harp Concertos -- Marissa Robles, ASMF, Brown. London (M) 425 723-2. PG91: rosette - this collection makes one of the most rewarding harp anthologies ever issued. o Joshua -- Kirkby, Bowman, ... New College Oxford, King Consort, King. Hyperion CDA 66461/2. PG91: rosette - exceptionally attractive. o Messiah -- Vyvyan, Sinclir, Vickers, Tozzi, RPO Ch/O, Beecham. RCA (M) GD 61266-20 (3). PG94: rosette - its sense of exultant glory in the riches of Handel's masterpiece is life enhancing. o Organ Concertos -- Koopman, Amsterdam Bar O, . Erato 2292 45394-2 (3). PG91: rosette - take precidence over all the competition; first class sound and balance.

Solomon -- Watkinson, Argenta, Hendricks, Rolfe-Johnson, Monteverdi Ch, E. BAr. Soloists, Gardiner. Philips 412 612-2 (2). PG90: rosette - among the very finest of all handel oratorio recordings.

Haydn
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Masses 2, 7; Missa brevis; Ave Regine; ... -- Vallin, Monoyios, Toelz Boys Ch, L'Archibudelli, Tafelmusik, Weill. Sony SK 53368. PG94: rosette - the authentic style brings appropriate intensity, natural sponteniety; the richly ambient recording could not be bettered. Piano trios 42-45 -- Beths, Bylsma, Levin, . Sony SK 53120. PG94: rosette - outstanding in every way; strongly recommended; modern digital alternative to Beaux Arts. Piano Trios (complete) -- Beaux Arts Trio, . Philips (M) 432 061-2 (9). PG91: rosette - Classic! cd reissue is astonishingly life-like. String quartets 31, 33, 34, 36 -- Mosaiques Qt, . Astree E 8784 (2). PG94: rosette - original instuments with a difference; playing of rare distinction which is immensely revealing and rewarding. String quartets 50-56 -- Lindsay Qt, . ASV CDDCA 853. PG94: rosette - brings illuminating variety and also a sense of drama. String Quartets 75, 79, 80 -- Kodaly Qt, . Naxos 8.550314. PGB92: rosette - fully worthy of H's inexaustible invention. String Quartets 76-78 -- Kodaly Qt, . Naxos 8.550129. PGB92: rosette - fully worthy of H's inexaustible invention. Symphonies 1-104; A; B -- Phil. Hungarica, Dorati. London (M) 430 100-2 (32). PG91: rosette - pioneering recordings of the 70s superbly transferred;. Symphonies 82, 83, 84 -- O of the Age of Enl, Kuijken. Virgin VC7 90793-2. PG90: rosette - outstanding set of paris symphonies - full joy of H's inspiration. Symphonies 85, 86, 87 -- O of the Age of Enl, Kuijken. Virgin VC7 90844-2. PG90: rosette - outstanding set of paris symphonies - full joy of H's inspiration. Symphonies 93, 94, 97, 100 101 -- Concertgegouw O, Davis. Philips Duo 442 614-2. PG95: rosette - reissue that can be recommended without any reservation of any kind; a bargain in every sense of the word. Symphonies 93, 99 -- LPO, Solti. London 417 620-2. PG90: rosette - demonstration class. Symphonies 93-104 -- Concertgebouw O, Colin Davis. Philips (M) 432 286-2 (4). PGB92: rosette - one of the most disctinguished recordings Davis has given in recent years: brilliant and sensitive, wit and humanity give special claim. Symphonies 99-104 -- RPO, Beecham. EMI (M) CMS7 64066-2 (2). PG94: rosette - have an inner life and vitality that put them in a class of their own. Symphonies95, 96, 98, 102, 103, 104 -- Concertgegouw O, Davis. Philips Duo 442 611-2.

PG95: rosette - reissue that can be recommended without any reservation of any kind; a bargain in every sense of the word. Symphony 88 [Schubert, Symphony 9 ***] -- BPO, Furtwaengler. DG (M) 447 439-2. PG96: rosette - glowing performance; remastered sound is admirably fresh; . Trumpet Concerto in E flat -- Hardenberger, ASMF, Marriner. Philips 420 203-2. PG90: rosette - haydn and hummel - probably the finest single collection of trump. conc. in the present catalog.

Headington o Violin concerto [Strauss Violin concerto ***] -- Xue Wei, LPO, Glover. ASV CDDCA 780. PG94: rosette - warmly lyrical, unashamedly tonal; excellent recording.

Herold
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La Fille mal gardee (extended excerpts) -- Royal Liverpool PO, Wordsworth. EMI CDC7 49403-2. PG90: rosette - scintillating account; very highly recommendable; demonstration class.

Hertel
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Concerto -- Hardenberger, ASMF, Marriner. Philips 420 203-2. PG90: rosette - haydn and hummel - probably the finest single collection of trump. conc. in the present catalog.

Hildegard of Bingen o Canticles of ecstacy -- Sequentia, Thornton. HM 05472 77320-2. PG95: rosette - most beatiful and moving yet; highly recommended.

Hindemith o Sinfonia serena; Symphony (Die Hormonie der Welt) -- BBC PO, Tortelier. Chandos CHAN 9217. PG94: rosette - well-prepared and finely shaped performances are given state of the art recording quality; an outstanding issue. o String Qt 3 -- Hollywood Qt, . Testament SBT 1052. PG95: rosette - stunning; transfer excellent; performance still sweeps the board. o Violin Concerto; Mathis der Maler; Symphonic metamorphoses on themes of Weber -- Oistrakh, LSO/Hindemith; SRO/Kletzki; LSO/Abbado, . London

(M) 433 081-2. PG94: rosette - Oistrakh's performance is a revelation; indispensable disc for all Hindemithians.

Holmboe o Symphonies 8, 9 -- Aarhus SO, Hughes. BIS CD 618. PG95: rosette - infinitely superior to previous; recording best so far in the cycle. o Symphony 2, Sinfonia in memoriam -- Aaehus SO, Hughes. BIS CD 695. PG96: rosette - worthy performance, demonstration quality.

Holst
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Military band suites 1, 2 -- Cleveland Symph. Winds, Fennell. Telarc CD 80038. PG90: rosette - magnificent; recording truly superb [also Handel.

Honegger o Jeanne d'Arc au bucher -- Keller, ... R. France Ch, Fr. Nat O, Ozawa. DG 429 412-2. PG91: rosette - powerful and important. o Symphonies 2, 3 -- BPO, Karajan. DG (M) 423 242-2. PG90: rosette - arguably the finest versions of any Honegger works ever put on record. o Symphonies 2, 3; Pacific 231 -- Oslo PO, Jansons. EMI CDC5 55122-2. PG94: rosette - Oslo's best to date; challenges but does not displace Karajan's 70s version.

Howells o Collegium regale; Te Deum and Jubilate; Office of Holy Communion ... -Williams, Moore, Kings College, Camb Ch, Cloebury. London 430 205-2. PG94: rosette - unmatchable collection of settings inspired by the greatest of our collegiate choirs.

Hummel o Concerto -- Hardenberger, ASMF, Marriner. Philips 420 203-2. PG90: rosette - haydn and hummel - probably the finest single collection of trump. conc. in the present catalog.

Ireland o Sonata in G minor -- Julian Lloyd Weber, John McCabe, . ASV CDDCA 807. PG94: rosette - collection offers LW's finest performances on disc.

Janacek o Concertino for piano and 7 instruments; Sinfonietta; Tarus Bulba -- Firkusny, Bav RSO, Kubelik. DG (B) 439 437-2. PG94: rosette - quite outstanding bargain triptych; special feeling for the repertoire; superbly remasterd. o Jenufa -- Soderstrom, Ochman, Dvorsky, Randova, Popp, V. State Op Ch, VPO, Mackerras. London 414 483-2 (2). PG90: rosette - deeply sympathetic, strongly dramatic, and superbly recorded.

Johnson o Lute and Theatre Music -- Kirkby, Thomas, Rooley, . Virgin VC7 59321-2. PG94: rosette - natural recording; can be listened to straight thru with much plesure, admirably simulating a live recital.

Kern
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Showboat -- Von Stade, Handley, Hubbard, OHara, Garrison, Burns, Stratas, Amb. Ch., L Sinf., McGlinn. EMI CD-RIVER 1 (3). PG90: rosette - beautifully recorded, heartwarming issue.

Khachaturian o Piano concerto -- Kapell, Boston So, Koussevitzky. RCA (M) GD 60921. PG95: rosette - difficult to imagine a better played than K's PC; the P PC is dazzingly brilliant. o Violin Concerto in D Minor -- Oistrakh, USSR RSO, Khachaturian. Chant du Monde LDC 278883. PG90: rosette - Peerless in its performance [also Sibelius and Kabelevsky (**)].

Kodaly o Missa brevis; Pange lingua; Psalmus Hungaricus; Psalm 114 -- Brighton Festival Ch, LSO/Kertesz, and others, . London (M) 433 080-2. PG94: rosette - outstanding performance, idiomatically presented in Hungarian; highly rewarding 70 minute collection.

Korngold o Violin concerto -- Shaham, LSO, Previn. DG 439 886-2. PG95: rosette - the Barbar has great virtuosity and a reading of strong profile; worthy to rank along side the Stern/Bernstein.

Lambert o Audabe herioque; The Rio Grande; Summer's last will and testament -Burgess, Gibbons, ... English N. Phil, Lloyd-Jones. Hyperion CDA 66565. PG94: rosette - full vivid and atmospheric. o Horoscope -- E N Philh O, Lloyd Jones. Hyperion CDA 66436. PG91: rosette - horoscope is a sheer delight, excellent playing and first-class sound.

Leclair o Scylla et Glaucis -- Brown, Crook, Mellon, Yakar, Monteverdi Ch, E Bar Soloists, Gardiner. Erato (M) 4509 99762-2 (3). PG96: rosette - electrifying directing, faultless playing and singing; brightly atmospheric recording. o Scylla et Glaucus -- Brown, Crook, Yakar, Mellon, Monteverdi Ch, E Bar Soloists, Gardiner. Erato 2292 45277-2. PGO93: rosette - electrifying conducting; unfaultable singing and playing.

Lehar
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The Merry Widow -- Schwarzkopf, Gedda, Kunz, Loos, Kraus, ..., Philh Ch & O, Matacic. EMI CDS7 47178-8. PG90: rosette - magical set.

