Carnegie Hall

Starring:Marsha Hunt, William Prince, Frank McHugh, Martha O'Driscoll, Hans Jaray, Olin Downes, Joseph Buloff, Walter Damrosch, Bruno Walter, Lily Pons, Gregor Piatigorsky, RisÃ« Stevens, Artur Rodzinski, Artur Rubinstein, Jan Peerce, Ezio Pinza, Jascha Heifetz, Fritz Reiner, Leopold Stokowski, Harry James
Director: Edgar G. Ulmer
Studio: First Look Home Ente
Product Type: DVD

Editorial Review:
Amazon.com
This 1947 curio, saluting and partly filmed at the New York City cultural landmark, begins with a shot of the building's exterior. Except that the "exterior" is a photograph with a dramatic yet distinctly ersatz night sky optically sutured above it. In short, Edgar G. Ulmer, the poet of Poverty Row, is up to his usual tricks--wresting dynamic imagery out of next-to-nothing, even if Carnegie Hall represents a comparatively upscale endeavor in his expressionist/minimalist career.

The film boasts an epic running time of 136 minutes and about half an hour's worth of narrative. Silent-film actress Seena Owen is credited with the story, about an Irish immigrant (Marsha Hunt) whose mystical rapport with the Hall leads to her rise from cleaning woman to a kind of house-mother who helps musically talented kids go far. That's partly because her son (William Prince) has gone right out of her life, asserting a passion for "modern music" (i.e., Vaughn Monroe's dance band) over the classics to which she is devoted. The latter are exuberantly performed or conducted by the likes of Fritz Reiner, Leopold Stokowski, RisÃ« Stevens, Ezio Pinza, and--most memorably--Artur Rubinstein and Jascha Heifetz, who rate the most extended and visually bravura treatment.

Amazon.com

Rodgers and Hammerstein's glorious score for South Pacific gets a surge of welcome new energy in this 2005 Carnegie Hall concert. Brian Stokes Mitchell (Kiss Me Kate, Ragtime) is in spectacular voice singing "Some Enchanted Evening" and "This Nearly Was Mine," but the real discovery is country star Reba McEntire as Nellie Forbush. McEntire won raves when she replaced Bernadette Peters in Annie Get Your Gun, but her performance was never recorded and released to the general public. Now we can understand the raves for ourselves, because McEntire is a joy in the role that features such standards as "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair" and "A Wonderful Guy." Those used to Mary Martin (which is nearly everybody) will need to get used to McEntire's scoops and twang, but it's not inappropriate for a character hailing from Little Rock, Arkansas.

Jason Danieley (The Full Monty) and Lillias White are both effective as Lieutenant Cable and Bloody Mary, respectively, and Alec Baldwin doesn't embarrass himself any more than he's supposed to as Billis. Because it's a concert performance, the singers carry books and don't wear costumes other than in "Honey Bun" (so the nurses jog in the surf and wash their hair wearing black gowns). But much of the story is conveyed through dialogue excerpts, so the 113-minute DVD is substantially longer than the 78-minute CD. --David Horiuchi

Description

Broadway, like everyone, loves Reba McEntire. The redheaded Oklahoma firebrand took on the one-night-only concert role of Nellie Forbush on June 9, 2005—the role Mary Martin immortalized in the 1949 Rodgers & Hammerstein classic South Pacific—and the rialto's toughest critics, led by The New York Times' Ben Brantley, instantly surrendered. "Open-voiced and open-faced, she was born to play Nellie," Brantley wrote of the Carnegie Hall benefit performance, adding that the entire production was performed "in a state of nearly unconditional rapture. It was one of those nights when cynicism didn't stand a chance." Happily that enchanted evening can be shared with fans everywhere when "SOUTH PACIFIC" IN CONCERT FROM CARNEGIE HALL comes to DVD. Completing the luxury casting are Broadway and Hollywood icons Brian Stokes Mitchell and Alec Baldwin, as, respectively, French planter Emile de Becque and wise guy sailor Luther Billis. The performance also aired on Thirteen/WNE! T New York's GREAT PERFORMANCES on PBS in April/May.

Customer Reviews:

Reba is absolutely astonishing!.......2007-04-29

Reba definitely has a new calling in Broadway musicals! I didn't see her performance in "Annie, Get Your Gun," although I heard she was magnificient. In this special one night "South Pacific" debut seen on PBS at Carnegie Hall in 2006, the classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical set in WWII, she absolutely knocks off your socks!

Not only is she stunning as Nellie the nurse, she makes you believe she really is that character. Her singing and acting are flawless and outstanding! I have the anniversary editon of the R&H musical classic of "South Pacific," which is great, but this version with Reba and Brain Stokes Mitchell is unbelievably even better! Even Alec Baldwin as "Luther Billis" does an outstanding performance, even with his one slip up that I and the audience certainly enjoyed. Certainly, Lilias White as "Bloody Mary" and Jason Danielly as "Joe Cable" have trememdous voices as well.

However, there is no scenery as the entire musical was done on stage with the Orchestra of St. Lukes, which in itself was simply outstanding. So if you liked the musical without scenery, you'll love this rendition with great performances by all the actors including the two wonderful kids!

