Suggestions For Classical & Symphonic CDs


I’m not interested in opera and I have not developed enough of an appreciation for classical music to understand the different multi-movement structures and related musical forms of the genre. I’m not even sure if music performed by a symphony is necessarily classical. I do know that I like the grand movements of a full symphony with all the varying dynamics and passages. I can’t site any specific samples because of my naiveté with classical music. I do appreciate a solo violin, and I especially like passages involving all of the strings (violins, viola, cello and bass). I have acquired some fuller-range speakers and I would like to listen to some “full-range” string movements/symphonic movements). I have also been listening to music at a much lower volume lately – I listened to the Cowboy Junkies Trinity Sessions last night, in the dark with the volume at a very moderate level (as not to disturb my sleeping cherubs). It was a wonderful experience. I think I would really appreciate duplicating this listening experience with the type of music mentioned above. I do not have an SACD player and I am only interested in the very best of Red Book (production value).

Thank you.
Ben
2chnlben

Showing 1 response by sufentanil

I second Dvorak's 9th. My favorite recording is with the full collection of Dvorak's symphonies (Dvorak: The Symphonies) with Istvan Kertesz and the London Symphony Orchestra.

Also, try Brahms 3rd and 4th. Consider the set with Zubin Mehta and the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. Brahms' double concerto is a must for string lovers (try the one with Oistrakh, Rostropovich, and Richter with Beethoven's triple concerto).

And don't forget Mendelssohn's string symphonies, as well as Dvorak's string symphonies.

There is LOTS of great classical music out there. Give some of these a shot and try listening to classical radio, either on FM, the Internet, or your cable provider, as these give you more of an exposure to music you might not otherwise hear.

Good luck!

Michael