Let Zion Move: Music Of The Shakers
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Audio CD (26 October, 1999)
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Reviews (1)

A must for those interested in Shaker music or religion
This double CD and booklet was issued last year. It follows Rounder Record's "Early Shaker Spirituals" which is a recording of the Shakers themselves singing some of their early music. These new CDs are again the Shakers singing their songs, but covering the timescale of 1833 to 1914. The music and interviews on the CDs were recorded between 1960 and 1980. The booklet is written by Roger Hall, an authority on Shaker music, and discusses not only the music and interviews in the set, but also much other relevant material including a useful discography, and comments about the Shakers and their musical history.

Some of the interest of these recordings is in the historical place of twentieth century Shakers celebrating their faith through music. The quality of the recordings is not brilliant but this reflects the fact that much of it comes from LPs made in 1960. The music itself is fairly Victorian to listen to, but the words are quite inspiring.The use of the organ in some tracks reflects the fact that Shakers began using instruments and singing parts after about 1870. Of particular interest to me were the interviews, including a 24 minute track where Sister Mildred Barker speaks of her experiences as a Shaker. This is of great value as she was one of the most inspirational and forward looking Shakers of this century.

This is a must for those who are seriously interested in the development of Shaker music. It is also a must foranyone who is interested in Shaker religion and how it is reflected in their music. ... Read more

Asin: B00001R3JB
Sales Rank: 36493
Subjects:  1. Acappella    2. Bluegrass    3. Country    4. Field Recordings    5. Hymns    6. Pop    7. United States of America   

Simple Gifts: Shaker Chants and Spirituals
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Audio CD (05 September, 1995)
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Editorial Review

Joel Cohen spent countless days in the library at the Shaker community at Sabbathday Lake, Maine, transcribing dozens of tunes from among thousands of archived chants and spirituals. Many more of these wonderful tunes were recalled from memory by the community's few resident Shakers--and Cohen and his ensemble, joined by several Shaker singers, made this recording, which deserves to be heard by everyone who loves songs and singing. --David Vernier ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Shaker Music -- misunderstood?
I read the reviews of this CD and feel some people are not understanding the lyrics.One cautioned that Shakers refer to God as "she."At first, I thought the same thing; however, after carefully listening to the music many times, I truly believe that when they refer to "she", they are solely referring to Mother Ann, the founder of their religion, whom they obviously adored and admired. This music is haunting and well-performed and should NOT be a "turn-off" to any Christian who chooses to listen.

Some new old ideas
I am a big fan of early American music, and Joel Cohen and the Boston Camerata really know how to do it.I found this album musically refreshing as well as spiritually refreshing.As a minister of music, I appreciate the sensitivity the Camerata brings to its interpretation of these traditional Shaker hymns.I also love hearing music by singers (specifially the Shakers themselves) who are not afraid to limit their understanding of who God is -- infinite and varied in nature, not subject to human limitations such as gender.There is a great freedom in this music which some listeners who are tired of the rigid confines of modern theology will appreciate.My only ambivalence is with the pieces on which the Shaker community takes a leading role.On the one hand, I think this is brilliant and enriching.On a purely auditory level, though, their untrained sound is a little distracting.Decide for yourself when you purchase this delightful album!

A gentle introduction to Shaker music
This album is sung by professional singers with some Shaker community participation.This contrasts with the folk recordings of Shakers alone - or of music groups retaining the Shaker tradition.Just as the BostonCamarata recordings of Billings, Dear etc. helped revive an interest inearly American music of what became the shaped note tradition, so thisalbum should revive interest in the American Shaker tradition.

The musicis folksy - simple and direct - and by its style directly reflects theShaker philosophy of life.The pieces are short - a disadvantage for thosetunes you love.Simple Gifts is the best known work - but you are apt tofind other pieces you like as much.Come Life, Shaker Life is one of myfavorites.

