references
Yu Kosuge
9. November 2018Lilit Grigoryan
12. October 2018Aikodai Meiden High School Symphonic Band
2. July 2018Jean-Marc Luisada
29. June 2018Marianne Dumas
25. May 2018Hisako Kawamura
2. May 2018Hiyoli Togawa
24. January 2018David Greilsammer/Yaron Herman
19. January 2018Max Raabe
27. October 2017Schubert Trio
13. October 2017Ikuyo Nakamichi
10. October 2017Valery Afanassiev
10. October 2017Dudana Mazmanishvili
5. September 2017Kateryna Titova
24. April 2017Alexander Grychtolik & Deutsche Hofmusik
23. March 2017Neue Meister
23. February 2017Rudolf Buchbinder
23. February 2017Ein Wintermärchen
15. February 2017Gassenhauer Trio
15. February 2017Valery Afanassiev
15. February 2017Tobias Feldmann
15. February 2017Rudolf Buchbinder
11. May 2016Rudolf Buchbinder
Mozart Piano Concertos
CD | Digital
“5/5 Stars: Buchbinder’s new Recording of the popular Mozart-Concertos in d-Minor and C-Major distiguishes him as an interpreter in a class of his own. […] Buchbinder shines with his virtuosity, and even in the fastest tempi he never looses the acuracy of articulation.”
(Fono Forum 4/2016)
A Crush on You
21. April 2016Philip Mayers – Mary Carewe
A Crush on You
CD | Digital
Philip Mayers hits the spot with his personal selection of delicatly
elaborated arrangements of Gershwin Songs. Mary Carewe and a top-class
Stringorchestra play with a lot of Verve and great attention to detail.
The project was recorded at the b-sharp studio by Coviello Classics.
Kit Armstrong
16. November 2015Kit Armstrong
Liszt Symphonic Works
CD | Digital
“One of the most interesting pianist” says DIE WELT about the 23 year old Kit Armstrong, who in no-time has established himself in Germany as an artist who regularly plays in front of sold-out venues. Already his first album received extremely positive critical acclaim: “One of the very few CDs, which the world was waiting for” (RBB Kuturradio).
On his new album Armstrong plays impressive Pianoworks by Liszt, which were originally composed for orchestra. In the centre are the three well know Mephisto-Walzes, coupled with the rarely played “Der nächtliche Zug”, “Le triomphe funèbre du Tasse” and “Salve Polonia”.
Silvestre Revueltas
22. September 2015Silvestre Revueltas
Ensemble Works
CD | Digital
As part of the concert series “Außenseiter” we produced a Live CD with works that came from outside of the European music scene. The comprehensive program features the works of Mexican composer Silvestre Revueltas, played at the Radialsystem Berlin by the Kammerensemble für neue Musik (KNM) under conductor Roland Kluttig.
Valery Afanassiev
16. September 2015Valery Afanassiev
Beethoven Sonatas
SACD
Who would have thought that this unconventional pianist takes another swing at the good old Beethoven Sonatas to brush-off their dust? Matching the repertoire, this SACD Production was recorded at the Beethoven Hall in Hanover, and it certainly lives up to its promisses – it is very personel no-nonsense statement.
Denis Matsuev & Vladimir Spivakov
16. September 2015Denis Matsuev & National Philharmonic of Russia/ Vladimir Spivakov
Grieg Album
SACD
This project features high-voltage-energy pianist Denis Matsuev under the ever-so calm and gentle influence of Maestro Spivakov and his National Philarmonic of Russia. Both had a very clear vision of where they wanted this project to go and the Orchestra was ready to follow them in mutual understanding – not many words needed. What started out as a journey into the unexpected (it was our first project with Maestro Spivakov) turned out to become one of these spark-emitting genuine moments which can’t be scheduled or forced – they happen when the time is right.
Jonas Kaufmann
15. September 2015Jonas Kaufmann
Nessun Dorma – The Puccini Album
CD | Vinyl | DVD | BluRay | TV | iTunes
Das ultimative Puccini Album von “Dem großartigsten Tenor diese Tage“ (The Daily Telegraph) enthält berühmte Arien und Szenen aus Puccinis beliebtesten Opern wie Turandot, La Bohème, Manon Lescaut, Tosca, Madama Butterfly… Ausgezeichnet mit eine ECHO Klassik als Sänger des Jahres.
Rudolf Buchbinder
7. June 2015Rudolf Buchbinder
lightfooded, almost dance-like interpretation of Bach
CD
The new recording of J. S. Bach’s Partitas No. 1 and 2 and the English Suite No. 3 is, remarkably enough, Rudolf Buchbinder’s first Bach recording among his over 200 releases. It was recorded in the Lukas-Church in Dresden, renouned for its fantastic acoustics.
The result is a lightfooded, almost dance-like interpretation, discribed by the Salzburger Nachrichten as follows: “Buchbinder took Mozarts swing into the Engish Suite No. 3, the Prelude with tremendous tempo, the dance movements – much different than the thin-fingered specialists for historicly informed performances would consider suitable – almost with romantic legato. Bach did not write for the Steinway, but only because he didn’t know that instrument (yet). That’s what Buchbinder wanted to show.
Xavier de Maistre
7. June 2015Xavier de Maistre
The Romantic Solo Album
CD | Digital
Finally a Solo Album! For the first time the master of the harp presents pieces from the romantic repertoire.
“Particular care was taken over the engineering to ensure that the sound came as close as possible to the conditions of a live concert. In the case of my earlier recordings, I often regretted that our quest for perfection led us to smooth out the sound in our desire to achieve an immaculate result. The present album includes rather more rough edges, and listeners will occasionally hear the sound of my breathing, but in the process the recording gains greater depth and acquires an additional dimension that provides a more faithful account of all the colours and contrasts that I was keen to recreate. In this way listeners will almost literally feel as if they are in the front row of the concert hall.”
The entire project was recorded, mixed and mastered at b-sharp.
Andreas Ottensamer
7. June 2015Andreas Ottensamer
Brahms – The Hungarian Conncetion…
CD | Digital
Andreas Ottensamer – Clarinette
Leonidas Kavakos – 1. Violine
Stephan Koncz – 2. Violine
Antoine Tamestit – Viola
Christoph Koncz – Cello
Ödön Rácz – Kontrabass
Oszkár Ökrös – Cimbalom
Predrag Tomic – Akkordeon
What more do you need to say?
Denis Matsuev
7. June 2015Denis Matsuev
Russian Fireworks!
SACD | CD | Digital
“La qualité technique de cet album, est comme toujours avec Denis Matsuev, exemplaire (merveilleux travail du producteur Philipp Nedel).”
Pierre-Jean Tribot, ResMusica
“Brilliant playing, the last movement of Stravinsky’s Capriccio for Piano and Orchestra recorded in concert in April this year by Denis Matsuev with the Mariinsky Orchestra conducted by Valery Gergiev – really letting their hair down in this effervescent performance, pure fairy’s kiss.”
BBC Radio 3 CD Review, Andrew McGregor
“All three works were recorded live in the Concert Hall of the Mariinsky Theatre by the excellent
team of Philipp Nedel (b‐sharp), Martin Kistner and Fyodor Naumov. The 5.0 DSD multi‐channel is one of the most vivid I have heard from this label and is worthy of Matsuev and Gergiev’s exciting partnership.”
Performance:*****
Sonics (Multichannel):*****
Graham Williams, HRAudio.net
Max Raabe & Palastorchester
7. June 2015Max Raabe & Palastorchester
A Night in Berlin
CD | DVD | TV | Radio | Digital
A Night in Berlin is the impressive result of an extensive concert production at the Admiralspalast in Berlin which features the complete artistic oeuvre of this one-of-a-kind ensemble.
In addition to the visual surprises A Night in Berlin combines for the first time the successful modern compositions with the repertoire of the 20th and 30th and molds them into a harmonic entity.
The complete audio recording and production was done by and at b-sharp.
Mayuko Kamio
7. June 2015Mayuko Kamio
Another genius encounter…
CD | DVD
Here comes the new CD of the Kamio-Kultishev Duo. This new disc holds a selection of the most beautiful and spectacular encores, coupled with a few musical surprises.
The project was recorded and produced at b-sharp studio.
Hisako Kawamura
7. June 2015Hisako Kawamura
Impressive Rachmaninov Album for the “10 Year Anniversary”
SACD Hybrid
10 Years have passed since Hisako Kawamura began recording for RCA Red Seal – and what an impressive career has she started…
This Rachmaninov Album features her in impeccable form teaming up with equal mineded musical partners like Clemens Hagen (Cello) and the Czech Philharmonic under the baton of Maestro Jiří Bělohlávek. Rachmaninovs Piano Concerto No.2, the Sonata for Violoncello and Piano and 2 Préludes from op.23 complete the Album.
Meret Becker
7. June 2015Meret Becker
Wild-West dedication to Love
CD
„Deins & Done“, Meret Becker’s first Album after a longer creative break is like a rocky ride through a hidden Alternative-Countrymusic-Valley. Music sung on floating ice, sometimes fragile – sometimes strong, sometimes Englich – sometimes German, sometimes Country – sometimes Vaudeville…
The smart and whitty songs, mostly Meret’s own writing, are gently spiced up with Dobro-Gitarrist Buddy Sacher’s cliché-esque Country sound, still leaving enough space for Becker’s irony and musical facettes.
The straight forward transparent sound of this Album transports Meret’s very own style, which makes you want to ride into the sunset to the sound of her singing saw…
The smooth string arrangements for this production were recorded at b-sharp.
Jonas Kaufmann
7. June 2015Jonas Kaufmann
irresistible Melodies from a golden Era
CD | Vinyl | DVD | BluRay | TV | iTunes
On “Du bist die Welt für mich / You Mean The World To Me” the german Star-Tenor Jonas Kaufmann performs glorious tunes from Berlin’s legendary heyday, accompanied by Rundfunk-Sinfonieorchester Berlin, conducted by Jochen Rieder. The album is released as limited first edition with bonus DVD, on vinyl LP and standard CD, as well as Super-Deluxe Box Set.
Daniel Barenboim
7. June 2015Daniel Barenboim & Staatskapelle Berlin
Daniel Barenboim launches Digital-Only-Label
Digital Release
Almost exactly 60 years after making his first recording, Daniel Barenboim is now launching his own digital-only label, PERAL MUSIC. With this new label, run in partnership with Universal Music, he specifically wants to address the Internet-Generation.
“I like the pureness of it – the fact that you do not need the whole peripherals – it really is straight forward. I am fascinated by the possibilities, there are so many! And the recording quality is excellent”, comments Barenboim.
The first release is a package of the Symphonies No. 1-3 by Anton Bruckner, recorded with the Staatskapelle Berlin and Daniel Barenboim – produced by b-sharp.
Cameron Carpenter
7. June 2015Cameron Carpenter
You think you know the organ – think again!
CD | DVD
“The Maverick Organist… he is a player with extraordinarily glib fingers and Astaire like footwork… a first-rate talent with a sense of how phrases move.”
NEW YORK TIMES
“No other musician of Carpenter’s generation has more adeptly fused shrewd showmanship, dazzling technique and profound thinking about his instrument
and his place in the musical cosmos…”
THE SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE
“To say that Cameron Carpenter is a virtuoso is to say nothing. He is an exorbitant virtuoso, the Vladimir Horowitz of the organ. In his playing there is the wild passion of virtuosos of the past, who destroyed borders of genres and broadened repertoire for their instruments. What he lacks, however, is cheap populism.”
