Itzhak Perlman, Pittsburg Symphony Orchestra - Cinema Serenade

On this disc of themes and songs from famous movies, the playing's the thing that beguiles ear and heart. The music varies in quality, but it captures the national and emotional flavor of the films, sometimes aided, sometimes overwhelmed by the orchestration. André Previn's and John Williams's compositions and arrangements stand out. Except for one lively Irish dance, the basic mood is wistful, nostalgic, melancholy, and always sentimental, but Perlman can turn pure corn into pure gold. His tone is ravishingly, exquisitely beautiful. Focused and intense, it sings, shimmers, and glows, soaring into the highest register with radiant ecstasy. Equally remarkably, he brings no less seriousness, care, and expressiveness to this music than to his customary repertoire, yet projects a sense of having a wonderful time. The arrangements, especially those by Williams, seem tailor-made to his strengths, giving him plenty of chances to display his virtuosity, flair, gypsy abandon, improvisatory freedom, and infinite charm, and he uses them to the hilt. Listeners familiar with the films may find their favorite tunes freshly illuminated; the uninitiated could not wish for a more persuasive introduction to the style. --Edith Eisler Amazon.com

Contemplative and emotional - an outstanding compilation

Itzhak Perlman's first cinema sampler (originally released in 1997) is first rate and includes some of the most beautiful and haunting instrumental movie themes from the last couple decades. He collaborates with composer John Williams, who has composed some of the most beautiful and popular film scores of all time including the "Star Wars" and Indiana Jones franchises.

Listeners are taken on a musical journey that is at times lush and romantic with his interpretations of "Out of Africa," "Sabrina," and "Il Postino;" at other times contemplative and solemn with his versions of the "Color Purple," "Schindler's List," and the sublime "Cinema Paradiso;" to the more upbeat "Por Una Cabeza," the lively tango featured prominently in "Schindler's List," "Scent of a Woman," and "True Lies." It is a rarity that I listen to a CD and not click on the skip button a couple times. With this CD, it is pure listening pleasure from the first song to the last, packing an emotional wallop.

Perlman and Williams teamed up again to release a follow up CD two years later concentrating on classic movies, creating another timeless treasure.
July 21, 2008

Absolutely Beautiful Music!

I knew this was going to be good - John Williams and Itzhak Perlman are you kidding me? It isn't just good folks, it's absolutely beautiful! I cannot believe the waves of emotion one feels while listening to this cd. Buy this cd whatever your musical taste-this is in a league all its own!
I know I am gushing here, but read what others have to say - this has no bad reviews. This was and is a must have for any music lover! June 1, 2008

Cinema Serenade - Pearlman

I first listened to this CD in May 2006. Since then I had been meaning to get a copy. I am upset that it took me more than 18 months to order it. This is a beautiful CD. Perfect combination for someone who loves movies and Mr. Pearlman's fabulous incredible work. He is simply a master of the violin. Since its arrival, I have been listening to it constantly.
Just love it!! January 15, 2008

Simply Wonderful

A brilliant collection of tunes you will recognize from films, orchestrated in a new and wonderful way. Great accompaniement for dinner parties or as background when writing. December 5, 2007

This is a beautiful album

I usually hate cinema music. I find it emotionally manipulative. Of course there are some real masterpieces. This collection is one of them. It is the kind of music that makes you happy to be alive: sublime. Even my five year old, who responds completely emotionally to music, loves it. October 10, 2007

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