Liszt
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11 Songs -- Hampson, Parsons, . EMI CDC5 55047. PG94: rosette - unfogettable collection of romantic songs; H in magnificent voice pwerfully accompanied by P; a winning disc very well recorded. Annees de pelerinage, 2nd year; Supplement; Venezia e Napoli -- Jando, . Naxos 8.550549. PG95: rosette - playing of the highest order; Liszt disc to try first. Missa chorals; Via crucis -- Brown, ...Audita Nova de Paris Vocal Ens/sourisse; Marie-Claire Alain, . Erato (M) 2292 45350-2. PG94: rosette - superbly sung and recorded; very highly recommended. Piano Concertos 1-2; Totentanz -- Zimerman, Boston SO, Ozawa. DG 423 571-2. PG90: rosette - altogether thrilling, outstanding, first choice.

Piano Sonata. etc -- Pletnev, . Olympia OCD 172. PG90: rosette - amazing dynamic range and variety of color, eminently satisfactory. Various piano peices -- Kun Woo Paik, . Virgo VC7 91485-2. PGB92: rosette - outstanding Lisztian; a most exciting issue and bargain.

Lloyd
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A Symphonic Mass -- Brighton Festival Ch., Bournemouth SO, Lloyd. Albany TROY 100. PG94: rosette - the composers masterpiece; performance is magnificent.

Locatelli o 6 introduttioni teatrali, op 4; Trio sonatas -- Freiburg Bar O/Hengelbrock; Goltz, Larisch, Johann, . DHM 0542 77297-2. PG96: rosette - no better intro to the music of L; first class recording; a most rewarding disc.

Ludford o Masses; Magnificat & Motets -- The Cardinall's Musick, Carwood. ASV CDGAX 426 (4). PG95: rosette - splendid discs; music is litle short of extraordinary.

Lumbye o Waltzes -- Odense SO, Guth. Unicorn DKPCD 9089. PG90: rosette - Strauss of the north, superbly entertaining 75 minutes.

Lutoslawski o Postlude; Symphonic variations -- RPO, Revenaugh. EMI (M) CDM7 698402. PG90: rosette - exceptional interest; first rate - rec'd with all possible enthusiasm.

MacDowell o Piano concertos 1, 2 -- Amato, LPO, Freeman. Archduke DARC 1. PG90: rosette - Liszt's influence strong; highly rewarding coupling. o Piano Concertos Nos 1 and 2 -- Amato, LPO, Freeman. Olympia OCD 353. PG91: rosette - polish, elegance and fire.

MacMillan o As others see us; 3 dawn rituals; Untold; Veni, Veni; After the tryst -- Scottish CO/MacMillan, Glennie, SCO, SAraste; Crouch, MacMillan, . RCA Catalyst 09026 61916-2. PG94: rosette - magnificent representation of one of the most striking and powerful works written by any British composer of the younger generation.

Mahler o Das Lied von der Erde -- Baker, King, Concertgebouw O, Haitink. Philips (M) 432 279-2. PGB92: rosette - outstanding version. o Lieder eises fahrenden Gesellen; etc -- Baker, Parsons, . Hyperion CDA 66100. PG90: rosette - superb collection of early Mahler songs; rtadiant and deeply understanding. o Symphonies 6-8 -- LPO/Tennnstedt and soloists, . EMI (M) CMS7 64476-2 (4). PG94: rosette - as the rosetted 8th is included, no reason to withold it; 6 and 7 are also a very considerable achievement. o Symphony #4 -- Raskin, Cleveland SO, Szell. CBS (B) MYK 44713. PG90: rosette - oustanding, comparable with finest full priced. o Symphony #5 -- New Philh O, Barbirolli. EMI (M) CDM7 6918602. PG90: rosette - famous 1969 version, one of the greates, most warmly affecting ever on record; classic and a fine bargain. o Symphony #8 -- Connell, Wiens, Lott, Schmidt, Denize, Versalle, Hynninen, Sotin, Tiffin Boys Ch, LPO Ch, LPO, Tennstedt. EMI CDS7 47625-2. PG90: rosette - magnificent account, finest in his cycle, more satsifying recording than Solti. o Symphony 8 -- Studer, Blasi, Jo, Lewis, Meier, Nagai, Allen, Sotin, Southen Boy's Ch, Philh CH/O, Sinopoli. DG 435 433-2. PG95: rosette - ripely passionate account, redcorded with a richness and body that outshine any digital rival. o Symphony Nr 2 -- Auger, Baker, CBSO Ch, CBSO, Rattle. EMI CDS7 479628 (2). PG90: rosette - among very finest he has yet made.

Martin o 6 Monologues from Everyman; The Tempest [also Egk, The temptation of St Anthony ***] -- Fischer-Dieskau, BPO, Martin. DG (M) 429 858-2. PG91: rosette - 6 monologues a masterpeice, one of the great song cycles of the 20th century; classic performance by F-D. o Cello concerto, the four elements -- Decroos, Concg. O, Haitink. Preludio (M) Prl 2147. PG91: *** - impressive account, sound quality first rate.

Concerto for 7 wind instruments, percussion and strings; Etudes; Polytique for violin and 2 string orchestras -- Blankestijn; COE/Fischer, . DG 435 383-2. PG94: rosette - remarkable record and quite in a class of its own; music of great quality, playing of great artistry and recording to match. Symphonie concertante; Symphony; Passacaglia -- LPO, Bamert. Chandos CHAN 9312. PG95: rosette - sensitive playing and exemplary recording.

Martinu o Piano concertos 2-4 -- Firkusny, Czech PO, Pesek. RCA 09026 61534. PG95: rosette - well worth waiting for; PC 4 is unlikely ever to be surpassed. o The Epic of Gilgamesh -- Depoltova, ... Slovak Ph O, Kosler. Marco Polo 8.223316. PG91: rosette - his masterpiece; one of the most imaginative choral works of this century.

Massenet o Cherubin -- von Stade, Ramey, Anderson, Upshaw, Bav St. Op. Ch, Munich RSO, Steinberg. RCA 09026 60593-2 (2). PGO93: rosette - zestful and electrifying; recoding outstandingly clear and atmospheric. o Le Roi de Lahore -- Sutherland, Lima, Milnes, Ghiaurov, L. Voices, Nat PO, Bonynge. London (M) 433 851-2 (2). PGO93: rosette - high melodrama; demonstration splendor and fine perspective of this shameless example of opera hokum coulc not be more persuasively presented.

Mehul
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Piano sonatas 1-6 -- Brigitte Haudebourg, . Discover (B) DICD 920152. PG94: rosette - fascinating rarity; fine instrument and well worth exploring.

Mendelssohn o Organ Sonatas ... -- Hurford, . Argo 414 420-2. PG90: rosette - freshness of approach; superbly recorded. o Overtures -- Bamberg SO, Flor. RCA RD 87905. PG90: rosette - most desirable collection of M overtures ever offered. o Piano concertos 1, 2; Capriccio brillant in B min, op 22 -- Howard Shelley, LMP, . Chandos CHAN 9215. PG94: rosette - for many collectors this will be first choice; to be placed along side Perahia.

Meredith o The Music Man -- Preston, Cook, ...; Herbert Green, . EMI (M) ZDM7 646632 (2). PGO93: rosette - one of the finest original cast recordings.

Messager o Fortunio -- Dran, Alliot-Lugaz, Cachemaille, Dudziak, Trement, Rocca, Ch/O of L'Opera de Lyon, Gardiner. Erato (M) 2292 45983-2 (2). PGO93: rosette - outstanding singers; ideal rarity; Gardiner in his element.

Messiaen o La Nativite dy Seigneur, Le banquet celeste -- Bate, . Unicorn DKPCD 9005. PG90: rosette - demonstration quality; Messiaen: perfect.

Miaskovksy o Cello concerto in C minor [Taneyev, Suite de concert ***] -- Rostropovich, Philh O, Sargent. EMI (M) CDM5 65410-2. PG95: rosette - pioneering account that is still in a class of its own.

Milhaud o Symphonies 1, 2; Suite provencale -- Toulouse Capitole O, Plasson. DG 435 437-2. PG94: rosette - symphony 2 is richly imaginative, melodically inventive and rewarding; played with total commitment.

Moeran o Symphony in G [Ireland, Piano concerto ***] -- Halle O, Howard, . Dutton Labs CDAX 8001. PG94: rosette - wonderful performance of a great British SO which in its spontenaity has never been surpassed.

Mompou o 14 Canconz i dansas; Preludes 5 - 7 -- de Larrocha, . RCA 09026 62554-2. PG95: rosette - the whole set in modern digital form; present recital supercedes the former. o 7 Cancons y dansas; ... [others ***] -- de Larrocha, . London (M) 433 929-2 (2). PG94: rosette - poetic miniatures con amore, superbly recorded.

Monteverdi o Book 8: Madrigals of love and war -- Armstrong, ..., Glyndebourne Ch, ECO, Leppard. Philips (M) 422 503-2. PG94: rosette - first class atmospheric recording; demonstrates the enormous variety of expression and style. o Il ballo dell'Ingrate; Il combattimento di Tancredi e CLorinda; Tirsi e Clori -Bott, King, AInsley, Bonner, George, New London Consort, Pickett. O-L 440 637-2. PG95: rosette - star of this outstanding new disc is Bott; first rate wellbalanced sound. o Madrigals -- Chiaroscuro, L. Baroque, Rogers, . Virgin Veritas VER5 611652. PG95: rosette - outstanding collection in every way. o Solo vocal music -- Kirkby, Partridge, Thomas, Parley of Instruments, . Hyperion CDA 66021. PG90: rosette - few records of M's vocal music as persuasive; superb sound. o Vespro della Beata Vergine -- ... Terfel, ... Monteverdi Ch, Gardiner. DG 429 565-2. PG91: rosette - compellingly dramatic.