KOMMERSANT (Saint Petersburg, Russia)
David Greilsammer
7. June 2015David Greilsammer
Ballancing act between Barock and Modern Age with one of the most veturous artists
CD
The Israelian pianist David Greilsammer truely is on of the most imaginative and venturous artists. After receiving wide acclaim from the press and audiences around the world for the “breathtaking finesse” (NY Times) of his Mozart interpretations in 2012, the Geneva based pianist and conductor dedicates his thrid album to the Sonatas of Domenico Scarlatti and John Cage. He explicitly choose this ballancing act between Barock and modern age because both of these composers were visionaries in their time; they invented new sounds and rythms which were unheard of until then.
In short: they were provocativ and passionate – just like him.
Mahler Chamber Orchestra
7. June 2015Mahler Chamber Orchestra
Soundtrack for NHK Premium Puppet Drama Series
TV Soundtrack
NHK will broadcast an utterly new type of event: the exciting dramatization of a Sherlock Holmes mystery, adapted for puppet performance by a Japanese playwright Koki Mitani. Set on a school campus, the 20-part mystery drama depicts the growth of a young Sherlock Holmes and the friendship of his trusted companion Watson. It incorporates typically Mitani-esque humor and plot development for a captivating storyline that has never been seen before in the ever-expanding Sherlock Holmes genre of mystery dramatization.
b-sharp produced the Soundtrack and the Theme song with the Mahler Chamber Orchestra under Daniel Harding.
Denis Mastuev
7. June 2015Denis Mastuev
Tchaikovsky Piano Concertos No. 1+2 wih the Mariinsky Orchestra and Valery Gergiev
Hybrid SACD
Since winning the 11th International Tchaikovsky Competition in 1998, Denis Matsuev has established a reputation as one of Russia’s leading pianists. For his third release on the Mariinsky label, Matsuev turns to the music of Tchaikovsky, with the two Piano Concertos. His first Piano Concerto is one of his most popular works: Tchaikovsky balances core motivic elements with a sense of lyrical spontaneity to create a technically challenging but instantly appealing work. The Piano Concerto No.2 was dedicated to pianist Nikolai Rubinstein, with whom the composer had a close working relationship. Tchaikovsky wrote, I want to dedicate it to N. G. Rubinstein in recognition of his magnificent playing of my First Concerto and of my Sonata, which left me in utter rapture after he performed it for me in Moscow. After a tremendous piano cadenza in the first movement, Tchaikovsky allows other instruments to shine, with prominent solos for violin and cello in the second movement.
Hisako Kawamura
7. June 2015Hisako Kawamura
Chopin Ballades and Liszt Piano Transcriptions
Hybrid SACD
Since winning the internationally renowned Clara Haskil-Competition in Vevey/ Switzerland (2007) the young pianist Hisako Kawamura is one of the most sought-after concert pianists of her generation.
For her new release on RCA she has put together an impressive Program with Chopin’s Ballades and Lied-Transcriptions bei Franz Liszt.
Kit Armstrong
7. June 2015Kit Armstrong
“With fresh energy and a highly sophisticated understanding of music…”
CD
“Bach, Ligeti, Armstrong” is the much anticipated first Solo-Album of the 22 year old American-Taiwanese Pianist Kit Armstrong. For his Mentor Alfred Brendel he is a centenary-talent, acknowledging his “understanding of the great piano literature in unity with passion, intelligence and finesse”.
On his Debut-Album Armstrong presents 12 well-known Choral Préludes by J.S. Bach and his own composition “Fantasy on B-A-C-H”, a commissioned piece form 2011 and Armstrong’s personal Hommage to Bach. The CD is completed by selections from Ligeti’s “Musica ricercata”.
Schiller
7. June 2015Schiller
OPUS…the never ending search for the most beautiful sound
CD
On his new album OPUS Christopher von Deylen interleaves classical music melodies with electronic sounds.
Renowned pianist Hélène Grimaud has been invited to interpret Erik Satie’s „Gymnopädie No.1“, legendary soprano Anna Netrebko comes in touch with electronic music for the first time and lays Edvard Grieg’s „Solveig’s Song“ gently into the inviting acoustical landscape of Christopher von Deylen.
Other familiar melodies pop up like emotional docking-stations: Rachmaninoff’s „Rhapsody On A Theme Of Paganini op. 43“ and Debussy’s „Reverie“ – timeless, beautiful and overwhelming electronical hymns…
Pacho Flores
7. June 2015Pacho Flores & Konzerthaus Orchester Berlin
Stunning CD Debut of the young Trumpet-Virtuoso
CD
Francisco “Pacho” Flores is a first-prize winner of the Maurice André International Competition, the world’s most important trumpet contest, as well as the first prize at the International Competition “Philip Jones” and First Prize at the International Competition “Citta di Porcia”.
A product of the ground-breaking Venezuelan System of Youth and Children Orchestras (El Sistema), he is becoming increasingly recognized for his outstanding performing and recording activity that spans the solo, chamber, and orchestral media.
Francisco “Pacho” Flores recently became an exclusive artist with Deutsche Grammophon – this is his stunning debut recording with the Konzerthaus Orchester Berlin.
Rudolf Buchbinder
7. June 2015Rudolf Buchbinder
Schubert Recital Live from the Musikverein in Vienna
CD
A distinctive pianistic approach with an emphasis on clear musical structures has always been the trademark of Austrian pianist Rudolf Buchbinder.
With his new CD, a live recording from the “Golden Hall” of the Musikverein in Vienna, Rudolf Buchbinder proves once more his outstanding position when it comes to interpreting classical-romatic piano literature: long melodic lines, profound facets that seem to be unveiled for the first time.
“His new CD with piano works from Franz Schubert is among the most exciting recordings of the year” (Die Welt)
Erwin Schrott
7. June 2015Erwin Schrott
Concert recording at the Admiralspalast in Berlin
ZDF | ARTE | DVD | Livestream
Erwin Schrott is one of the most fascinating singers of our time, his powerful voice and stage presence make him the ideal cast for the geat Mozart roles Don Giovanni, Leporello and Figaro.
Recently he has stirred up the music scene in yet another genre: As an authentic and passionate Tango-singer he fills the concert halls and his recent CD “Rojotango” has been awarded with an ECHO KLassik last Autumn.
For his performance at the Admiralspalast in Berlin, the “European capital of Tango”, Erwin Schrott picked an excellent group of musicians, including Bandoneon-Star Mario Stefano Pietrodarchi and pianist and arranger František Jánoška.
Berliner Cellharmoniker
28. April 2015Berliner Cellharmoniker
unique mixture of music and literature with Austrian actor and director Bernd Jeschek
CD
On their new CD the Berliner Cellharmoniker present a unique mixture of music and literature. The idea to this program was conceived during a benefit performance with Austrian actor and director Bernd Jeschek for the Yehudi Menuhin Society Live Music Now.
It features poems by Heinrich Heine, Peter Hammerschlag, Robert Gernhardt and others – recited with humor in his own special way by Bernd Jeschek and spiced up with original compositions for four Cellos and artful arrangements form the vast repertoire of the Berliner Cellharmoniker.
Tatarstan Symphony Orchester
9. April 2015Tatarstan Symphony Orchester & Alexander Sladkovsky
Neues Konzeptalbum aus Tatarstan
CD
Das Konzeptalbum “Enlightenment”, mit Rachmaninoffs Toteninsel und der Manfred-Symphony von Tchaikovsky, ist die beeindruckende Nachfolgeaufnahme zu der Anthology der Tatarischen Musik, die wir vor einem Jahr begonnen haben.
Als offizielle Künstler von Sony Music Entertainment Russia, präsentieren sich Maestro Alexander Sladkovsky und das Tatarstan National Symphony Orchestra wiedermal von ihrer besten Seite.
Yuri Bashmet
9. April 2015Yuri Bashmet & Moscow Soloists
b-sharp produces a Schubert program mit Yuri Bashmet und the Moscow Soloists
CD
On the verge of his 60th birthday Yuri Bashmet is still good for a breathtaking performance. The colours, the intimacy and the wit of his tone are still second to none.
In our current production, which brought us back to Moscow, he is featured as the soloist in Schubert’s Arpeggione Sonata and he teams up with the impeccable Alena Baeva for a duo arrangement of the Song “Der Erlkönig”. The program is completed with our recently recording of Gustav Mahler’s arrangement of “Der Tod und das Mädchen”.
Denis Matsuev
9. April 2015Denis Matsuev, New York Philharmonic & Alan Gilbert
Rachmaninoff and Gershwin in the Big Apple
CD
Internationally acclaimed for his performances of numerous works of Sergei Rachmaninoff, pianist Denis Matsuev presents his new recording of the Piano Concerto No. 2 with the New York Philharmonic (dir. Alan Gilbert). Denis Matsuev is the first Russian pianist since Vladimir Horowitz in 1978 to record Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto with the New York Philharmonic.
“I am delighted that we have been able to produce this recording now.” says Denis Matsuev, “This CD will celebrate Sergei Rachmaninoff’s work, for me one of the greatest composers for the piano ever. Not only did Rachmaninoff himself first perform the Piano Concerto No. 2 in New York, we also know that Rachmaninoff attended the world premiere of Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue in New York.”
Tatarstan Symphony Orchester
9. April 2015Tatarstan Symphony Orchester & Alexander Sladkovsky
Major Project of Anthology of Tatarian Music
CD
For the recording of an Anthology of Tatarian Music we spend two weeks last year in the city of Kazan, home of the Tatarstan Symphony Orchestra. To kick-off this major project we produced 3 CDs, featuring works of male and female Tatarian composers.
Under the baton of conductor Alexander Sladkovsky we were taken on a musical journey through Tatarian history and witnessed a more than impressive performance of one of the best Russian orchestras. The level of preparation and the dedication which speaks out of these recordings are phenomenal.
Two on a Bench
9. April 2015Two on a Bench
Musical Production with Katharina Thalbach & Andreja Schneider
CD | Film Soundtrack
What’s nicer than a secret park bench in the summer time? Time to dream and to cuddle with your loved one… But, what if you are just by yourself? No one to love? Then it’s time to introduce Loreley!
In “Zwei auf einer Bank” (Two on a bench) Katharina Thalbach teams up with Andreja Schneider. She impersonates the depressive Joachim who meets the joyful Loreley – a very entertaining evening!
The slick arrangements for the soundtrack of this musical are by Christoph Israel and were recorded and produced at b-sharp.
Shooting Stars – Celebrities at the limit
9. April 2015Shooting Stars – Celebrities at the limit
Look, what my celebrity can do! Young talents coach their stars for the big event
RTL
On February 22nd at 21:15, Kate Abdo and Mirco Nontschew present the new RTL-Family Show “Shooting Stars – Celebrities at the limit”, produced by itv. Young Adults set the tone because they are real specialists in their fields. Whether it is vaulting, break-dance, playing the piano or singing – each one of them is exceptionally talented in his/her discipline and eager to pass this knowledge down.
For the celebrities, TV moderator Sylvie van der Vaart, actor Ingo Naujoks, Olympia Silver medallist Marcel Nguyen, actors Christine Neubauer and Yasmina Filali, Ex-Soccer star and TV moderator Thomas Helmer these skills are absolutely new territory and a real challenge…because they are depending on the support of their young mentors.
