historic and contemporary - simply the best
934018
They don't come better than this. This version of the VW 6th., conceived when the music was still almost white-hot (the symphony received over 100 perormance in its first two years) beats all rivals on interpretation and is remarkably good sonically too. VW paid particular tribute to Boult's skill in moulding the desolate (and difficult) final movement, but every moment of this performance breathes commitment. 'The Lark Ascending' is as fine here as on any other CD (Jean Pougnet is the soloist) and again the sound is very faithful and beautiful. Having the revised version of the symphony's scherzo is indeed a bonus, and a very interesting one, and of course you can programme the CD to play either in the contxt of the symphony as a whole. In addition to all of that the disc is absurdly cheap. You really can't go wrong with this.
256382
This vintage book is awesome;  better writing than in many of the best selling mysteries today.  The author was an amazing and courageous woman, who wrote a few wonderful books.  What a pleasure to have such character development, fantastic vocabulary, wonderful descriptions which take you to the very spot, wherever it is in the world.  Carolyn Weston's amazing books are my favorite collection.  It's a wonderful trip to go back to mysteries where there are no instants- cell phones and computers- nothing like it.  Try going back in time with a vintage mystery- especially if you can find a Carolyn Weston. Not only will you spend much less money, your enjoyment level will go straight to the top.
3497046
Herrick's Organ Fireworks series only gets better with age.  Volumes nine, ten, and eleven are among my favorites.  The programs are varied with classic works--from the golden era of the Romantic organ--and engaging and inventive contemporary works.  The sound quality is increasingly excellent--and it has never been lacking.  The performances are exemplary; Herrick, despite his increasing years, swings and gets downright funky in the jazz-inspired works on this disk; you can feel a youthful enthusiasm and spirit in every note.

The organ is the famous Lay Family Organ at Meyerson Concert Hall in Dallas, built by Fisk, and it is a marvel.  The stops cover a palette from the Baroque to the modern era, but it is the pristine voicing of each stop and the amazing clarity of this organ that I find the most remarkable.  Its sounds are virtually tactile.  I also like the way that the organ seems to suggest the Baroque era in every stop, and yet it still sounds like a thoroughly modern organ.

Herrick, yet again, demonstrates his ability to put together an engaging program.  The focus here is on marches and jazz-inspired works.  The Gigout, Guilmant, and Jogen pieces are highlights for me.  But the three or four jazz pieces are a delight too.  The Mons Takle piece--an auditory portrait of a fairground--is four minutes of glorious, hyperactive insanity.

This disk--or any disk in the Organ Fireworks series--offers a great introduction to what the pipe organ is all about.  The pipe organ's expressive range and unsurpassed color and texture are all on display here.  It is currently my favorite disk in the series.

(And on Herrick's website he says that volume twelve is in the works!)
394599
This is an old survey, completed in 1976 before Alexandria became the hip DC satellite it is today.  Since we're dealing with historic structures, it's not so much of a problem, but keep in mind that both the photography and the text reveal their age.

It's a remarkably complete survey, offering a street-by-street catalog of structures in Old Town (as they existed in 1976).  All of the historic landmarks you know are here, but what makes the book really special is its coverage of nearly the entire residential, commercial and public building stock.  This book reminds me very much of Dulaney's exceptional "Architecture of Historic Richmond."  If you know that book, this one is a lot like it.

It's organized by street, written in standard AIA format (though it's not an AIA publication).  Each entry includes a small black & white photograph and a descriptive essay.  The essays are short, and mostly concerned with historic provenance rather than architectural detail.  Since there are over 500 entries, the text is brief.  The emphasis is on breadth rather than depth.  Potential readers should know that the author, Ethelyn Cox, assumes a cynical and somewhat revisionist tone throughout the text, as if she has an axe to grind with the city.  It doesn't ruin the book, but she definitely comes across as a bit pedantic.

Alexandria isn't as quaint as its sister city across the Potomac - Georgetown.  While Georgetown, originally in Maryland, found itself folded into DC and subsequently (and relatively) "protected" from war, fire and economic stagnation, Alexandria retroceded to Virginia in 1846 and was always something of Georgetown's prodigal twin.  Fire, war, depression and "development" have all left significant scars in Alexandria, reflected in its architecture.  So while Georgetown is perfectly preserved - frozen in time - Alexandria has rough patches.  Most of the colonial fabric in Alexandria has been lost, and it is largely the Federal town that is preserved today.  There ARE colonial structures, but they are scattered.  This book demonstrates the history of Alexandria well.

Virginia is vigilant about protecting its existing historic structures, so most of the buildings in this book are still with us today.  Most, in fact, are in a much better state of preservation than they were when this book was written since DC "rediscovered" Alexandria in the 1980s.