Mozart o Concertone in C K190; Sinfonia concertante in E Flat k364 -- Perlman, Zukerman, Israel PO, Mehta. DG 415 486-2. PG90: rosette - performance in a class of its own. o Cosi fan tutte -- Schwarzkopf, Ludwig, Steffek, Kraus, Taddei, Berry, Philh Ch & O, Boehm. EMI (M) CMS7 69330-1 (3). PG90: rosette - remains first choice. o Cosi fan tutte -- Schwarzkopf, Otto, Merriman, ... Philh Co & O, Karajan. EMI (M) CHS 69635-2. PG90: rosette - Schwarzkopf even more compelling; essential (1954) supplement to Boehm (1962). o Dance Music (Compl M Ed, vol 6) -- Vienna Mozart Ens, Boskovsky. Philips (M) 422 506-2. PG91: rosette - the most beautiful mozart playing, excellence of sound. o Die Zauberfloete -- Seefried, Lipp, Loose, Demota, Kunz, Wever, V State Op Ch, VPO, Karajan. EMI (M) CHS7 69631-2 (2). PG90: rosette - no more seductive version than the 1950 mono version of Karajan; cast not matched since. o Die Zauberfloete -- Stader, Streich, Haefliger, Fischer-Dieskau, Greindl, Borg ... Berlin RAIS Ch/SO, Fricsay. DG (M) 435 741-2 (2). PGO93: rosette - outstandingly fresh and alert; excellent mono transfer. o Double Piano Concerto K365; Double Piano Sonata K448; Fugue for 2 Pianos K426 -- Brendel, Klien, Vienna St Op O, Angerer. Tuxedo TUXCD 1028. PGB92: rosette - second to none; interplay a continuous delight; . o Idomeneo -- Rolfe Johnson, von Otter, McNair, ..., Monteverdi Ch, E Bar Soloists, Gardiner. DG 431 674-2 (3).

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PGO93: rosette - relevatory recording; exhilirating vigor and fine singing; electrifying singing of MC; excellent sound. Le nozzi di Figaro -- Glyndebourne Ch & Festival O, Gui. Classics for Pleasure CD-CDCP 4724. PG91: rosette - most effervescent performance on disc, brilliantly produced, a bargain without equal. Lieder -- Schwarzkopf, Fischer, . EMI CDC7 47326-2. PG90: rosette - among the finest of Schubert recitals. Pianbo concertos 21, 25 -- Bishop-Kovacevich, LCO, Davis. Philips (B) 426 077-2. PG90: rosette - among most searching and satisfying available. Piano concerto 27, double piano concerto in E flat -- Gilels, VPO, Boehm. DG (M) 419 059-2. PG90: rosette - playing of the highest order of artistic integrity and insight; first class quality. Piano Concertos 1-6, 8, 9, 11-27 -- Perahiah, ECO, . CBS M13K 42055 (13). PG90: rosette - remarkable achievement; difficult to imagine being surpassed. Piano concertos 1-6, 8-9, 11-27; Rondos 1, 2 -- Perahia, ECO, . Sony (M) SX12K 46441 (12). PG96: rosette - reissue on 12 discs; remarkable achievement; indispensable set in every respect. Piano concertos 19, 20, 23, 24; Concert rondos 1-2 -- Brendel, ASMF, Marriner. Philips Duo 442 269-2 (2). PG94: rosette - Mozartian bargain of all time; the rosette for generosity to say nothing of the distinction of the performances. Piano concertos 19, 23 -- Perahia, ECO, . CBS MK 39064. PG90: rosette - outstanding performance. Piano concertos 20, 21 -- Bilson, E. Bar Soloists, Gardiner. DG 419 609-2. PG90: rosette - period performance striking. Piano concertos 20,21, 23, 27; Piano sonata 17; Rondo in A minor -Ashkenazt, Phil O, . London Double 436 383-2 (2). PG94: rosette - highly recommended on all counts; equally desireable alternative to the Brendel double. Piano concertos 21, 26; Variations on `Ah vous diraije, Maman' -- Casadesus, Columbia SO, Cleveland O, Szell, Previn, . Sony (B) SBK 67178. PG96: rosette - totally memorable performances. Piano Concertos 21-27, Double Concerto -- Casadesus, CLeveland O/Szell, ColumpiaSO/Szell, Phd O/Ormandy, . Sony (M) SM3K 46519. PG91: rosette - very distinguished set; Casadesus understated but extremely imaginative. Piano concertos 23, 24 -- Kempf, Bamberg SO, Leitner. DG (M) 423 885-2. PG90: rosette - outstanding, uniquely poetic and instpired; strongly recommended at midprice. Piano concertos 8, 9; Concert rondo 2 in A -- Ashkenazy, LSO, Kertesz. London (M) 443 576-2. PG95: rosette - reissued;original lp was rosetted and we carry it forward; inspired readings, well supported by LSO. Piano quartets 1, 2; Horn Quintet in E flat -- Curzon, AmadeusQt; Brain, Giller Qt, . London (M) 425 960-2.

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PG90: rosette - all versions of the piano quartets rest in the shadow ofthis recording; 1952 mono; wonderful disc - should be in every M'n library. Piano Sonatas 1-10 -- Walter Klein, . VoxBox 11 58422 (2). PG94: rosette - an outstanding Mozartian; consistent freshness and exemplary taste; slightly more robust in its vitality than Uchida. Piano Sonatas 1-10 -- Walter Klien, . VoxBox CDX 5026 (2). PGB92: rosette - outstanding mozartian; consistent freshness and exemplary taste. Piano Sonatas 11-18; Fantasy in C minor K475 -- Walter Klien, . VoxBox CDX 5046 (2). PGB92: rosette - outstanding mozartian; consistent freshness and exemplary taste. Piano Sonatas 11-18; Fantasy in C minor -- Walter Klein, . VoxBox 11 59222 (2). PG94: rosette - an outstanding Mozartian; consistent freshness and exemplary taste; slightly more robust in its vitality than Uchida. Piano sonatas 8, 11, 15 -- Perahia, . Sony SK 48233. PG94: rosette - easily the finest M sonata record for some years. Piano Sonatas -- Mitsuko Uchida, . Philips (M) 422 517-2 (5). PG91: rosette - self-recommending collection. Piano Sonatas -- Uchida, . Philips 422 115-2 (6). PG90: rosette - sef-recommending, beautifully recorded. Sonatas in f, C K497, 521; Pieces for mechanical organ -- Imogen Cooper and Anne Queffelec, . Ottavio OTR C129242. PG94: rosette - marvelously fresh; very strongly recommended. String quartets 14-19 (Haydn) -- Chileringrian Qt, . CRD CRD 3362-4. PG90: rosette - demonstration quality. String Quartets Nos 17 & 19 -- Berg Qt, . Teldec 2292 43037-2. PG91: rosette - the hunt qt is still possibly the finest on the market. String Quintets 1-6; Clarinet quintet in A -- Talich Qt with Zahradnik, Rehak, . Cal (M) CAL 9231/3 (3). PG96: rosette - glorious perfromances; recording balance exemplary; 3 for the price of 2. Symph #40, #41 -- VPO, Bernstein. DG (M) 431 267-2. PG91: rosette - most distinguished of Bernsteins Mozart. Symphonies 40, 41 -- VPO, Bernstein. DG (M) 445 548-2. PG95: rosette - most distinguished of all B Mozart recordings; top of the list for this coupling.

Mussorgsky o Night on bare mountain -- Berezovsky (piano), . Teldec 4509 96516-2. PG96: rosette - amazing account of Islamey; remarkable transcription of NOBM [also Liadov, Medtner, Rachmaninov ***]. o Pictures at an exhibition (original piano version) -- Mikhail Pletnev, . Virgin VC7 59611-2. PG91: rosette - remarkable effects of color and pedalling; oustanding. o Pictures at an exhibition -- Chicago SO, Reiner. RCA (M) 09026 61401-2. PG95: rosette - vintage stereo at its most impressive; evocative approach.

Song Cycles -- Sergei Leiferkus, Semion Skigin, . Conifer CDCF 229. PG95: rosette - impressive performances, immense character and power; first class recording. The Complete Songs -- Christoff, Labinsky, Moore, French R&TV O, Tzipine. EMI (M) CHS7 63025-2. PG90: rosette - 1958 mono; first survey, remains the only one. Various short pieces -- LS Ch. Gal, LSA, Abbado. RCA 090626 61354-2. PG94: rosette - one of the most attractive M records and not to be missed.

Nielsen o Chaconne, op 32; Humoresque-bagatelles, op 11; 5 pieces, op 3; 3 pieces, op 59; Suite luciferique, op 25 -- Andsnes, . Virgin VC5 45129-2. PG96: rosette - music is quite wonderful; eloquent and noble performances unlikely to be surpassed for some years to come. o Saul and David -- ... Danish Nat RSO, Jarvi. Chandos CHAN 8911/12. PG91: rosette - marvelous set. o Symphonies 1, 5; Helios overture -- Danish RSO, Jensen, Tuxen, . Dutton Labs CDLXT 2505. PG95: rosette - exemplary transfers of the premier recording of the 1st and first lp of the 5th; an indispensable issue that belongs in every Nielsen collection. o Symphonies 4, 6 -- Royal Scottish O, Thomson. Chandos CHAN 9047. PG94: rosette - by far most successful of the Nielsen cycle and possibly the finest recording of his career; no one brings us closer to the spirit of the music. o Violin Concerto, Op. 33 -- Cho-Liang Lin, Swedish RSO, Lalonen. CBS MK 44548. PG90: rosette - breathtaking assurance, simple eloquence.

Offenbach o Gaite parisienne (complete) [ Rossini/Respighi, Boutique fantasque *** -Boston Pops, Fiedler. RCA (M) 09026 61847-2. PG94: rosette - irresistable; one of his finest records; 1954 and still one of the finest `living stereo' recordings. o Les Contes d'Hoffman -- Sutherland, Domingo, Tourangeau, Backquier, R Suisse Romande and Lusanne ProArte Ch, Bonynge. London 417 363-2 (2). PG90: rosette - memorable set, sum greater than the parts.

Orff
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Carmina Burana -- Harsanyi, Petrakm Presnell, Rutgers U Ch, Philadelphia O, Ormandy. Sony (M) SBK 47668. PGB92: rosette - just the right panache; tremendous vigor, wormth and color; an essential classic.

Paganini o Violin Concerto No. 1 -- Perlman RPO, Foster. EMI CDC7 47101-2. PG90: rosette - provided one does not feel strongly about the traditional cuts, no better record of the concerto; superb.

Piston
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Cappricio for harp and strings; New England sketches; Serenata; Symphony 4 -- Wunroe; Seattle So; NT CO, Schwarz. Delos DE 3106. PG94: rosette - 4th is arguably the finest American symphony; rest well worth seeking out as well; a most desirable cd.

