Nigel Kennedy - Vivaldi Live a la Citadelle [DVD]

This is the inimitable, iconoclastic Nigel at his very best. Playing beautifully, interacting with the orchestra and the audience, never afraid to send himself up while making marvellous music. Sound quality and cinematography excellent. I recorded this on TV some years ago and then gave away the tape when we gave up our video player. Missed it so much I just had to buy the DVD when I realised it was available. Vivaldi purists MIGHT cavill at Naughty Nigel's occasional bursts of doing it his way but the whole performance is so exuberant and skillful that even a traditionalist like myself found fresh insights into these very familiar concerti. Just wonderful!

..no doubt, the more classical world may have doubts with this performance, but I was so pleased with it, I had to write this comment.I am neither a musician nor music student...I am simply a 61 year old person who has listened to Vivaldi for more than 40 years. I sensed that the orchestra was hesitant at first with the 'radical' style that Kennedy served up...but it was short-lived...they went with it all the way. It simply became a celebration of Vivaldi and baroque music style.....You could have no more fun than watching this concert if you are a music fan and especially if you like Vivaldi...

This video is a pure Nigel show time for those who enjoy classical music from a different angle. I am sure, as was my case with youngsters, that this type of sincere, althought very particular, aproach to music making of great classical pieces atract strongly younger and not classical fanatics audiences as well.Nigel is a great self interpreter of classical music which atuned to his particular character make for an enjoyable watch. I am a 44 year old violinist and continue to enjoy Kennedy's performances as well.Fausto

All that I hoped it would be. I had difficulty aquiring it in Australia. The production is great & performance entertaining. Not inpressed with the tibute to Jimi Hendrix so can fast forward that. Nigel is just a fabulous violinist.The Polish Chamber orchestra are excellent. They would have enjoyed the opportunity to perform with Nigel. Jukub Haufa lead violin soloist is a match for Nigel in Vivaldi concero for two violins.So pleased to have the dvd even if I am 4 years late. recorded 2005

Kennedy and his Polish Orchestra make Vivaldi alive indeed. Lots of passion and interaction, with both the orchestra and the audience. However, Kennedy can be amazingly sensitive and singing in the adagio meditations in the Four Seasons. The Purple Haze encore is lots of fun as well. BEautifully done! Clearly filmed -- the players are showcased as well, although I would have liked more of the cellos!

The recording is good. I enjoyed it very much. It is recomendable for any persons who wants to enjoy modern performance of classical music. Great sound.

Nice performance although the pieces are not very beautiful.I do not enjoy the DVD very much.I sometimes play this DVD again and again, eventhough less than other Violin solo DVDs I have.

There's not much to add to the title. If you're looking for something really high quality ... yet fun and I believe somewhat appealing to everyone ... this open-air performance in beautiful surroundings in France is of guaranteed "value" to enjoy again and again ...