RECORDINGS OF THE MONTH Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) Violin Concerto, Romances Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828) Rondo - James Ehnes (violin) Royal Liverpool PO/Andrew Manze rec. 2016 ONYX 4167 [71:21] [ST] If you’re looking for a recent digital version of the Beethoven concerto, then I think this could well now be first choice. Joseph Bodin de BOISMORTIER (1689-1755) Flute Sonatas & Suites - Musica ad Rhenum rec. 2015 BRILLIANT CLASSICS 95366 [3 CDs: 180:37] [JV] Boismortier’s music needs outstanding and compelling performances, and that is exactly what we get here. Anton BRUCKNER (1824-1896) Symphony No. 8 - Staatskapelle Dresden/Christian Thielemann rec. 2009 PROFIL PH10031 SACD [58:46 + 24:51] [MC] Awe-inspiring. Giovanni Stefano CARBONELLI (1694-1773) Sonate da camera - Bojan Čičić (violin) Illyria Consort rec. 2016 DELPHIAN DCD34194 [63:46] [JV] Exciting music and exciting performances. Roger Sacheverell COKE (1912-1972) Piano Concertos Nos 3, 4 & 5 - Simon Callaghan (piano) BBC Scottish SO/Martyn Brabbins rec. 2016 HYPERION CDA68173 [69:09] [SG] Simon Callaghan's championing of this richly rewarding music is commendable. Claude DEBUSSY (1862-1918) Sonatas & Trio - Renaud Capuçon (violin) Bertrand Chamayou (piano) Edgar Moreau (cello) Emmanuel Pahud (flute) Gerard Caussé (viola) Marie-Pierre Langlamet (harp) rec. 2016-2017 ERATO 9029 773960 [65:37] [DJB] A star-studded lineup results in an exceptional outcome. Arturo FUENTES (b. 1975) Broken mirrors, Liquid crystals, Ice reflection, Glass distortion - Quatuor Diotima rec. 2015 KAIROS 0015015KAI [59:58] [RHa] Fuentes’s unusual quartet cycle fascinates, challenges and caresses the ear in equal measure. Carlo GRAZIANI (?-1787) Sonatas for Violoncello & Continuo - Armoniosa rec. 2017 RUBICON RCD1018 [88:30] [JV] Music making of the highest level. Charles IVES (1874-1954) Concord Sonata, Violin Sonata No. 4 - Joonas Ahonen (piano) Pekka Kuusisto (violin, viola) Sharon Bezaly (flute) rec. 2016 BIS BIS-2249 SACD [58:51] [RHa] Brilliant young Finn’s revelatory Concord in superb sound. Unmissable. Nicholas LUDFORD (c.1485-1557) Missa Dominica - Lewis Brito-Babapulle (organ) Trinity Boys’ Ch, Handbell Ch Gotha/David Swinson rec. 2017 RONDEAU-HORIZON ROP8001 [79.21] [GH] A really significant and important release. Gustav MAHLER (1860-1911) Symphony No. 4 - Genia Kühmeier (soprano) Münchner Philharmoniker/Valery Gergiev rec. 2017 MÜNCHNER PHILHARMONIKER RECORDINGS MPHL0005 [56.44] [MC] Gergiev’s compelling live performance is entirely convincing and can stand comparison with and may even surpass those I consider the finest in the catalogue. Rikard NORDRAAK (1842-1866) Songs & Piano Music - Helene Wold (soprano) Eugene Asti (piano) rec. 2015 LAWO CLASSICS LWC1119 [66:30] [SSi] A wonderful disc, one in which Helene Wold and Eugene Asti give first rate performances, whilst demonstrating that Grieg was not alone in his search for a