Liebe Pro

With this original jackets’ box set Deutsche Grammophon concludes its series of 4 grand sets that present almost the totality of Herbert von Karajan’s output for the Yellow Label – and hence perhaps the most magnificent legacy in the history of recorded music. On 70 CDs “KARAJAN – THE OPERA RECORDINGS” features the 14 operas Karajan recorded for DGG – from “Carmen” to “Parsifal”, from “The Merry Widow” to “Rosenkavalier”, from Mozart to Puccini. And, of course, the complete “Ring”.

Of all the liturgical reconstructions that Paul McCreesh has been offering over the past decade, this is easily the most elaborate. It's astonishing to think that Bach's parish church would have celebrated Epiphany (the 12th day of Christmas, January 6, usually a weekday) as elaborately as this program, and it's fascinating to think of the congregation of the Thomanerkirche anticipating the event around 1740. The entire service is included in the recording, much like the Catholic Masses on record that include the celebrant's prayers and Preface before the Sanctus (chanted in Latin even here), the Scripture chanting (in German here, of course), and all the odd versicles. The sermon is only six minutes long, just a hint of a longer discourse (it would have been at least an hour long, according to the notes).

A limited-edition 55-CD set of legendary and critically acclaimed recordings celebrating the famous PHILIPS heritage. An alliance of great artistry and superb sound. Classic-status albums spanning over half a century of recording and showcasing a wealth of international talent.
An unrivaled collection that that embraces all musical genres - from solo piano and chamber music through to large scale choral works and opera.