Recomend me some classical

[Kitty Schmitty]

Mozart's Requiem. Saw a performance of it in Brighton last week was good.

Wonderful. They're performing this by candle light in Canterbury Cathedral in December - needless to say, I'll be there.

Personally, I've been listening to a lot of Gorecki at the moment. She may like that.

 

[Boogie Boy]

My mum's been hinting that she'd like a classical music CD for Mother's Day, not sure what to get. I know she likes Tchaikovsky (how the fuck do you spell that ) but I know roughly bugger all about classical, does anybody have any suggestions?

Hi In Bloom,

In some ways this is simpler than you might at first think, and even though Mother's Day has passed you might want to consider some of these in the future (they should make great presents!).

Definately try Rachmaninov, either the Symphonies or the Piano Concertos. Examples of these always come up in popular lists of popular classics - but please don't be put off. His music is very melodic and can provoke a very emotional response from some listeners.

Beethoven is an absolute must, and fortunately there are very many recordings of the Symphonies that can be bought very cheaply. The most popular Piano Concertos tend to be his 4th and 5th ('The Emperor' - largely due to the sublime Adagio) and these are widely and freely available.

If your Mum likes symphonic music then Brahms is a must too - try the 1st Symphony and see what her reaction is to that. The chances are that if she likes Beethoven then she may find Brahms to her liking to.

I would also look to Bruckner, the 6th or the 7th Symphony, and maybe Mahler - but go for the popular 5th Symphony or the 9th. If she likes the 9th (particularly the last movement) then it is very probable that she might find some of Wagner interesting.

Lastly I would try some Raph Vaughan Williams, especially the 2nd 'London' Symphony, the 3rd 'Pastoral' or the 5th. I could go on but I wouldn't want to bore you - pm me if you want any further suggestions or help with particular recordings.

And good luck!

BB