Warner Classics

A go-to Dukas box of outstanding performances – but no texts [JW]

A fine Scheherazade, beautifully played but not necessarily superior to classic versions, and two thrilling Mussorgsky novelties which for me constitute the main interest of this issue [RMo]

The only studio recording of Strauss’s biographical opera is a complete winner on all front [MP]

(Déjà Review) One of the greatest instrumentalists of the 20th century in some of its juiciest music – it’s a disc you can’t really afford to miss [GPJ]

Beautiful sonorities throughout but the conductor’s approach is an emotional letdown and hampers the stellar cast [MP]

Johann Strauss’ Hungarian operetta truly sparkles in a performance that commands the field in spite of its age [MP]

(Déjà Review) The seven-movement ballet suite for La strada is the most significant item here and is worth the price of this CD alone [IL]

Arrau’s Chopin enjoys something of classic status, and here are two perfect examples of why this is so [CC]

An 80-CD centenary salute to Marriner, with (or without) his ASMF [JW]

(Déjà Review) – A second view: Superbly performed by all concerned and expertly recorded [JQ]

(Déjà Review) Lean and direct, intent on clarity and sense of direction, but an apparent lack of some grandeur and sense of occasion [TD]

This old recording still has plenty of rewards to offer [MP]

Anderszewski impressively realizes the character of these folk-inspired pieces [LW]

The most authentically French recording of Carmen from the stereo era [MP]

Fine performances, but do we really need any more? [MBu]

Crossover, yes, but don’t let that deter you from some very enjoyable music [DJB]

Anyone contemplating purchase of this set will be buying it for Maria Callas, and it is worthwhile for this alone [JP]

(Déjà Review) An absolute winner – a delightful sense of collegial give and take [KS]

(Déjà Review) This disc represents the flowering of talent of an ensemble that, if they continue on their present well-chosen path, will achieve great things [CC]

(Déjà Review) Kovacevich’s technique is never in question, but the performances are somewhat mannered and un-spontaneous [SF]

(Déjà Review) A vocally definitive version [RMK]

Deserves wide appreciation among general music lovers [JT]

(Déjà Review) The stuff of legends, but what are legends made of? [CH]

(Déjà Review) The set should be heard for its documentation of an extraordinary musical meeting [CH]