The sequel shot at b-sharp features pianist Alexander Vorontsov teaching actor Ingo Naujocks the difference between the black and the white keys…
Nikolaus Harnoncourt & Rudolf Buchbinder
9. April 2015Nikolaus Harnoncourt & Rudolf Buchbinder
Mozart Piano Concertos with the Concentus Musicus Wien: Magic Soundscapes
CD
From now on, he can’t imagine doing it any other way, says Nikolaus Harnoncourt: For the first time ever his Concentus Musicus performs together with a replica of the historical Walter-Piano (build by Paul McNaulty). It doesn’t get more original than that. Pianist Rudolf Buchbinder – alway courious and ready for experiments – seemlesly fit in this historic sound scape.
Ilka Wolf
9. April 2015Ilka Wolf
Video shoot for Debut-Single at b-sharp
Chemnitz isn’t among the cities which come to mind when looking for charming young singers, but that will definitely change now with Ilka Wolf.
She has got everything an authentic artist must have. As a graduate of the renowned Joop van den Ende Academy in Hamburg she’s got the skills and the experience build on a vast repertoire. Her first single will sound familiar – it is the title track from the movie ‚Love Actually‘. The piano melody from the movie just stuck to her head as if it were written just for her.
Merry Christmas!
9. April 2015Merry Christmas!
DGG gathers its stars for a Christmas-CD
CD
Anna Prohaska, Daniel Hope, Albrecht Mayer, Adoro –accompanied by the German Chamber Orchestra Berlin and the Augsburger Domsingknaben under the baton of Reinhard Kammler, these DGG-Allstars recorded a newly arranged selection of popular Christmas tunes.
“Wonderfully old fashioned, virtuous singing and playing. For classical music fans this is the menu with roasted Christmas goose and a gift-giving that puts a sparkle in children’s eyes. This CD is the perfect proof to show kids and teenagers that there are other Christmas songs than “Last Christmas” and “Jingle Bells”.“
CD Review / Ursula Gaisa, Neue Musikzeitung (Frankfurt) / 12. December 2012
Mayuko Kamio
9. April 2015Mayuko Kamio & Miroslav Kultishev
Romantic Sonatas for Violin and Piano
CD
In the quiet setting of the former East Germany radio station at Nalepastraße we recently recorded a recording with a selection of romantic pieces for Violin and Piano. Mayuko Kamio is already well established in Japan as one of the most successful classical artists, distinguished by her warmly luxurious, buttery tone and long, seamless phrases. This time she teamed up with congenial pianist Miroslav Kultishev to deliver a passionate performance of Franck, Brahms and Strauss Sonatas. Both artists are winners of the 2007 international Tchaikovsky competition in Moscow.
David Greilsammer
9. April 2015David Greilsammer & L´Orchestre de Chambre de Genève
In Between – not your everyday Mozart
CD
With three insanely crazy rockets David Greilsammer makes it very clear from the top of his new album “Mozart In-between” that one will not hear an everyday Mozart from him. He lets his L´Orchestre de Chambre de Genève open the curtain to Mozart’s Symphony Nr. 23 with such a passionate pull, that one would expect the strings to capitulate from his elemental force.
But the Ladies and Gentlemen of this orchestra play fearlessly on their historical instruments and are fully in control at all times, while Greilsammer draws new facets from the Symphony which in their essential core have not even been unveiled by Nikolaus Harnoncourt. And so Greilsammer shakes all innocence out of the work until the symphony is presented – powerful dramatic and dreamlike nobel – in her true form.
Guido Fischer, 03.11.2012 RONDO magazin
Max Richter
9. April 2015Max Richter
“Recomposed – Vivaldi – The Four Seasons”
CD
The “Recomposed” series from Deutschen Grammophon is a win-win-concept for everybody involved. The time-honored label relaxes and DJs and producers of electronic music, who may now put their hands on Mozart and the likes, are all the sudden recognized for their cultural valuable output. Max Richter has now done something to Vivaldi’s popular “The Four Seasons” wich does not sound like the version of Karajan and Anne Sophie Mutter.
What he has done exactly is a mistery to us Techno-freaks…
but it sounds really good!
CD Review from Andreas Hartman. [030] Citymagazin from August 2012
Miloš – Latino
9. April 2015Miloš – Latino
Tangos and the ultimate guitar-hits from Piazzolla to Villa-Lobos
CD
“The listener will be amazed by the sounds of his guitar” – with these words
“Die Welt” celebrated the first CD by the young guitarist and classical music shooting star Miloš.
And here comes his second album “Latino” – a very personal and temperamental hommage to the music of South America. Miloš plays famous melodies like Gardel’s “Por una cabeza”, Piazzolla’s tango-classics “Libertango” and “Oblivion” or latin-hits like “Quizás, Quizás, Quizás” in new arrangements for solo guitar and ensemble – in addition to classical works for solo-guitarre by Villa-Lobos, Ponce and others.
Lang Lang & Herbie Hancock
9. April 2015Lang Lang
Classic meets Jazz – Sensational comeback of the duo Lang Lang and Herbie Hancock
ZDF | ARTE | DVD
In order to celebrate his 30th birthday, world famous pianist Lang Lang chose the stage of the O2 world in Berlin, also marking the only performance of the legendary jazz pianist Herbie Hancock in Germany.
In front of the impressive audience of the O2 World and thousands of listeners, Lang Lang played together with 50 highly talented young pianists from 13 countries, accompanied by the Schleswig Holstein Festival Orchester under the baton of Jahja Ling.
b-sharp was in charge of the music mix of this exceptional event, which was broadcasted LIVE on Arte television and per Online-Streaming.
Fotos: Telefonica / Columbia-Artists
Arturo Toscanini Collection
9. April 2015Arturo Toscanini Collection
The complete RCA recordings of the famous conductor
CD
This extensive edition contains all recordings of the famous conductor (1867-1957), which were made for the RCA label with the New York Philharmonic, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the NBC Symphony and the BBC Symphony Orchestra, to name but a few. It includes recordings from 1920 (mono, mit La Scala) to 1954. In addition it holds two CDs with the BBC Symphony Orchestra which were originally recorded for HMV.
The hardcover-booklet contains excerpts from the Toscanini-biography by Mortimer F. Frank and Michael Stegemann, the complete discography and a bonus-DVD about the legendary conductor.
Breton
9. April 2015Breton
Other People’s Problems: Soundtrack for an imaginary film
CD
Subversive art collective Breton releases their brilliantly inscrutable debut album ‘Other People’s Problems’. As a bunch of film-makers who turned musicians in order to soundtrack their visual work, who emerged from the south London squat party scene and named themselves after the father of surrealism Andre Breton, their approach to creating this album was never going to be predictable. Nor is the end result…
The string arrangements by Hauschka were recorded at b-sharp in Berlin.
Anna Vinnitskaya
9. April 2015Anna Vinnitskaya
Anna Vinnitskaya releases new album at naïve classique
CD
Ever since her 1. price at the Königin-Elisabeth-Wettbewerb in 2007, 28 year old pianist Anna Vinnitskaya has established herself on the international music scene as a remarkable representative of the young generation. Her first album received a Diapason d’Or, her second album with piano concertos by Ravel and Prokofiev (2010) got an ECHO Klassik Award, now she has released her third album.
b-sharp produced this recording in the Jesus Christus Kirche in Berlin-Dahlem. It features Anna Vinnitskaya at her best, performing „Pavane pour une infante défunte“, „Miroirs“ and „Gaspard de la nuit“ of the French impressionist Ravel.
Yuri Bashmet
9. April 2015Yuri Bashmet & Moscow Soloists
DVD Production at the Berliner Philharmonie with Yuri Bashmet and the Moscow Soloists
DVD
On February 22. the Moscow Solists played at the Berliner Philharmonie under the leadership of conductor and soloist Yuri Bashmet. The concert in the great hall was the highlight of the ensemble’s world tour, celebrating their 20th anniversary.
On the programm were works by Johannes Brahms and Peter Tchaikovsky. The specialty about this performance was the fact that the musicians played exclusively on instruments by Antonio Stradivari from the state collection of the Glinka Museum in Russia.
The evening was recorded and filmed by b-sharp and Finkernagel & Lück for a DVD release.
David Greilsammer
9. April 2015David Greilsammer
The visionary pianist’s new solo album
CD
An adventurous dialogue between Baroque masterpieces and four Contemporary works.
“Inspiring and refreshingly different from the norm”.
The Daily Telegraph
Olga Scheps
9. April 2015Olga Scheps
Olga Scheps – Live Recording at the Berliner Philharmonie
DVD | EPK
She is in her mid twenties and surprisingly successful: With Alfred Brendel as a mentor, a recording contract with a major label, radio and TV appearances on a regular basis – the career of the Russian pianist Olga Scheps evolves with giant steps. On stage she is rather modest almost shy – yet very sympathetic. One has to admit that the repertoire has been carefully chosen. The program is well prepared; everything is clear and intelligible, she is totally in control.
Andreas Göbel, kulturradio
Photo by Felix Broede
Nussknacker
9. April 2015Nussknacker
Tchaikovskys “Nussknacker” with the Staatskapelle Dresden
MDR | ARTE | Unitel
Peter Tschaikowsky’s Nutcracker is one of the most played ballets in the world and right on time for christmas, the Semperoper in Dresden schedules a new production.
It is the story of Marie who gets a Nutcracker for christams which over night metamorphoses into a prince who leads her into a world of wonders. The choreography of this new staging is by Aaron Watkin, the ballet-direktor and Jason Beechey, the director of the Palucca dance school.
b-sharp was responsible for the sound of this MDR/ARTE/Unitel production.
Barbara Buntrock
9. April 2015Barbara Buntrock
Video production with violist Barbara Buntrock
Video
Barbara Buntrock is an extraordinary young artist who has performed as soloist and in chamber music and with orchestras both at home in Germany and internationally. In 2008 the jury of the Von der Heydt Awards in her hometown, Wuppertal, singled out her “high degree of musicality and expressive, tonally sensual play.” It also paid tribute to her “musical maturity as a young artistic personality.” In addition, Buntrock took second prize at the 2012 Tokyo International Viola Competition garnered accolades in competitions including the ARD Munich, the Concours de Genève, the International Music Competition in Markneukirchen and the German Music Competition.
We recorded Paul Hindemith’s solo sonata with her.
Arthur Rubinstein
9. April 2015Arthur Rubinstein
All RCA-recordings and previously unreleased material now in one collection
CD
The Polish-American pianist Arthur Rubinstein is one of the most famous pianists of the 20th century. Many critics consider him to be the best Chopin interpreter of all times, however many of his other recordings of composers like Liszt, Schubert, Beethoven to name but a few are of equal timeless quality.
Since 1928 Rubinstein, who preferred studio recordings and only approved a handful of live recordings, recorded exclusively for the famous American Label RCA. All of these recordings and previously unreleased material are now presented on 142 CDs in the Arthur Rubinstein-Collection.
Gudrun Schaumann
9. April 2015Gudrun Schaumann & Wolfgang Brunner
“The Circle of Robert Schumann Vol.2”
CD
This new CD confronts me with an unexpected problem: The recording of Schumann’s Fantasiestücke op. 73, Adagio and Allegro op. 70 or the Fünf Stücke im Volkston op. 102, compositions which are well known being performed in other instrumentations than violin and piano, together with four songs by Clara Schumann, set for violin and piano, and finally world premier recordings of works by Theodor Kirchner (1823-1903) and Carl Reinecke (1824-1910) – is so spectacular that I can not give a “neutral” review of this production…
Conclusion: absolutely recommendable.
