When Classical Record Labels Give You No Other Choice

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Over a quarter of a century after facing the dilemma to switch over from vinyl LPs to the shiny new medium known as compact discs, I face a new crisis. Will I collect recordings in MP3 format only? 

Check out some of the re-issues from Felicity Palmer, Bernadette Greevy, Helen Watts and more, after the jump.

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Unfortunately major classical labels are re-issuing certain records in MP3 format only. Worse yet, they are not even advertising that these recordings are available. How is the consumer to know they have been released? 

 

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Unless one scrupulously searches the internet with the fortitude of a CSI agent, the customer will come up empty handed. This will, of course, lead the classical labels to say, "See, no one wants to buy that recording, so let's not re-issue any more from the vault." In one instance, I had to email the label directly to find out where to purchase the MP3.

 

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The sentimentality I have garnered for the CD over the years, makes me feel a bit like Andy Rooney lamenting the idea of moving into the 21st century. 

At a time when friends transfer LPs to CD or simply MP3 to their computers, I still want artwork (the original, thank you) and a booklet to hold in my hands that includes a brief about the recording, artist bios and text translations when needed. If that makes me old fashioned, then OK.

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 Another difficulty I have with the new format, is how much of our lives we already spent at the computer for work and leisure. Sometimes you just want to get away from it and sit in the living room with the stereo on with a few of your favorite recordings.

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In addition to the re-issue of old recordings not previously available, the labels are now releasing new recordings in one format only: MP3. And thanks to the marketing departments, many new releases that do come out on CD, will offer a bonus track in MP3 format only available on iTunes. THAT is what will drive a collector mad!