Surprisingly good, and NOT the Pearlman recording
R. Schmidt | 08/03/2009
(4 out of 5 stars)
"All of the preceding reviews linked to this item (Complete Brandenburg Concertos, Consortium Musicum) are actually reviews of the CD set by Pearlman and the Boston Baroque! There are similarities, but they are not the same.
First, an important difference: these recordings have the tempi spot-on. The Pearlman treatment is overly fast throughout.
Second, a disappointing similarity: The second movement of Concerto 3 is missing what most scholars consider an obligatory improvisation. Would Bach write a second movement consisting of only two chords spanning a mere 13 seconds? One's appetite is whetted, but then the third movement starts...
Technique throughout is simply amazing. Considering the use of period instruments, some of the playing is unexpectedly precise. The harpsichord is particularly well done. The cadenza at the end of the first movement of Concerto 5 is just fantastic. Concerto 4 is a perfect blend of virtuoso performances -- it practically floats on air, and every part is clear and strong.
Your collection should not be without this work, and at $5.99, there's nothing holding you back.
"
Stunning...Absolutely Fun and Lively
Ronald M. Taylor | 04/17/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"You will be absolutely stunned to find yourself listening to this beautiful music night and day. It is very difficult to put it on pause once you've started listening to it. This is an excellent tool to instantly brighten your mood and reenergize your batteries without resorting to trendy super-caffeinated beverages or fumbling about with sticky sugary candy bars masquerading as all natural vitamin-enriched energy bars. You'll be tapping your foot, and playfully twiddling your fingers - the all natural way. I bet you won't be able to stop yourself from recommending this beautiful music to your family and friends as well as complete strangers. I know this is true, because I do it all the time. Look...I'm doing it to you too!"
Exciting performance
R. tager | greensboro, nc United States | 02/26/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Being my first review for Amazon I will make this brief. I found this performance to be my favorite of all the Brandenburgs I have heard, though I course there are many I have never listened to. This recording was very well done with wonderful sound and exciting performances. Highly recommended."