Christoph Jetzschke (klassik-heute 25.01.2012)
Dresdner Kapellsolisten
9. April 2015Dresdner Kapellsolisten
“Dresden Concerti” with the Dresdner Kapellsolisten
CD
The Dresdner Kapellsolisten play rarely performed Concerti and Symphonies of the Kapellmeisters of the Dresden court in the 17th and 18th century: Selected works by Zelenka, Heinichen and Reichenauer as well as the world premiere recording of the Symphony in A by Neruda and Albinoni’s Violin Concerto.
“The ensemble has an absolutely reliable sense of style; the musical thoughts are very well defined and technically they are presented perfectly” (HR2) and this recording proves once again the high quality of the Dresden heritage.
Denis Matsuev
9. April 2015Denis Matsuev
Denis Matsuev and the Russian National Orchestra under Mikhail Pletnev
CD
October 22nd 2011 – Franz Liszt’s 200th birthday – and the perfect release date for Denis Matsuev’s new album.
The interpretations of the two piano concertos and “Totentanz” are extreme in every possible aspect. But first and foremost: they are played extremely virtuosic. Matsuev pushes the technical limits of the solo part with breathtaking tempi and dynamics – yet always maintaining transparency. With Pletnev he has found a congenial partner and at no time do the two of them leave even the slightest doubt that they are committed to the legendary virtue of the Russian romantic tradition.
Arnd Richter, FonoForum 02/2012
Emmanuel Pahud
9. April 2015Emmanuel Pahud
The Flute King – Emmanuel Pahud, Trevor Pinnock and the Kammerakademie Potsdam for ZDF/ARTE
ZDF | ARTE | DVD
Celebrating the 300th birthday of Friedrich the Great, Emmanuel Pahud, one of the leading solo-flutists in the world, honours the musical talent of the regent with a concert that mirrors the musical life at the court of Friedrich the Great. The monarch was a renowned flutist himself and he composed pieces for his instrument of remarkable quality.
The concert was recorded by b-sharp in one of the nicest still preserved theatre venues of the 18th century – the King’s Theatre in the new palace of Sanssouci. Emmanuel Pahud is accompanied by the Kammerakademie Potsdam under the leadership of the english baroque-specialist and cembalist Trevor Pinnock.
Daniel Hope
9. April 2015Daniel Hope
Der great Friedrich-Remix with Daniel Hope for ZDF/ARTE
ZDF | ARTE | DVD
In anticipation of next year’s 300th birthday of Friedrich der Große, we recorded a performance of violinist Daniel Hope, flutist Haime Martin and cembalist Christian Bezaidenhout, accompanied by the ensemble L’Arte del Mondo in our studio.
The ZDF/ ARTE production from director Friederike Schlumbom is an unconventional search for evidence: Lead by Daniel Hope as an “ambassador” of Friedrich the Great, musicians from the classical-, beatbox- and technodomain expound on the music played at the Prussian King’s court and explore the world of the monarch.
Glenn Gould
9. April 2015Glenn Gould
DVD-edition with all TV broadcasts of the Canadian CBC Station
DVD
Hardly any other pianist has changed the way we hear classical music today, particularly the music of Bach, so dramatically as the young Glenn Gould – and hardly any other artist became a legend so quickly like the “James Dean of the piano”.
Commemorating his virtual 80th birthday and 30th anniversary of the legendary pianist’s death Sony Classical presents a DVD edition with all TV broadcasts of the Canadian CBC Station, created between 1954 and 1977.
Hisako Kawamura
9. April 2015Hisako Kawamura
Hisako Kawamura plays Schumann and Chopin
CD
Hisako Kawamura’s new release is the perfect follow-up of her successful debut album for RCA Japan. With Chopin’s sonata Nr. 3 she builds the bridge to Robert Schumann’s Humoreske. Both are pieces that she has lived with for a long time, and you can hear that. Cristal clear phrasing and sparkling virtuosity are the ingredients for her mature interpretations and make for a truely personal listening experience.
Hauschka
9. April 2015Hauschka
Filmmusic for the new Doris Dörrie Movie “Glück” by Hauschka
Film Soundtrack
Composer, pianist and performer Volker Bertelmann, better known as „Hauschka”, spend a day at the b-sharp studio to have his string
arrangements for the soundtrack of Doris Dörrie’s upcoming movie Glück
recorded (Constantin Film).
In the meantime the soundtrack has been shortlisted for the German Film Award 2012 in the category filmmusic.
Leonard Bernstein
9. April 2015Leonard Bernstein: The Symphony Edition
Limited edition of Leonard Bernstein’s complete symphonic recordings with the New York Philharmonic
CD
As a conductor of top-class orchestra’s Leonard Bernstein became world famous: First and formost as the musical director of the New York Philharmonic, as a regular guest conductor of the Vienna Symphonic Orchestra and the Symphony Orchestra of the Bavarian Radio – His musical genius and his emotional interpretations were exceptional and set new standards.
This limited 60 CD edition contains Leonard Bernstein’s complete symphonic recordings from 1953 – 1976 with the New York Philharmonic as well as a large-sized book with essay’s and pictures.
Rudolf Buchbinder
9. April 2015Rudolf Buchbinder
Sony Music releases Rudolf Buchbinders live-recording of the 32 piano sonatas of Ludwig van Beethoven
CD
“The main focus of my new recording of the Beethoven sonatas is on the musical flow”, says Buchbinder about the special character of the CD set. “It only happens on the concert podium, and only when the artists gives a performance in front of a live audience”.
The recording took place during Buchbinders residency as „Capell-Virtuos“ at the Staatskapelle Dresden in the Saison 2010-11: In seven matinee-concerts the sonatas were recorded and produced live at the Semperoper by b-sharp.
Mike Krüger
9. April 2015Mike Krüger
Merzedes Benz & Mike Krüger kick off the “Macher-Event” at b-sharp
Mercedes-Benz Transporters honors the “movers and shakers” in German businesses with a unique competition. Singer-songwriter Mike Krüger, will compose individual songs for the winners of the contest and present the new album with the “Macher-Songs” on a tour all across Germany.
“We are a longtime partner of small and medium businesses. With the competition we want to offer the hard-working men and women an unforgettable experience” explains Thomas Urbach, member of the executive board/ marketing Germany.
The b-sharp studio was the location for the launch of this great Event.
Zsolt Bognar
9. April 2015Zsolt Bognar
CD-and filmproduction
CD | EPK
Zsolt Bognar’s new cd has now been completed. The US pianist, who is winner of numerous piano competitions, presents works by Schubert and Liszt. Together with our partner finkernagel+lück medienproduktion we have also realized a film portrait of the artist in our studio.
Alena Baeva
9. April 2015Alena Baeva & Vadim Kholodenko
Recording with Alena Baeva and Vadim Kholodenko
CD
The Russian violinist Alena is Baeva prize-winner of several international competitions in Novosibirsk, Germany, Poland and Japan, including the prestigious Wieniawski Competition in Posen and the II International Moscow Paganini Violinists´ Competition. At the International Violin Competition, Sendai, Japan 2007 she was awarded the Gold Medal and audience prize.
Together with pianist Vadim Kholodenko she has now recorded works by Ravel, Prokoffiev and Szymanowski at b-sharp.
Werner Langrock
9. April 2015Werner Langrock
Music for violoncello and piano
CD
The Berlin-based composer Werner Langrock is a pianist as well as a cellist himself and has written several works for these instruments. On their new CD Petra Kießling and Ulugbek Palvanov now present Langrock’s complete oevre for violoncello and piano.
The sessions in early december, in the presence of the composer, are already the second b-sharp production with Werner Langrock after the recording of his piano works.
The Roy Frank Orchestra
9. April 2015The Roy Frank Orchestra
New CD “Live in Berlin”
CD
The Royal Frank Orchestra has been founded in 2009 and ever since their shows are loved by the audience. The current program “Music Souvenirs”, featuring Iceland-born singer Hrund Ósk Árnadóttir presents famous themes from films as well as German and American “classics”. The concert has been recorded by b-sharp in the Admiralspalast in Berlin on 14.11.2010. Highlights of the concert are now presented on the CD “The Roy Frank Orchestra: Live in Berlin”.
Mike Turk
9. April 2015Mike Turk
The Italian Job
CD
After 2 National Endowment for the Arts Fellowships and a carreer in the american Jazz World it was in the 90s that Mike Turk first came to Italy.
Together with Paolo Birro, Alessandro di Puccio, Paolo Ghetti and Alessandro Fabbri, who strongly influenced his music, he now presents a repertoire that ranges from “Old Man River” to Gabriel Fauré’s “Pavane”. “Mike Turk has applied the language of the saxophone to the harmonica in a very impressive fashion…it amazes me.” (Jerry Bergonzi)
Elena Nogaeva & Vadim Andreev
9. April 2015Elena Nogaeva & Vadim Andreev
The Spirit of Pianism
CD
Both Moscow-born, their carreers developed as different as could be: Elena Nogaeva became a virtuoso of strictly rule-governed piano and chamber music, Vadim Andreev a brilliant artist of improvisation who already during his studies indulged in his love to jazz and toured with Jazz bands. But both meet in harmony in the “Spirit of Pianism” – and it is exactly this diversity that makes their music extraordinary and exciting: both artists inspire each other playing the works of Brahms, Chopin and Schumann and interpret them in a completely new way.
Heifetz Complete Album Collection
9. April 2015Heifetz Complete Album Collection
CD-Edition in the Guinness-book of Records
CD
“The greatest number of audio discs in a boxed set of classical recordings by a single instrumentalist is 103, achieved by Jascha Heifetz – The Complete Album Collection (Sony Music)” Guinness World Records LTD, December 14, 2010 In fact never before have all the Heifetz albums been available together like this: The limited deluxe edition contains all the recordings the legendary violinist made for RCA Red Seal and Columbia Masterworks and 3 bonus CDs with more than 2,5 hours of previously unreleased music. The collection is completed by the Bonus DVD “Heifetz in Performance” and a 300-page hardcover book including essays, pictures and a complete discography of the artist. The reproduction of the original LP sleeves and labels make it a true collector’s item.
Max Raabe & Palastorchester
9. April 2015Max Raabe – Küssen kann man nicht alleine
Max Raabe’s new CD
CD
Shortly after the release of Max Raabe and Annette Humpe’s co-produced album “Küssen kann man nicht alleine” it already seems to be everywhere – from “Wetten dass..?” to the classic audio channel of Deutsche Bahn. Instead of his trademark – old German “Schlager” – Raabe sings new German songs (written by Humpe), that shift between melancholy and esprit. Not even two weeks after the release Raabe/Humpe have already climbed the pop-charts up to No. 8.
The production has been realized completely at b-sharp, and is available in LP and CD-format as well as in a “Deluxe Edition” with a complementary DVD.
