The legendary Period LP's featuring Hungarian cellist Janos Starker, recorded during the early 1950's have been some of the most sought after classical recordings of the LP age. Out of print for over 35 years, the performances display to full advantage a mastery of classical style in works by Boccherini and Mozart, and such superb technique in Kodaly and Bartok that it makes even the finest players on his instrument exclaim in admiration. Now, finally available again in this 2 disc set, JANOS STARKER'S LEGENDARY PERIOD LP'S VOL. 1.
P**A
The 20th century's most sought after LPs, out of print for 35 years, now available on CD!
János Starker is one of the 20th century's greatest cellists. Hungarian born, Starker was a child prodigy touring Europe and the United States by the time he was 12 years old. Starker is a perfectionist and his tireless practice sessions are legendary. The man is a genius with his instrument. His technique is brilliant and his playing passionate.These sessions were recorded in New York in the 1950's for the small label, Period. With no producer on hand, the musicians and engineers collaborated on the sound and mic placement. Starker himself helped in the editing process taking a razor blade to the session tapes. I guess that shows what can be done when you take the marketing people out of the creative process. As LP's these recordings were among those most prized by collectors. Sadly, they have been out of print for over 35 years. This is the first time they are available on CD.This set is marvelous for its diversity, ranging from Boccherini and Mozart to Bartok and Kodaly is amazing.I have to say that I usually dislike Bartok, but in Starker's hands Bartok becomes fascinating. If a musician can do that with Bartok, imagine how well the Mozart sounds!Highly recommended!
A**U
Great record!
I was not able to find this over here in Germany so ordering it from the States seemed to be the next best idea. And it was! This is really an amazing piece of art and an easy recommendation for anyone with even the slightest interest in cello music.
R**N
Five Stars
Perfect cd, arrived quickly.
R**K
Absolutely the best...
Simply put, absolutely the best performances of these pieces by the most sympathetic musicians - especially on the Hungarian composer's pieces (all the players are Hungarian). Starker is at his best here and the supremely underated Arnold Eidus is a revelation to say the least. Do not miss this piece - it has never appeared on CD before. The original LPs sell for a fortune on Ebay. Starker fans will not be dissapointed..the performances are breathtaking
H**E
One stop shop for some classic recordings.
It's quite difficult not to say Kodaly and Starker at the same time, especially as Starker recorded Kodaly's music many times in his career. This double CD replaces a very hard to find set of LPs (and worn out ones in my case) and can be listened to with confidence and joy by anyone who likes the cello or just good music. The Kodaly sonatas can be strong medicine for some ears, but Maesto Starker easily provides the key to unlocking this complex and difficult to play music.The other composers here are none too shabby either
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