This album is a must for anyone interested in Shakers, earlyAmerican music, or American folk music.It will whet your appetite for thealbums put out by Shaker musuems - but the professional performance is abetter starting point for most people. ... Read more

Asin: B000005EDQ
Subjects:  1. Classical    2. Miscellaneous    3. Vocal   

The Golden Harvest
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Audio CD (17 October, 2000)
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Editorial Review

Few collections are so aptly titled as The Golden Harvest, a rich survey of Shaker songs, chants, and spirituals dating from the mid-19th century. The music often recalls the shapes and cadences of English folksong, while its unaccompanied, unison performance tradition connects with medieval chant. Thirty-eight selections are partitioned into groups according to subject: there are songs about birds, heavenly spirits, and the all-important harvest. Joel Cohen, who transcribed much of this music from old manuscripts, mixes and matches performers drawn from the Boston Camerata in solo and group settings to ensure maximum timbral and expressive variety. Hear, for example, how the call-and-response patterns in "Pretty Home" build to a joyful climax. By contrast, some of the introspective, a cappella hymns quietly resonate with poignant simplicity. A bonus track features the six Shaker family members of Sabbathday Lake, Maine, in conversation with Joel Cohen. In sum, this disc is a beautifully assembled, excellently annotated follow-up to Cohen's 1994 Shaker anthology, Simple Gifts. Should you feel inclined to sing along, full texts are included. --Jed Distler ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Shaker Music at its best
For authenticity and variety, this is one of the best albums available.It includes both well-known and new songs done in proper Shaker tempo using voices alone to convey the feelings reflected in the songs. The comments by the Shakers regarding their thoughts about their music gives a special touch to the album. This album, along with the earlier one titled "Simple Gifts", is a worthwhile addition to any collection.

Simply Beautiful
The Boston Camerata is characteristically superb in interpreting this new collection of 19th century Shaker spirituals. Like their previous recording of Shaker songs, "Simple Gifts," the Camerata captures the hope and humility of Shaker belief, performing with bouyant movement and emotional clarity. By dividing the songs into thematic sections however, this CD is untimately stronger and more consistent than the latter. The Native American songs are particulary unique and the addition of a youth choir and the Shakers brothers and sisters add a freshness and reality to the smooth as silk voices of the ever professional Camerata.The tunes sound like a combination of folk and traditional protestant church music, but the lyrics reveal many elements of Shaker theology, some quaint, some still as revolutionary as they must have seemed in 1830.This CD offers an inspirational experience no matter what your religious background, the perfomances transcend definition. ... Read more

Asin: B0000508QY
Subjects:  1. Chamber    2. Choral    3. Classical    4. Early Music / Chant    5. Miscellaneous    6. Vocal   

Gentle Words: Shaker Songs
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Audio CD (05 June, 2001)
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Reviews (2)

beauty, simplicity, and utility
Of this CD's twenty-eight tracks, eighteen are arrangements by Kevin Siegfried; the remaining ten are straightforward, unadorned performances of Shaker hymns, sung either by the choir in unison, or by a solo voice, as they would have been sung in Shaker services.Occasionally the choir stomps and claps, also as the Shakers would have done. The unison songs and Kevin's settings blend seamlessly together, since Kevin's music is very sensitive to the spirit of the original tunes.His harmonies have an open, rough-hewn quality to them, like early American furniture, sturdy and useful.The music carefully mirrors and supports the text, occasionally employing mixed meter to follow the natural cadences of speech.The settings are largely homophonic, like Lutheran chorales, rendering the text easily comprehensible.Kevin avoids unnecessary embellishments and repetitions, and each piece is a small, well-proportioned gem, averaging about two minutes in length.In the liner notes, Kevin writes of his desire to preserve the Shaker ideals of "beauty, simplicity, and utility" in his settings, and he has succeeded brilliantly; the music is unassuming, serene, and peaceful.

Words and Music Marry in Siegfried's Arrangements
This recording of Shaker Hymns arranged by composer Kevin Siegfried and sung by the very fine Tudor Choir of Seattle is magnificent for several reasons chief of which is the careful blending of text and music in the arrangements. The "gentle words" of these hymns come alive through Siegfried's thoughtful soundscapes, providing the right context for the message of these poignant and life affirming hymns. This is no small task and although the Tudor Choir sings beautifully throughout, it is the arranging that has really caught my ear on this cd; you'd be hard pressed to find a recording of choral works with a better marriage of text and music. Well worth your money, time, and ears. ... Read more

Asin: B00005JIZK
Sales Rank: 112439
Subjects:  1. Choral    2. Classical    3. Classical Vocals    4. Miscellaneous   

Music On The Mountain
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Audio CD (01 February, 1996)
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Reviews (1)

Peaceful
Good music and arrangements.Some are peaceful, and some you want to kick up your hills.Song No. 13 is very beautiful. ... Read more

Asin: B000005C3D
Sales Rank: 142543
Subjects:  1. Celtic Fusion    2. Contemporary Instrumental    3. Folk & Traditional    4. New Acoustic    5. Pop   

Tree of Life
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Audio CD (14 August, 2001)
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Reviews (2)

Beautiful Guitar.....
I saw these musicians recently....you won't be sorry if you are looking for well-crafted traditional Shaker (and other) music.