Claudio Bohorquez & Katia Skanavi
9. April 2015Claudio Bohorquez & Katia Skanavi
Filmproduction with Claudio Bohorquez and Katia Skanavi
EPK
Cellist Claudio Bohorquez has been hailed as one of the most exciting and fascinating musicians of his generation by conductors, audiences, concert presenters and critics alike. He is winner of numerous international competitions, as Rostropowisch Cello Competition in Paris and the first International Pablo Casals Competiton at Kronberg Academy. He is currently touring with a Recital-program together with pianist Katia Skanavi.
For a coproduction with the musician’s marketing platform premiertone and the finkernagel&lück medienproduktion the two outstanding artists have recorded works by Schumann and Schostakovich in b-sharp studios in Berlin. For an EPK Katia Skanavi also played Nr- 6 from Sonetti del Petrarca by Franz Lizst.
Philippe Jaroussky
9. April 2015Philippe Jaroussky & Concerto Köln
Arte telecast
ZDF | ARTE | DVD
The French counter tenor Philippe Jaroussky, recently named a “radiant god amongst counter tenors” by the press, is not only considered to be one of the most important interpreters of virtuous baroque music, but also a discoverer of unknown repertoire, that in his interpretation regularly conquers the classic-charts. b-sharp has recorded his concert on 24.11.2010 at Prinzregententheater in Munich, where Jaroussky once again presented a program with Arias of Caldara accompanied by concerto Köln. Selections of the recording have been telecasted on ARTE on 26.12.2010.
Nikolai Tokarev
9. April 2015Nikolai Tokarev
Tokarev plays Rachmaninov and Tchaikovsky
CD
Michael Brammann recorded this project in Tokarevs birth town Moscow with the Russian National Philharmonic under the baton of Vladimir Spivakov. Tokarev uses his technical chops entirely to serve the music. “Naturalness and unpretentious exuberance mark the style of Nikolai Tokarev, who plays Rachmaninows concert with a furious rush and forms it to an intimate sound adventure.” wrote the Süddeutsche Zeitung.
Ulugbek Palvanov
9. April 2015Ulugbek Palvanov
Usbek Pianist records the oevre for piano solo by Berlin based composer Werner Langrock
CD
The Usbek pianist Ulugbek Palvanov, awardee of many prizes and at home on the concert stages in Europe, USA and Japan came to us to record the works for piano solo by the Berlin based composer Werner Langrock. As an intimate connoisseur of the breathtakingly difficult repertoire he played with a brilliance and joyful virtuosity that convinced not only the present composer.
Gudrun Schaumann
9. April 2015Gudrun Schaumann & Christoph Hammer
New CD celebrates Schumann’s 200. anniversary
SACD |CD
sharpshTo celebrate the 200th anniversary of Schumann’s birth, this new CD The Circle of Robert Schumann reveals a carefully chosen sampling of works by Robert Schumann, his wife Clara, her half-brother Woldemar Bargiel and the famous violin virtuoso Joseph Joachim, including some real rarities.
Violinist Gudrun Schaumann is an outstanding interpreter, who is particularly interested in historically-informed performances spanning the 17th to 19th centuries. She plays a marvellous Stradivarius violin from 1731. In partnership with Christoph Hammer, playing a Johann Baptist Streicher fortepiano from 1836, these fascinating pieces come vividly to life for the modern listener.
Sam Haywood
9. April 2015Sam Haywood
Sam Haywood makes the first recording on Chopin’s own Pleyel Piano from 1846
CD
Sam Haywood has performed to high critical acclaim all over the world as concerto soloist, recitalist and chamber musician. He has recorded extensively for radio and CD, his latest release being the first recording to have ever been made on Chopin’s own Pleyel piano of 1846. With a tasteful selection of repertoire, including Berceuse Op. 57, Barcarolle Op. 60, Scherzi Op. 20 & 31, Fantasy Op. 49, Nocturne Op. 27 No. 2, Ballade in F minor Op. 42 and Polonaise in A flat major Op. 53, he presents a colourful and powerful insight to what Chopin really had in mind.
Pablo Casals
9. April 2015Pablo Casals
Original Jacket Collection of the famous cellist Pablo Casals
CD
The Original Jacket Collection of the famous cellist Pablo Casals holds 10 legendary recordings. The sleeves of the 10 CDs are designed exactly like the original LP-sleeves of their initial release and the original order of the repertoire has also been restored. So the listener can be fascinated by the authentic performance and appearance just like in former times. The box consists of pieces by Bach, Beethoven, Schubert, Schumann, Brahms, Haydn, Couperin as well as some traditional compositions.
Herbie Hancock
9. April 2015Herbie Hancock
Herbie Hancock “The Imagine Project”
CD
There are just a handful of musicians who have merged Pop and Jazz music like Herbie Hancock. With “The Imagine Project” he has put together an exceptional recording project where is joined by superstars from around the world, including Seal, Chaka Kahn, Jeff Beck, India Arie, John Legend, Pink, James Morrison and others. At b-sharp we have mastered the radio edits.
Barbara Westphal
9. April 2015Barbara Westphal
Hot Brazilian Music for Viola and Piano.
CD
Composers like Edino Krieger, Francisco Mignone, Ernst Mahle, Mozart Camargo Guarnieri und Brenno Blauth are a guaranty for an inspiring listening experience. Barbara Westphal/ viola and Christian Ruvolo/ piano manoeuvre elegantly through this exciting repertoire and present the works in a fresh new way that makes you wonder, why we haven’t heard more from these composers.
Schumann Anniversary Edition
9. April 2015Schumann Anniversary Edition
Schumann Anniversary Edition Re-mastered at b-sharp
CD
Celebrating Schumanns 200th anniversary, Sony presents a limited edition with a selection of his best music, including a substantial booklet with information about Schumann`s life and works. The 25 CDs set features top stars like Arcadi Volodos, Evgeny Kissin, Arthur Rubinstein, Vladimir Horowitz, James Levine, Nikolaus Harnoncourt, Christoph Eschenbach and the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie, the Choir and Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks, the Wiener Symphoniker, Christian Gerhaher, Nathalie Stutzmann, dem Trio Opus 8, Ensemble Incanto to name but a few.
Helge Burggrabe
9. April 2015Jehoschua
World premier recording of Helge Burggrabes Oratorio JEHOSCHUA
CD
The world premier recording of Helge Burggrabes Oratorio JEHOSCHUA has been released on the Munich based label Oehms Classics. The CD was recorded on the basis of a live concert in Hamburg with renowned soloists, the Harvestehuder Chamber choir and the Ensemble Resonanz und the baton of Claus Bantzer.
Jessey Norman
9. April 2015Jessey Norman
Jessye Norman: Roots – My Life, My Song
CD
She is one of the world’s most famous sopranos, with one of music’s most beautiful voices. Sony Classical is releasing Jessye Norman’s long-awaited new solo album: Roots: My Life, My Song, which was recorded live at Berlin’s Philharmonie. With Roots Jessye Norman recalls her African-American origins. At b-sharp we have edited the international version for the CD release
Wannsee Concert
9. April 2015Wannsee Concert
US film, DVD and broadcast production “Am grossen Wannsee” mixed at b-sharp
DVD | BluRay | Film
The project takes its name from the Wannsee Conference, a meeting of senior officials of the Nazi German regime, held in the Berlin suburb of Wannsee on January 20, 1942. The purpose of the conference was to inform the heads of German Government Departments of the “Final solution to the Jewish question”, to obtain their agreement and to subordinate their activities to the official German State policy. In essence, this was the meeting at which the Final Solution was ratified and put into motion as state policy.
The Wannsee Memorial Recordings of music by contemporary Israeli and Jewish composers were performed on the same day (January 20th), took place in the same room, and in its edited form will be the same duration (ca. 85 minutes) as the infamous Wannsee conference.
Being Gidon Kremer
9. April 2015Being Gidon Kremer
Film production “The Rise and Fall of the Classical Musician” with Gidon Kremer, Igudesman & Joo and the Kremerata Baltica
DVD | Film
Everything you always wanted to know about classical music and never dared to ask, all this could be revealed right here! Witness the horror of a musician’s typical daily routine in stirring episodes that will bring tears to your eyes – with laughter. Many of these stories are related to Gidon Kremer’s biographical experiences. Even though he has completely devoted his life to classical music, cinema, comedy, circus and cabaret have always been his passion. An ironic and hilarious insight to the world of classical music!
Max Raabe & Palastorchester
9. April 2015Max Raabe & Palastorchester
Max Raabe and the Palastorchestra at the Admiralspalast Berlin.
CD | DVD | ARTE | Film
Under the artistic direction of Michael Ballhaus (director of photography for Rainer W. Fassbinder, Martin Scorsese and Francis Ford Coppola to name but a few) the celebrated program “Tonight or Never” was recorded at the Admiralspalast in Berlin. Directed by Michael Beyer, sound producer Philipp Nedel from b-sharp.
The Concert was recorded for rbb/ARTE and PBS in the USA. In addition, a European and a US-DVD, including a bonus CD with previously unreleased material was produced to complement the current tour.
The “Tonight or Never” tour was kicked off in October 2007 in Los Angeles – followed by two sold out US-tours. In 2008 “Tonight or Never” had its German premiere at the Admiralspalast in Berlin. Other stops were Hungary, Poland, Greece, France and Japan.
Director’s Cut: Solid as a Rock
9. April 2015Director’s Cut: Solid as a Rock
Solid as a Rock: A Collection of Oustanding Rock Tracks.
CD
Solid as a Rock is the fifth release in the Director’s Cut series from Bosworth, which is an ongoing series of excellent compilations. In cooperation with our partner label kontextrecords, all tracks are compiled and mastered at b-sharp.
Extraordinary design and packaging combined with a tasteful selection of track from the extensive catalogue of Bosworth makes this prestigious series of six CDs a must have item form the very first title.
Plácido Domingo
9. April 2015Plácido Domingo
“Plácido Domingo- The Tenor” re-mastered at b-sharp.
CD
Plácido Domingo is without a doubt one of the most famous, successful and best classical musicians in the world. He is known as one of the most versatile Tenor ever, having sung more than 140 different roles. In 2009 he does not only celebrate his 50 year stage anniversary, he also received the ECHO Award for his lifetime achievement from the Deutsche Phonoakademie. The CD “Plácido Domingo- The Tenor” presents this unique artist on 3 CDs with a selection of the most beautiful and important arias from his vast repertoire.
Original Album Classics
9. April 2015Original Album Classics
Original Album Classics: Groundbreaking classical albums in the original look of the LPs.
CD
Sony’s Original Album Classics series now features 5 CD sets of groundbreaking classical albums in the original look of LP releases. The series includes some of the most importance albums of legendary artists like John Williams, Arthur Rubinstein, Igor Stravinsky, Isaac Stern, Pierre Boulez, Leontyne Price, Glenn Gould, and Murray Perahia. All of them were remastered at b-sharp.
Andrey Boreyko
9. April 2015Andrey Boreyko & Düsseldorfer Symphoniker
Worldclassic in Düsseldorf: Andrey Boreykos brilliant start as the new GMG captured on CD.
CD
Worldclassic in Düsseldorf: Andrey Boreykos brilliant start as the new GMG captured on CD.
Silky smooth sounds fill the hall, the strings blossomed, the brass shined in sparkling gold. Boreykos style is very elegant, nice to watch and serves the long musical lines more than tiny details. He lets the orchestra play and one notices his confidence in the musicians. And they are glad to return the favour – the horn passage in the first movement has imperial authority, in the second movement there is a lightening transparency in the triplets which seems to come from “Parsifal”-spheres… Standing ovations.
