Searching the Web

1.  How to Search:
Enter the composer’s last name, name of the composition, and the last name of the conductor, soloist, or ensemble. (With numbered works likes symphonies and concertos, do not use the word “number” or “no.”) For example, enter: mozart concerto 23 horowitz. This usually leads to the most options.

2.  Why are no CD album numbers listed?
Web searches yield the most results when album numbers are not used. Many albums have been re-released multiple times with each release assigned a different number. Also, some albums released domestically are also available as imports—again with different numbers.

3.  What are WebTips?
Sometimes it’s tricky searching for a recording. It may have been re-released numerous times with different album numbers and different companion works. It may have been recorded more than once by the same artists. It may be discontinued by the recording company but available elsewhere. Or it may simply be murder trying to figure out, “What do I type in order to find this bloody thing?” In such cases, WebTips will be added.

4.  Buyer Beware:
Many recommended works, originally available on one CD, are now served up in boxes—collections of more CDs than you probably want to buy. This seems to be the latest craze among companies. One company, Brilliant, is now making complete sets from the bigger labels available at super-budget price. With diligence, however, you may be able to find what you’re looking for still packaged as just one CD.