Another classroom favorite!
I use this album, along with Simple Gifts when I teach my Junior High students about Shakers. They love both of these albums, as do I. I know I will continue to listen to them long after I have left the classroom. Itjust wouldn't seem like fall to me without these quiet, calming, Shakerhymns. ... Read more

Asin: B000005C2V
Sales Rank: 80933
Subjects:  1. Celtic Fusion    2. Contemporary Instrumental    3. Folk & Traditional    4. New Acoustic    5. Pop   

Simple Gifts
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (14 August, 2001)
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Reviews (2)

Truly a classroom favorite!
I use this album in my classroom when I study Shakerism with my students. They love the soothing, melodic hymns of the Shakers, and even request it long after we have finished with the unit!

Great arrangements - excellent guitar and strings
Like the Shakers, sometimes somber, sometimes "kick-up-the-heels" dancing, this album has a wide range of mood and tempo.If you like guitar and strings, as well as spatterings ofdulcimer and other "Celtic" instruments, you'll like thiscollection. I found the contrast of the tracks refreshing, a reminder ofthe way life is.Unlike the Shakers, I hope these guys have many more"children".I'm going to try some of their other albums. ... Read more

Asin: B000005C2H
Sales Rank: 89383
Subjects:  1. Celtic Fusion    2. Contemporary Instrumental    3. Folk & Traditional    4. New Acoustic    5. Pop   

Simple Gifts: Christopher Parkening
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Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
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Reviews (6)

Simple, yet delightful, Gifts!
This was one of the first CD's I purchased back in 1988, and I bought it on something of a whim. Of the many hundreds of CD's I now own, including many genres, this one remains one of my top 10 favorites. The only thing "wrong" with it is it's too short!

Masterful/Beautiful/Pastoral
Parkening is to guitar what Barishnakov is to dance.I don't think it's an overreach to say that Parkening IS guitar.Simple Gifts has been in my collection for a long time - it is magnificent, and refreshingly different.Great classical interpretations of some of the old hymns --out of vogue these days, but if you love them you'll love this.As far as classical pieces go I especially love Mozart's Laudate Dominum (from his Solumn Vespers) and Parkening does a masterful job on it. The Englebert Humperdink piece from Hansel and Gretel is great too.Very pastoral.

Exquisite & Divine
This treasure chest holds such jewels! The cd rushes in with the joyous energy of Bach's Praludium, allows you to reflect and catch your breath on Pritchard's Hyfrydol and Variation, and flows forward with the grace and underlying passion that makes this a precious favorite. ... Read more

Asin: B000002SJJ
Sales Rank: 14064
Subjects:  1. Chamber    2. Choral    3. Classical    4. Miscellaneous    5. Opera    6. Orchestral & Symphonic    7. Vocal   

HERITAGE Modern American Vocal Works - Barber, Copland, Thomson
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (29 June, 1999)
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Editorial Review

A beautifully conceived program, this disc brings together some of the most beloved American melodies of the modern age, such as Copland's Old American Songs. Also included are less frequently heard works, particularly the second set of the Copland cycle. Rarer still are the accompanists on these pieces, namely, the composers themselves. Barber, Copland, and Virgil Thomson provide the background for voices that engage these heartfelt fragments of American folklore with a rare panache. While some of the piano accompaniments are as plain and homespun as the texts they set (Thomson sets himself an easy job of it at the keyboard for the unexpected four-part harmonies of "Capital Capitals"), the interplay with the voices is unshakably powerful. Take Copland's Songs, here brought down a step for William Warfield's huge baritone.He is by turns forceful and restrained, chewing through Copland's clever folklike texts about simple pleasures and open spaces with a satisfying relish. Barber's more densely packed but equally seminal works for soprano are also generously represented. In Hermit Songs, Leontyne Price's technically sound yet whimsically engaging vocal color brings this deceptively accessible cycle to life. By the time the introspective orchestration of Thomson's Stabat Mater begins to percolate around Jennie Tourel's gorgeous mezzo, we gain an overview of a colorful art song heritage, revealing the timeless stories and melodies of a shared American sensibility. --Matthew Cooke ... Read more

Reviews (2)

INCREDIBLE.
This CD should be in every music lover's collection.If you are even remotely interested in American art song, this disc is for you.To have singers performing works with the composers at the piano is priceless.Steber's Knoxville is perfection.Do not pass up the chance to hear all of these incredible singers in their prime, singing works which oftentimes were written for them.It does not get any more definitive than this.