Norwegian national music. Jacques OFFENBACH (1819-1880) Overtures - O Ntl de Lille/Darrell Ang rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.573694 [65:40] [DM] Ang is a natural in this repertoire; inspired playing and top-notch sound, too. Johann PACHELBEL (1653-1706) Keyboard Works - Márton Borsányi (harpsichord, organ) rec 2016 KLANGLOGO KL1519 [64:04] [JV] An excellent opportunity to get to know Pachelbel's keyboard music, and the choice of instruments is thought-provoking. Antoine REICHA (1770-1836) Reicha Rediscovered Vol. 1 - Ivan Ilić (piano) rec. 2017 CHANDOS CHAN10950 [66:47] [DC] You’ve never heard anything quite like this! Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828) Piano Sonatas D959, D960 - Krystian Zimerman (piano) rec. 2016 DEUTSCHE GRAMMOPHON 479 7588 [82:08] [SG] Top-drawer performances by any standards. Alexey Wladimirowich STANCHINSKY (1888-1914) Piano Works - Ekaterina Derzhavina (piano) rec. 2004/5 PROFIL EDITION PH17003 [59:47] [SG] For those drawn towards Russian romanticism, tonal yet harmonically bold and pushing the boundaries, this one is for you.  Karol SZYMANOWSKI (1882-1937) & Mieczysław KARŁOWICZ (1876-1909) Violin Concertos - Tasmin Little (violin) BBC SO/Edward Gardner rec. 2017 CHANDOS CHSA5185 SACD [73:18] [SB] This recording of Szymanowski’s wonderful concertos could be a first choice. Richard WAGNER (1813-1883) Der Ring des Nibelungen - Metropolitan Opera O & Ch/James Levine, Fabio Luisi rec. 2010/12 DEUTSCHE GRAMMOPHON Blu-ray 0734771 [5 discs: 18 hrs 31 mins] [ST] If you want a broadly traditional, mythical Ring then this is definitely worth exploring. Between the Seasons Works by Kraggerud & Vivaldi - Henning Kraggerud (violin) Arctic Philharmonic CO, Knut Johannessen (harpsichord) Petter Richter (guitar, theorbo) rec. 2016 SIMAX PSC1356 [63:20] [GF] Things couldn’t be better! Celebrating English Song Roderick Williams (baritone) Susie Allan (piano) rec. 2017 SOMM RECORDINGS SOMMCD0177 [72:42] [JQ] This is, quite simply, an exemplary recital of English song. Mallorca Edition Historic Organs Martin Schmeding (organ) rec. 2011 CYBELE RECORDS 001404 [6 SACDs: 458:29] [DC] Breathtaking organ sounds – as much a lifetime investment as a luxury purchase. Music for the Queen of Heaven Contemporary Marian Motets - The Marian Consort/Rory McCleery rec. 2017 DELPHIAN DCD34190 [59:31] [JQ] An outstanding, memorable disc. Thousands of Miles Works by Weill, Alma Mahler, Korngold & Zemlinsky - Kate Lindsey (mezzo) Baptiste Trotignon (piano & arrangements) rec. 2016 ALPHA CLASSICS 272 [63:45] [GF] This is a recital to return to over and over again and find new insights and revelations every time. A Tribute to Gilbert Duprez Arias by Verdi, Donizetti, Berlioz & Rossini - John Osborn (tenor) Kaunas City SO & State Ch/Constantine Orbelian rec. 2016 DELOS DE3532 [61:31] [MC] This outstanding recording should win both French Grand Opera and tenor John Osborn many new admirers.