South Pacific in Concert from Carnegie Hall.......2007-03-30

This is a fantastic DVD - a powerful performance by all performers. Brian Stokes Mitchell has an incredible voice and is a great actor. His "This Nearly Was Mine" was awesome! Reba McEntire was fabulous. She made Nellie Forbush very believable. Her "Honey Bun" was especially great. Lillias White was all you could ask for as Bloody Mary. She has a powerful voice. I have singled out three of the preformers, but all the rest were just as impressive. The best way to appreciate this performance is to watch it many times...as I have done!!

Wowzer.......2007-03-19

Just caught this performance on PBS and it is superb:

-the "in concert" format with just a minimal amount of acting and costumes, and without the distraction of stage scenery or props, helps you focus on not only the quality of the performances but the historically set, yet timeless, nature of the music and lyrics of Rodgers & Hammerstein.

-You coudn't pick a better Nelly Forbush. Since Reba is restricted by the "in concert" format, she is not allowed to engage in a broadway stage performance like Mary Martin did. But the clear delivery and emotional strength of her singing gave me a deep, deep sense she eclipsed that historic performance in a single outing. Such marvelous broadway musical singing coming from a country singer...who woulda thunk it. I was also touched by what were real tears being shed by Reba at the end. Wow.

-Ditto for Brian Stokes Mitchell's deep, rich baritone as Emile. Like Reba, his voice outdoes the recorded performance of Enzo Pinza, something I didn't think was possible. As someone on IMDB said, his rendition of "This Nearly Was Mine" was so true you thought his heart was really broken by Nellie's rejection.

Don't believe me?

As Mage said on the old Palmolive TV commerical "Try it. You'll like it."

Excellent show.......2007-01-20

I first saw this show on a PBS TV show. It was so good that I had to find a copy of the DVD so I could watch again and again.

"South Pacific".......2007-01-19

This is as good a production of "South Pacific" as you could hope to see and hear. The cast is just about perfect and everyone from the biggest star to the smallest cast member performs flawlessly. The orchestra is big and luscious and all the voices are strong and well cast. Reba McEntire is a delightfully spunky Nellie, Alec Baldwin genuinely funny as a big bruiser of a Billis, and Brian Stokes Mitchell brings just the right dignity to Emile and justly had the audience explode into applause at the end of a truly extraordinary rendition of "This Nearly Was Mine".
One would think that one would miss the scenery for a show such as this, but curiously enough I found this concert version with a minimum of props, and only suggested costuming works even better than the lavish film version, in that one's imagination is far more engaged.
I cannot recommend this performance and the surround sound DVD highly enough.

Sondheim: A Celebration at Carnegie Hall / Liza Minnelli, Patti LuPone, Bernadette Peters, Glenn Close

Average customer rating:

The Master at work
A fantastic show
Sondheim Review

Sondheim: A Celebration at Carnegie Hall / Liza Minnelli, Patti LuPone, Bernadette Peters, Glenn Close
Starring: Various Artists
Manufacturer: Kultur Video
ProductGroup: DVD
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Jerry Herman's Broadway at Hollywood Bowl
Putting It Together: A Musical Review
My Favorite Broadway - The Leading Ladies
Stephen Sondheim's Follies in Concert
Live from Radio City Music Hall

ASIN: B000JGWD32
Release Date: 2006-11-21

Description

This program features the music of Broadway composer Stephen Sondheim in a 1992 performance at Carnegie Hall. An American Musical Theatre writer for over 40 years, Stephen Sondheim has created the scores for hits such as Passion, Assassins, Bounce, Into The Woods, Sunday In The Park With George, Merrily We Roll Along, Sweeney Todd and Pacific Overtures.

In this entertaining musical celebration Paul Gemignani conducts the American Theatre Orchestra.

PROGRAM

1. Sweeney Todd Suite: Orchestra, Jerry Hadley (Johanna), Eugene Perry, Herbert Perry (Pretty Women)

2. Evening Introduction: Bill Irwin

3. Loveland: Ensemble

4. Getting Married Today: Jeanne Lehman, Mark Jacoby, Madeline Kahn

5. Back in Business: Liza Minnelli, Billy Stritch, Ensemble

6. Good Thing Going: The Tonics

7. Losing My Mind / You Could Drive a Person Crazy: Dorothy Loudon

8. Our Time: Boys Choir of Harlem

9. Children Will Listen: Betty Buckley

10. Being Alive: Patti LuPone

11. Sooner or Later: Karen Ziemba, Bill Irwin

12. The Ballad of Booth: Patrick Cassidy, Victor Garber

13. Broadway Baby: Daisy Eagan

14. Not a Day Goes By: Bernadette Peters

15. Green Finch and Linnet Bird: Harolyn Blackwell

16. A Weekend in the Country: Kevin Anderson, George Lee Andrews, Mark Jacoby, Beverly Lambert, Maureen Moore, Susan Terry, Ron Baker, Peter Blanchet, Carol Meyer, Bronwyn Thomas, Blythe Walker

17. Send in the Clowns: Glenn Close

18. Old Friends: Liza Minnelli

19. Sunday: Bernadette Peters, Broadway Chorus

Customer Reviews:

The Master at work.......2007-03-08

Having only previously owned a VHS copy of this concert(a fast deteriorating one at that) what a pleasure it was to see it again on DVD in all it's digital splendor. This is surely one of the great concerts of our time, showcasing the genius that is Stephen Sondheim! What incredible music and what an amazing cast! The brilliance of the late Madeline Kahn in 'Getting Married'; the understated power of Patti LuPone in 'Being Alive' and the absolute magnificence of Bernadette Peters in 'Not a day goes by' to name just a few! And what a great reminder of the true wonder that is Liza Minnelli! Wow what an evening, and the DVD lets you experience it all so many years down the line! For me it's on a par with the great 'Dream Concert' of 'Les Miserables'! If you're a Sondheim fan or not, this concert is a must have!

