The Record Shelf Guide to Classical CDs and Audiocassettes

by Jim Svejda

"The breadth of his knowledge is extraordinary.... His taste is consummate; his integrity unswayed by today's musical hype". -- Mitch MillerIn this fully revised and expanded fifth edition of his popular book, Mr. Svejda introduces readers to the latest performances and newest perspectives. Arranged alphabetically by composer, this irreverent, selective, and highly opinionated guide is the only American source book for CD and audiocassette recordings of hundreds of classical compositions, from the standard to the eclectic. Includes a foreword by Mitch Miller.

Genres: Music

880 pages, Paperback

First published October 19, 1992

Reviews

[Daniel Jun Kim]

Jim Svejda's enthusiasm for classical music is infectious and partly fueled my own listening explorations in the form. The writing - like the topic itself - is by no means boring or staid. It's witty, buoyant and, by turns, acerbic. And his actual recording choices are also excellent. I built much of my small classical recording collection upon his recommendations and was never disappointed by any of his choices unlike some recommendations in other review books in which I *was* sometimes a little disappointed or bored.

The only problem is the book seems to be currently out-of-print and is thus hard to find. You can try looking for a used copy on Amazon.

[Peter Ruark]

Worthwhile for those who enjoy listening to different recordings of the same classical pieces, or who are trying to build a collection of recorded music. I found a used copy shortly after I began to seriously explore classical music and it influenced some of my CD choices. Svejda does seem to harbor a grudge against Herbert Von Karajan, though.

[Linda]

I bought this book used and loved reading it. I’ve used it to purchase used CDs on Amazon and have a nice collection of classical music that I should start listening to! I enjoyed his opinions of CDs immensely. I was surprised to find out how expensive some used CDs can be!