Search - Various Artists :: Baroque Adagios

Why is this beautiful set so low in Amazon sales?

Frank T. Manheim | Fairfax VA | 09/15/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"While classical music is achieving a resurgence in the UK and Finland, in the U.S. the meager proportion of classical music among record store and department offerings still reflects classical's waning status. What we do find even in drugstores and supermarkets is inexpensive "mood" collections like "Romance", "Spring", "Melancholy", etc. I have no problem with this - some of the unnamed orchestras or soloists aren't bad although recording quality may disappoint.



"Baroque Adagios" is a big cut higher for both enjoyable listening, as well as background music for social occasions. The Baroque period simply overflows with memorable slow movement gems - both well-known, and rarely heard. The famous Italian tenor, Beniamino Gigli, confessed that many of his most favorite pieces came from the Italian baroque and earlier. Music of the earlier times combines emotional and melodic appeal with a restraint and depth that makes it wear well on many hearings. The only risk for background music is that the gorgeous melodies and resonant sonorities will draw people away from what they might otherwise do.



The choice of repertory is rich and varied, but this collection is particularly noteworthy for its long list of famous soloists and conductors. Besides Janos Starker, these include Heinz Holliger, Andras Schiff, Henryk Szeryng (in the Bach Double Concerto in D minor), Thurston Dart, Enrique Fernandez, Christopher Hogwood, Karl Munchinger, Neville Marriner, and many others.



I can think of few ways to better dissolve stress than to put this recording on a player and relax into a comfortable easy chair - or or put it into a car CD player on a longer trip. It makes a thoughtful present for both knowledgeable classic buffs and newcomers to classical music."

In Total Agreement - An Awsome Selection!

Gary L. Dissette | Denver Colorado | 04/11/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I'll throw my hat into the ring with Frank & ClassicalFan, you must read their reviews. I won't rehash these excellent commentaries, however, I would add that so many compilations of baroque music are clich'e, but not here. The musical selection was masterfully done. Not only will you hear some uncommon Baroque gems, you will become engulfed in their contemplitive reflection. This music is true salve for the soul!"

Baroque Adagios

All is One | Sarasota, Florida | 11/11/2009

(3 out of 5 stars)

"It's nice to have such an assortment of wonderful music to listen to. However, I found there was a long period of successive pieces that were quite somber. A better mixture would have been nice."