A fantastic show.......2007-01-19

I bought this show on VHS at the time, because of Liza and other. We don't have so much of it in Switzerland.Watching it, I suddenly discover a Red Bombshell singing. That was the day when I fall in love for the talent and beauty of Bernadette Peters. Just for that I love the show. But the other perfomance are great. Powerfull, the all evening in a magic journey trough the work of Stephen Sondheim. A treat for all musical Lover

Sondheim Review.......2007-01-10

The clarity of the picture and sound were both excellent
I thought that the jacket design was a bit drab, hence no fifth star
The only other criticism I have has nothing to do with the product, but relates to the concert program itself - I thought that the selection of which artist sang which song was not always good, e.g., Bernadette Peters did not sing her masterpiece

Wyclef Jean's All Star Jam at Carnegie Hall

Average customer rating:

Toe tappin', wholesome delight for the entire family!
Good concert
Wyclef Jean - Champion of Music and Art Education
Outrageously good!
Why hasn't anyone posted a Review???

Wyclef Jean's All Star Jam at Carnegie Hall
Starring: Wyclef Jean
Manufacturer: Eagle Vision USA
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

Contemporary R&B | R&B | Styles | Music

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One Love - The Bob Marley All-Star Tribute
Welcome to Haiti: Creole 101
Patti Labelle - Live! One Night Only
Lauryn Hill - MTV Unplugged No. 2.0
Live - The Light It Up Tour

ASIN: B00069FKTQ
Release Date: 2004-12-07

Customer Reviews:

Toe tappin', wholesome delight for the entire family!.......2007-05-20

I love this DVD! It combines all kinds of music from the absolute masters of their genres, and some of the proceeds go for a *great* cause: buying musical instruments for kids so we can keep their creativity and fresh talents enriching this world.

You cannot watch this without smiling and wanting to stand up and dance! And it's absolutely G rated.

Buy it!

Good concert.......2007-04-11

Really enjoyable, not only due to the semi-world music experience, but he got the children involved. First saw this concert on Ovation and found the "complete" concert on DVD. Most enjoyable and recommended.

Wyclef Jean - Champion of Music and Art Education.......2006-11-03

I always enjoy a concert that includes Eric Clapton. This concert gave me a new view of Wyclef Jean and and appreciation for his dedication to young people. His band/orchestra was composed of young people who were both talented and professional. The all-star guests provided something for everyone. This is a concert to enoy again and again.

Outrageously good!.......2006-08-28

I have to agree with the reviewer above, and also beg to ask...where's the reviews? Ah well, this dvd is just awesome.

Wyclef again delivers high energy and variety in his performance and the cast and scenery just adds to it, I mean its Carnegie Hall!

And if you need one reason, besides Wyclef, to get this dvd, the gone til november mix with Stevie Wonder...gives me chills and smiles!

Enjoy it!

Why hasn't anyone posted a Review???.......2005-02-08

Where do I start.
When I saw this DVD for sell.....I did a double take. And upon review, not much bad I can say about this.

Wyclef performing an incredible concert, put on film.
Highlights;

1. Gone To November.......with Wyclef, apparently, changing the orginal plan to play it out as originally practiced, but, then Stevie Wonder appears......incredible!!

2. Wish You Were Here.......great intro of (2) brothers on stage....time to "Play some Pink Floyd"!!! Macey Gray is a perfect match to this version.

3. 911......With the addition of Mary J. Blige.....a classic Wyclef song, and great reproduction of an already great song.

4. No Woman No Cry.....great to see one of Marley's sons appear in here.

5. Bach Medley.....interesting twist, with Wyclef enjoying every moment and adding a bit of humor to a serious piece.

6. Summertime.......Charlotte Church presents a strong vocal of the song I most remember from Janis Joplin.

7. My Song......nice new song with Clapton and Wyclef exchanging guitar leads. Very nice inclusion.

8. Guantanamera/Hot Hot Hot.......excellent conclusion to an awesome DVD. Marc Anthony and the whole cast included. A crowd friendly song!

In conclusion.....So many different styles of music on this...not a bad song on here. Wyclef is an incredible frontman...and leader on stage. Do yourself a favor and get this DVD. You won't be disappointed. Sure, there are a few songs I would have liked to see on here (Perfect Gentleman and the song with Bono of U2), but maybe on another release, one day.

Average customer rating:

Excellent
Grand Ole Opry at Carnegie Hall
Great Variety of Artists

Grand Ole Opry at Carnegie Hall
Starring: Various Artists
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Contemporary Country | Country | Styles | Music

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The Nashville Sound
Country Legends Live
Bluegrass Country Soul
Tanya Tucker - Live at Billy Bob's Texas
Marty Robbins Anthology

ASIN: B000EQ5PNC
Release Date: 2006-04-11

Description

1. Songs About Me- Trace Adkins
2. If You Ever Had Forever In Mind- Vince Gill
3. May The Bird Of Paradise Fly Up Your Nose- Jimmy Dickens / Vince Gill
4. She's In Love With The Boy- Trisha Yearwood
5. Tryin' To Love You - Trisha Yearwood
6. Kiss An Angel Good Morning- Charley Pride
7. She's Got You- Alison Krauss
8. Walls Of Time- Ricky Skaggs
9. Black-Eyed Suzie- Ricky Skaggs
10. Go Rest High On That Mountain- Vince Gill
11. Alcohol- Brad Paisley
12. Too Country - Bill Anderson / Brad Paisley
13. Whiskey Lullaby- Brad Paisley / Alison Krauss
14. Independence Day- Martina McBride
15. 'Til I Can Make It On My Own- Martina McBride
16. Remember When- Alan Jackson
17. Chattahoochee- Alan Jackson
18. Medley: I'll Fly Away/I Saw The Light/Will The Circle Be Unbroken- Various

Customer Reviews:

Excellent.......2007-01-10

Christmas gift for my elderly neighbor - he was happy with the selection!

