With diction lessons recorded by Irene Spiegelman, German diction coach at the Metropolitan Opera, and piano accompaniments recorded by Laura Ward, this collection of the most often-taught Brahms songs is an excellent introduction to Lieder. The diction for each song is recorded twice: first recited as an actor would speak it, demonstrating the flow of the language and mood, followed by a slow, deliberate lesson, allowing time for the student to repeat each line. Spiegelman is very sensitive to liaisons between word sounds in the musical settings. Contents: Botschaft; Dein blaues Auge; Die Mainacht; Feldeinsamkeit; Immer leiser wird mein Schlummer; Meine Liebe ist gruen; Mondnacht; O liebliche Wangen; O wuesst ich doch den Weg zurueck; Sapphische Ode; Sonntag; Staendchen (Kugler); Vergebliches Staendchen; Von ewiger Liebe and Wie Melodien zieht es mir. Available in high and low voice.