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The Muse Surmounted
There are singers who were so enthusiastic about their own singing that they believed they were great despite their lack of technique or musicianship. This is a compilation of recordings by singers such as Florence Foster Jenkins, Tryphosa Bates-Batcheller, Mari Lyn, and many others.
Robert Levine in Classics Today said "This has to be heard to be believed, and believe me, it has to be heard ... This is priceless as a study in aberrant behavior, the history of opera, and sociology ..." Larry Holdridge in The Record Collector felt the singers contained in this compilation "...are demonstrating music from a different perspective. Theirs is simply the joy of performing without being restricted by the printed score and vocal technique ..." Rick Robertson for Amazon stated The Muse Surmounted "... is an uproariously funny excursion into what I would label 'mal canto'. Each singer in this collection set her own substandard for vocal art, and each one is presented in transfers that allow the holes in one's technique to shine through. Brightly.... This is also a first-class production, with attention to quality in presentation. The program notes alone are worth the price of the CD. Gregor Benko has carefully researched these singers, often waiting years for leads to information.... " (This is issued on the Homophone label.)
The Complete Raoul von Koczalski vol. 2:
Homochord, Electrola, and Polydor recordings, 1930-1939
Raoul von Koczalski was born in 1885 and at the age of seven began studying with Chopin-student Karol Mikuli. The first impression of Koczalski’s playing is often one of the fluency and grace of his execution, coupled with his subtlety of phrasing and smooth legato, but what one is often left with is his use of rubato. This aspect of his playing has given rise to debate about Chopin’s musical intentions and has sparked both criticism and admiration of Koczalski’s playing; it will delight many and dissuade some, while asking all to consider if this is the definitive interpretation of Chopin. This three CD-set is the second and final volume of the complete pre-war recordings of this controversial pianist. It is almost entirely devoted to Chopin, including recordings of the complete etudes, preludes, and ballades.
Marston is grateful to the Estate of John Stratton (Stephen Clarke, Executor) for its continuing support.
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Norbeck, Peters & Ford: Importers of elusive historical-interest classical and personality CDs, primarily from independent producers, in business since 1972.