Easy order process and quick delivery!

Grand Ole Opry at Carnegie Hall.......2007-01-10

I thought every minute of the DVD was wonderful; my husband and I enjoyed every second of it.

Great Variety of Artists.......2006-05-24

This DVD features the show held in Nov.,2005. Many major talents are represented here, like veterans Jimmy Dickens and Bill Anderson to newer stars like Brad Paisley and Trace Adkins. Great songs such as Ricky Scaggs' "Black Eyed Suzie" and Trisha Yearwood on "She's In Love With The Boy" and many other popular favorites from such artists as Vince Gill, Charley Pride, Martina McBride and Alan Jackson. The shining gem of the evening though, is Alison Krauss & Union Station's performance of the Patsy Cline tune "She's Got You". Alison's crystal clear voice will give you chills.
This show was well produced and recorded, it's a keeper!

Average customer rating:

Excellent with a tastefull of class
"technically and artistically flawless!"

Nancy Wilson at Carnegie Hall
Starring: Nancy Wilson
Manufacturer: View Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Similar Items:

Great Women Singers of the 20th Century - Nancy Wilson
Natalie Cole - Ask a Woman Who Knows
Great Women Singers of the 20th Century - Sarah Vaughan
Sarah Vaughan & Other Jazz Divas
Live in Montreal

ASIN: B00005OCMP
Release Date: 2001-10-30

Description

AWARDS:
-Museum of Broadcasting Permanent Collection
-The International Film & Video Festival of NY
-The New York Festival Finalist

With a unique vocal style that blends elements of R&B, Jazz, pop, blues, soul, cabaret and gospel, Nancy Wilson simply prefers to be called a "song stylist."

Her accolades are many. Throughout the years, the public, the critics, and her peers have rewarded her with great praise, numerous awards and nominations. These include a Grammy, an Emmy, Entertainer of The Year, and winner of Best Female Vocalist by both of the prestigious Downbeat and Playboy Jazz Polls.

But what really makes Nancy Wilson shine is her flair for combining vocal refinement, elegance and emotional sincerity with dazzling panache. These talents have enabled her to carve out a permanent niche in the music world.

V.I.E.W. Video is proud to present this great vocal communicator in a memorable concert with full string orchestra, direct from Carnegie Hall, a highlight of New York's 1987 JVC Jazz Festival. This one will have you asking for more.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent with a tastefull of class.......2001-05-26

I enjoy watching this show over and over again. Ms. Nancy Wilson will always be in a class alone. The duet with Carl Anderson add addtional glamour to this awesome show. I hope this will soon be release on DVD for all of Nancy Wilson supporters.

"technically and artistically flawless!".......1999-07-17

Nancy Wilson makes every song uniquely her own. This 1987 JVC Jazz Festival concert, taped at New York's famed Carnegie Hall, showcases her distinctive amalgam of sensitive phrasing, secure intonation, and strong Jazz feeling. Featured are duets with Carl Anderson. JazzTimes reported this is a flawless video, both technically and artistically.

Customer Reviews:

Wunderkind debut.......2007-06-15

First off, the piano playing is suberb. Lang Lang, like most of the new breed of classical concert pianists, has no problem wrestling with the black monster of flashing white teeth. He is "master of his domain." He's also a somewhat self-indulgent puppy; a "saucy baggage," as the Elizabethans might put it. This makes his concerts a great deal of fun. The splashy Don Giovanni reminiscences are whipped up into a fine Lisztean lather. And yet, and yet. . . the Schumann "Traumerei" encore is simple and immensely touching. Carnegie Hall is absolutely still, time has stopped. This young man is going to be really impressive as he matures, if he doesn't lose his way. The camera work is a bit ho-hum, but I don't know what the restrictions are in Carnegie Hall. Lang Lang's facial contortions really bother some viewers. I don't believe he is really conscious of them. And what does it matter? This is playing with heart on sleeve. The program is a little unfocussed: a grab-bag of Schumann, Schubert, Haydn, Tan Dun, and Liszt. He introduces his father for one of the encores: I bet that's a first for Carnegie Hall. Deutsche Grammaphon really hypes their stable: the featurettes are doting, cloying, almost obscenely adoring. Well, I guess the company's got to make a buck. Anyway, recommended on the whole.

I Adore Lang Lang.......2007-03-21

Lang Lang is adorable, period. He makes the most boring paino pieces sound great. I am a fan of Chopin, Liszt and Beethoven and never liked Schumann or Schubert. But with Lang lang's performance, Schuman and schubert's works start to sound pretty darn good. Lang Lang is of course a great pianist but most of all, he is a great performer. Please note that not every good pianist is a good performer! I watched the performance of "Martha Argrich with friends," it was unbearable for me to take the whole thing, probably becuase the recording was bad also. She couldn't bring the boring Schumann alive for me. In fact, she even made my Chopin sound like Schumann...