WOW!
What a fantastic re-release!To hear not only Price, Warfield, Steber, and Tourel in their prime, but the composers at the piano rendering definitive interpretations of thiese master works...well, the experience is priceless.This is one of the best recordings, and most treasured, in my entire collection! ... Read more

Asin: B00000J8PU
Subjects:  1. Classical    2. Classical Vocals    3. Vocal   

Long Time Ago - Copland / Dawn Upshaw & Thomas Hampson
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Audio CD (31 May, 1994)
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Editorial Review

Copland's Eight Songs of Emily Dickinson comprise one of the finest song cycles by anAmerican composer, and a perfect meeting of minds between poet and composer. Dickinson's verses andCopland's music alternate plain-spun honesty and wry humor with sudden, unpredictable bursts of passionand pain and a complete lack of false sentimentality. The Old American Songs are simply a goodtime and you'll recognize many of the tunes even if you haven't remembered the words. Hampson andUpshaw are two of the finest American singers alive, and they perform this music as though they have aproprietary interest in it. A terrific record. --David Hurwitz ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Wonderful introduction to Hampson/Upshaw/Copland!
This CD was the first I ever purchased featuring either Thomas Hampson or Dawn Upshaw.Both were relatively unknown to me at the time (early 1990s), but both have become favorites in my CD collection.The fresh Copland music is an ideal vehicle for two clear, strong, vibrant singers who celebrate the American spirit.

The Old American Songs, sung by Hampson, range from the sublime to the silly.If you don't laugh out loud the first time you hear "I Bought Me a Cat," I would be surprised!"Simple Gifts" has the tuneful grace it should without being overblown by accompaniment, and "By the River" moves me every time I listen to it.

Upshaw's contribution comes in the delightful setting of eight Emily Dickinson poems.Someone told me once that almost any of ED's poems could be set to "The Yellow Rose of Texas," which killed the joy of her poems for me.But Copland's arrangements bring the spirit of this poetry to life while celebrating Dickinson's originality.Upshaw's voice sweetens the dreaminess of "Nature the Gentlest Mother" and rings out in "Going to Heaven."

If you've ever enjoyed anything else by any of these fine artists, you MUST have this CD!

This is one to share with friends
I've seen Thomas Hampson Live a couple of times, and I believe he has one of the most glorious voices in the world.If "Simple Gifts" doesn't make you a little weepy, your heart must be made of stone.

Two Cents from the English Teacher
I am a big fan of both Emily Dickinson and Dawn Upshaw, so I was really excited to see this CD with Dawn Upshaw singing arrangements (by Aaron Copland no less!) of eight super Emily Dickinson poems.Trying to interpret ED is no easy task (for an English teacher or a composer), and I think that Copland does a beautiful job of putting to music the thoughts and words of the recluse poet.Upshaw does a beautiful job of interpreting them vocally.Dickinson's poems have an energy and personal intensity that both Copland and Upshaw manage to capture.I use this CD every year with my juniors to show them a "classical" and musical side of literature.Quite frankly, I would rate it "five stars" just for these eight tracks--I rarely listen to the others, I'm sure to my loss.After reading the other reviews, I'll have to check them out. . . .I think Emily Dickinson would listen to these tracks, smile smirkily to herself, go back upstairs and write a poem about the experience.I think she would be pleased. . . . ... Read more

Asin: B000000SHU
Subjects:  1. Classical    2. Keyboard    3. Orchestral    4. Vocal   

A Copland Celebration Vol. 1
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Audio CD (07 November, 2000)
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Reviews (5)

A Unique Opportunity to hear it from Coplands mind
Aaron Copland can be and should be considered the father of American concert music.He decisively created a style of music that needed to be made as we were reaching maturity as a country.This collection of his orchestral works gives a great outline of the music that makes Copland such a innovative composer.
I personally find that the most interesting part of this collection is the inclusion of rehearsal audio from the same recording of Appalachian Spring that appears on the CD.This offers a unique opportunity to hear what Copland's vision of his music was.I am one who personally believes that no performance of a concert orchestral piece can be heard as it was meant to be unless the composer is leading the ensemble.By hearing Copland conducting a rehearsal of one of his masterworks, the listener is given a greater appreciation for exactly what Copland's vision was for his own music.

A definite must have for lovers of the young tradition of American Music.

Definitive American symphonic music
When I first was introduced to classical music, little attention was being paid to anything American.Edward McDowell was occasionally played.And Los Angeles classical music station, KFAC, would very occasionally play something by Morton Gould.Gershwin was largely ignoredAnd there was Aaron Copland.

