To mark the bicentenary (February 3, 2009) of Mendelssohn's birth, Anne-Sophie Mutter has recorded a very special tribute combining symphonic music and chamber works. This unique homage to Mendelssohn includes a CD & D... more »VD, both of which feature complete performances of the repertory. The DVD also includes "Encounters with Mendelssohn" -a mini-documentary about the composer and Mutter's performances of his works. Mutter is joined by Kurt Masur and the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig (Mendelssohn's orchestra) for the concerto, and by André Previn and Lynn Harrell on the chamber works. This unique program pairs works that are rarely heard together. Performances of the Mendelssohn concerto will support this release. This deluxe, limited edition package will only be produced once--the release will revert to standard jewel packaging when supplies are gone.« less
To mark the bicentenary (February 3, 2009) of Mendelssohn's birth, Anne-Sophie Mutter has recorded a very special tribute combining symphonic music and chamber works. This unique homage to Mendelssohn includes a CD & DVD, both of which feature complete performances of the repertory. The DVD also includes "Encounters with Mendelssohn" -a mini-documentary about the composer and Mutter's performances of his works. Mutter is joined by Kurt Masur and the Gewandhausorchester Leipzig (Mendelssohn's orchestra) for the concerto, and by André Previn and Lynn Harrell on the chamber works. This unique program pairs works that are rarely heard together. Performances of the Mendelssohn concerto will support this release. This deluxe, limited edition package will only be produced once--the release will revert to standard jewel packaging when supplies are gone.
"Today marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Felix Mendelssohn (-Bartholdy) (1809-1847), one of the treasures of the classical music world. I cannot think of a more fitting tribute that this album featuring Anne-Sophie Mutter. She brings a level of energy and vitality to Mendelssohn's work I've rarely heard before. Her virtuosity with the violin is truly without peer and sound quality is exceptional. This stunning CD/DVD set should make any fan or Mutter's or lover of Mendelssohn very happy.
You are buying this for the music, but the mini-documentary about the composer and Mutter's performance is a real treat as well. Don't wait -- once the lovely limited edition run sells out, it will revert a standard jewel packaging. I find something different to enjoy with every new listen."
BAD sound. "OK" musical performance
Hakan Olsson | Seattle, WA USA | 02/20/2009
(2 out of 5 stars)
"I heard the Piano Trio from this disc on the 103.7 the Mountain radio station and got totally excited and ordered it the same day. I was positively surprised to learn that both a CD and a 5.0 DTS DVD surround disc was included for just under $14. The Mendelsohn Violin concert is "OK" from a musical perspective, but not on par with several of Mutters past recording - especially compared to Beethovens Violin concert with Berliner Philarmonics under Karajan. However, it was truly entertainming to watch the DVD and listen to the DTS 5.0 surround recording while she was playing. The REAL DISAPPOINTMENT however was the sound quality of the Piano Trio. It is recorded in a smaller concert hall, and the sound is flat and indistinct to the point that I couldn't bear to listen to more than half of the first movement. Granted that I am a sound engineer by trade, but in my mind, it is unbelievable that Deutsche Grammofon would even consider putting their label on a disc with level of quality. I would return the disc if I could..."
Mutter mutterings
Ronald B. Ein | 03/11/2009
(4 out of 5 stars)
"These Mendelssohn pieces are major works that Mutter clearly masters and presents in interesting ways. The Violin Concerto, for instance, she takes at quite a fast pace, but still holds its shape. In partnership with Lynn Harrell and Andre Previn, she does a lovely job with the Trio No. 1.
A point of concern is Mutter's overwhelming vibrato and excessive "expression." To my ear, she now makes a similar over-done tone that Perlman came to rely on in his fifties. Anyone else out there hearing this?
This edition contains both a cd and a dvd. The dvd seems to have a very slight synchonization problem that I found disconcerting. As a violinist, I am interested in seeing how Mutter bows, but couldn't quite do it with this technical glitch.
My last quibble is the package, which is all pink and mauve and flower petals. Blame it on the marketing department, not Mutter, but it doesn't square with the artistic strength either of Mendelssohn or of these players."
Fabulous playing................
Robert C. Hufford | Hopewell, VA USA | 05/10/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"There is no question that Miss Mutter is a big-time star, and deserves her stardom. Her music production is faultless, and she looks good in a tight dress. That she has all the warmth and charm of an iceberg is not her fault......
Everbody and his/her brother/sister has recorded the Mendelssohn, and a FEW have even done it right; Miss Mutter is certainly among their number. Superb interpretation (a little fast for some tastes) perfectly presented. I continue to prefer an old Mischa Elman recording, but, that aside, this is as good as any, and better than most. Maestro Masur, naturally, leads a great orchestra to perfection.
The piano trio, with Previn and Harrell, is likewise done with technical skill and plenty of style...these are "old pros" who know just how great music should be made......
I actually prefer the CD to the DVD, though I admit the sonic and visual excellence of the latter. If you want to HEAR great music well performed, Miss Mutter is your cup-of-tea. If you want visual beauty with feminine charm AND great playing, look up Sarah Chang's performance of the Mendelssohn with Maestro Masur and the NYPO. Five stars? Sure. Miss Mutter is a GREAT violinist. That her beauty reminds one of a block of ice, and that she has all the allure of an operating room....well, nobody's perfect."