Lang Lang on the other hand makes everything interesting. His facial expression is a bit too much at times, can be distracting for some people. But I guess it is just what makes Lang Lang "Lang Lang." I tend to laugh out loud when I look at his excessive expressions. I am sure it is bad if i sat in the concert hall and watched, but it is fine when watching it at home.

The quality of the DVD is good. The piano sounds wonderful. Enough shots at handworks and boy, his hands are like dancing or what! I am very pleased with my purchase of this DVD.

A Neophyte Review of Lang Lang: Live at Carnegie Hall.......2007-01-09

This review will not be as euridite as some you have read who are very knowledgeable about music -- particularly piano. I have just recently returned to piano lessons after an absense of about 30 years, at least. It was my teacher who introduced me to Lang Lang and I was memorized by his performance at Carneigie Hall. Also, the written review in the booklet that came with the DVD gave such an excellent brief on his life from his first lesson at the age of three until recent years is awe inspiring; and you understand that when a child is born with a natural talent, this gift just has to be cultivated -- and that is what has happened with Lang Lang. For those who are just becoming interested in the classics and particularly the skill of the pianist, I can only say you are in for an outstanding experience in watching this DVD. It blew my mind to hear and see him with full orchestra and thrilled to watch the conductor bring it all together. This is a must.

the sonics..........2006-07-07

Since I'm not a classicalpianoplayer (or a wanne be classicalpiano player) but a jazzpianoplayer maybe i can share some unbaiased thoughts here.

1 The DTS 5.1 track alone is worth the money! Marvellous! I have a 15.000$ audio/video system, and it has never sounded so good!

2 Camera and production quality is very good!

3 I will assure you, if you are a happy musiclover, this DVD will be played much! And maybe lead to other classical works.

4 The DVD can be played without having to turn on a tv or display, just as a cd. Nice and convenient!

a great pianist.......2006-04-01

Lang Lang is an AWESOME pianist, I read the other people's reviews about him haven't bad talent and saying if he has skills. well, lets see, can YOU play like him? I DON'T THINK SO. he has been playing since what? THREE YEARS OLD! thats right. three! I think by then you were still trying to learn to count but can't succeed. so you know what, save yourself sometime, don't write what you don't know. if you think he has no skills, lets hear YOU play. yes, he does "flails his hands in the air, purses his lips into the sky, and provides you with a fun(ny) Liberace-like show instead of genuine focused or convincing virtuosity and musicianship" but why? those expression are added to express the song, instead of just sitting there with a dull face playing, if you were an audience i bet you would have wanted to see more of a livly show instead of a boring dull faced dude sitting on stage playing music.

and another said that he's expression is too what? "theatrical"? I wonder why that person say that. i guess its because you don't know how to play piano? if you know how to play piano, those expressions come naturally. he doesn't "CONCENTRATE" on making those expression. it comes when he is PLAYING. because it IS part of playing the piano. if you just sit there playing with a dull face, then you know what, you can never play as good as Lang Lang.

When I saw him playing, i was extremely impressed. I myself plays the piano, and i have been playing for awhile. and when i came upon this dvd, i was shocked, i then researched his background and i really think that he has extreme talent. he started playing at 3. at THREE! by then, everyone else are still babies, at three, all you would want to do is play games and fool around, but theres LangLang learning how to PLAY piano.

when he was five, he performed his very first recital, and took first place in many piano concerts. he was also given first in the "outstanding artistic performance" title in the Fourth International Young Pianist Competition in Germany.

he also got first prize at the Tchaikovsky International Young Musicians Competition held in 1995 in Japan. I won't get more into these. if you want to read more, go to:

http://www.langlang.com

then go under "personal" and then I'll let you be the judge on whether he is a great pianist or what.
i personally strongly say that he is a awesome pianist. and all of you out there should view this dvd and you will clearly understand. he's expression adds a exciting feeling to the song.

HE IS ABSOLUTELY AN OUTSTANDING PIANIST.

don't believe me?
watch the dvd and you tell me.

The Stephen Sondheim Collection (Into the Woods / Sunday in the Park with George / Follies in Concert / Passion / Sweeney Todd in Concert / A Celebration at Carnegie Hall)

Average customer rating:

A must-have for all Sondheim lovers
Worth every penny that my mom spent!
A TRUE FAN/COLLECTORS GEM
Sondheim Collection
Sondheim: Greatest Theatre Genuis of the 20th Century

The Stephen Sondheim Collection (Into the Woods / Sunday in the Park with George / Follies in Concert / Passion / Sweeney Todd in Concert / A Celebration at Carnegie Hall)
Starring: Bernadette Peters , Chip Zien , Joanna Gleason , Tom Aldredge , and Robert Westenberg
Director: James Lapine , Terry Hughes , and Michael Houldey
Manufacturer: Image Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Putting It Together: A Musical Review

ASIN: B0000AKY5I
Release Date: 2003-09-23

Amazon.com

The six-disc Stephen Sondheim DVD Collection is pure Broadway gold, encompassing three original Broadway cast performances and three all-star concerts celebrating the work of musical theater's most important composer over the last half of the 20th century. Into the Woods is Sondheim's most popular show, an amalgam of fractured fairy tales and what happens after "happily ever after." Bernadette Peters heads the cast, joined by Tony winner Joanna Gleason and Chip Zein. Sunday in the Park with George was Sondheim's immediately preceding work, also a collaboration with writer-director James Lapine and also starring Bernadette Peters. She plays Dot, the mistress of brilliant French pointillist painter Georges Seurat (Mandy Patinkin), in a powerful work about the nature of art and the artist that gains substantially when you can see the staging elements. The third Broadway cast performance is Passion, which was shot on stage though not before a live audience. It's a story of obsessive love in which the romance between Giorgio (Jere Shea) and Clara (Marin Mazzie) is disrupted by a strange woman named Signora Fosca (Tony winner Donna Murphy).