For my fairly young ears, the western flavor of the music was esciting.I could picture western movie-like scenes to the accompaniment of "Billy the Kid" and "Rodeo". Indeed, such music is highly pictorial.

But now I'm also familiar with "Fanfare for the Common Man" and Appalachian Spring.I very much recommend this.

Fabulous
The point about these recordings is not whether they are 'definitive' or musically superior to other versions; the point is that they automatically should recieve a five-star rating just for existing. Of course Aaron Copland was not much of a conductor, and his interpretations are not always technically 'the best.' But who cares? Here are several recordings of one of the greatest composers of the last century, conducted by the composer himself. Why set these up for comparison with the Bernstein or Slatkin versions? Different versions are different, yes, but they are not necessaruly better or worse just because they are different. Personally, I'm glad to have both of them. There is no one 'right' or 'wrong' way to play this music, and Copland himself admitted that he had no desire to create a 'definitive' recording.

This modestly priced CD set contains a generous sampling of Copland's familiar so-called 'populist' works - Appalachian Spring, Rodeo, Billy the Kid, Quiet City, El Salon Mexico, Danzon Cubano - and the less familiar Nonet and Down a Country Lane. It also contains a fascinating track of excerpts from rehearsals of Appalachian Spring. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Asin: B000050HWS
Sales Rank: 16648
Subjects:  1. Ballet    2. Band    3. Chamber    4. Classical    5. Concerto    6. Keyboard    7. Orchestral    8. Orchestral & Symphonic   

Copland: Old American Songs & Canticle of Freedom & Four Motets
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (25 October, 1990)
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Reviews (2)

"Such serenity and harmony"
This CD has so much beautiful music on it. The choir was wonderful and had such a gorgeous touch to it. Even the songs meant to be up beat were still very nice and soothing of teh Old American Songs and the Four Motets. Now the Canticle of Freedom was so very powerful. The music in the beginning leading up to the reciting, rather singing, of the poem filled me with a great passion and patriotism. Copland conveyed his intentions very very well. This piece should be compared with Lincoln Portrait it is so moving. The words reflect the music perfectly. Copland was truely a genius in writing this piece. The recording on this CD was a good balance between chorus and orchestra. I definetley recommend this performance by the Mormon Tabernacle. It's nice to also get a baritone solo on another CD to sing this, namely Thomas Hampson singing it. That CD also has 8 of the 12 Emily Dickinson Poems.

Copland: Old American Songs, 4 Motets, etc / Tilson Thomas
Truly a masterful example of the great American Songs.The choir as no instrument bring the simple melodies andwords alive.This music is a grand celebration of America, Aaron Copeland's magic touch and the voices of angels on high. ... Read more

Asin: B0000026EQ
Sales Rank: 52734
Subjects:  1. Choral    2. Classical    3. Gospel Choir    4. Holiday    5. Hymns    6. Vocal   

Bernstein Century - Copland: Appalachian Spring, Rodeo, etc / Bernstein, New York PO
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (28 October, 1997)
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Editorial Review

Happy is the composer who has an advocate as passionate and talented asLeonard Bernstein. These Copland performances have been the preferred versionssince they were first issued--better even than the composer's own, laterrecordings. Originally they were spread over two discs, but thanks to theextended playing time of the compact disc, you can now get all three greatCopland ballets together, along with the ever popular Fanfare for the CommonMan. Bernstein brings to this music the right sharpness of rhythm but also atypically open-hearted warmth. He coaxes a virtuoso response from the New YorkPhilharmonic, which knows this music as well (or better) than anyone. Self- recommending. --David Hurwitz ... Read more

Reviews (38)

Sound paints pictures of America
Copland shows us why it's called classical while still giving audiences something anyone can enjoy. I highly recommend this CD to people who want to learn to appreciate classical music or introduce their kids to it. Aaron Copland blends American history (sounds of "Simple Gifts") with sprightly sound and sweeping romance to create treasures that paint a visual picture for the listener. Highly recommend. The drive to work would be unbearable without this CD!

AN absolute treasure
I believe that for a person not to have this CD in their collection woujld be a sign that they just do not know what great music is.

How people can buy Britney Spears music, and not buy this, is beyond me.

Get it if you don't have it, and share the joy.

