Brahms for Book Lovers: A Cozy Companion for Reading
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Composer: Johannes BrahmsPerformer: Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Chamber Ensemble
Performer: Beaux Arts Trio
Performer: György Sebök
Performer: Hephzibah Menuhin
Performer: Werner Haas
Edition: Music CD
CD Release Date: 1998-06-09
Music Label: Philips
Soundtracks:
- Violin Sonata No. 1 In G, Op. 78: Vivace ma non troppo
- Clarinet Sonata No. 1 In F Minor, Op. 120: Allegretto grazioso
- Serenade No. 1 In D, Op. 11: Menuetto I & II
- Violin Sonata No. 2 In A, Op. 100: Andante tranquillo - Vivace - Andante - Vivace di piu - Andante vivace
- Piano Trio No. 3 In C Minor, Op. 101: Andante grazioso
- Clarinet Sonata No. 2 In E - Flat, Op. 120: Andante con moto
- Violin Sonata No. 2 In A, Op. 100: Allegretto grazioso
- Clarinet Trio In A Minor, Op. 114: Andante grazioso
- String Quartet No. 1 In C Minor, Op. 51: Romance. Poco adagio
- Piano Quintet In F Minor, Op. 34: Andante, un poco adagio
- Clarinet Quintet In B Minor, Op. 115: Adagio
Music reviews of Brahms for Book Lovers: A Cozy Companion for Reading
Music Review: The 'sweetest creme' of Brahms' chamber music
Rating: 5 Stars
If you could put all of Brahms' chamber music in a big vat, churn it like butter and then skim off the creamiest, sweetest part from the top, you would likely get nearly all of the music on this CD. This collection of slow movements here shows Brahms in his finest and most lyrical moods and is really some of his most beautiful and inspired music. By the way, "chamber music" refers to compositions for 2-8 instruments intended for a more intimate environment (as compared to a large orchestra or symphony). This compilation of Brahms' intimate chamber music is not by any means one of those thrown-together collections of "nice music" but is a high-quality, deserving intro to Brahms that you can be proud to own. It is my favorite in this Philips' series. Notably, some of Brahms' most melting and alluring clarinet music is featured on this disc (clarinet sonatas, trio and quintet arrangements). Brahms' clarinet chamber music is some of the most unique and most loved in all the classical chamber-music repertoire. In particular, the legendary Clarinet Quintet is his finest composition whose dreamy, "autumnal" slow movement (featured on this disc) is particularly magical and beguiling. In fact, I would say that movement alone is probably among my favorite three movements in all of classical music.
All of these compositions are true masterpieces written in the late 19th century ("Romantic era"). As such a few selections tend to demand more attention with their soaring violin lines, complex harmonies, more intense minor keys and surging "romantic" dynamics - making them a bit less condusive fo reading or dosing off. But, this should not bother all who are not easily distracted with such expressive music. (Some other CD's in this series provide a more relaxing, non-intrusive setting for long sessions on the sofa reading such as the Bach, Baroque and 'quiet Mozart' CD's as well as 'Beethoven for Book Lovers'). Personally, I think this amazing CD is best suited for really getting into and learning the music of Brahms rather than merely as a backdrop for reading. Regardless, the compositions, performers and sound quality are all excellent, making this Brahms' collection one in scope and quality way beyond what the cute cover graphics would suggest. Having superb musicians like the legendary Arthur Grumiaux (violin) and George Pieterson (clarinet) or the Quartetto Italiano assure the finest, silky-smooth and captivating performances of this staturesque music. But, in particular, the three clarinet pieces on this CD are among the finest - the creme - of all 19th-century classical chamber music and are a true highlight to be savored. There's not one selection on this CD that is not superb really. Most recommended - 5 stars.
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