Sweeney Todd is generally considered Sondheim's best work, and it's well performed by Patti LuPone and George Hearn (reprising his role as the demonic barber almost 20 years after he played it opposite Angela Lansbury in a 1982 video recording). Follies in Concert was an attempt to right a wrong created by a truncated original cast recording, so it's ironic that roughly half the program is backstage material combined with only 47 minutes of concert footage. There are some brilliant moments, though, from such performers as Barbara Cook, Hearn, Patinkin, and Lee Remick. A Celebration at Carnegie Hall is another all-star cast performance of both Broadway stars and operatic voices peppered with comedy from Bill Irwin. Highlights include the ensemble numbers, Daisy Egan's "Broadway Baby," and Patrick Cassidy and Victor Garber's "The Ballad of Booth," which is about as close as you'll get to an original cast performance of Assassins. All in all, this invaluable set preserves and celebrates an important body of work that may never again be documented this well. --David Horiuchi

Customer Reviews:

A must-have for all Sondheim lovers.......2007-05-08

This is an amazing collection, which showcases the breadth of Mr. Sondheim's talents. No one else combines his musical mastery with his sheer delight in playing with the English language.

Worth every penny that my mom spent!.......2007-01-15

After watching 3 of the 6 DVDs in this collection, all I can say is "amazing!" The winner thus far is Sweeney Todd. The cast is unmatchable. The only thing missing is the airing of A Little Night Music.

A TRUE FAN/COLLECTORS GEM.......2007-01-11

I had the chance to see on Broadway : Sweeney Todd, Sunday in the Park with George, Passion and Into the Woods and Follies in London .It was a real treat to be able to behold the unforgetable experience in that fantastic DVD collection

Sondheim Collection.......2006-07-03

This is a must have in your collection Sondheim fans! This box set has titles that appeal to both the children and adults in a family. My children love Into the woods and the Carnegie Hall concert especially! One of the best purchases I've made this year.

Sondheim: Greatest Theatre Genuis of the 20th Century .......2005-11-30

I have been in love with the work of Stephen Sondheim since the age of 6, when I first memorized the lyrics to all of the songs from West Side Story. Mr. Sondheim has give us many, many wonderful pieces of theatre, and several of his best pieces are represented here.

Sweeney Todd: considered by many his masterpiece. I prefer the Angela Lansbury / George Hearn casting, but if they chose to star Betty Boop and Donald Duck it couldn't hurt this material. Brilliant.

Follies in Concert: Follies remains my favorite Sondheim musical and, unlike some other reviewers, I thought the ORIGINAL book was brilliant. The later revised version considerably weakened both characters and plot, and the "concert" version is even more woefully incomplete than the original cast album, but thank GOD they saw fit to include, "Too Many Mornings".

Sunday In The Park With George: Pulitzer Prize winning paean to the creative process; I can even forgive the casting of Mandy Patinkin, one of my least favorite actors. The recreation of Seurat's masterpiece during the first act climax still gives me chills.

Passion: the more I watch this achingly beautiful show, the more I think it's one of Sondheim's greatest scores. Subtle, yes, but if you allow it to, it will grow and grow on you until you can't get it out of your mind. This show is for anyone who has ever loved someone that they couldn't have.

Into The Woods: I saw both Broadway productions and had difficulty choosing which was better. I think the original cast, represented here, had a slight edge. Possibly the most "fun" of Sondheim's shows, this take on Grimm's fairy tales is clever, entertaining and highly satisfying.

The Carnegie Hall tribute is also wonderful.

I have long been of the opinion that Sondheim can do no wrong. His lyrics are thrillingly brilliant, witty beyond all expectations, and his music contains depth that other Broadway composers can only dream of. What is most amazing to me is how he can vary styles and musical periods from show to show to show - no two of his musicals are ever alike, which is more than I can say for many other composers. I don't understand those who like him only to a point; I have friends who love Sweeny, Follies and Night Music, but hate Sunday, Passion and Into the Woods. I think he gets better with each succeeding show.

This set is well worth the investment. Hurry and get it, as some of the individual videos are now unavailable, and who knows how long the boxed set will last.

Average customer rating:

Who Can't laugh @ George
What is a female Peacock?
George carlin on Campus & calin at carnegie hall
Carlin's finest performance

George Carlin: At Carnegie Hall
Starring: George Carlin
Director: Steven J. Santos
Manufacturer: Mpi Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Comedy | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( G ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

George Carlin: On Campus
George Carlin - Complaints and Grievances
George Carlin - You Are All Diseased
George Carlin - Jammin' in New York
George Carlin - What Am I Doing in New Jersey?