I highly recommend this book to historians, architectural historians, serious cultural tourists, and potential property owners.  It is, easily, the best architecture survey of this important historic city, despite its age and academic tone.
1077403
I think for the greatest reading pleasure and a sense of continuity, this should be the fourth of the titles.  I offer the following for the five titles (to date) in the chronology:

It is seldom that I can really lavish praise on a fellow writer in the way I'd like to with Mercedes King.  The incredible style in which she has put together some astounding historical stories as seen through the eyes of its participants will have any reader mesmerized.  Somehow, she has used accurate historical documents and research and combined that material with a passion for the characters themselves that allows them to live again. Reading these five related titles, four shorts and this novel, to progress through time with two of the most interesting and probably misunderstood people of all time is an eye opening experience.  Imagine being in the room with the parents of a future President and one of the classiest first ladies America has known. while they "negotiate" the wedding plans. Or, just try to eavesdrop on a family discussion where the relationship with a blonde actress who was rumored to be a lover, is the object of attention.  Being present for more than one near catastrophic situation only to confront another.  Anyone who appreciates that history is about the people who make it must read this collection.  My hat is off to you Ms. King for an outstanding addition to the stories, rumors, gossip and realities of this one of a kind couple who gave so much to our history.
4470535
The history presented, and the wonderful photographs, are a panorama of architectural beauty and fascination topped only by Jenkins' insightful and witty comments. This is a perfect "coffee table volume" for anyone interested in the Church, the arts, or history, and for others who plan travel to areas of England they have not previously explored. An added bonus is that those passionate about any one of the topics will, as I have found, have the further entertainment of arguing whether Simon's choices actually were of the 1,000 best, and which of their own favourites would have topped them.
614228
A great pictorial history of this wonderful landmark.  Well written and organized, with an interesting selection of not often seen photos from all phases of the mansion's history.  Heartily recommended for those who appreciate historic sites and New York City history - pair this book with a visit to the mansion itself, and you'll be in historic house heaven!
4084777
Fedor's has been most diligent in updating its traditional line of guide books.  They've kept the famous and very useful rating system for attractions, hotels, and places to eat, but added more pictures, maps, diagrams, and a format that features bite-sized chunks of information and lots of website addresses.  This "Fodor's 2016 Guide to London" is a wonderful resource for London, still one of the great cities of the world, with hundreds of years of history on display in buildings, monuments, and museums, along with the most up-to-date culture, art, shopping and entertainment available anywhere in the world.

The guide opens with an introduction to London, then tours the various neighborhoods for their individuals attractions.  Later chapters address where to eat, where to stay, and where to find the shopping, art, and entertainment.  The concluding segments include tips on traveling around the great metropolis, including a diagram of "the tube" and  a pull-out map of the city.  This guide is pretty close to one stop shopping for planning.  Anyone willing to invest a little time can put together a great visit.  London is an expensive place and planning ahead will likely be rewarded in both time and money.  This reviewer especially appreciated reading the many options on offer for touristing; there really is something for everyone.  Highly recommended.
3539000
I'm knee deep (literally) in SITWELL BOOKS ....  I started to read about the family weeks ago and I am still at it.  I love art, classical music, ballet (Nijinsky, their friend), travel, historical books ... and the Sitwells are so much a part of all of that.  Very interesting biographies (and fun), plus one brings you to another and then another and thank goodness Amazon has them all at very inexpensive prices.  GREAT HOUSES OF EUROPE is really fun to read ... it is huge and my copy is totally unmarked and cost only $4.93 with Prime shipping.  I highly recommend this book; it's more than an art book ... You get to see lovely and interesting homes in Europe with wonderful commentary by "Sachie" Sitwell.  I highly recommend this book and the writings of the Sitwell Family and their diligent biographers.
2190226
Filled with great period photos and detailed information, these books (written in 1893)are an absolute must for anyone interested in late nineteenth century New York. Fantastic bits of information about the city's clubs, hotels, businesses, prisons -- EVERYTHING is in there!!
[Thank you, little sister!]
1337129
As a NYC resident of more than 25 years who has broken the spines of both the third and fourth editions of the AIA Guide to New York City, I think the latest edition is a must-have item for any New Yorker with an ounce of curiosity about the buildings and history of the five boroughs. During the decade since the last edition, the cityscape of NYC has been changing at a frenzied pace--at least until the housing bubble popped and the luxury condo boom crashed.  This new edition revisits the old, updates the transformed, and point out the new in concise paragraphs of historical fact and pithy architectural criticism. I may not always agree with the authors' opinions but I do appreciate their dry, witty style. The fifth edition has also improved the quality of the maps and the photographs enormously, and I really enjoy the addition of the "necrology" sections--paeans to buildings that are no longer there.