Rheinische Post. 07.09.2009
David Geringas
9. April 2015David Geringas – Original Jacket Collection
b-sharp remasters a 10 CD Box-Set with recordings of the exceptional cellist David Geringas.
CD
David Geringas belongs to the great cellists of the 20. century. While studying with the famous Mstislaw Rostropowitsch he won the Tschaikowsky-Wettbewerb in 1970. It was his breakthrough to an international career. The Original Jacket Collection from David Geringas now revisits his artistical development in great detail. On 10 CDs his virtuosity and stylistic variety become clear in an impressive manor. The collection is completed by a very rare LP recording that has been previously unavailable on the European market.
Seiji Ozawa
9. April 2015Pique Dame with Ozawa at the Vienna State Opera
Tchaikovsky’s Pique Dame from the Vienna State Opera under the baton of Seiji Ozawa.
DVD
An evening from the Vienna State Opera, just like the fans of opera love it – now captured on DVD: Tchaikovsky’s Pique Dame with a star cast and an extraordinary conductor – the success of the performance was a sure thing. In addition, the Vienna State Opera had to offer yet another attraction to the package: In the focus of the night and the sheer endless ovations was Martha Mödl, one of the great heroines of the operatic stage.
Anja Silja
9. April 2015Anja Silja & Andrej Hoteev
‘Russian Romance’ song cycle with Anja Silja and Andrej Hoteev.
CD
Ever since her Bayreuth debut as Senta in 1960, Anja Silja, who is without a doubt one of the greatest opera singers in the 20th century, has fascinated her audiences with her personality and her paramount musical competence.
On her current album “Russian Romance” with songs by Rachmaninov and Mussorgsky she is accompanied by Andrej Hoteev.
Gidon Kremer & Martha Argerich
3. April 2015Gidon Kremer & Martha Argerich
The ultimate chamber music summit: Gidon Kremer & Martha Argerich live in Berlin.
DVD | CD
“Standing ovations, flowers, encores – chamber music is alive.” The joy that one senses when reading the Neuen Zürcher newspaper, originates from one of the greatest concert events of the recent years. In December 2006 world class artists Gidon Kremer and Martha Argerich got together in Berlin for a “meeting of the Giants” (Münchner Abendzeitung) and played a program full of contrasts that is now finally available on CD. It features works by Schumann and Bartók as well as encores by Kreisler – excerpts can also be seen on ARTE on the 3. of May at 19:00!
Hisako Kawamura
3. April 2015Hisako Kawamura
SACD release of Hisako Kawamura’s brilliant Chopin recital.
SACD | CD
Hisako Kawamura’s new SACD, featuring piano works by Chopin, has now been released on BMG. Coupled with an extensive concert tour in Japan, Hisako Kawamura brilliantly anticipates the Chopin-hype of 2010. The great musical lines and a rich colour palette of dynamic shades are beautifully captured to the smallest detail with the new DSD technology.
Dennis Chmelensky
3. April 2015Dennis Chmelensky & Dresdner Kapellsolisten
CD production with Dennis Chmelensky from the RTL-Show “Das Supertalent”.
CD
It can always be worthwhile to pay attention not only to the winner of talent shows. The 13 year old Dennis Chmelensky from Berlin left a great impression with his bell-like soprano not only at the jury. For his debut on Sony classical he was accompanied by the Dresdner Kapellsolisten under the baton of Helmut Branny and well-known studio musicians, who made sure the pop titles sounded as hot as they could be. The recording was produced by b-sharp in the Lukaskirche in Dresden, a renowned recording venue with a brilliant acoustic.
Steffen Möller
3. April 2015Steffen Möller
Steffen Möller live im Engelbrot in Berlin!
CD
Comedian Steffen Möller live at the Engelbrot Theater in Berlin!
“There was an advertisement in Berlin: Polish language course in Krakau. I thought that was exotic. I have always wanted to visit the Ural. I sewed my wallet into my coat and off I went. 14 years later I know that I have mixed up Krakau and the Krakatau volcano. Too late. Today I am superstitious, hospitable and I do not skimp with compliments – just like a Pole.”
A great comedy night recorded live and produced at b-sharp.
Denis Matsuev
3. April 2015Denis Matsuev
Denis Matsuev’s legendary Carnegie Hall debut now available on CD.
CD
Denis Matsuev is a tremendous piano talent from Russia. After winning the 11. International Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow the career of this exceptional musician just skyrocketed. The current highlight: His performance at the legendary Carnegie Hall in New York in November 2007. He played works of Schumann (“Kinderszenen”), Prokofiev (7. piano sonata) and the b-minor sonata by Liszt. But it was when he finally pulled out the encores that his breathtaking virtuosity really showed and the public just went crazy.
“When the concert was over one was expecting smoke to raise from his fingertips”
(New York Times 19.11.2007)
David Theodor Schmidt
3. April 2015David Theodor Schmidt
„Masterful, Gripping, even moving. Magnificent“ RONDO.
CD
Now the 26 year old German pianist David Theodor Schmidt releases his debut at Sony Classical with works by Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy, Franz Schubert and Johannes Brahms. For the overall impression it is essential that from every title a musician is speaking, who has an inner vision of the pieces and who can make this vision come across without leaving anything behind. Fife stars for the interpretation.
Very nice piano sound beautifully merged with the hall of the Jesus-Christus-Kirche in Berlin.
Fono Forum, Ingo Harden 3/09
Won Kim
3. April 2015Won Kim
South Korean Pianist Won Kim releases album.
CD
South Korean Pianist Won Kim debuts on Sony. The CD with works by Rachmaninov, Ravel and Stravinsky clearly leaves a mark. When it comes to challenging the technical boundaries of the piano (and the pianist), Won Kim can do it in a very sophisticated manor: Keeping the music structured at all times and his fingers under absolute control even in the most demanding pieces ever composed for his instrument – with no note neglected or left behind.
Mischa Maisky & Martha Argerich
3. April 2015Mischa Maisky & Martha Argerich
Live production with Mischa Maisky and Martha Argerich at the Philharmonic Hall in Berlin
DVD | CD
Celebrating the 30 year anniversary of the duo Maisky-Argerich, we recorded their recent live concert at the philharmonic hall in Berlin. The recording setup was entirely realized with low-visibility Collette systems to guaranty an ultra smooth cooperation with our preferred film partner Finkernagel & Lück.
Yuri Bashmet & Moscow Soloists
3. April 2015Yuri Bashmet & Moscow Soloists
Yuri Bashmet’s outstandingly successful Moscow Soloists realize romantic music in perfect form. Sublime!
CD
Recorded in October 2006 in Moscow, this gorgeous disc seems dedicated to realizing Romantic music in perfect form. Yuri Bashmet’s Moscow Soloists were formed in 1992, and their sound proves absolutely homogeneous, the part-writing a sweet blend even in their most visceral, serrated attacks. The Grieg Holberg Suite has each movement vying with the last to produce the most chiseled effects.
Ever sparkling and tinged by romantic sweetness, Mozart’s eternal Eine kleine Nachtmusik resonates with silver slivers of sound. The Romantic ethos saturates Bashmet’s reading of Tchaikovsky’s wonderful Serenade in C, a plaintive intimacy that does not lack for girth as well as nuance.
Audiophile Audition – 11.2008 – Gary Lemco
Puccini: Suor Angelica
3. April 2015Puccini: Suor Angelica
For the first time ever on CD: Suor Angelica, the first opera recording with the legendary Italian soprano Katia Ricciarelli.
CD
A truly exceptional release for the Puccini-year: For the first time ever on CD, the first opera recording with the legendary Italian soprano Katia Ricciarelli. Recorded in 1973, the singer draws on plentiful artistical resources. A touching and exciting portrait of the miserable nun. Bruno Bartoletti conducts the Santa-Cecilia-Orchestra.
This historical recording was carefully transferred from analog tape and digitally remastered at b-sharp. Our old Telefunken M15A and the Dolby cards purred like a kitty.
Ukrainian national opera
3. April 2015Ukrainian national opera
That’s Opera – a unique exhibition that will travel to St. Petersburg, Berlin, New York, Paris, Peking and other major cities around the world.
Installation
b-sharp produced a large scale opera project in Kiev with the Ukrainian national opera under the baton of Alla Bulbaba. We recorded excerpts from La Boheme, Tosca, Aida and Madame Butterfly that will become part of a sound installation for the exhibition That’s Opera. On the occasion of the 200 year anniversary of the Ricordi publishing house this exhibition will travel around the world. The visitors can walk around in a virtual orchestra pit, take a look at the scores on the individual music stands and hear the respective instruments.
Nikolai Tokarew
3. April 2015Nikolai Tokarew
The ‘French Album’ with young piano giant Nikolai Tokarew.
CD
The Russian pianist Nikolai Tokarew is a celebrated young star in his field. On stage he ploughs through the most demanding repertoire with sheer virtuosity.
His new album convinces with distinct sounds – a true revelation.
So much virtuosity is almost scary, but the young piano giant seems to have a rather relaxed approach to his career. May be that is why his “French Album” sounds so good, because he makes an honest statement, with a terrific sense for sound, great technique and pure joy of playing.
Werner Theurich / Spiegel Online
Alliage Saxophone Quintett
3. April 2015Alliage Saxophone Quintett
Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and Bach with the Alliage Quintet, one of the leading Saxophone ensembles in the world.
CD
With ‘Masquerade’ the Alliage Quintet releases its first CD for Sony Classical. With their unique instrumentation, the four saxophonists Daniel Gauthier, Lutz Koppetsch , Koryun Asatryan and Sebastian Pottmeier and pianist Jang Eun Bae are one of the leading Saxophone ensembles in the world. For this album they have arranged Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and works by Bach for their ensemble and put the pieces in a fresh new perspective.
The name Alliage is derived from the French meaning for the amalgamation of copper and zinc, which is what saxophones are made out of.
Yuri Bashmet & Mikhail Muntian
3. April 2015Yuri Bashmet & Mikhail Muntian
This exciting release marks the first solo recital disc in some years by the world’s most celebrated violist Yuri Bashmet.
CD
“Reminiscences” is a highly personal disc of Bashmet favourites and encores played over 30 years with his long-time piano partner Mikhail Muntian (who premiered Shostakovich’s Viola Sonata). This exciting release marks the first solo recital disc in some years by the world’s most celebrated violist Yuri Bashmet, and features high quality arrangements mostly not recorded before.
Marais’ haunting music for viol suits the viola well and forms the backbone of the recital. Bashmet plays Benda’s Grave and other beautiful arrangements (some by Bashmet’s teacher, the legendary Vadim Borisovsky), throwing a new light on many old favourites.
Kalashnikov Kisses – From Russia with Love
3. April 2015Kalashnikov Kisses – From Russia with Love
Kalashnikov Kisses: Some extraordinary music ‘From Russia with Love’.
CD
Some extraordinary music “From Russia with Love” Kalashnikov Kisses is the fourth release in the Director’s Cut series from Bosworth, which is an ongoing series of excellent track compilations. In cooperation with our partner label kontextrecords, all tracks are compiled and mastered at b-sharp. Extraordinary design and packaging combined with a tasteful selection of tracks from the rich catalogue of Bosworth makes this prestigious series of six CDs a must have-item from the very first title.
Helge Burggrabe
3. April 2015Helge Burggrabe: Jehoschua
Live recording of Helge Burggrabes new oratorio.