ASIN: B00005LQ0L
Release Date: 2001-08-28

Amazon.com

"What are you, a comedian?" The question is being asked by a cop, played by George Carlin in a semi-improvised sketch, of a wisecracking scofflaw who just happens to be the real George Carlin. Well, yes, he is a comedian, Mr. Policeman, as it turns out. Carlin, the popular satirist, is making a persuasive and very funny case that comedy suffers from negative associations in our language ("That guy is sure acting funny..."), and the joke is typical of his 1982 performance at Carnegie Hall, captured here for an HBO special. On the rebound from his second heart attack ("I lead Richard Pryor in heart attacks two to one, and he leads me in setting oneself on fire"), Carlin follows his rambling observations through such random topics as whether one can argue with Rice Krispies or reject a well-wisher's blessing of "Have a nice day." ("Maybe I don't feel like it. I'm ready, by God, for a crappy day.") Other items on the agenda include a look at the news ("A man attempting to walk around the world drowned today..."), an overview of foods that don't look edible, the poor manners of dogs, and Carlin's ever-expanding list of dirty words to provoke the authorities. --Tom Keogh

Customer Reviews:

Who Can't laugh @ George.......2007-03-22

This was an AWESOME DVD and in GREAT shape! George Carlin is funny and this is by far one of his best! I would suggest this to anyone who is looking to laugh.

I will warn you this isnt for children to watch.

What is a female Peacock?.......2002-05-02

George Carlin is a funny little (bleep), but not for little (bleep) kids, you know? Because George Carlin isn't for kids. His most famous routine is updated as he adds more words you can't say on TV. Very funny man!

George carlin on Campus & calin at carnegie hall.......2001-12-29

These two, are by far the best he has done since the 7 bad words.
No fan will be the slightest bit dissappointed in these two selections. I was there for the taping of one, and it still gets better every time I here it (CD) or watch.

Carlin's finest performance.......2001-09-05

George is at his best in the now classic performance at Carnegie Hall. It starts off with his one liner about abortion, then moves on through hilarious routines about food, dogs, cats, and much more. It includes several outrageous observations, and the grand finale about dirty words will have audiences clutching their sides and falling off their chairs. The hilight of the show is when Carlin performs a headline news skit. This is highly recommended for all Carlin fans.

Midori - Live at Carnegie Hall / Robert McDonald

Average customer rating:

Good but with a problem
Some of the Best Violin Playing
Simple and easy pieces, an inspiration for youth.

Midori - Live at Carnegie Hall / Robert McDonald
Starring: Midori
Director: Peter Rosen
Manufacturer: Kultur Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( M ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Hilary Hahn: A Portrait
Gidon Kremer - Back to Bach
Alexander Markov - Paganini's 24 Caprices
Nathan Milstein - In Portrait
Ida Haendel & Ilya Itin - Violin and Piano Recital

ASIN: B000KN7BSQ
Release Date: 2007-01-30

Description

This program features Midori performing excerpts from Mozart, Strauss, Beethoven, Ernst, Chopin and Ravel with Robert McDonald, piano.

Strauss - Sonata in E-Flat Major, Op. 18
Mozart - Sonata in G Major, K. 301
Beethoven - Sonata No.8 in G Major Op. 30, No. 3.
Ernst - Variations on the Last Rose of Summer
Ernst - Variations on the Last Rose of Summer
Chopin - Nocturne in C-Sharp Minor
Ravel - Tzigane
Debussy - Beau Soir
Sarasate - Zapateado
Poldini - Dancing Doll

Customer Reviews:

Good but with a problem.......2007-06-10

I agree with the previous reviews that the playing was excellent except that the balance between piano & violin was at times not good. In many of the pianimisso passages, the piano was too loud and almost drowned out the violin.

Some of the Best Violin Playing .......2007-05-21

This is probably one of the greatest recitals in all of history. And the fact that it was captured so beautifully on video makes it that much more valuable as a contribution to the world of classical music and the violin. Midori was only 18 when this was done in 1990 - and it puts so many previous recitals by long-established fiddlers to shame, much as Heifetz's sensational 1917 debut in the same hall did over seventy years earlier. Robert McDonald, (still Midori's frequent piano collaborator at the time of this review) is in perfect synchronization with her throughout, never overpowering and always knowing exactly what is coming next. The program has three sonatas - two in G major by Mozart and Beethoven (#8), and the Strauss in E-flat. Midori captures all the joy inherent in these oft-played works, and bringing out the somberness when appropriate. H.W. Ernst, who lived during Paganini's time but now virtually unknown today, wrote many etudes and smaller pieces for the violin; these are rarely performed because most of them are taxingly difficult. "The Last Rose of Summer" was one of Ernst's Polyphonic Studies for violin, and Midori plays it flawlessly, bringing out the melodic line over the runs, harmonics, and pizzicato that make up the accompaniment. The audience, as you can tell, was floored - I only wish I'd been there! The beautiful and dark Chopin-Milstein "Nocturne in C# minor" precedes the Ravel "Tzigane". Of all the live performances or recordings of "Tzigane" that a violinist will hear in his or her lifetime, this one is probably the most interesting you will ever hear. The opening cadenza is played with all the abandonment and spontaneity that Ravel imagined. Most violinists play the middle sections all at the same tempo - Midori follows the tempo indications religiously. The harmonics sparkle and the tonal coloring brings forth the 'gypsy' spirit. The last page of sixteenth notes (often played too fast) starts slowly and builds to an enormous climax, bringing an instant standing ovation. Debussy-Heifetz's "Beau Soir" is the first encore - most appropriate, to remind us of the quieter side of the violin after hearing the Ravel. Sarasate's "Zapateado" Spanish dance is the final number. Midori (and the audience) have some rare fun here - after the first passage, the audience starts applauding! Midori gives a quick grin of appreciation, and plays the rest of the piece with obvious delight. Special mention must also be made of the segment shown during the program's intermission, a retrospective of Midori's life as a rising star who came to the United States from Japan. Hosted by one of Midori's former teachers at a professional children's school, it gives the listener an even greater appreciation for the artist. Recommended for anyone, I think this DVD could easily replace everything currently on the market under the guise "Classical Music for Dummies."