New Yorkers--buy this book and look up! You'll never look at your city the same way.
2867496
If anyone wonders at the taste of contemporary architects, the darlings of media critics, this book is a breath of fresh air and a reminder that good taste never dies.  Several recent commissions for private homes are reviewed with excellent photographs and narrative.  The architects Fairfax and Sammons were unknown to me prior to this book, but I now wish I had the means to employ them.  American Houses: the architecture of Fairfax & Sammons is a book to enjoy again and again.
2509583
After visiting Vienna in 2002, I came away with a great appreciation of Otto Wagner's work.  Many of the sites are still extant, and the excellent Viennese tram and subway system takes you to them in minutes.  This book has concise descriptions and many clear photographs and drawings of both real and imagined buildings, and should be on the shelf of anyone interested in Secessionist/Jugendstil/fin de siecle architecture.
3867114
I love this book.  While not entirely comprehensive--admittedly, a tall order for a state with as much wonderful building stock as Ohio--what the author does present is with deep historical and architectural insight.  This book will delight both the architectural historian and the casual traveler.

While the emphasis is certainly on historic structures, there are examples of important modern buildings as well.  The essays included with each entry are just fantastic, as the author contemplates the art of building.  Really good stuff here.

Includes monochrome photographs for most entries, and plans and elevations for particularly notable entries.

As I mentioned before, coverage is good but can be spotty.  Oberlin, Gambier, Athens and Marietta are here, but Oxford and Yellow Springs aren't.  Chillicothe and Granville?  Yes, but with quite limited exposure.

Not as comprehensive as a guide from the BUILDINGS OF AMERICA series, but not as dry either.
3825881
There are countless history books that relate dates, times and places, but little more.  Rare is the author that can look at a period of history from a broad perspective, interpret it intelligently and logically, and draw conclusions that reverberate today.  It is not what happened in the past that is important; it is how those events changed the course of history and affect the modern world that brings history alive, far beyond dry dates and times. Cahill does this brilliantly.

His premise is simple; that Ireland's isolated location and highly developed monastic community is singularly responsible for the preservation of priceless intellectual treasures and no less than the sum total of early human knowledge--and civilization--at a time when barbarians ravaged mainland Europe and the Dark Ages threatened to send humanity back to pre-history.

It is a premise backed up with solid research and facts that are difficult to argue with. His is not a far-out concept or wild theory; upon reading the book, which is a pleasure, it is impossible not to conclude that indeed, the Irish did save civilization.

Highly recommended, and not just for fans of history or of Ireland. As Cahill demonstrates, were it not for the anonymous monks toiling away in their dimly lit rooms, the world today would be a much different--and darker--place.
3291504
Lens on Syria is a revelation. If your knowledge of Syria is limited to its current sectarian agonies, you need this book. Within the modern borders of this ancient land lies a wealth of cultural treasures that can only be described as grand. Home to cities older bymillennia than Athens or Rome,terminus of the Silk Road, honored, coveted and shaped by every world empire; Hittite, Babylonian, Persian, Hellene, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Ottoman, Syria is the crossroads of history. This rich heritage is evident in an astounding variety of ancient ruins, relic cities and religious and civic architecture that will fascinate the reader. Amphitheaters, mosaics, temples, churches, mosques, monasteries, fortresses, castles, citadels, the author, in his long sojourn there, has captured them all in this beautifully presented book. Lovingly photographed, with expert text, this is the definitive work of its kind on this subject, a country and history few of us know. Included is a portrait of modern life amidst a broad historical range of a spectacular yet graceful blending of architectural styles in palatial homes, public markets and houses of worship. Comprehensive, intimate and inclusive this book is a testimonial to the beauty, diversity and grandeur that is Syria ancient and modern. Most importantly it memorializes the many now damaged historic sites and those under threat in this time of troubles. For this reason alone this book is worth having, but if you or anyone you know enjoys history, architecture, archaeology, travel, currents events or just great photography, Lens on Syria is a worthy addition to any book shelf and would make the perfect gift.
2639408
As a lifelong resident of Brooklyn, I looked forward to Mr. Ditta's book. I was not disappointed. Gravesend, Brooklyn is part of the Arcadia Publishing Then and Now series. From its handsome cover, through its nearly 100 pages, to its sepia-like rear cover, it offers a wonderful pictorial history of a large swath of the Borough of Churches. With great care, Mr. Ditta places photos of the same tract (before and after), on each page. The accompanying text is clear, concise and free of error. What fun it was to see areas I visit or pass through regularly as they were long ago. How fascinating that several structures still exist, albeit in altered form. I was reminded of how enthralled I was by the pictures on display in the Daniel George Funeral Home, which showed what the Gravesend Bay waterfront was like before the construction of the Belt Parkway. Anyone who has a fondness for Brooklyn, as Mr. Ditta obviously does, will enjoy this book. How sweet it is - fuhgeddaboutit!