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 A little perspective Apr 21, 2008
Reading the quibbles about this CD's sonic imperfections shouldn't lead anyone to think this disk features the dismal sound Szell usually got from Columbia. Sony somehow raised the sound quality miles above that. No, it's not quite state of the art, but Sony will do music a huge service if they remaster more of Szell's great recordings to this standard!
Szell opts for wide contrasts in tempo--so once in awhile, fast sections may seem a trifle rushed and slow passages a bit labored. On the whole, though, this just adds to the color of the performance.
Aside from the above, I agree wholeheartedly with the consensus of other reviews.
Finest recording of the complete Dvorak Slavonic Dances. Jan 02, 2008
To iron-out Shota's review, this is not an all-American ensemblage: this by definition does not "rival European maestros" as Szell WAS an European maestro, being Hungarian. Importantly, his long-standing collaboration with probably the best US orchestra of that generation/crop, is the most wonderful reading of Dvorak's Complete Slavonic Dances. And importantly, for sensibilities of origins and extractions and nationalities, Szell is quite a mirror of Dvorak, having visited, moved to, sampled life in the US. That combination, European-extraction maestro and US master-orchestra, serves up the finest recording of the dances.
For a Czech reading of Czech Slavonics, to which the Shota's review alludes, one would need Rafael Kubelik's fine complete set on DG. This is available in a DG Trio 3cd box-set at very moderate price, coupling the complete two sets of Slavonic Dances with other important tone poems by Dvorak (although the best recording of the principal tone poems alone is that by Harnoncourt on Teldec). The Penguin Guide rates Kubelik's recording of the Slavonic Dances as 3*, but included in the DG Trio boxset as Key 3*.
However, Kubelik should only be sought after first acquiring this field-leading Szell recording. Note, this recording has been issued on pure (non-hybrid) SACD, but has not been incorporated into any "packages" of Szell (such as the grouping of his Dvorak symphonies 7,8,9) - so one can get this without fear of duplication, if after more Szell Dvorak (which will most likely be the case after hearing these). Further Szell Dvorak is recommended, starting with the 9th and following this with the 8th; the 7th under Szell is more rare on disc, and the weakest of the three last symphonies IMOH.
In conclusion, any collection of Dvorak should not be without this recording. Any collection of the Slavonic Dances should not be without this recording, whatever competitors may offer. And any beginner interested in Dvorak's music beyond the New World Symphony 9, should turn here for an exhilirating ride, with glittering expansive sound, and crisp, accurate execution. I purchased this on a visit to the USA as quickly as I could find it, for it's reputation preceded it, though Szell's excellence is wholly under-valued and under the radar in the UK - I've not stopped playing it since, and all those who have heard it in the UK have been very impressed. Buy without delay, and try sitting still, I defy you!
My First Review Ever Dec 23, 2007
I have been a customer of [...] for years and I've never posted a review. I've purchased books, CDs, DVDs, software, electronics, cameras, and even bakeware. I've never complained and surely don't intend to start now.
I am also not a classical music expert, just a fan. I know there is some debate among Dvorak fans regarding conductors. Some say Kubelik; some say Kertesz. For the symphonies, I settled on Kertesz, (Dvorák: The Symphonies), and I love it.
But when it came to Dvorak's dances, Szell's leadership of the Cleveland Orchestra beats both other conductors, hands down. I just love listening to it.
In my opinion, the dances are much more lively and colorful compared to the more stale and march direction of Kubelik and Kertesz.
For all classsical music buffs, this CD is a must for your collection.
Dvorak - good music, played brilliantly, and a friendly price to match Oct 30, 2007
You can't really ask for much more.
The life in each dance is incredible. There is a whole world within each small segment, a world that comes alive with every listen. One can simply put this on as background music (for it is beautiful and well played), bounce along to it, or even just sit down and absorb every sound. There is something so satisfying about listening to these well recorded pieces.
In addition to the great music (Dvorak was a master, and these dances are just the tip of the iceberg), there's this incredibly friendly price. You're able to get an excellent recording of incredible repertoire (getting both sets of Slavonic Dances here) for an unbeatable price.
Yes.
Beautiful and Eclectic (albeit bittersweet) Mar 08, 2007
This has turned into one of my favorite "work" music selections. The different selections are very rich and are diverse enough in character that there is no monotony to the collection. The quality of the recording is outstanding.
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