CD
The never-resting creative composer of large scale interactive works, Helge Burggrabe, has written a new oratorio for Choir, Orchestra, six vocal/ instrumental soloists and live painting. In the framework of the debut performance we have recorded the work at the Ganderkesee church near Bremen.
Nadja Michael
3. April 2015Nadja Michael
Star-Sängering Nadja Michael mit Ausschnitten aus Ihrem “Orlando” Programm in einer Filmproduktion für ARTE.
ARTE | DVD
Wieder zu Gast im Radialsystem Berlin – Diesmal nahmen wir den Ton für eine Filmproduktion mit der Sängerin Nadja Michael auf. Ihr aktuelles “Orlando” Programm mit Miku Neubert am Flügel wurde mit extrem aufwendigen Schmink- und Lichteffekten atemberaubend für eine Dokumentation auf ARTE in Szene gesetzt.
Lisa Batiashvili
3. April 2015Lisa Batiashvili & Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen
Lisa Batiashvili performing with the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen and the eorgian Chamber Orchestra in her newest release of Beethoven and Tsintsadze.
CD
“I want to bring together two cultures through their music: Georgia and Germany – by Beethoven’s wonderful Violin Concerto and the beautiful Miniatures of Tsintsadze.”
(Lisa Batiashvili)
“She uses her profound physical abilities to invest every tone and every phrase with the maximum of beauty it can bear.”
(New York Times)
Barcelona Barroc
3. April 2015Barcelona Barroc
b-sharp in Barcelona: Bach and Muffat with early music specialists “Barcelona Barroc”
CD
“Barcelona Barroc” is probably one of the few ensembles that have their own chef to cook for the exhausted musicians after a long day of recording sessions. Great food, excellent musicians and an inspiring work atmosphere smoothly got us through the intriguing program consisting of Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto no.V, the concerto in a-minor, BWV 1044, and Muffat’s lush Sonata V.
Roland Kluttig & KNM
3. April 2015Roland Kluttig & Kammerensemble für neue Musik
Mexican classical music with works by Silvestre Revueltas, played by the KNM under conductor Roland Kluttig.
CD
As part of the concert series “Außenseiter” we produced a Live CD with works that came from outside of the European music scene. The comprehensive program features the works of Mexican composer Silvestre Revueltas, played at the Radialsystem Berlin by the Kammerensemble für neue Musik (KNM) under conductor Roland Kluttig.
Holzhauser Music Festival
3. April 201530 years “Holzhauser Musiktage”
Musical retrospect on 30 years of great festival performances at the “Holzhauser Musiktage”.
CD
Following a musical retrospect on 30 years of festival history, we have remastered selected archive recordings featuring artists such as Dénes Zsigmondy, Jörg Widmann, Isabelle Faust, Nikolai Lugansky, Juliane Banse and others. These works are coupled with a newly recorded performance of last year’s main event: The Beethoven Trio Op.1 Nr. 3 with festival leader Ingolf Turban, Sebastian Hess and Johannes Umbreit.
Helge Burggrabe: Stella Maris
3. April 2015Helge Burggrabe: Stella Maris
Lyrics, music, architecture, waterpictures – oratorio “Stella Maris” released on DVD.
ZDF | ARTE | DVD
With a star cast including Hiam Abbas and Iris Berben as narrators, Emmanuelle Bertrand on cello and composer Helge Burggrabe on Flutes, this double release is an impressive package.
Disc 1 is an expressive presentation of the extraordinary piece “Stella Maris”, as performed in Neviges Cathedral, one of the largest modern churches in the world. Disc 2 documents the world premiere of the oratorio in the Cathedral of Chartres.
Fazil Say
3. April 2015Fazil Say & Bilkent Symphony Orchestra
“Alla Turca” DVD featuring Fazil Say: “You’ve got to hear that boy – he plays like the devil”.
DVD
It is impossible to resist Fazil Say’s talent and the uncompromising nature of his passion for the music – and it is evident that in his personality and his creativity, East and West become one. The film has footage of Fazil Say performing with Turkish pop icon Sertab Erener, playing Bach and Beethoven in Istanbul, and also includes his composition “Black Earth” and exerpts from “Nazim”, the latter being part of a performance at the amphitheatre of Aspendos.
Max Raabe & Palastorchester
3. April 2015Max Raabe & Palastorchester
Double CD with the legendary Carnegie Hall Concert with Max Raabe and his Palastorchester out now.
CD
Evoking a nostalgic romance that has captured the imaginations of generations from all over the world, singer and bandleader Max Raabe and his 12-piece Palast Orchester perform dance and film music from the golden age of songwriting in Germany, the United States, and beyond. The special debut performance was recorded live at Carnegie Hall, NY and mixed at b-sharp.
Montserrat Caballé
3. April 2015Montserrat Caballé – Original Jacket Collection
b-sharp remasters Montserrat Caballé for the Original Jacket Collection.
CD
Last year Montserrat Caballé was honoured with the Classic-ECHO. This year she celebrates her 75th birthday and will be featured in Sony’s Original Jacket Collection. The 15 CD set was edited and remastered at b-sharp.
Director’s Cut: Legendary
2. April 2015Director’s Cut: Legendary
Legendary: A Compilation of outstanding tracks all over pop history.
CD
Legendary is the third release in the Director’s Cut series from Bosworth, which is an ongoing series of excellent track compilations. In cooperation with our partner label kontextrecords, all tracks are compiled and mastered at b-sharp. Extraordinary design and packaging combined with a tasteful selection of tracks from the rich catalogue of Bosworth makes this prestigious series of six CDs a must have-item from the very first title.
Xavier de Maistre & Diana Damrau
2. April 2015Xavier de Maistre & Diana Damrau
It takes a real man to play the harp. Xavier de Maistre nimmt Debussy mit b-sharp auf.
CD
Xavier de Maistre, der Solo Harfenist der Wiener Philharmoniker hat gerade eine Debussy CD mit b-sharp in Wien aufgenommen. Das Programm besteht aus Transkriptionen von bekannten Klavierstücken, einer Auswahl von Liedern, bei denen de Maistre wunderbar mit der Sopranistin Diana Damrau harmoniert sowie zwei Originalkompositionen: Danse sacrée und Danse profane. Letztere mit der Beteiligung von Streichern der Wiener Philharmoniker.
Herbert von Karajan
2. April 2015Herbert von Karajan
Unique Re-recording concept developed by b-sharp.
DVD
100 Years Karajan – the new DVD-Edition opens up new sound dimensions for the fascinating recordings of the great conductor.
April 5th 2008 would have been Herbert von Karajan’s 100th birthday – and the music world celebrates one of the greatest and most influential conductors of the 20th century. He was renowned for his charisma and feared for his perfection and persistency.
Karajan left a vast catalogue of recordings, which have essentially influenced the way we perceive classical music today. At all times Herbert von Karajan was interested in the newest developments in recording technology. He always had an idea of the perfect orchestra sound in mind and he worked on achieving this vision with utmost meticulousness.
Today, with the advent of high capacity data carriers like the DVD, it has become mandatory for current audiovisual media releases to include not only a stereo mix, but also a surround sound version of the same program to make adequate use of the disc space and to add further value to the product. The audio on the previously released generation of Karajan DVDs is in stereo. What seemed odd to us as we were screening the material, was the general “dryness” of the sound. Taking into consideration that many of these recordings were made in some of the most renowned concert halls in the world, renowned for their great acoustics – we decided to go back to the original recording venues and capture what has been left out at the initial sessions.
With this truly unique approach to generate a new, well-marketable and genuinely authentic product we did return to the philharmonic hall in Berlin and the Musikverein in Vienna to re-record their unique room signatures in response to the play-back of the original stereo source material. With an intricate matrix consisting of a set of up to 10 speakers, a well-levelled signal was generated on stage to trigger the room acoustics like an orchestra would. The room signals were then re-recorded with an orchestra-like microphone array and newly balanced for both stereo and surround.
A special challenge was the creation of a centre channel signal and its integration without compromising the timbre and sonic depth of the recording. The final mix of the original material with the newly captured room responses adds an impressive spatial homogeneity in both the stereo and surround and a pleasant natural frequency extension towards the low end.
Yuri Bashmet & Moscow Soloists
2. April 2015Yuri Bashmet & Moscow Soloists
Orchestra production with the Moscow Soloists featuring Yuri Bashmet as a conductor and Soloist.
CD
As a follow up to this years Grammy winning recording b-sharp produced a breathtaking selection of repertoire by Tan Dun, Toru Takemitsu and Hikaru Hayashi. The world premiere recording of Tan Dun features Wu Man on Pipa. Yuri Bashmet is featured as a soloist on violin and viola.
Kateryna Titova
2. April 2015Kateryna Titova
b-sharp produces debut recording of young pianist Kateryna Titova.
CD
Kateryna Titova, a highly decorated young pianist records her debut CD for Sony with b-sharp: An all Rachmaninov program centred on the 2nd sonata.
The angel has a piano now-“She is good looking, plays piano like a goddess and is very successful: The pianist Kateryna Titova (22).” (Bild Dresden)
“Kateryna Titova, the pianist: What power, what an event! The way she magically pulls the colours out of the piano is amazing. .“ (Westfälische Zeitung)
Max Geller Quintett
2. April 2015Max Geller Quintett
Live DVD Jazz production with the Max Geller Quintet at the Sophiensäle in Berlin.
DVD
Building the bridge between jazz and classical music is quite a challenge. The Max Geller Quintet with its excellent singer Brigitte Geller has mastered this in a very elegant way. Their latest Live DVD, recorded by b-sharp at the Sophiensäle in Berlin/Mitte has just been released.
Denis Matsuev
2. April 2015Denis Matsuev
Fascinating journey into the ‘unknown’ Rachmaninov with Denis Matsuev.
CD
“Ever since his triumph in the 1998 Tchaikovsky Competition, Denis Matsuev’s name has inspired awe and amazement in musical circles. He literally possesses the sort of technique which begins where others end, and here in Rachmaninov his playing is truly “stewed in Russian juices”.
The G minor Prelude can scarcely have been played more stunningly in its entire history, and so I can only conclude by saying that this excellently recorded disc presents the most trenchant and commanding Rachmaninov recital I have heard in years.”
Bryce Morrison, Gramophone, March 2008
Aidsgala 2007
2. April 2015Aidsgala 2007
Aidsgala 2007, hosted by Max Raabe post produced at b-sharp.
CD
“Doing good and enjoying it“ Dieter Zetsche
The current CD of the Aidsgala 2007 was produced at
b-sharp from more than six hours of raw material, rehearsals and the actual gala performance. This year’s host Max Raabe leads us smoothly through highlights of a tasteful selection of classical music.
George Dreyfus
2. April 2015George Dreyfus
Film score production for 4 silent movies by Australian composer George Dreyfus
b-sharp produces the film scores for 4 silent movies directed by Tim Burstall with music by Australian composer George Dreyfus.
The recording at the Staatsoper Berlin was realized under the leadership of Jonathan Dreyfus, the son of the composer, and members of the Staatskapelle Berlin. The program is currently being edited, mixed and Mastered for Stereo and surround release on DVD at b-sharp in Berlin.
Christine Schäfer & Simon Keenlyside
2. April 2015Christine Schäfer & Simon Keenlyside
Festive advent concert from the Frauenkirche in Dresden.
