Search - Prokofiev, Mussorgsky, Nyp :: Nevsky Cantata / Pictures at Exhibition (Sl)

A long unavailable performance masterpiece restored.

Albert J. Copland | 11/13/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording enjoys legendary status among sound and music enthusiasts alike. And it has never before made it onto CD in the US, let alone in spectacular SACD sound. The only possible rival to this exciting cantata assembled by Prokofiev from his legendary movie soundtrack is the Reiner/CSO recording in RCÅ Living Stereo sound. BUT it's an English translation, not the original Russian, which the music fits like a glove. The conductor, Thomas Schippers, was one of the bright lights of the generation following Bernstein. Sadly, he died when he was in his early 40s. This incredible SACD not only shows off the new sound format to a tasteful fair-thee-well, but also serves as a fitting memorial to a first-rate conducting genius."

SACD Goodness...

Ken Bailey | Ypsilanti, MI United States | 05/24/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Ever since reading Red Storm Rising, I wanted to see the movie Alexander Nevsky since it played a part in the book. when I finally got to see it, I wasn't disappointed. What made the movie good was the delightful soundtrack by Prokofiev. I have the other Alexander Nevsky for the remastered movie. However, it doesn't compare to this one.
This one is multichannel which means that an orchestra is filling my living room. Plus you can hear the clarity and depth of the music and some of the details you can't hear on a normal CD. My only complaint about this one is that is excerpts from the soundtrack and not the full thing. But it at least has my favorite tracks from the movie.
The music for the Battle on the Ice is top notch. As is the music for the celebration at the end."

Top Historic Recording Sounds Fresh Again

Robert L. Edwards | New York, NY United States | 05/14/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"There are those who remember this recording from its first incarnation and they speak of it with awe. Rightly so. This was one of those recordings where all the elements came together to make a whole greater than its parts.



Thomas Schippers was a brilliant conductor whose star managed to rise even in the shadow of Bernstein. He was a compatriot whose life was cut short. Of all his recorded performances, this one may be the standout.



Westminster Choir was at its peak when this was recorded and the rich resonant sound is aggressive and solid. Mother Chookasian spoke lovingly of this recording; she was very proud of it.



Sony has done a superb job in the SACD realization and this masterfully recorded piece sounds terrific. Its hard to believe it is now over 50 years old.



This is a must have, for the performance, which is the standard to beat, as well as for the recording itself."