Poulenc o Aubade; Concert champetre; Organ concerto in G minor; Piano concerto in C sharp minor; Double piano concerto in D minor -- Rotterdam PO/Conlon, Cuchable, Koopman, Alain, Collard, . Erato Duo 4509 95303-2 (2). PG94: rosette - one of the most attractive of all Poulence issues. o Improvisations 1-3,6-8,12-13,15; Mouvements perpetuels, ... -- Pascal Roge, . London 417 438-2. PG90: rosette - absolutely enchanting, superb recording.

Prokofiev o Cinderella; Summer night suite -- Russian Nat O, Pletnev. DG 445 830-2 (2). PG95: rosette - on every count this is one of the best recordings, not only of the year but the 90s. o Peter and the wolf -- Gielgud, Ac. of L, Stamp. Virgin VC 790986-2. PG90: rosette - worthy successor of Richardson. o Peter and the Wolf -- Richardson, LSO, Sargent. London (B) 421 626-2. PG90: rosette - excellent vivid sound; sonorous voice. o Piano concerto 3 -- Kapell, Boston So, Koussevitzky. RCA (M) GD 60921. PG95: rosette - difficult to imagine a better played than K's PC; the P PC is dazzingly brilliant. o Piano Sonata nr 6 op82 -- Pogorelich, . DG 413 363-2. PG90: rosette - simply dazzling; Pogorelich's most brilliant record so far. o String Qt 2 -- Hollywood Qt, . Testament SBT 1052. PG95: rosette - stunning; transfer excellent; performance still sweeps the board. o Symphonies 1, 5; Romeo & Juliet excepts; Chout, final dance -- Boston So, Koussevitzky. RCA (M) 09026 61157-2. PG95: rosette - 5 and R&J quite simply breathtaking and have never been equalled;rest are thrilling; outstanding in every way. o The Fiery Angel -- Gorchakova, Leiferkus, ..., Kirov Op Ch/O, Gergiev. Philips 446 078-2 (2). PG96: rosette - Kirov forces even finer than Jaervi's impressive version.

Violin concertos 1, 2 [Stravinsky, Violin concerto ***] -- Cho-Liang Lin, LAPO, Salonen. Sony SK 53969. PG95: rosette - commanding performances which combine polish with concentration and deep feeling. War and Peace -- Vishnevskaya, Miller, Ciesinski, Tumagian, ... Gedda, Fr. R Ch & Nat O, Rostropovich. Erato (M) 2292 45331-2 (4). PGB92: rosette - first really complete recording; magnificent.

Puccini o L Fanciulla del West -- Tebaldi, Del Monaco, MacNiel, Tozzi, St Cecilia Ac. Rome Ch & O, Capuana. London (M) 421 595-2 (2). PG90: rosette - spectacular remastering for CD; Tebaldi most warmhearted and understanding. o La Boheme -- Tebaldi, Prandelli, Gueden, Inghillieri, Corena, Arie, Louis, Santa Cecelia A Rome Ch/O, Erede. London Double 440 233-2 (2). PG94: rosette - Tebaldi is rich-voiced and radiant; extraordinarily atmospheric in its sense of stage perspective. o Tosca -- Calas, di Stefano, Gobbi, La Scala Ch/0, De Sabata. EMI CDS7 47175-8 (2). PGO93: rosette - never been a finer recorded performance; de Sabatas conducting spaciously lyrical and sharply dramatic. o Turandot -- Sutherland, Pavarotti, Caballe, Ghiaurov, Pears, Alldis Ch, LPO, Mehta. London 414 274-2 (2). PGO93: rosette - gloriously rich and dramatic perfromance; clarity and immediacy of sound.

Purcell o Anthems & Services, Vol 7 -- Various soloists; Kings Cons Ch, Kings Cons, King. Hyperion CDA 66677. PG94: rosette - extraordinary achievement. o Dido and Aeneas -- Baker, ... St Anthony Singers, ECO, Lewis. London (M) 425 720-2. PG91: rosette - truly great performance. o King Arthur -- Gens, McFadden, Padmore, Best, Salomaa, Les Arts Florissants, Christie. Erato 4509 98535-2 (2). PG95: rosette - never been more winningly conveyed in a period performance on disc; full bodied sound. o The Indian Queen; King Arthur -- ... ECO/Mackerras; ... Philomusica of L./Lewis, . London (M) 433 166-2 (2). PGO93: rosette - for King Arthur; pioneering recording; teamwork.

Rachmaninov o Concerto 4 -- Michelangeli, Philh O, BhGracis. EMI CDC7 49326-2. PG90: rosette - both - superlative brilliance.

Literguy of St John Chrysostom, op 31 -- Maximova, Sorova, ..., Bulgarian R. Ch, Milkov. EMI forte CZS5 68664-2 (2). PG96: rosette - glorious performance conveys great religious fervor; difficult imagining this superbly recorded performance being bettered. Piano Concertos 2, 3; Preludes in C#, Eflat -- Kanis, Minneapolis SO, LSO, Dorati. Mercury (M) 432 759-2. PGB92: rosette - represents Byron Janis's very finest record. Piano sonata 2, Etudes-tableaus, Moceaus de fantasie, Preludes -- Zoltan Kocsis, . Philips 446 220-2. PG96: rosette - one of the finest R recital discs in recent years; excellent recording. Vespers, op 37 -- St Petersburg Capella, Chernuchenko. HM Chant du Monde LDC 288 050. PG94: rosette - surpasses earlier impressive recording and offers singing of an extraordinary rapt intensity.

Ravel
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Aldorada ... -- Chicago SO, Reiner. RCA (M) GD 60179. PG90: rosette - both - none more refined, marvelously evocative. Chansons madecasse, ... -- Baker, Melos Ens, . London (M) 425 948-2. PG91: rosette - superb singing. Daphis et Cloe (complete) -- NE Cons & Alumni Ch, Boston SO, Munch. RCA (M) 09026 61846-2. PG94: rosette - one of the great glories of the 50s. Daphne et Chloe -- Montreal SO and Ch, Dutoit. London 400 155-2. PG90: rosette - sumptuously evocative; luminous recording. Daphnis et Chloe suites 1, 2; Ma Mere L'Oye suite; La valse; Sherherazade -Paris Conservatoire, Munch, Nat SO/ Beer, Anseeermet, Danco, . Dutton Labs CDK 1201. PG96: rosette - rosette for Munch's Daphnis et Chloe. Intro and Allegro -- Kyung Wha Chung, Radu Lupu, . London (M) 421 154-2. PG90: rosette - glorius accounts, beautifully recorded. Introduction and allegro for harp, flute, clarinet and string quartet -- Ellis, Melos Ens, . London (M) 421 154-2. PG90: rosette - sublime septet marvelously realized (1962). L'enfant et les sortileges -- Sautereau, ..., French Nat R. Ch/O, Bour. Testament SBT 1044. PG95: rosette - superlative transfer of the unsurpassed first recording. Ma Mere l'Oye; ... -- Montreal SO, Dutoit. London 410 254-2. PG90: rosette - ravishingly beautiful; demonstration class. Orchestral Works -- Montreal So, Roge, Dutoit. London (M) 421 458-2 (4). PG90: rosette - unbeatable value; demonstration class. Piano concerto in G -- Michelangeli, Philh O, BhGracis. EMI CDC7 49326-2. PG90: rosette - both - superlative brilliance. Piano Duets: Bolero, Intro & Allegro; Ma Mere l'Oyle, ... -- Lorte and Mercier, . Chandos CHAN 8905. PG91: rosette - quite magical; outstanding sonically.

Piano Duets -- Coombs, Scott, . Gamut GAMCD 517. PG94: rosette - quite outstanding in every way; clear and atmospheric recording.

Reger
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Variations and fugue on a theme by Mozart [also Hindemith, Symphonic metamorphosis ***] -- Bav RSO, C. Davis. Philips 422 347-2. PG91: rosette - best since Boehm,'s pre-war 78s; recommended with enthusiam.

Respighi o 3 Botticelli pictures -- Baker; Rosario, Winter, Atkinson,ickox Singers, City of London Sinfonia, Hickox. Collins 1349-2. PG94: rosette - crowned by the contributions of Janet Baker; refined playing and recroding. o Ancient airs and dances 1-3; The Birds -- Australian CO, Gee. Omega 191007. PG90: rosette - demonstration class. o Ancient airs and dances; the Birds; 3 Botticelli pictures -- Orpheus CO, . DG 437 533-2. PG95: rosette - stunningly played; very fine recording. o The FOuntains of Rome; The Pines of Rome [Debussy, La Mer ***] -Chicago SO, Reiner. RCA 09026 68079-2. PG95: rosette - alternative coupling to Mussorgsky; extraordinarily atmospheric perforamnces that have never been surpassed. o The Fountains of Rome; The Pines of Rome -- Chicago SO, Reiner. RCA (M) 09026 61401-2. PG95: rosette - vintage stereo at its most impressive; evocative approach.

Rimsky-Korsakov o Scheharazade -- RPO, Beecham. EMI CDC7- 47717-2. PG90: rosette - 1957 - exrtraordinary drama and charisma. o Sheherazade, capricio espagnol -- LSO, Mackerras. Telarc CD 80208. PG91: rosette - gripping drama.

Rodrigo o 3 Piezas esponaolos -- Julian Bream, . RCA Navigator 74321 17903-2. PG95: rosette - reissue added the Rodrigo; not the single finest recital of Spanish guitar music; bargain of bargains. o Concierto -- Tourangeau, Montreal SO, Dutoit. London (M) 430 703-2. PG91: rosette - recording demonstration class, outstanding.

Music for 2 pianos -- Gregory Allen with Anton Nel, . Bridge BCD 9017 A/B. PG94: rosette - first class and comprehensive survey; recording is uncommonly real and has great presence.

Rossini o Arias -- Horne, Amb Op Ch, RPO, Lewis. London (M) 421 306-2. PG90: rosette - one of the most cherishable among all Rossini aria records ever issued. o Il viaggio a Reims -- Ricciarelli, Terrani, Cuberli, Gasdia, AraisHza, Gimenez, Nucci, Raimondi, Dara, Prague Phil Ch, COE, Abbado. DG 415 49801. PG90: rosette - one of the most sparkling and totally successful live opera recordings available. o La boutique fantasque -- Toronto SO, Davis. Sony (M) MDK 46508. PG91: rosette - really outstanding, demonstration disc. o Le Compte Ory -- .., Glyndeborne Festival Ch/O, Gui. EMI (M) CMS7 641802 (2). PGO93: rosette - Gui has extra sparkle and resilience; one of most infectiously witty of all Rossini recordings. o Le Compte Ory -- Sumi Jo, Aler, Montague, Cachemaille, Quilico, Pierotti, Lyon Op Ch & O, Gardiner. Philips 422 406-2. PG90: rosette - admirably fills a serious gap; a jewel of a Rossini issue. o L'Italiana in Algeri -- Baltsa, Raimondi, Dara, Lopardo, V State Op Konz, VPO, Abbado. DG 427 331-2. PG90: rosette - brilliant version. o Overtures -- Chicago SO, Reiner. RCA (M) GD 60387. PG90: rosette - 1958 preferable to most digital; . o Overtures -- L. Classical Players, Norrington. EMI CDC7 54091-2. PG91: rosette - very refreshing new look over familiar repertoire; recording first class. o Stabat Mater -- Field, Jones, Davis, Earle, LSO Ch, City of L Sinfonia, Hickox. Chandos CHAN 8780. PG90: rosette - a most winning account; full-bodied and atmospheric sound.