Copland/Bernstein on SACD
These pieces are now availible on SACD, and as great as the CD is, the SACD version is breathtaking. I have owned these pieces on LP and cassette in my youth, but these works really "open up" in multichannel SACD with an extremely wide dynamic range and soundstage. Lenny was a personal friend of Copland and was a great admirer of his works. The performances here show his love and respect for these works. I have heard other conductors, but none come close to the exciting interpretations given here. Leonard Slatkin and the St. Louis Symphony come a close second...but these are the definitive interps. The SACD multichannel version really out classes the CD version...but, alas, it doesn't seem to be offered on Amazon! ... Read more

Asin: B0000029XG
Subjects:  1. Ballet    2. Band    3. Chamber Music & Recitals    4. Classical    5. Orchestral   

Copland: The Populist
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (16 May, 2000)
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Editorial Review

The year 2000 marks the centenary for Aaron Copland, and what better conductor to bring his best-loved Americana compositions into the next millennium than Michael Tilson Thomas? On his follow-up to 1996's Copland: The Modernist disc, the forward-thinking conductor leads the San Francisco Symphony through Billy the Kid, Appalachian Spring, and Rodeo--three well-worn compositions steeped in Americana and virtually owned by Leonard Bernstein on a now legendary single disc. But Tilson Thomas doesn't try to compete with Bernstein, instead giving these works an inventive, impressionistic reading all his own. He adds a noirish color to the introduction of Billy the Kid, a perfect contrast to the work's folksier elements. On the opening of Appalachian Spring, Tilson Thomas's unhurried timings create a sense of suspense (not bad for a work we've all heard dozens of times!). And, thanks to great recording techniques by RCA Victor, Rodeo is a rollicking good time that you'll want to crank up on the stereo. Sure, we've all heard these pieces before, but Tilson Thomas makes them sound fresh again. Great stuff. --Jason Verlinde ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Copland Reigns Supreme Under Thomas' Baton
Whenever I see "The Magnificent Seven", "On the Waterfront", "The Natural", even "Waiting for Guffman" or any number of films that use music to reflect some aspect of the American experience, I think of Aaron Copland. He didn't compose any of those scores, but his musical influence is so pervasive in our collective consciousness that one can only describe the music as "Coplandesque". Aptly entitled "The Populist", this superb disc was recorded in December 1999 and presents Copland's three classic folk ballets: "Billy the Kid" (1938), "Rodeo" (1942), and the complete version of "Appalachian Spring" (1944). Bernstein's version may have been the most definitive, but make room on your CD shelf for this one. With the masterful Michael Tilson Thomas conducting the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, it's sensational.

It opens with "Billy the Kid", here a 21-minute single movement suite that contains the dark coloring suitable for a killer in the Old West. The arrangement presents a haunting atmosphere amid a basically romantic theme with a strong sense of distance and open space as emphasized by the muted trumpet solo in the middle. This is followed by "Rodeo", a 19-minute piece in four movements, which presents a comparatively more wholesome story that is meant to inspire lively dancing with the "Saturday Night Waltz", an especially lovely "Corral Nocturne", and the boisterous "Hoe Down", among other folk-inspired material. Running 35 minutes in a single movement, the capper is the Revivalist episode of "Appalachian Spring" in its full orchestral scoring. Vividly played, poetically paced and stunningly recorded, it is as close to the definitive version as exists now given its full scope. Spread over a greater time span than condensed versions and interspersed with music of significant unease and conflict, the piece takes on a wider portrait of community struggle. In particular, the familiar Shaker melody "Simple Gifts" expands through a series of variations to make an epic statement complete with triumphant brass. Thomas takes his time in unfolding his Americana with all the skill of a great musical dramatist who knows exactly how to pace his story. No matter how many times you think you've heard all of these pieces, I can tell you this is one you will treasure.

MTT and San Fransico a perfect match for Copland
Michael Tilson Thomas has become a favorite conductor of mine and this recording reenforces this.These generally overplayed and tired pieces are brought back to life under MTT and San Fransisco.I couldn't believe it was the S.F. Symphony playing at first...they sounded superb.The interpretation and enthusiasm of this music brought a new life of sorts into it.The orchestra plays flawlessly with such grace especially on Applachain Spring.The solos are sparkling and played with such intimacy and expression.Rodeo is absolutly wonderful.I can not put into words how perfect this recording is....and also how perfect of a match MTT and the S.F. Symphony are.He has definately breathed new life into this orchestra and is making it into one of the country's finest. I highly recommend thid disc to everyone.MTT is the best!!

A Fabulous Disc
Aaron Copland has not been a favorite composer of mine.I have liked much of his music but not been an avid collector. This is perhaps a little odd since I had a chance encounter with him a few years ago and only realized who I was standing next to after Mr. Copland had gone.