Simple and easy pieces, an inspiration for youth........2007-05-12

You do not expect very challenging pieces here.

However, the musics are nice, and enjoyable.
The DVD is an inspiration for kids.
I wish I have more DVDs like that for my kids.

Eastwood After Hours (Live at Carnegie Hall)

Average customer rating:

Great Jazz event
GOOD DVD
Deserves a 10

Eastwood After Hours (Live at Carnegie Hall)
Starring: Bruce Ricker , and Joshua Redman
Director: Clint Eastwood
Manufacturer: Warner Home Video
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( E ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

Eastwood After Hours: Live At Carnegie Hall
Bird
Music for the Movies of Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood - Out of the Shadows
Monterey Jazz Festival: 40 Legendary Years

ASIN: B00005Y71L
Release Date: 2002-03-12

Amazon.com

Dirty Harry--jazz fan? Perhaps not, but the man who brought him to life sure is, as this 106-minute concert and tribute to Clint Eastwood makes apparent. As a director (and occasional pianist), Eastwood has made no secret of his passion for jazz, using it in films as diverse as Play Misty for Me, Unforgiven, The Bridges of Madison County, and of course Bird, his Charlie Parker biopic. In 1996 a stellar group of musicians, both veterans (pianists Kenny Barron and Jay McShann, singer Jimmy Scott, saxophonist Charles McPherson) and relative youngsters (saxophonist Joshua Redman, singer Kevin Mahogany, Eastwood's son Kyle on bass), assembled in New York to play the music and pay homage to the man. The repertoire is solid, the performances outstanding; but what really sets this program apart is its frequent but understated commingling of film clips with the music itself, to evocative, humorous, and entertaining effect. This one's a keeper. --Sam Graham

Description

On October 17, 1996, veteran and contemporary jazz greats gathered for a select soiree on the stage of New York's Carnegie Hall, saluting a guy more noted for making popular films than for making sweet music. But as any fan of Clint Eastwood, especially after he started directing 30 years ago, will attest, the award-winning star is also an inveterate jazz lover who has uniquely integrated that musical form into the scores of his films. Join Joshua Redman, Christian McBride, Flip Phillips, Charles McPherson, James Rivers, Slide Hampton, Hank Jones, Thelonious Monk Jr., the Kyle Eastwood Quartet, the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band and more for this scintillating celebration of film and music.

DVD Features:
Documentary:Behind-the-scenes documentary: Eastwood After Dark
Interactive Menus
Scene Access

Customer Reviews:

Great Jazz event.......2005-02-02

This is what jazz is all about. Wonderful musicians playing
their hearts out. Beuatiful, exciting, and memorable. Eastwood
lends his name to yet another success.

GOOD DVD.......2003-05-11

THESE ARE WONDERFUL JAZZ MUSICIANS. THE ONLY THING THAT KEEPS ME FROM RATING THIS 5 STARS IS THE CONSTANT INTERRUPTIONS OF FILM CLIPS FROM CLINT'S OLD MOVIES. I KNOW SOME PEOPLE LIKE THIS STUFF BUT WHEN I WATCH MUSIC I LIKE TO GET INTO IT AND I DON'T LIKE COMMENTARY AND FILM CLIPS. EVEN WITH THAT, IT'S STILL GREAT MUSIC. WITH ALL THE RAP MUSIC? NOWADAYS IT'S A JOY TO SEE SOMEONE THAT CAN ACTUALLY PLAY THEIR INSTRUMENTS. I HOPE THAT THIS ISN'T A LOST ART. THESE GUY'S PLAY AS WELL AT THE OLD JAZZ GREATS. THE SOUND IS REAL GOOD TOO.

Deserves a 10.......2002-04-30

This 1996 Carnegie Hall concert rates right up there with the best -- Billie Holliday, Benny Goodman, Duke Ellington, Miles Davis..... For me, watching James Carter and Joshua Redman together riff with the Carnegie Center Jazz Orch is worth the price of admission, but there is much, much more and a collection of great vocalists and instrumentalists having a good time and letting it all loose. If you haven't heard Kevin Mahogany or caught Jay McShann (in whose band Charlie Parker cut his teeth) here's your chance. And, if Lester Leaps In, with Redman, James Moody, Roy Hargrove, Charles McPherson, Flip Phillips, Carter and company doesn't leave you wanting to dance in the gilded aisles nothing ever will. Though some purists might object to the occasional cuts (rather brief and often witty) from Eastwood movies and the laid back comments of patron Clint himself (and his less laid back piano playing), I found it all rather well done and thoroughly enjoyable. The guy's paid his dues to this art form and he gets his just deserts here. Above all, fine sound, excellent photography and almost two hours of the best jazz you will find on film. A great intro to jazz across generations and its contemporary energy. Full stop.

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