Search - Alexander Borodin, Igor Stravinsky, Robert Shaw :: Stravinsky: The Firebird Suite; Borodin: Music from Prince Igor

A 'Must' For Your Classical Collection

Neil Cotiaux | North Canton, Ohio United States | 08/19/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Now here's a CD of the highest order: well-mastered sound, not one, but two magnificent performances and interesting companion notes.



In "The Firebird", Stravinsky proves that in the hands of a master composer - even a reluctant one as Stravinsky was in accepting this commission (the composer procrastinated before finally getting down to business) - less (in terms of length) is indeed more. Utilizing three fairly short themes, Stravinsky conjures imagery that glistens, shimmers and burns like a bonfire. The orchestration is perfect and the exposition is tight as a drum, underscoring the composer's precise, almost engineering-like approach to composition. And watch out for the shocker nearly ten minutes into the piece - it will knock you off your chair. This is programmatic music nicely explained in the accompanying notes, but you don't have to know the story to thoroughly appreciate the music.



If you really want to get the adrenalin pumping, continue on to the Polovetsian Dances from "Prince Igor". Listeners of popular music know the initial theme as "Take My Hand, I'm a Stranger in Paradise" (as performed by numerous mainstream singers). The seminal version is sung lovingly by the chorus - and then the dances take off, going into overdrive as if both orchestra and chorus are being driven by a bullwhip. This is stirring music, boldly performed by great musicians.



Highly recommended."

Stupendous Performances and Sound!

Ivan G. Guevara | 02/02/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Hearing this CD today it is almost hard to believe that is is one of Telarc's first digital releases. The sound quality is

stupendous as my title says. The orchestral playing is faithfully recreated with every nuance registering as if in a con- cert hall; all dynamic levels are beautifully and realistically captured from the softest pianissimo to the loudest fort-

issimo without noticeable tweaking of any sort. Be forewarned - the loud passages will raise the roof and incur feedback

from your neighbors (to put it mildly) so adjust the volume accordingly.



As for the performances, they are perfect in every way. Shaw is as masterful an orchestral conductor as he is a choral con-

ductor; the volume of his choral work often overshadows this. Stravinsky's Firebird Suite is done to a turn with all the

requisite level of expression, from the hushed, expectant opening to the sizzling, jubilant finale. Even with a catalog full of Firebirds, Shaw's account stands out for its enthusiasm and extroverted interpretation (and the recorded sound).



As an apropo coupling, Telarc includes Shaw's performance of Borodin's Polovtsian Dances from the opera Prince Igor. The

same extroverted involement and excellent orchestral playing is joined by the equally polished singing of the Atlanta

Symphony Chorus who clearly relish their participation in this work and sing thier hearts out. This is one of the few

recordings of the dances that include the choral part - another reason why this CD should be snapped up. After hearing the

chorus, you will not miss the full orchestral arrangement which is usually heard.



Again, the recorded sound leaves nothing to be desired and shows no sign of its late 70s's vintage. Add to that the superb

performances and you have a wiiner of a CD. Go ahead, blow the roof off and ask your neighbors to join you!"