Listening to this disc has changed my mind on a great many things.In the past, Ifound the music for "Rodeo" a little too "folksy," as if Copland was throwing up a Norman Rockwell picture of the West.Listening to this recording has changed my view of the work to quite an interesting ballet.The version of "Appalachian Spring" is an orchestration (from the original for small orchestra) that Mr. Copland never published, and it may the music seem all the more new.The "Simple Gifts" music that Copland borrowed is treated far differently in this version than the more familiar orchestration."Billy the Kid" was also a revelation for me.

The performances and sound are excellent.Anyone who already know this music will appreciate this disc. ... Read more

Asin: B00004SSDL
Subjects:  1. Ballet    2. Classical    3. Orchestral    4. Orchestral & Symphonic   

Ultimate Copland Album
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (09 November, 1999)
list price: $16.98 -- our price: $13.99
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Reviews (3)

Best of the the popular Copland...
Here's a great introduction to the popular music of Aaron Copland. When "Fanfare for the Common Man" begins, sparks of recognition will fly for most listeners. This song has been everywhere: presidential inaugurations, the olympics, commercials, movies, etc. Some flatten it as hopelessly clichéd, while others find it moving and inspiring. Copland also reprised it in the finale of his Third Symphony. Arguably Copland's most famous piece, "Appalachian Spring" closes the CD. In between, more great Copland: excerpts from 'Rodeo' (apparently the beef lobby has appropriated "Hoe-Down" as one of their themes); a great vocal rendition of "Simple Gifts" and a large chunk of another of Copland's best known works: "Billy the Kid". The only confusing piece is the "Variations on a Shaker Hymn" from Appalachian Spring when the entire Appalachian Spring is already included. Seems slightly redundant.

Though most of the pieces on this CD were written in the 1930s and 1940s, they tend to evoke the old west. With titles such as "Rodeo" and "Billy the Kid" this shouldn't surprise too many people.

Copland went on to compose more dissonant and twelve tone compositions later on in his career. These obviously weren't as popular with the public in general as the pieces on this CD. Nonetheless, if this disc whets the appetite, a foray into Copland's less popular works will yield much. It will help to expose the totality of Copland's output. This disc only represents a small portion of his work. Regardless, this disc is a great starting point for getting to know one of the United States' best known composers of the twentieth century.

A Great American Album
This is a great album representing true patriotic American music. Songs like "Hoe-Down" are lively and energetic and give rememberance to what one can imagine as the true American spirit.

Must have this one...
I like all types of music, I wanted this album because I liked the song "RODEO" that is used on the beef commercials.This CD has made me into a Copland fan.It has many great songs.If you want a CD that says "I am an American."This is it.I am sending copies to a friend in Bombay and Tel Aviv.This is who I am put to music. ... Read more

Asin: B00002S5EW
Sales Rank: 14678
Subjects:  1. Ballet    2. Band    3. Classical    4. Orchestral    5. Orchestral & Symphonic    6. Vocal   

American Adagios
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (05 August, 1998)
list price: $18.98 -- our price: $14.99
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Reviews (7)

Another highlight in the Adagio series
Many of the pieces of music on this disc are masterpieces and all are played to perfection.Barber's Adagio appears twice:in orchestral and choral versions,and the Agnus Dei choral is given loving treatment by the Robert Shaw festival singers.The familiar but never tiring Shaker variations of Copland and the exquisite Lullabye for strings of Gershwin are two quintessential slices of Americana performed by the Cincinnati Pops under Eric Kunzel.The most beautiful work of the collection may be the Anhran from flute concerto by Christopher Rouse.This little piece may find its way on many recordings in the coming years.With all around excellent performances and gorgeous sound this disc is definitely a keeper.

A collection of masterpieces
This Telarc CD is a compilation of selections from a dozen different albums. It features slow movements by such greats as Barber, Copland and Gershwin and includes beautiful works by lesser known composers. The album is stylistically varied but is uniformly beautiful, meditative and relaxing.I particularly enjoyed Thomas Canning's "Variations on a Hymn by Justin Morgan".However, I purchased this CD for the final piece, Barber's "Agnus Dei".This particular performance by the Robert Shaw Festival Singers is transcendental.Each time I listen to it, I feel like I've left the here and now and am somewhere that it better and very beautiful.I have other recordings of Agnus Dei that are nice, but seem kind of stiff in comparison to this one.This CD comes with my highest recommendations.

