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Genre: Classical Music
Media Format: Compact Disk
Rating:
Release Date: 14-OCT-1997
CD Reviews
One of the best Water Music recordings
Paul Bobbitt | Toronto, Ontario Canada | 08/10/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I'm torn as to whether I prefer the Tafelmusik recording or this one. Both are beautiful, but each approaches the music in a different way. This recording is perhaps the more traditional of the two, with a slower tempo. The brass is particularly spectacular in this recording, giving a richness and depth to the slower passages. The French horns are incredible. Hogwood is also an acknowledged master of Handel, making this version a core piece in any collection."
Towards the higher end of the pack
Paul Bobbitt | 03/11/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Reading the liner notes, I am reminded that the occasion for which the water music originally was composed was royal river outing that started in the evening and lasted until 4:00 AM (Take THAT you modern clubhoppers!). The music was played three times through the course of this trip. I doubt there were many teetotallers. Soo...royal oarsmen, wine goblets overflowing with the best claret, tipsy nobleman and...hey! don't hit that river barge! Watch where you're goin' mate!As such, I'd expect a little roughness in performances (especially for the 3:30 AM gig). Ill-tuned horns and all, I think Hogwood delivers about as faithful a rendition as is currently available. There are certainly more "refined" versions of the water music. I think these better resemble the follow-on peformances for the genteel, perfumed ladies seeking money for the foundling hospital. That's the beauty of Orpheus and Pinnock versions.Hogwood gets 4 stars for getting close to the river ride. I will admit that my view has been biased by the fabulous 1976 rendition by Jean-Claude Malgoire which hasn't been bettered in this respect. No English band can shake a stick next to drunken French horn players. But Hogwood is a good near-term substitute until Sony wakes up and dips further into their vaults.
Additionally, the Fireworks music is fabulous; the due cori very nice, with similar touches of earthiness. All in all a good outing, and for decent prices."
A MUST HAVE!
Ben Sparrow | 02/20/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This CD is a powerful, electrifying performance of some of the greatest works ever written. This is a great interpretation of what Handel wanted. A worthwhile buy because it never gets old. This is the one to get. It simply is great. Amen."
Bravo Mr. Handel
William | Brisbane, Queensland Australia | 02/20/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"A Great Master's Mastery, Masterly Mastered by a Master!!
Translation?? In any speak, this is classic Handel, played at it's best, by the one who should know!!!
Hogwood's genius as a foremost expert on my personal favourite composer, can never be overestimated, and here, presented in a medium of works we all know and can relate to, are a showcase of his awesome skills and brand of 'Mastery'!!
One feels obliged to pay homage to composer and conductor alike, for without either, we could not see the creation of this CD, in what is a pinnacle of art and high standard in performance.
Accordingly, Bravo Mr. Handel, and many many congratulations to Mr Hogwood and all the performers."
A Noble Performance
Robert Andrade | Cupertino,California | 03/11/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have listened to numerous renditions by different performing artists, for several years, of both Water Music and Music for the Royal Fireworks. The first time I listened to this CD played by the Academy of Ancient Music I felt I was listening to a high class performance. There is something about the clear sound of the instruments and the tempo and dedication to detail that this group of artists put into its performance that it really inspires me into the wonderful world of the baroque classical music and somehow it transports me to the time when Handel himself was composing and directing these beautiful masterpieces. And the bonus is also the beautifully played Duo A Cori concertos. I recommend it!"
Track Listings (25) - Disc #1