Royer
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Pieces de clavecin -- Christopher Rousset, . O-L 436 127-2. PG94: rosette - great flair and poetic imagination and impeccably recorded.

Rubra
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Symphony 9; The Morning Watch for Ch & O -- Dawson, Jones, Roberts, BBC Nat Ch/O of Wales, Hickox. Chandos CHAN 9441. PG96: rosette - magnificent performance of arguably R's greatest work.

Saint-Saens o Cello concerto 1; Piano concerto 2; violin concerto 3 -- Ma, O Nat de France/Maazel; Licad, LPO/Previn; Lin, Philh O/Tilson Thomas, . Sony SMK 66935. PG96: rosette - outstanding performances on higly desriable mid-price reissue; VC second to none. o Cello concerto in A min, etc -- Ma, O Nat de France, etc, Maazel, etc. Sony/CBS (M) MDK 46506. PG91: rosette - three outstanding performances. o Symphony 3 [Debussy La Mer **(*), Ibert Escales ***] -- Zamkochian, Boston SO, Munch. RCA (M) 09026 61500-2. PG94: rosette - as overwhelmingly spectacular as versions 3 decades later;stunning performance full of lyrical ardour and moving forward in a single sweep of great intensity.

Sarasate o Carmen Fantasy -- Perlman RPO, Foster. EMI CDC7 47101-2. PG90: rosette - provided one does not feel strongly about the traditional cuts, no better record of the concerto; superb.

Scarlatti o Keyboard sonatas 8, 20, 32, 107, 109, 124, 141, 234, 247, 256, 328, 380, 397, 423, 430, 440, 447, 481, 490, 492, 515, 519 -- Landowska, . EMI (M) CHS7 64934-2. PG96: rosette - recorded 1934-40; indispensable.

Schmidt o Variations -- RPO, Revenaugh. EMI (M) CDM7 69840-2. PG90: rosette - exceptional interest; first rate - rec'd with all possible enthusiasm.

Schoenberg o Variations for orchestra; Verklaerte Nacht -- BPO, Karajan. DG 415 326-2. PG90: rosette - VN magical and in a class of its own. o Verklaerte Nacht (string sextet version) -- Hollywood Qt, Dinkin, Reher, . Testament SATB 1031. PG94: rosette - original formflawless performance with the imprimatur of S himself (1950); quintet in a class of its own and remains a desert island disc.

Schubert

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Die schoene Muellerin; additonal poems by Mueller -- Bostridge, Johnson; Fischer Dieskau, . Hyperion CDJ 33025. PG96: rosette - B matches even the finest rivals, keenly imaginative accompaniment. Die Winterreise -- Pears, Britten, . London (M) 417 473-2. PG91: rosette - intensity and subtlety, magic. Fantasia in C D760, Impromptus D899.3/4; Piano Sonata N21 D960 -Rubinstein, . RCA RD 86257. PG90: rosette - sure magnificence, electrifying. Lieder, Vol 15 -- Margaret Price, Graham Johnson, . Hyperion CDJ 33015. PG94: rosette - achieves a new peak; distinctive magic. Lieder -- Schwarzkopf, Fischer, . EMI CDC7 47326-2. PG90: rosette - among the finest of Schubert recitals. Octet if F -- Hausmusik, . EMI CDC7 54118-2. PG91: rosette - outshines. Octet in F, D803; Minuet and Finale in F for wind octet, d72 -- Vienna Octet, Vienna Wind Soloists, . London Eclipse 448 715-4. PG96: rosette - demo quality with lowest possible price. Piano sonata 21; Allegretto in C minor; 12 laendler -- Kovacevich, . EMI CDC5 55359-2. PG95: rosette - even more elequent and penetrating than the great B flat major recording. Piano sonata 21; Impromptus in G flat, E flat, B flat; Moments musicauz in A flat, F minor -- Kempff, . DG (B) 439 462-2. PG95: rosette - consistent compelling intensity; perhaps the finest of all the distinguished reissues on DGs Classikon bargain label so far. Piano Sonatas 16, 18 -- Radu Lupu, . London 417 640-2. PG90: rosette - poetic, among Londons finest recordings. Puiano sonatas 13, 14; Hungarian melody; 12 waltzes -- Ashkenazy, . London (M) 443 579-2. PG95: rosette - magnificent in every respect (rosette to original LP as well). Schwanengesang; 5 lieder -- Brigitte Fassbaender, Aribert Reimann, . DG 429 766-2. PG94: rosette - totally distinctive and compelling account; stronger and more forceful than any rival. String quartets 12-15 -- Italian Qt, . Philips Duo 446 163-2 (2). PG96: rosette - 12, 14 were finest in their day (1965); 12 has an impressive command of feeling; 15 is even finer. String quintet i C D956 -- Aeolian Qt, Shreker, . Saga (M) EC 3368-2. PG94: rosette - stron virile performance; a clear first bargain choice. String quintet -- Hollywood Qt, Dinkin, Reher, . Testament SATB 1031. PG94: rosette - original formflawless performance with the imprimatur of S himself (1950); quintet in a class of its own and remains a desert island disc. Symphlny 9 [also Beethoven Symphony 4 **] -- Marlboro Festival O, Casals. Sony (M) 46246. PGB92: rosette - special live performance full of insight. Symphonies 3, 5, 6 -- RPO, Beecham. EMI (M) CDM7 69750-2. PG90: rosette - indinspensable for all collections and a supreme bargain. Symphonies Nos 3, 5, 6 -- RPO, Beecham. EMI (M) CDM7 69750-2. PG91: rosette - maical, indispensible.

Symphony #8 [also Schumann Symphony #4 ***] -- Philh O, Sinopoli. DG (M) 427 818-2. PG90: rosette - Schubert ravishingly refined, a concentrated reading. Symphony 8 [Mendelssohn Symphony 4 ***] -- Philh O, Sinopoli. DG (M) 445 514-2. PG95: rosette - the most ravishinly refined and beautiful playing; takes its place among the recorded classics.

Schumann o Frauenliebe und leben [also Lieder recital ***] -- Janet Baker, Martin ISell, . Saga (M) EC 3361. PG95: rosette - marvelous range of expression; the recording balance i semmeasureably improved by the cd transfer. o Frauenliebe und Leben [also Schubert and Brahms ***] -- Baker, Isepp, . Saga (M) SCD 9001. PGB92: rosette - inspirational account has never been surpassed. o Scenes from Goethe's Faust -- Harwood, Pears, Shirly-Quirk, Fischer-Dieskau, Vyvyan, Palmer, Aldeburgh Fest Singers, ECO, Britten. London (M) 425 7052. PG90: rosette - superb recording, vivid performances, magnificent music. o Symphonies 1-4 -- Hanover Band, Goodman. RCA 09026 61931-2 (2). PG95: rosette - a revelation; few 19th period instrument recordings can match these refreshing accounts.

Sheppard o Motets -- The Sixteen, Christophers. Hyperion CDA 66259. PG90: rosette - 11 superb responsories; not many more beautiful records of tudor polyphony than this.

Shostakovich o 24 Preludes ad Fugues -- Tatiana Nikolayeva, . Melodiya (M) 74321 19849-2 (3). PG95: rosette - this 1987 version is if anything cleaner and better focused than the rosetted Hyperion 1990 version. o 24 preludes and fugues. op 87 -- Nikolaieva, . Hyperion CDA 66441/3. PG91: rosette - first choice must inevitably be TN - natural authority. o Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk -- Visnevskaya, Gedda, Petkov, Krenn, tear, Amb Op Ch, LPO, Rostropovich. EMI CDS7 49955-2. PG90: rosette - R's finest recording ever, first version of S's greatest work for the stage, performance of breathtaking power. o Symphonies 5, 6 -- Philadephia O, Stokowski. Dutton Labs CDAX 8017. PG96: rosette - electrifying premiere of 5th; 6th has aspecial ring of authenticity.

Symphony No. 15; From Jewish folk poetry (song cycle) -- Soederstroem, Wenkel, Karyckowski, Concertgeb. O, Haitink. London 417 581. PG90: rosette - understands the purity of bare lines; splendidly sung song cycle.

Sibelius o Finlandia, Karelia Suite, Scenes historiques, ..., Tempest -- RPO, Beecham. EMI mono CDM7 63397-2. PG90: rosette - the tempest is magical, etc. o Symphnies 4, 7; Kuolema; Valse triste -- BPO, Karajan. DG (M) 439 527-2. PG94: rosette - celebrated 65 account of 4; ranks along with Beecham as among most insightful; an indispensible record. o Symphonies 1, 7 -- LSO, Anthony Collins. Beulah IPD 8. PG94: rosette - magnificent 1950s recordings were a landmark in S discography. o Symphonies 4, 6; The Bard; Lemminkainens return; The Prelude to the Tempest -- LPO, RPO, Beecham. EMI (M) CDM7 64027-2. PG94: rosette - no performance of 4 brings one closer to the music; 6 is suppsed to have been S's favorite recording; indispensible for all Sibelians. o Symphony 1; Finlandia; Karelia suite -- Oslo PO, Jansons. EMI CDC7 542732. PG94: rosette - finest to have appeared since Maazel's VPO in the 60s; very exciting performance vivdly recorded. o Syphonies 4, 6 -- BPO, Karajan. DG 415 108-2. PG90: rosette - grat performances. o Violin Concerto -- Cho-Liang Lin, Swedish RSO, Lalonen. CBS MK 44548. PG90: rosette - breathtaking assurance, simple eloquence.

Simpson o Symphony No. 9 -- Bournemouth SO, Handley. Hyperion CDA 66299. PG90: rosette - music is a most powerful experience and superbly played, recorded.