Will transport you...
Adagios may be slower pieces, but this CD is definitely not simple background music.The tenderness of the Gershwin "Lullaby" and Barber's haunting "Adagio" demand your attention.This is musicthat soars and takes the listener along. ... Read more

Asin: B000009RCU
Sales Rank: 24671
Subjects:  1. Chamber    2. Choral    3. Classical    4. Concerto    5. Keyboard    6. Orchestral    7. Orchestral & Symphonic   

81st Birthday Concert
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (01 November, 1993)
list price: $16.99 -- our price: $16.99
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Features

• Live

Reviews (1)

The Grand Old Master
This is a recording of a concert at the Library of Congress in honor of Aaron Copland's 81's birthday. The music consists entirely of Copland's chamber music: four of his "Old American Songs," the haunting song cycle "Twelve Poems of Emily Dickinson," as well as two solo piano works: the early "Three Moods" and the later work "Night Thoughts." Hearing the "Old American Songs" and "Dickinson" cycle played with the original piano accompaniment, as opposed to the symphonic arrangements that Copland made of these works, may seem surprising in the sense of intimacy and closeness that they convey, particularly to someone used to Copland's more popular symphonic music. This sense is furthered by the added recorded presence of a very interesting and informative interview with Copland himself.

The "Dickinson" songs are really the best part of the CD. The cycle as a whole is very moving, very misterious and contemplative, and Copland's music is very appropriate for the poems. My personal favorites are "When They Come Back," "Heart, We Will Forget Him," "I've Heard an Organ Talk Sometimes," and, best of all, "The Chariot." This is very touching music, and this performance of it is splendid. This is not Copland, the 'Cowboy from Brooklyn' (as Charles Ives called him); this is Copland in an very different vein from what most of are perhaps accustomed to hearing. However, it is interesting to hear how, despite the differences between his more 'serious' chamber music and his more popular concert music, so many of the qualities of Copland which are perceptible in both styles. In many ways, there is really not that much difference between "Rodeo" or "Fanfare for the Common Man" and the Dickinson songs or his other 'modernist' compositions. Give them a chance; you may find that you will like them. ... Read more

Asin: B000003GJ4
Sales Rank: 190584
Subjects:  1. Classical    2. Keyboard    3. Nationalist    4. Orchestral & Symphonic    5. Vocal   

Benjamin Luxon & Bill Crofut Sing Folk Songs at Tanglewood/simple Gifts
Average Customer Review:
Audio CD (07 April, 1993)
list price: $14.98
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Reviews (2)

One of the funniest and most moving CD's I've ever heard...
The reviewer below got it right on the money. These are unique interpretations done by two of the most interesting singers ever to walk out on stage. Benjamin Luxon sings the British angles on most of these songs, while Bill Crofut's gentle baritone provides the American sides. They often mix the songs together, each singing the other's verses, while they contrast the differences in others.

Many of the songs are hilarious, while some are gentle, moving ballads. Old Blue is one of those in which Bill Crofut solos, then has the audience join in. It's done in a simple style, as a man sings about his unconditional love for his dog. Ben Luxon takes on Johnny, I Hardly Knew You, an anti-war song with a vengeance. He begins it solemnly, singing about a crippled veteran returning home, with a gentle, murmuring voice. As the woman he loves bewails his condition, Luxon unfolds the power of his voice and emotions, forcing us to see and feel her anguish at the fate of her man. Then, she gently welcomes him home. Benjamin Luxon walked two sides of the musical fence- classical, including opera and oratorio, and folk music. This was a voice that could be rich and ringing, displaying openly a large, coffeee colored bass baritone. Then there was that floating gentle head voice, almost ethereal in its beauty. (This is unusual in his range, believe me!) I Gave My Love An Apple shows him using that kind of voice, and it moves me to tears listening to it. Bill Crofut sings in his own way, though he does remind me a bit of the great Pete Seeger. The accompaniments are simple and elegant, reminding me of singing sessions around a campfire. This is one of the best albums of any type I have ever heard, in any genre. I cannot recommend it highly enough...

Two voices, one heart
This record lifts the spirit and educates the ear!The songs all have a madrigal sound and a happy lilt.Do not be deceived by the ordinary songs you think you know; these are unique interpretations.Let Crofut teach youto love, this is NOT new age, it is timeless, like the best of Pete Seeger. ... Read more

Asin: B00000239J
Sales Rank: 172583
Subjects:  1. Folk & Traditional    2. Nostalgia    3. Pop    4. Traditional Pop