David Beckmann St Church | Chattanooga, TN United States | 01/28/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Our family subscribed to the Beethoven complete collection when it was first published on LP's decades ago. The Lieder volume (still in my possession) was one of my favorites. I have been hoping for a CD version of this collection and am so glad to see it! As the downloadable excerpts demonstrate, these songs provide a simple presentation, but with depth of beauty and accomplishment that are a delight. Sometimes majestic, often playful, each song is a gem and many are sure to become your favourite themes in the world of music. We especially love Fischer-Diescau's performances; what a voice! The quartet arrangements bring out the pathos or frivolity of the genres in which they are used most excellently. If you like Beethoven's piano music, get the Lieder CD; the piano is lovely and the singing along with it add a dimension you are sure to love."