Suggestions For Classical & Symphonic CDs


I’m not interested in opera and I have not developed enough of an appreciation for classical music to understand the different multi-movement structures and related musical forms of the genre. I’m not even sure if music performed by a symphony is necessarily classical. I do know that I like the grand movements of a full symphony with all the varying dynamics and passages. I can’t site any specific samples because of my naiveté with classical music. I do appreciate a solo violin, and I especially like passages involving all of the strings (violins, viola, cello and bass). I have acquired some fuller-range speakers and I would like to listen to some “full-range” string movements/symphonic movements). I have also been listening to music at a much lower volume lately – I listened to the Cowboy Junkies Trinity Sessions last night, in the dark with the volume at a very moderate level (as not to disturb my sleeping cherubs). It was a wonderful experience. I think I would really appreciate duplicating this listening experience with the type of music mentioned above. I do not have an SACD player and I am only interested in the very best of Red Book (production value).

Thank you.
Ben
2chnlben
Thanks Calbrs03. Jhold, I went ahead and picked up Part's Alina during lunch today. The oh-so brief samples that I heard were compelling.

Thanks to all.

Ben
I recently got a new cycle of Beethoven symphonies by Mikhail Pletnev on DGG. These are exciting performances that are well-recorded.
kyung-Wha Chung violinist, with Andre Previn and the London Symphony on Decca - Tchaikovsky and Sibelius violin concertos. Many feel (myself included) that the string section along with the entire orchestra of the Berlin Philharmonic in the 1960's, particularly the early 60's, under Karajan has never before or since been equaled. Criticisms of later (late 70's and 80's) recordings essentially deride the orchestra as being too perfect. Von Karajan was, incidently, instrumental in the development of the CD. A man fascinated with recording - imagine going from recording on 78 rpm vinyl (short sides) to LP's to CD's in a lifetime.