CD
Last year, the Frauenkirche in Dresden was the venue for a unique and festive christmas concert, that was broadcasted live by the ZDF to an audience of several million people. The parallel CD release was compiled and mastered at b-sharp in Berlin. Soprano Christine Schäfer and star-baritone Simon Keenlyside were the soloists of this concert, accompanied by the Staatskapelle Dresden and the choir of the Sächsische Staatsoper Dresden with Conductor Peter Schreier.
Stella Maris
2. April 2015Stella Maris
Stella Maris Live DVD with Iris Berben
DVD
Following the great success of the world premiere of “Stella Maris” in Chartres, we now recorded a full length concert DVD of Helge Burggrabe’s work in the Mariendom of Neviges. With Iris Berben in the role of the narrator a starcast was provided.
Director’s Cut: Oh lá lá
2. April 2015Director’s Cut: Oh lá lá
Oh lá lá: A collection of crème de la créme tracks from France.
CD
Oh lá lá is the second release in the Director’s Cut series from Bosworth, which is an ongoing series of excellent Track-Compilations. In cooperation with our partner label Kontextrecords, all tracks are compiled and mastered at b-sharp. Extraordinary design and packaging, combined with a tasteful selection of tracks from the rich catalogue of Bosworth makes this prestigious series of six CDs a must-have item from the very first title.
Mike Turk
2. April 2015Mike Turk
Jazz harmonica player Mike Turk at b-sharp for his new album.
CD
There are only a handful of musicians that have truly mastered the challenges of the chromatic jazz harmonica as impressively as Mike Turk. For his latest release he has teamed up with no other than Jon Wheatly/ guitar and Marshall Wood/ bass.
The record was produced using a selection of vintage Neumann M 50/49 microphones in an acoustic setting, supporting the intimate character of these close musical encounters. Mixed and mastered at b-sharp, the trio fires up a storm of newly arranged swinging standards.
Glenn Gould
31. March 2015Glenn Gould – Original Jacket Collection
Original Jacket Collection of Glenn Gould’s complete recordings produced at b-sharp.
CD
Glenn Gould – what a delicate archive material to work with. Going through his recordings is like going through music and recording history at the same time. A total of 80 recordings were re-mastered at b-sharp, with the task of recreating the original track compilation from the vinyl disc. In the same workflow selective audio restoration was carefully applied where needed, in order to compensate technical insufficiencies inherent to historical recordings.
Director’s Cut: High Scores
31. March 2015Director’s Cut: High Scores
High Scores: A collection of Bosworth Movie Soundtracks.
CD
Director’s Cut from Bosworth is an ongoing series of excellent Track-Compilations. In cooperation with our partner label Kontextrecords, all tracks are compiled and mastered at b-sharp. Extraordinary design and packaging, combined with a tasteful selection of tracks from the rich catalogue of Bosworth makes this prestigious series of six CDs a must-have item from the very first title.
Viviane Hagner
31. March 2015Viviane Hagner
Viviane Hagner with Hartmann and Bartok in Bach’s traces.
CD
With Hartmann and Bartok in Bach’s traces.
“It is the strength of this recording that all three compositions are very well chosen to create a cohesive entity within a larger context. This is nicely supported by the reverberant acoustics of the Jesus-Christus-Kirche in Berlin, which have been gently kept to a tasteful minimum using a relatively close microphone setup. May be it is not everybody’s favourite approach; I consider it to be the essential element in making this recording so atmospherically and personal because even the slightest nuances of Hagner’s performance are captured. And it is the quality of these details that really sets the violinist apart from her colleagues.”
Dr. Stefan Drees, 11.05.2007 on www.klassik.com
Frank Strobel & Filmorchester Babelsberg
31. March 2015Frank Strobel & Filmorchester Babelsberg
b-sharp records a selection of the finest German filmmusic with the Deutsches Filmorchester Babelsberg under the baton of Frank Strobel.
CD
Which recording engineer has not always wanted to record the famous melodies of German TV series like Sandmännchen, Winnetou or Raumpatroullie Orion with a full 70 piece orchestra? For the team of b-sharp this dream came true. During the complex live production at the Admiralspalast in Berlin it was our main challenge to create a big-screen movie sound in the extremely dry acoustics of the venue.
Furthermore, picture stills from the respective movies were projected on a large screen behind the orchestra, calling for an ultra low-visibility mic placement to avoid shadows and visual restrictions.
Denis Matsuev
31. March 2015Denis Matsuev & St. Petersburger Philh./ Temirkanov
Tschaikovsky’s and Shostakovich’s piano concerts with Denis Matsuev mixed and mastered by b-sharp.
CD
“In his recording of the popular b-flat minor evergreen Denis Matsuev presents himself from his best side. Born in 1975, he treats the unavoidable masterpiece like a new discovery with a fresh drive, high virtuosity and extreme dynamics. The result is much more convincing than most of his predecessors’ – starting with the lyrical Volodos, the precise Lugansky, the early learner Lang Lang all the way to the preppy Olga Kern and the casual Berezowsky. Matsuev is very effectively accompanied by the St. Petersburg Philharmonic Orchestra and Yuri Temirkanov in a nice and spacious recording.”
nterpretation ***** Sound *****
Ingo Harden, FonoForum, June 2007
Yuri Bashmet & Moscow Soloists
31. March 2015Yuri Bashmet & Moscow Soloists
b-sharp produziert eine Welterstaufnahme von Prokofiev mit den Moscow Soloists und ihrem Dirigenten Yuri Bashmet.
CD
“Diese Aufführungen sind herausragend. In Apollo schaffen es Yuri Bashmet und Co. weit mehr aus dieser Musik zu machen als man es jemals für möglich gehalten hat, und das ohne die elegante und verhaltene neoklassische Ästhetik bloßzustellen. Der Schlüssel zum Erfolg sind eine große Dynamik und ein voller Streicher-klang verbunden mit der nötigen rhythmischen Schärfe.
Der Klang ist perfekt: mit idealer Wärme und Natürlich-keit. Sie werden oft zu dieser Aufnahme zurückkehren, um sie wieder und wieder zu hören.”
CLASSICS TODAY.COM, 30.3.07 – DAVID HURWITZ
10 PERFORMANCE 10 SOUND
Fazil Say
31. March 2015Fazil Say & Bilkent Symphony Orchstra
Open Air Live-Aufnahme mit Fazil Say im historischen Amphitheater von Aspendos, Türkei.
ARTE | DVD
Im Juni 2005 reiste das Team von b-sharp in die Türkei, um eine Live DVD und ein Feature für ARTE von dem Werk „Nazim“ des Türkischen Pianisten und Komponisten Fazil Say aufzunehmen.
Die Aufnahme fand im antiken Amphitheater von Aspendos, in der Nähe von Antalya statt. Dieser Ort fasst gut 10.000 Leute und hat eine beeindruckende Atmosphäre und Open-air Akustik.
Um ein professionelles Umfeld für unsere Produktion zu schaffen, haben wir ein komplettes Aufnahmestudio unter dem Theater gebaut. Weit über eine Tonne an Equipment wurde per Flugzeug und LKW aus Berlin in die abgelegene Gegend transportiert, um das umfangreiche Werk adäquat aufzunehmen. Mehr als 70 Mikrofone und modernste Lichtleitertechnik kamen zum Einsatz, um den Anforderungen dieses Events gerecht zu werden.
Tekfen Symphony Orchestra
31. March 2015Tekfen Symphony Orchestra
b-sharp nimmt die Welturaufführung von Ilyas Mirzayev’s ‘Symphony of the three seas’ in der Hagia Irini Kirche in Istanbul, Türkei mit dem Tekfen Symphony Orchestra auf.
CD | DVD
Eine weitere Reise nach Istanbul – diesmal produzierten wir den Ton für eine Konzert DVD, die unter anderem die Welturaufführung von Ilyas Mirzayev’s Symphony of the three seas beinhaltete. Das Werk war anlässlich des 50 jährigen Firmenjubiläums in Auftrag gegeben worden und ist für großes Orchester und die vier traditionellen türkischen Soloinstrumente Ney, Kemancha, Ud und Kanun geschrieben. Hagia Irini befindet sich im äußeren Schlosshof des Topkapi Palastes und ist einer der größten Konzertorte in Istanbul.
Die Postproduktion wurde komplett in unserem Studio in Berlin gemacht, wo wir den musikalischen Schnitt, die Mischung und das Mastering für Stereo und Surround durchführten.
Herwig Tachezi & Ivan König
31. March 2015Herwig Tachezi & Ivan König
Beethoven’s complete works for cello and piano
CD
Recorded in the nice sounding Lamberti church of Aurich we were handed this project to be edited, mixed and mastered. In close cooperation with cellist Herwig Tachezi we went through a very creative phase of stereo and surround post production to conquer the challenges of these demanding works in our studio at b-sharp in Berlin.
“…convincing concept – a truly new and personal reading” Nikolaus Harnoncourt
Frank Strobel & Hamburger Symphoniker
31. March 2015Frank Strobel & Hamburger Symphoniker
Welturaufführung der Matrix Symphony von Don Davis mit den Hamburger Symphonikern unter Frank Strobel
CD
Im Rahmen der Klassik Radio Tour “Die große Welt der Filmmusik” produzierte b-sharp eine Live-CD mit Filmusikklassikern von Gone with the wind und Pirates of the Caribbean bis hin zur Raumpatroullie Orion. Unbestrittener Höhepunkt war jedoch die Welturauf-führung der Matrix Symphony von Don Davis.
“Thank you so much for the CD of the Klassik Radio In Concert. The performances are truly thrilling! It is invigorating for me to hear a fresh, new and exhilarating performance of my work. All of the performances on these two CDs are exemplary. Congratulations on such an excellent achievement.”
Don Davies, Komponist von “The Matrix Symphony”.
Gidon Kremer & Yuri Bashmet
31. March 2015Gidon Kremer & Yuri Bashmet
b-sharp für Liveaufnahmen mit Gidon Kremer und Yuri Bashmet in St. Petersburg und Moskau
CD
Mit mobilem Aufnahmeequipment fuhren wir nach St. Petersburg und Moskau, um zwei Livekonzerte aufzunehmen. Auf Grund des sehr engen Zeitplans mit Re-takes bis in die frühen Morgenstunden war unser ganzes logistisches Geschick gefordert.
. . . die Qualität dieser Aufführungen lässt alle meine Zweifel zerfallen…
die Live Aufnahmen in St. Petersburg und Moskau aus dem Jahr 2005 sind hervorragend: Ich empfehle allen sich diese Aufnahmen anzuhören.
Robert Matthew-Walker, Record Review, 01 December 2006
Tarkan
31. March 2015Tarkan
b-sharp produziert Live DVD Aufnahme mit dem türkischen Superstar Tarkan in Istanbul
DVD | CD
Mehr als 40.000 kamen, um Tarkan live im Fußball-stadion von Besiktas Istanbul zu sehen.
Die große Band bestand aus mehr als 20 Musikern, inklusive einer kompletten Streichergruppe, Background-Sängern und diversen traditionellen türkischen Saiten- und Perkussionsinstrumenten. Zusätzliche vorproduzierte Tracks und Effekte kamen von einem ProTools System auf der Bühne.
Zusätzliche Nachaufnahmen sowie die komplette Stereo- und 5.1 Surroundmischung fanden in unserem Studio in Berlin statt.
