When it comes to box sets and other releases geared to gift-giving in the classical realm, it’s hardly surprising that big names dominate. To justify the prices, sometimes more than $100, and generate broad sales, widespread appeal is a must. Here’s a look at some of the year’s highlights:
“Maria Callas: The Complete Studio Recordings” EMI Classics, 70-disc set, $169.98
In April, BBC Music Magazine crowned Maria Callas the greatest soprano of all time. No big surprise there. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the death of the celebrated singer, who wowed audiences with the intensity and unflinching honesty of her performances.
This sweeping look at her career begins with arias she recorded in 1949 and other early material, and the rest encompasses the complete operas and recitals Callas recorded for the EMI label from 1953 through 1969.
“The Fiftieth Anniversary Boxed Set” Harmonia Mundi, 30-disc set, $109.98
The European-based label, Harmonia Mundi, which will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2008, has earned kudos year after year for its impeccable standards, independent spirit and unusual repertoire.
This imaginative collection offers excerpts from some of the label’s most memorable albums, featuring such respected artists as William Christie, Isabelle Faust, Rene Jacobs and Andrew Manze.
“Wagner: Der Ring des Nibelungen” Warner Classics, 7-DVD set, $139.98
In the always-opinionated opera world, there are no shortage of notions about what constitutes the best production of Richard Wagner’s towering cycle of four epic operas, including “Das Rheingold” and “Siegfried.”
A strong candidate for the title has to be this version, which was recorded in 1988-1992 at the Bayreuth Festival. It was founded by the composer and has remained a focal point of performances of his groundbreaking works.
“Beethoven – The Complete Works, Special Edition” Brilliant Classics, 85-disc set, $139.98
Talk about big names. Ludwig van Beethoven is arguably the most popular composer of all time. Gathered here are recordings spanning his entire output, including his nine symphonies performed by the respected Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra led by Kurt Masur.
Other notable artists represented include the Guarneri String Quartet, Borodin Trio, pianist Clara Haskil and violinists Arthur Grumiaux and Henryk Szeryng.
“Luciano Pavarotti – The Studio Albums” Decca, 12-disc set, $149.98
The classical world lost one of its best-known and most popular artists earlier this year with the death of Luciano Pavarotti, one of the great tenors of the 20th century. To mark his passing, Decca, his longtime label, has put together a comprehensive assembly of recorded highlights.
For fans wanting to remember him with something a little less expensive, there is “Pavarotti Forever” (Decca, 2-disc set, $17.98), with the tenor performing more than 40 arias and popular songs, ranging from “Nessun dorma” from “Turandot” to “Granada.” A DVD version with the same title, but a slightly different line-up is also available for $29.98.
Kyle MacMillan: 303-954-1675 or kmacmillan@denverpost .
