Tír Na HiFi

Seán wrote:My listening habits have changed in that every day since then the first piece of music that I listen to is Prokofiev's Third. It is a beautifully balanced, sparkling piece of music that really moves me. I am surprised that I didn't instantly fall in love with it when I listened to it before....better late than never. Highly recommended!

fergus wrote:

Seán wrote:This morning I listened to and really enjoyed a performance of Beethoven's First on Lyric's Coffee Concert, the programme was presented by Paul Herriott. So today I have enjoyed a feast of Beethoven Firsts and all are so different.

I have been thinking about that Seán and comparing a number of different versions of the one work is something that I used to do a lot of; and I really used to enjoy it as it is a great way to really get to know a work. I really must get back to basics in this regard and resume that practice again. My new purchases have diminished to the extent that I am now at my lowest level for quite some time of the discs sitting on my shelf awaiting listening....a mere 10CDs + 2 box sets. I really am trying to catch up on listening to my collection as opposed to just continually adding to it.

Seán wrote:

This evening I listened to the First Symphony and what a joy it is to behold: beautiful orchestral playing throughout, it is a really colourful performance, the first movement in particular is wonderful. This could push the Mackerras/RLPO into second place for me.....and that's saying something. I'm looking forward to making my way through the rest of this set.

Seán wrote:

fergus wrote:I have been thinking about that Seán and comparing a number of different versions of the one work is something that I used to do a lot of; and I really used to enjoy it as it is a great way to really get to know a work. I really must get back to basics in this regard and resume that practice again. My new purchases have diminished to the extent that I am now at my lowest level for quite some time of the discs sitting on my shelf awaiting listening....a mere 10CDs + 2 box sets. I really am trying to catch up on listening to my collection as opposed to just continually adding to it.

I have started back listening to my favourite pieces by Beethoven, Mahler, Prokofiev, et al. I love to listen to three or more pieces at a time and let the music wash over me: it enhances my understanding and enjoyment of these works too.