Back in the early 40's, the first vinyl my mom provided for me was a recording of Scheherezade. I played it so often and heard it elsewhere so frequently after that that it almost began to sound trite to me - ignorant slob that I am! I never replaced it in my collection because of that fact. Still, after reading all the outstanding reviews by Hurwitz, Levine et al, I decided to add this version recently. Am I ever glad that I did! I am not one who often stoops to superlatives, but this CD can only be described as magnificent, spectacular!! I have always been a fan of that genius, Fritz Reiner, and his interpretation of Scheherezade is fantastic! The CSO under his direction delivers a version so good that it is like hearing it again for the first time! Every note, every instrument is heard as R-K originally planned it, I'm sure. Not only is the directing and playing magnificent, but the sound is almost beyond belief - especially considering that it was originally recorded in the 50's when I was still just a youngster and all recorded classical music sounded like it was run through a meat grinder. The engineers did a marvelous job on this recording. It even sounds spectacular on my limited two-speaker stereo system. I don't mean to belittle Song of the Nightingale by any stretch of the imagination. It too is presented in a new and glorious light by Reiner and the CSO. It is just that I am overwhelmed by their rendition of Scheherezade.I now play this disc frequently just as I did when I was five years old, but I enjoy it even more. I can't recommend this CD too highly. Buy it while it is still a steal and on the market. Not only will you never regret it, but you will be sorry if you don't!!Read full review
I compared the SACD to the original LP Living Stereo RCA record and the sound quality was very close. The vinyl record had a little more presence, but the SACD was very listenable. This recording of Scherezade is the best I have ever heard. I would highly recommend this SACD.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I have serveral versions, vinyl and CD, including this recording. The SACD is excellent sounding. Very happy with this purchase.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Wonderful music and a great orchestra led by a great conductor
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Perfect musical performance + "Living Stereo" Sonic's = Fantastic!
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
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