Dan Beck

Solid Recording, Jan 21 2001

This recording displays the Cleveland Orchestra as it usually is: an extremely capable ensemble that plays just about every piece to perfection. But, in the case of Berlioz, the type of pinpoint precision the orchestra uses does not fully unlock the genius, beauty, and haunting effect of the Symphonie Fantastique. This is a program symphony, and the orchestra treats it as if it were absolute music. The players succeed as musicians, but with the music of Berlioz, the players forget they are on stage as actors as well.

Brandenburg Gems, Dec 31 2000

I wanted to get a complete set of the Brandenburg Concertos, and lucky for me, I picked up this bargain-priced two CD set. This recording is great! I Musici plays with an informed baroque style, but not so much so that they get bogged down in the reactionary, scholarly prerogatives of much of the period instrument movement. The horns ring effortlessly, brightly, and clearly, the sound of the flute is enchanting without using excessive vibrato, and the strings are completely unified creating the full effect of Bach's masterpiece. The violin concertos are taken at a slow tempo, and I Musici, it can be argued, is guilty of overdoing the sentimentality. But the performances of the violin… Read more

Bartoli is Best, Jan 1 2000

If Bartoli's sheer range (come on, she can hit the notes. She isn't really a mezzo-soprano) doesn't impress you on this CD, her incredible finesse in dynamic contrast will assuredly seduce you. She touches on the high notes like a pearl drop, her tone left to resonate beautifully for our pleasure. She handles the roles of Mozart's timeless characters in Figaro, Don Giovanni, and Cosi with excellent vocal subtleties and ornamentations. The last track, Exsultate Jubilate, Bartoli handles with ease, while other singers sound as if they were a mouse being chased by a cat. It is the best recording of Mozart's Alleluia I have ever heard, and exclamation point to these wonderful Portraits… Read more