Stamitz o Concerto -- Hardenberger, ASMF, Marriner. Philips 420 203-2. PG90: rosette - haydn and hummel - probably the finest single collection of trump. conc. in the present catalog.

Stanford o Sonata 2 -- Julian Lloyd Weber, John McCabe, . ASV CDDCA 807. PG94: rosette - collection offers LW's finest performances on disc.

Sterndale Bennett o Piano concertos 1 and 3 -- Binns, LPO, Braithwaite. Lyrita SRCD 204. PG91: rosette - most enjoyable disc.

Stradella o San Giovanni Battista -- Bott, Batty, Lesne, Huttenlocher, Musiciens du Louvre, Minowksi. Erato 2292 45739-2. PGO93: rosette - Bott's magnificent performance; excellent sound; not to be missed.

Strauss o Also sprach Zarathustra; Ein Heldenleben -- Chicago So, Reiner. RCA 09026 61494-2. PG94: rosette - ASZ ranks alonside the very best ever committed to disc. o Ariadne -- Schwarzkopf, Schock, Streich, Doench, Seefried, Cuenod, Philh O, Karajan. EMI CMS7 69296-2. PG90: rosette - radiant, deeply moving Ariadne; orchestra a bit dry, but voices come out superbly. o Death and Transfiguration; Metamorphosen for 23 solo strings -- BPO, Karajan. DG 410 892-2. PG90: rosette - electrifying. o Death and Transfiguration; Sinfonia demestica; Salomes dance of the 7 veils -Cleveland SO/Szell; Philadelphia O/Ormandy, . Sony (B) SBK 53511. PG94: rosette - tremendous electricity and orchestral bravura; D&T still unsurpassed. o Der Rosenkavalier -- Schwarzkopf, Ludwig, Stich-Randell, Edelmann, Wechter, Philh Ch & O, Karajan. EMI CDS7 49354-8. PG90: rosette - one of the greatest of all opera recordings. o Die Frau ohne Schatten -- Varady, Domingo, Behrens, van Dam, Jo, ..., VPO, Solti. London 436 243-2 (3). PGO93: rosette - landmark in S's career; still unsurpassed. o Don Quixote [Lalo, Cello concerto in D minor ***] -- du Pre, New Philh O, boult. EMI CDC5 55528-2. PG96: rosette - DQ in tenderness and pognancy is unsurpassed. o Four last songs; lieder -- Norman, Liepzig GO, Masur. Philips 411 052-2. PG90: rosette - outshone only by Swartzkopf for word-detail. o Four last songs; orchestral lieder -- Schwarzkopf, Berlin RSO, LSO, Szell. EMI CDC7 47276-2. PG90: rosette - raptly beautiful recording. o Horn concertos 1, 2 [Hindemith Horn concerto (***)] -- Brain, Philh O/Sawallisch, . EMI CDC7 47834-2. PG96: rosette - incomparable performances and almost certainly will never be surpassed.

Strauss Family o 1987 New Year concert in Vienna -- VPO/Karajan, Battle, . DG 419 616-2. PG96: rosette - outstanding concert; indispensable collection makes an easy first choice among Strauss compilations. o Polkas -- Boston Pops, Fiedler. RCA (M) 09026 61688-2. PG96: rosette - AF never made a better disc than this. o Vol 27 - polkas and polkas-mazurkas -- Austrian RSO, Vienna, Guth. Marco Polo 8.223228-2. PG94: rosette - finest in the series; vol 26 could have it as well.

Stravinsky o Apollo; the Firebird; Petrushka (1911); The Rite of Spring -- LSO/Markevitch; LPO/Haitink, . Philips Duo 438 350-2 (2). PG94: rosette - extraordinary bargain; highly recommendable. o Petrushka (1911); The Rite of Spring -- Columbia SO, Stravinsky. CBS MK 42433. PG90: rosette - never been surpassed. o Symphony of Psalms -- E. Bach Fest Ch, LSO, Bernstein. CBS MK 44710. PG90: rosette - ranks among his very finest records; apporaches demonstration std in cd format (also Poulenc Gloria, Bernstein Chichester Psalms). o The Firebird; Le chant du rossignol; Fireworks; Scherzo a la russe -- LSA, Dorati. Mercury (M) 432 012-2. PG91: rosette - electrifying 1960 reocrding; one of the most stimulating strvinsky compilations in the catalog.

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Sacri musicali affetti; ... [Gianoncelli, Marini, Tarquinio Merula ***] -- Kiehr, Soave, . HM ED 13048. PG96: rosette - gloriously sung recital; treasuable collection and a musical revelation.

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Asrael Symphony -- Poyal Liverpool PO, Pesek. Virgin VC7 91221-2. PG91: rosette - great sensitivity and imagination.

Sullivan o HMS Pinafore -- Reed, Skitch, Round, Adams, Hindmarsh, Wright, Knoght, D'Oyly Carte Op Ch, New SO of L, Godfrey. London (M) 414 283-2. PG90: rosette - hard to imagine a better recorded performance.

HMS Pinafore -- Suart, Allen, Evens, Schade, Palmer, Adams, Ch/O of the Welsh Opera, Mackerras. Telarc CD 80374. PG95: rosette - exuberant reading; wining freshness; vividly recorded. The Mikado -- Adams, Rolfe Johnson, Stuart, van Allan, McLaughlin, Palmer, WNO Ch/O, Mackerras. Telarc CD 80824. PGO93: rosette - irresistible freshness at high voltage; totally idiomatic.

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Overtures -- ASMF, Marriner. EMI CDC7 54056-2. PG91: rosette - top of the list; not to be missed.

Szymanowski o Mythes, op 30; Kurpian folk song; ... [also Franck, Violin sonata ***] -Danczowska, Zimmerman, . DG (M) 431 469-2. PG91: rosette - an indispensible issue; recording is vividly realistic. o String Qts 1, 2 -- Carmina Qt, . Denon CO 79462. PG94: rosette - ouststanding music making with utmost realism and fidelity.

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Gaude Gloriosa; ... -- Tallis Scholars, Phillips. Gimell CDGIM 006. PG90: rosette - thrilling and spectacular sound. Mass Puer natus est, ... -- Clerkes of Oxenford, Wustan. Cal CAL 6623. PG96: rosette - glorious performances, not to be missed.

Tavener o The Akathist of Thanksgiving -- Bowman, Wilson, Westminster Abbey Ch, BBC SO & Singers, Neary. Sony SK 64446. PG94: rosette - stands out for its concentrated intensity; Neary proves an inspiring conductor, drawing incandescent tone for the choirs ....

Tchaikovsky o 1812; Capriccio italien -- LSO, Dorati. Mercury (M) 434 360-2. PG96: rosette - most famous of all Mercury records; spectacle is quite extraordinary. o Francesca da Rimini; hamlet -- NY Stadium O, Stokowski. Dell Arte CDDA 9006. PG90: rosette - one of S' greatest records; indispensable for al T'ns. o Hamlet; Romeo and Juliet (1869 original version) -- Kelly, Hammond-Stroud, LSO, Simon. Chandos CHAN 9191. PG94: rosette - admiral recoupling; enjoyable in its own right.

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Manfred Symphony -- Oslo PO, Jansons. Chandos CHAN 8535. PG91: rosette - electrifying. Nutcracker Suite; Sleeping Beauty; Swan Lake -- BPO, Rostropovich. DG 429 097-2. PG90: rosette - 69 minutes of sheer joy. Overtures -- Janis Kelly, Hammond-Stroud, LSO, Simon. Chandos CHAN 8310/1 (2). PG90: rosette - excitingly committed and spontaneous. PC 1. etc -- various, . EMI (M) CHS7 64855-2 (4). PG96: rosette - THE indispensable T box with great performances from the 40s. Piano C 1; Violin C in D; Serenade for strings; Variations on a rococo theme - various, . DG (B) 413 161-2 (2). PGB92: rosette - jewel in the crown of DGs walkman series;. Piano concerto No. 1 -- Horowitz, NBC SO, Toscanini. RCA mono GD 87992. PG90: rosette - famous account of 1943 - dwarfs every other record made since. Piano Concerto No 2 -- Donohoe, Bournemouth SO, Barshai. EMI CDC7 49124-2. PG90: rosette - superb recording; never before received such convincing advocacy on record. Piano concertos 2, 3 -- Donohoe, Bournemouth SO, Barshai. EMI CDC7 49940-2. PG94: rosette - rosetted pc 2 now coupled with pc 3. Sleeping beauty exceprts -- Mikhail Pletnev, . Virgin VC7 59611-2. PG91: rosette - remarkable effects of color and pedalling; oustanding. Symph 3, .. -- BPO, Karajan. DG (M) 431-605-2. PG91: rosette - ranks with the finest. Symphonies 1-6; Capricio italien; Manfred Symphony -- Oslo PO, Jansons. Chandos CHAN 8672/8 (7). PG90: rosette - outstanding; richly atmospheric sound. Symphonies 2, 4 -- New Philh O, VPO, Abbado. DG (B) 429 527-1. PG90: rosette - one of the supreme bargains of the current catalog. Symphonies 4-6 -- Leningrad PO, Mravinsky. DG 419 745-2. PG90: rosette - cannot be recommended too strongly. Symphony 2, 4 -- New Philh O, VPO, Abbado. DG (M) 431 604-2. PG91: rosette - supreme bargain. Symphony 5; Onegin; Tatiana's letter scene -- LPO, Eilene Hannan, Sian Edwards. EMI (M) CD-EMX 2187. PGB92: rosette - electrifying and warm-hearted reading. Symphony 6; March slav -- Russian Nat. O, Pletnev. Virgin VC7 59661-2. PG94: rosette - among the most vividly dramatic accounts in some years; a fine balanced recording. Variations on a rococo theme -- Rostropovich, BPO, karajan. DG (M) 447 413-2. PG95: rosette - unmatched for intensity of lyrical feeling and spontaneity; ideal choice.

