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Claude Debussy, Preludes Books I and II, Celestial Harmonies

b>CLAUDE DEBUSSY, PRELUDES BOOKS 1 AND 2
Celestial Harmonies, 13279-2
http://www.harmonies.com/releases/13279.htm
http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/classical/reviews/album-roger-woodward-debussy-preludes-books-12-celestial-harmonies-1927869.html
http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2010/Mar10/Debussy_Woodward_132792.htm
http://www.musikansich.de/review.php?id=7836
http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2010/Mar10/Debussy_Woodward_132792.htm
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Dominy Clements.. I find myself in difficulties when writing about recordings which are so very good, it is hard to find a balance which describes a believeable truth as I hear it, without making a text which just ends up turning into sycophantic hyperbole. Looking on the Celestial Harmonies website, at least I am supported by the artist himself, who “considers [this] possibly the best recording of his career”. Even on only a first…….

Review (translation) BR-TV
This CD is a masterpiece; you can play it differently but not better. I recently heard a concert with the Munich Philharmonic and Thielemann; they played Debussy’s Images. It sounded somewhat good but boring with
no end in sight. I could not understand what it was that they were trying to tell me. How different this CD is: every note, every sound,every use of the pedals were put to good use and served a clear purpose, the purpose being to define the musical intentions of the composer. A musician cannot possibly be more humble and more sincere. A pianist cannot play more excitingly and more intelligently. I am entirely won over by this CD. Even before the concert with the Hamel premiere, I was convinced of Roger Woodward’s artistry - now I am enthusiastic and I want to celebrate the feeling. The sensational aspect of the concert on Monday was to experience his interpretation of
the Hamel cycle live. He played for us, with us, with the space, withthe instrument - what a blessing to have been able to be present.
—Wiedemann BR-TV.