Thursday, December 4, 2014
Chopin: Prelude No. 3; Prelude No. 15 “Raindrop”
Album: Chopin: 24 Preludes
Performed by Alain Lefèvre, piano
The Toronto Star had this to say about Lefèvre: "The 10 most agile fingers to have emerged from Quebec." Agile indeed!
Angels We Have Heard on High
Album: Candlelight Carols – Music for Chorus and Harp
Performed by Seraphic Fire
This fine choral group from Florida has twice been nominated for a Grammy Award. Festive and enjoyable holiday sounds, familiar carols and other tunes not as well-known.
Beethoven: Quartet Opus 59, No. 1, first movement
Album: Beethoven: The Middle String Quartets
Performed by Cypress String Quartet
The Beethoven Late String Quartets recorded five years ago by the Cypress String Quartet earned rave reviews and this installment is every bit as good.
Mahler: Symphony No. 7, second movement
Album: Mahler: Symphony No. 7
Conductor: Gustavo Dudamel
Performed by Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra
It was the 2003 Gustav Mahler Conducting Competion that launched the international career of Gustavo Dudamel. Quite naturally, his interpretations of the Mahler Symphonies are always greeted with enthusiasm.
