Johann Sebastien Bach took over two decades to put together one of his most enduring works, the B Minor Mass. Compiled from a number of cantata movements, this piece covers a wide range of emotional territory, from reverent prayer to rhythmic celebration. On Bach: Mass in B Minor, renowned conductor John Eliot Gardiner leads the English Baroque soloists through a captivating rendition of this sweeping composition. Displaying an intimate understanding of Bach's music, Gardiner confidently explores the solemn depths and delirious heights of the B Minor Mass, delivering Bach with a thrilling emotional wallop.

One of the most hallowed compositional efforts in musical history, The Nutcracker is a holiday favourite and staple of the classical canon. Although countless artists have tackled the material through the years, this recording presents a truly unique listening experience. Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker brings together the incredible talents of conductor Valery Gergiev and the Kirov Theatre Orchestra in a sparkling rendition of this classic work. Solidifying the reputation that Gergiev built with his vibrant interpretations of several Russian operas, this album features the entire Nutcracker, in contrast to the many discs that offer only the suite. Presenting familiar material with breathtaking lustre, this release makes The Nutcracker fresh, forceful and fun.

One of the greatest composers who ever lived, Beethoven's accomplishments are that much more impressive because he went deaf later in life. This exceptional collection of five compact discs is a complete musical journey through the nine masterpieces that were Beethoven's symphonies. Sixteen pages of in-depth notes discuss the musical brilliance and historical relevance of each symphony as well as providing colour reproductions of portraits of Beethoven. The astounding recordings of Beethoven: 9 Symphonien were performed by the Berliner Philharmoniker under the direction of Herbert von Karajan.  

The myth surrounding this album is well justified. Gould recorded it as a coda to his career and his life. Artistically, the celebrated Canadian pianist wanted to return to the work that launched his career. The Goldberg Variations in this edition reflects a man far more mature and in a sombre, reflective state. While his first approach on the 1955 recording consisted of compressing the notes and playing with soaring speed, this version breathes more and more deeply. If you really want to put the man's contribution in context, pick up this recording and the original one. They're wonderful musical bookends.

 

The Talich Quartet, often hailed for its sensitive interpretation of classical works, is one of Europe's finest ensembles. A solid voice in the classical music circuit, the Talich's extensive repertoire has won many awards. Matching their strengths with those of musical genius Ludwig Van Beethoven, Talich follows the astonishing cycle of the masters' quartets on Integral of the Quartets. Exploring the changing voice of the 18th century composer as he moved through three cycles of quartet composition, these seven CDs offer it all - Beethoven's entire quartet repertoire played by an internationally acclaimed ensemble. What more could one ask for?