Michael Stern & Kansas City Symphony – Saint-Saëns – Symphony No. 3 LP

Michael Stern & Kansas City Symphony – Saint-Saëns – Symphony No. 3 is a classical music vinyl record designed for playback on a turntable. Saint-Saëns Symphony No. 3 is performed by Michael Stern and the Kansas City Symphony. The programme consists of four movements, with two movements recorded on each side of the record.

The Work and Performers

This release presents the symphony on the physical LP format. Michael Stern and the Kansas City Symphony are both identified as the performers on this recording. These details help distinguish this edition from other interpretations of the same symphony.

The release is intended for listeners who collect classical music on vinyl. It may also appeal to anyone specifically looking for a Kansas City Symphony recording. The movement titles are given in their original language and correspond to the stated tempo markings.

The release and programme details are based on the information available to the store. No independent product page was found to verify them.

Programme Layout

Side A contains the first and second movements. Side B contains the third and fourth movements. The numbering continues across both sides, so the four movements form one continuous programme rather than two separately numbered groups.

Side A ends with “Poco adagio.” After turning the record over, Side B begins with “Allegro moderato – Presto.” The final movement in the programme is “Maestoso – Allegro.”

To follow the stated sequence, begin with A1. Once A2 has finished, turn the record over and continue with B3. The change of side creates a natural pause between the second and third movements, as is customary with a programme divided across the two sides of an LP.

Physical Format

The 180 g designation refers to the weight of the vinyl record itself. It does not refer to the total weight of the complete package. This figure does not specify the playback speed, channel format, or the quality of the recording preparation.

A record of this weight does not require a special cartridge. The cartridge should instead be selected to suit the turntable and phono stage being used. Handle the record by its outer edges and the label area, taking care not to touch the recorded grooves.

Playback Chain and Connections

A vinyl record does not have connections of its own. Playback requires a turntable, and the turntable signal must be connected to a suitable PHONO input or phono stage. A turntable without an integrated phono stage should not normally be connected directly to a standard line-level input, because its signal will be too weak and will not have the required equalisation.

When using an external phono stage, connect its output to a line-level input on the amplifier, usually labelled AUX, LINE, or CD. If the equipment offers a choice between MM and MC modes, select the mode that matches the cartridge fitted to the turntable. This setting is determined by the playback equipment, not by the music release.

Preparing the Turntable

Place the turntable on a level, stable surface. Avoid positioning it directly beside the speakers. Vibrations transmitted by the speakers can reach the stylus and interfere with its ability to track the groove correctly.

Before playback, check the speed marking printed on the record label. Set the turntable to the exact speed shown there. The weight of the record alone does not indicate which playback speed should be selected.

Storage and Care

Before listening, remove loose surface dust with a brush designed for vinyl records. Do not use ordinary household cleaning products. Such products may leave deposits in the grooves or damage the surface of the record.

Store the release vertically and protect it from heat and direct sunlight. Do not stack records in tall horizontal piles. Correct storage reduces the risk of the record developing a lasting warp over time.

Track Listing

Technical Specifications

FAQ

Is this a piece of audio equipment?

No. This is a classical music vinyl record, not a turntable or another hardware component. A properly set up turntable system is required to play it.

What do I need to listen to this record?

You need a turntable with a suitable cartridge and an appropriate signal chain. This includes a phono stage, an amplifier, and speakers. Some turntables or amplifiers already have a phono stage built in.

Which amplifier input should I use?

Connect a turntable with the appropriate output to a compatible PHONO input. Connect the output of an external phono stage to a line-level input. Choose MM or MC mode according to the cartridge installed on your turntable.

Can I listen to this release through a stereo or home cinema system?

Yes, provided that the system can accept a correctly amplified turntable signal. An AV receiver without a PHONO input will require an external phono stage. The record itself is not connected directly to the receiver.

When should I turn the record over?

Turn the record over after the second movement has finished. Then select Side B and continue with the third movement. This sequence preserves the stated order of the four-movement programme.

Are the movement titles given in their original language?

Yes. The track listing uses the original movement titles and tempo markings, arranged in the playback order for Sides A and B.

What should I check before the first listen?

Check the surface of the record, the condition of the stylus, and the levelling of the turntable. Then set the correct tracking force for the cartridge. Remove any visible dust with a brush intended for vinyl records.