Telemann o Der getreue Music-Meister -- Mathis, Toepper, Haefliger, Unger, McDaniel, Wuerzburg Bach Ch, ..., . DG (B) 447 722-2 (4). PG96: rosette - for sheer enterprise; excellent performances; recordings delightfully fresh and natural. o Double concerto for recorder and transverse flute; viola concerto in G; Suite in A minor for flute and strings; Overture ... -- Brueggen; vester; Amsterdam CP/ Rieu; doctor, Concerto Amsterdam/Bfrueggen; SW German CO/Friedrich, . Teldec (M) 9031 77620-2. PG94: rosette - the most attractive single Telemann collection in the catalog. o Suites in E flat, F; Paris Qts 1-6 -- Concerto Amsterdam/Brueggen; Amsterdam Qt, . Teldec 4509 92177-2 (2). PG94: rosette - one of the jewels of the LP Das Alte Werk catalog; rosetted LP. o Viola concerto in G; ...; Double horn concerto in E flat -- Kysselak; Stivin; Hoelblingova ,...; Tylsar, ..., Edlinger, . Naxos 8.550156. PG90: rosette - enterprise, good planning, good music making; great intro to T.

Tippett o The Midsummer marriage -- Remedios, Carlyle, Burrows, henrinx, Harwood, Watts, Ch/O of ROHCG, Davis. Lyrita SRCD 2217 (2). PG96: rosette - outstanding 170 version of T's masterpiece; should be along side Britten's Peter Grimes.

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Symphonies 4, 9 -- Bergen SO, Gothenberg SO, Jaervi. BIS CD 227. PG90: rosette - authoritative; excellent sound.

Various o 20th century sacred choral music -- Oxford Pro Musica Singers, Smedley. Proudsound PROUCD 136. PG94: rosette - moving and beautiful collection of sacred choral music. o An English Celebration -- RPO, Groves. Pickwick CDRPO 5005. PG94: rosette - gloriusly full and real recording; one of Groves finest recordings. o Arias 1910-3 -- Frieda Hempel, . Nimbus (M) NI 7849. PGO93: rosette - one of the very finest of all the prima voce series. o Arpa espanola -- Nicanor Zabaleta, harp, . DG (M) 435 847-2. PG94: rosette - balance is near perfect, and the magic distilled y Z's concentration is unforgetable. o Artist Profile: Andre Cluytens -- Various, Cluytens. EMI (B) CZS5 68220-2 (2).

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PG95: rosette - something special about this compilation; outstanding bargain; one of the most rewarding issues of the year. Balalaika favorites -- Osipov State Russian Folk Orch, Gnutov. Mercury (M) 432 000-2. PG91: rosette - irresistible and the recording superbly real. Baroque Christmas -- Heinrich Schuetz Ch, Norrington. London (M) 430 0652. PG91: rosette - superlative collection. Baroque concerti from the Netherlands -- Musica ad Rheinum, Wentz. 8NM Classics 92037. PG94: rosette - wonderfully spirited and cultivated, full transparent and real. (Bartok, Britten, Debussy, Kodaly, Ravel, Sibelius, Vaughan Williams) -Philharmonia O, Karajan. EMI mono CMS7 63464-2 (4). PG90: rosette - should not miss. Cabernet Classics -- Gomez, Constable, . Unicorn DKPCD 9055. PG90: rosette - 20th century cabaret songs - outstanding. Carnival! -- Sumi Jo, ECO, Bonynge. London 440 679-2. PG95: rosette - singing is even more astonishing than in her recital disc; delectable freshness and vocal sparkle; stylish and beautifully pointed accompaniments; recording could hardly be bettered. (Debussy, Prokovief and Scriabin) -- Richter (piano), . DG 423 573-2. PG90: rosette - confined accoustic, but what playing. Efrem Kurtz Profile -- Philharmonia O, Kurtz. EMI (B) CZS7 67729-2. PG94: rosette - superb set, one of the finest collections of Russian music currently on offer in any price range. English Choral Music -- New College Oxford Choir, Higginbottom. Proudsound PROUCD 114 02. PG90: rosette - difficult to concieve of a more rewarding collection. English Concertos -- Petri (Recorder), Academy of St. Martins in the Fields, . Philips 411 056. PG90: rosette - hilgly rewarding concert, beaurifully played and recorded. ES Sings Operetta -- Elisabeth Schwarzkopf, . EMI CDC7 47284. PG90: rosette - oneof the most delctable recordings of operetta arias ever made. Famous Soprano Arias -- Various sopranos, . London (B) 433 624-2. PGO93: rosette - difficult to conceive of a more winning recital of miscellaneous popular arias. Favorite Violin Concertos -- Grumiaux, . Philips Duo 442 287-2 (2). PG94: rosette - another extraordinary bargain and contain some of his finest performances. Ferenc Fricsay Portrait -- Various, Fricksay. DG (M) 445 400-2 (10). PG95: rosette - sheer quality of the sound from the 50s; his conducting will come as something of a revelation; rosette for care lavished and the artistic and technical excellence of the performances. Fischer-Dieskau Lieder Edition (complete) -- Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, . DG (BB) 447 500-2 (44). PG95: rosette - justifiably extravigant edition, summing up an astonishing achievement of the greatest male lieder singer of our time. French chamber music -- Roge, Wind Ens, . London 425 861-2. PG91: rosette - unqualified delight, well-balanced recording.

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French music for clarinet and piano -- Gervase de Payer (clarinet), Gwenneth Prior (piano), . Chandos CHAN 8526. PG90: rosette - a gorgeious record; realistic. French Music -- Royal PO, Beecham. EMI CDM7 63379-2. PG90: rosette - wonderfully vivid and fresh. French Song Recital -- Gerard Souzay, . EMI CDM7 63112-2. PG90: rosette - not to be missed, a desert island disc. Granci voci: Joan Sutherland -- Sutherland, various, . London (M) 440 404-2. PG95: rosette - one oof the most cherishable of all operatic recital discs. Grandi voci: Janet Baker -- Various, . London (M) 440 413-2. PG95: rosette - the performences of French melodies included are very beautiful indeed;great depth of feeling for the poetry. Italian Concertos -- ASMF, Marriner. London (M) 436 224-2. PG94: rosette - much of the first two lps that launched ASMF; admirably remastered. Lamentations -- Oxford Camerata, Summerly. Naxos 8.550572. PG94: rosette - sublime polyphony, beautifully sung; vivid beautiful within an ideal ambience. Lieder -- Irmgard Seefried, Erik Werba, . DG (M) 437 348-2 (2). PG94: rosette - superb continuous recital, lovingly prepared; 2.25 hours of sheer delight. Live at Wigmore Hall -- Marc-Andre Hamelin, . Hyperion CDA 66765. PG95: rosette - among the most spectacular piano issues of the decade. Love songs -- Auger, Baldwin, . Delos D/CD 3029. PG90: rosette - extraordinarly wide-ranging recital. Mancini Film Music -- Galway, . RCA RCD 85315. PG90: rosette - delightful entertainment. Melodies -- Souzay, Bonneau, . London (M) 425 975-2. PG91: rosette - GS at peak of form, marvelous record worth as many rosettes as stars. Music for brass -- London Gabrieli Brass Ensemble, . ASV (B) CDQS 6013. PG90: rosette - one of the realy outstanding brass anthologies; very real bargain. Opera Arias -- Beniamino Gigli, . EMI mono CDH7 61051-2. PG90: rosette - cream of his recordings. Opera Arias -- Tebaldi, . London (B) 430 481-2. PG91: rosette - Excellent transfers; consistent, creamy; indispensible. Opera Galla -- Sutherland, . London (M) 421 305-2. PG90: rosette - one of the most cherishable of all operatic recitals. Operatic Arias -- Terfel, Met OO, Levine. DG 455 866-2. PG96: rosette - not many recital discs match thi sformidable, keenly enjoyable recital.. Operatic Recital -- Maria Callas, . EMI mono CDC7 47282-2. PG90: rosette - finest single Callas recital on CD. Organ Masterpieces, Vol 1 -- Hurford, . London (M) 444 567-2. PG96: rosette - not many records of romantic organ music to match this for color, breadth and brilliance, superbly recorded. -- Dinu Lipatti (piano), . EMI (M) CZS7 67163-2 (5). PG91: rosette - a must for anyone with an interest in the piano.

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Piano music from Scotland -- Murray McLachlan, . Olympia OCD 264. PG94: rosette - awarded no t just for enterprise but equally for admiration and pleasure. Piano music from Scotland -- Murray McLachlan (piano), . Olympia OCD 263. PG91: rosette - important, fascinating and rewarding recital. Pletnev, Vol 9 -- Mikhail Pletnev, . RCA (M) 74321 25181-2. PG94: rosette - astonishing transcription of the Nutcracker suite; wider range of color than most orchestras. Recorder Sonatas -- Petri (Recorder), Malcolm (Harpsichord), . Philips 412 632-2. PG90: rosette - immensely enjoyable; pefectly balanced and wonderfully tangible. Romantic favorites on 2 pianos -- Claire and Antoinette Cann, . Pianissimo PP 10393. PG94: rosette - difficult to imagine a more scintillating piano duet record. Russian Opera Arias -- Feodor Chaliapin, . EMI mono CDH7 61009-2. PG90: rosette - range of expression is astonishing. Spanish Guitar Favorites -- Pepe, Celin, Celedonio, Celino Romero, . Philips 442 781-2. PG94: rosette - never sound quite like this on record before; vibrant and spontaneous. Spanish Guitar Music -- Narciso Yepes, . DG Compact Classics 413 434-2 (2). PG91: rosette - cassette recommended with utmost enthusiasm. The Art of the Prima Donna -- Sutherland, . London (M) 425 493-2 (2). PG90: rosette - (1960) remains one of JS's outstanding gramophone achievements. The Classic 1938 HMV Recordings -- LSO, Walter. Dutton Labs CDLX 7008. PG94: rosette - total spontaneity; full and believable. The complete HMV recordings 1934-6 -- Simon Barere (piano), . Appian mono CDAPR 7001 (2). PG91: rosette - most desirable of the Barere sets. The Complete Josef Hofmann -- Josef Hofmann, . Vai Audio VAIA/IPA 1020 (2). PG95: rosette - the Rubinstein 4th PC is phenomenal; one is tempted to say the Chopin G minor ballade has never been surpassed. The English Viol -- Bott, budd, Chance, Byrd, Fretwork, . Virgin Veritas VER5 61173-2. PG95: rosette - one of the really outstanding groups; offer viol playing which is in a class of its own; recording could hardly be bettered. The Fantastic Leopold Stokowski -- Cincinati Popts O, Kunzel. Telarc CD 80338. PG94: rosette - sheer glamour of sound. The Holly and the Ivy (Christmas Songs) -- Clare College, Cambridge, Choir and Orch, Rutter. London (M) 425 500-2. PG90: rosette - outstanding collection. The Julian Bream Edition -- Julian Bream, . RCA 09026 61583-2 (30). PG94: rosette - represents 3 decades of a remarkable career; an astonishing achievment overall - especially vols 1, 2, 26, 27.

