[Paisan]

I must concede that, being a lover of all things ‘instrumentally virtuoso’, I DO have a copy of The Four Seasons featuring Perlman on violin.

Every generation has their Heifitz, Stern, Perlman, Shaham - prodigies that interpret the classics with renewed energy and feeling. Still, the Three B’s, will always remain at the top of the list. Of course, I still have a personal affinity for the Italian Operatic composers. (see Screen Name)

OK, throw in Bizet and Offenbach...

[rustbucket]

I went through several stages in music appreciation. By the time I was 12, I had virtually memorized recordings of two Verdi operas and a Puccini opera. Then I shifted into string music for a few years. Beethoven was my favorite then. However, after being exposed to Baroque music, Baroque vocal music became and remains my favorite.

Here's another Vivaldi favorite of mine, the introduction to his oratorio "Juditha Triumphans:" Link. Dig the Baroque trumpets (no valves). And another piece from Juditha Triumphans: Link 2.

Another Baroque favorite, Pergolesi: Link 3. It is a shame he died at 26.

Other Baroque favorites include Schutz, Gabrieli, Praetorius, Handel, Alessandro Scarlatti, Purcell, Rameau.

[luvbach1]

Still, the Three B’s, will always remain at the top of the list.

Who is Mozart? Chopped liver?:o)