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The Piano Album -- Stephen Hough (piano), . Virgin VC 790732. PG90: rosette - feast for piano lovers, very well recorded. The Piano Album -- Stephen Hough (piano), . Virgin VC7 59502-2. PG94: rosette - feast for piano lovers, very well recorded. The Sea: Solos and Duets -- Walker and Allen, Vignoles, . Hyperion CDA 66165. PG90: rosette - delight from beginning to end. The spirit of England -- English String Orch, Boughton. Nimbus (B) NI 5210/3. PG91: rosette - outstanding bargain. The Stokowski Sound (orchestral transcriptions) -- Cincinnati Pops, Kunzel. Telarc CD 80129. PG90: rosette - for admirers of S, an essential purchase. The studio recordings -- Horowitz, . DG 419 217-2. PG94: rosette - recital is uncommonly well balanced to show H's special range of sympathies. The unforgettable Isobel Baillie -- Isobel Baillie, . Dutton Labs CDLX 7013. PG94: rosette - it is difficult to think of another collection of soprano arias whihc is entirely without vocal blemish and which offers consistently ravishing sound. The Vagabond -- Bryn Terfel, Malcolm Martineau, . DG 445 945-2. PG95: rosette - no other collection of english songs has ever quite matched this in its depth, intensity and sheer beauty. The world of KF -- Kathleen Ferrier, . London (B) 430 096-2. PG94: rosette - admirably displays KF's range. There is sweet music (English Choral Songs) -- Cambridge Singers, Rutter. Collegium COLCD 104. PG90: rosette - highly recommendable anthology. Trumpet pieces -- Impett, . Amon Ra CD-SAR 30. PG90: rosette - fascinating recital - period instruments. Vintage Beecham -- LPO, Beecham. Dutton Labs CDLX 7003. PG94: rosette - from the 30s; remarkable transfers.

Vaughan Williams o A London Symphony; Symphony 8 -- Halle O, barbirolli. EMI CDM7 941972. PG96: rosette - 1957 inspirational perfromance of LS; coupling with 8 makes it doubly attractive; for many first choice for both. o Greensleeves and Talis fantasias -- Sinfonia of L, Allegri Qt, NPO/Barbirolli, . EMI CDC7 47537-2. PG96: rosette - inspirational coupling; a triumph. o Job -- LPO, Handley. EMI (M) CD-EMX 9506. PG90: rosette - one of Handley's major achievments; one of RVW's very greatest compositions. o On Wenlock Edge -- Partridge, Craxton, Music Group of London, . EMI (M) CDM7 69170-2. PG90: rosette - outstandingly beautiful record.

Symphony No 5 in D; Flos campi -- Royal Liverpool PO, Handley. EMI (M) CD-EMX 9512. PG90: rosette - outstanding in every way. Tallis fantasia; Fantasia on Greensleeves; The Lark Ascending -- LCO, Warren-Green. Virgin CUV5 61126-2. PG90: rosette - radiant account of the lark ascending; great ardor and breadth. Tallis fantasia -- LCO, Warren-Green. Virgin VCY 790819-2. PG90: rosette - both - impressive debut, electric and immediate.

Verdi
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Il Trovatore -- Price, Domingo, Milnes, Cossotto, Amb Op Ch, New Philh O, Mehta. RCA RD 86194. PG90: rosette - one of the most thrilling of all early vedi operas on record. La Traviata -- Gheorghiu, Lopardo, Nucci, ROHCG Ch/O, Solti. London 448 119-2 (2). PG95: rosette - one of the most vivid and involving versions ever;. Requiem Mass; choruses -- Dunn, Curry, Hadley, Plishka, Atlanta Ch & SO, Shaw. Telarc CD 80152. PG90: rosette - the finest of his Atlanta recordings. Requiem [Rossini, Stabat Mater (***) -- Stader, Dominquez, Carelli, Sardi, St Edwicge's Chaedral Cyh, Berlin RIAS SO, Fricsay. DG Double 539 684-2 (2). PG95: rosette - electrifying mono of the 50s; in tngling drama it ahs never been surpassed; cd transfer enhances the choral bite. Simon Boccanegra -- Cappuccilli, Freni, Ghuiaurov, Van Dam, Carreras, La Scala Ch & O, Abbado. DG 415 692-2. PG90: rosette - one ofthe most beautiful Verdi sets ever made.

Victoria o Missa Ave maris stella, ... -- Westminster Cathedral Ch, Hill. Hyperion CDA 66114. PG90: rosette - spontaneous ebb and flow of pacing is at the heart of Hill;s understanding of this superb music.

Vivaldi o Cello concertos, Vol 3 -- Wallfisch, Graham; City of L Sinfonia, Kraemer. Naxos 8.550909. PG95: rosette - particularly fine collection - vol 4 hardly less stimulating. o La Cetra; Double oboe concerto in D minor; Picolo concerto in C -- ASMF, Brown, Black, Nicklin, Marriner, . London Double 448 110-2 (2). PG96: rosette - resiliant and imaginative results; demo class. o La Cetra -- Iona Brown, ASMF, . London 433 734-2 (2). PG94: rosette - resilient and imaginative; demonstration excellence of the analog recording is retained.

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La Stravaganza, op 4 -- ASMF, marriner. London Double 444 821-2 (2). PG96: rosette - perfprmances make the music irresistable; transfers are in demo class. La Stravaganza, op 4 -- ASMF, Marriner. London (M) 430 566-2 (2). PGB92: rosette - make the music irresistable; recording of highest quality. The Four Seasons; L'Estro armonico; Quadruple violin concerto in B Min; Sinfonia in B minor -- Lamon, Tafelmusik, . Sony SK 48251. PG94: rosette - Tafelmusik is for the 90s what Marriner was for the 70s; first class recording. the Four Seasons; violin concertos -- Accardo and soloists with CO, . Philips 422 065-2. PG90: rosette - period instruments with a difference; must rank very high in the Vivaldi discography.

Wagner o 6 Songs -- Hampson, Parsons, . EMI CDC5 55047. PG94: rosette - unfogettable collection of romantic songs; H in magnificent voice pwerfully accompanied by P; a winning disc very well recorded. o Der Ring des Nibelungen -- Nilsson, Flagstad, Windgassen, Fischer-Dieskau, Hotter, London, Ludwig, Neidlinger, Frick, Svanholm, Stoltze, Boehme, Hoffgen, Sutherland, Crespin, King, Watson, VPO, Solti. London (M) 414 100-2 (15). PG90: rosette - one of the great achievements of the gramophone; bargain of bargains. o Lohengrin -- Domingo, Norman, Randova, Nimsgern, Sotin, Fischer-Dieskau, V State Op Concert Ch, VPO, Solti. London 421 053 (4). PGO93: rosette - one of the crowning glories of Solti's long recording career. o Parsifal -- Hofmann, Moll, Vejzovic, Van Dam, Nimsgern, Von Halem, German Op Ch, BPO, karajan. DG 413 347-2. PG90: rosette - intensely beautiful; among dg's finest; only hoffman a slight disappointment.

Walton o Crown Imperial [also Bennett; Symphonic songs; Holst: Hammersmith; Jacob: William Byrd suite ***] -- Eastman Winds, Fennell. Mercury (M) 432 009-2. PGB92: rosette - no lover of english music should miss. o Facade, Siesta, Overtures, Plortsmouth Point, Scapino -- Sitwell, Pears, E Op. Group Ens/Collins; LPO/Boult, . London (M) 425 661-2. PGB92: rosette - . o Facade -- E N Philh O, Lloyd Jones. Hyperion CDA 66436. PG91: rosette - horoscope is a sheer delight, excellent playing and first-class sound. o Quartet in A minos -- Hollywood Qt, . Testament SBT 1052. PG95: rosette - stunning; transfer excellent; performance still sweeps the board.

Symphony 2, Partita for orch, Variations on a theme by Hindemith -Cleveland SO, Szell. Sony MPK 46732. PG91: rosette - fantastic and stupendous performance; special place in W discography. Troilus and Cressida -- Davies, Howard, Howard, Robson, Opie, Bayley, ... Opera North Ch, English N Philh O, Hickox. Chandos CHAN 9370/1 (2). PG95: rosette - rich store of memorable tunes; magnificent recording; magnetic performances. Violin concerto; Symphony 1; 3 songs from Facade -- Riddle, LSO/ Walton; LSO/Harty; Stevens, Foss, . Dutton Labs CDAX 8003. PG94: rosette - first recording of VC 1937 gives a totally different complexion;.

Warlock o The Curlew -- Partridge, Craxton, Music Group of London, . EMI (M) CDM7 69170-2. PG90: rosette - outstandingly beautiful record.

Waxman o Film Scores -- Nat PO, Gerhardt. RCA (M) GD 80708. PG96: rosette - marvelously elequent playing; recording rich and full.

Weber
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Clarinet concertos 1, 2; Clarinet concertino in E flat -- Meyer, RPO, Herbig. Denon CO 79551. PG94: rosette - scintillating accounts; with fine recording this record is in a class of its own. Overtures -- Hanover Band, Goodman. Nimbus NI 5154. PG90: rosette - delectable performances; one of most persuasive records of period performance. Slow movement for string quartet -- Carmina Qt, . Denon CO 79462. PG94: rosette - ouststanding music making with utmost realism and fidelity. Symphonies 1, 2; ... -- Queensland PO, Georgiadis. Naxos 8.550928. PG95: rosette - splendidly caught in these sparkling performances.

White
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Motets -- Clerkes of Oxenford, Wustan. Cal CAL 6623. PG96: rosette - glorious performances, not to be missed.

Zelenka

6 Sonatas for 2 Oboes and Basson with continuo -- Holliger, Bourque, Cawriloff, Thunemann, Buccarella, Jaccettet, . DG 423 937-2. PG90: rosette - urgently recommended to any lover of baroque music. Capriccios 1-6; ... -- Camerata Bern, Van Wijnkoop. DG 423 703-2. PG90: rosette - superb orchestral collection. Julian Brean, . RCA (M) 09026 61608-2. PG94: rosette - one of the most impressive guitar recits ever recorded. Julian Brean, . RCA (M) 09026 61608-2. PG94: rosette - one of the most impressive guitar recits ever recorded.