Sebastián de ALBERO (1722-1756) Recercata, fuga y sonata - Alejandro Casal (harpsichord) rec. 2014 BRILLIANT CLASSICS 95187 [2 CDs: 108:55] [JV] The interpretation of Alejandro Casal is hardly a good argument for these pieces.

Carl Philipp Emanuel BACH (1714 – 1788) Lieder - Mariví Blasco (soprano) Yago Mahúgo (fortepiano) Impetus Madrid Baroque Ens rec. 2014 BRILLIANT CLASSICS 95462 [62:51] [GF] Hopefully there will be a sequel one day that better lives up to expectations.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) Preludes, fantasias & minuets - Sandro Ivo Bartoli (piano) rec. 2016 SOLAIRE RECORDS SOL1006 [74:02] [DC] One of my favourite Bach piano releases of 2017.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1759) Gloria in Excelsis Deo - Bach Collegium Japan/Masaaki Suzuki rec. 2013 BIS BIS2201 Blu-ray [93:00] [JQ] A film that serves as a fine and deserving tribute to one of the most remarkable recording projects of the last fifty years.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin - Julia Fischer (violin)
rec. 2004 PENTATONE PTC5186682 SACD [73:08 + 76:52] [DC] Fancy a little SACD royalty?

Sir Arnold BAX (1883-1953) Symphony No. 2, Winter Legends - John McCabe (piano) BBC SO/Sir Eugene Goossens; BBC Northern SO/Raymond Leppard LYRITA ITTER BROADCAST COLLECTION REAM1137 [79:41] [JQ] An important Bax issue.

Ignaz von BEECKE (1733-1803) Piano Concertos - Nataša Veljković (piano) Bayerisches Kammer O Bad Brückenau/Johannes Moesus rec. 2013 CPO 777827-2 [62:13] [DJB] The beautiful singing qualities in these works mark them out as being well above the norm for the “lesser” composers of this era.

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) Symphonies 1 & 3 - Vienna SO/Philippe Jordan rec. 2017 SOLO MUSICA WS013 [72.01] [MC] Creditable performances but the competition is extremely fierce.

Alban BERG (1885-1935) Lulu - Marlis Petersen (soprano) Bo Skhovus (baritone) Bayerisches Staats O/Kirill Petrenko rec. 2015 BELAIR BAC129 [2 DVDs: 182 mins] [MS] A wonderful binding of everything to the score.

Hector BERLIOZ (1803-1869) Symphonie Fantastique,Le Carnaval Romain, La Damnation de Faust (excpts) - Amsterdam Concertgebouw O/van Beinum rec. 1951/2 ELOQUENCE 4825569 [67:37] [GPJ] Great conductor and orchestra clearly relishing Berlioz’s wonderful music.

Manuel BLANCAFORT (1897-1987) Complete Songs Vol. 1 - Anna Alas i Jove (mezzo) Miquel Villalba (piano) rec. 2015 NAXOS 8.579012 [61:08] [RWe] If this first volume of the Catalan composer Blancafort’s complete songs is truly representative, the series will be well worth following.

Oskar Gottlieb BLARR (b. 1934) Organ Works - Martin Schmeding (organ) rec. 2017 CYBELE RECORDS SACD 061701 [66:45] [DC] Well-crafted and entertaining – something of an eye-opener.

Réne de BOISDEFFRE (1838-1906) Works for Viola & Piano Vol. 1 - Marcin Murawski (viola) Urszula Szyryńska (piano) rec. 2017 ACTE PRÉALABLE AP0401 [58:46] [EJW] An interesting an unusual CD of original works and transcriptions for viola by an almost forgotten French composer. Light and tuneful, they form a most enjoyable disc.

Joseph Bodin de BOISMORTIER (1689-1755) Winds in Versailles - I fiori musicali rec. 2014/16 URANIA RECORDS LDV14026 [51:56] [JV] An important release, even though the performances are not entirely satisfying.

Johannes BRAHMS (1833-1897) Variations on a Theme of Paganini Sergei PROKOFIEV (1891-1953) Piano Sonata No. 6 - Mikhail Faerman (piano) rec. 1980 ELOQUENCE 482 5876 [50:40] [CC] A welcome reissue.

Johannes BRAHMS (1833-1897) Piano Sonata No. 1, Fantasies, Variations on a Theme by Robert Schumann - Jonathan Plowright (piano) rec. 2017 BIS BIS-2147 SACD [68:59] [DC] Superb final volume of an excellent series.

Johannes BRAHMS (1833–1897) Cello Sonatas - Karine Georgian (cello) Pavel Gililov (piano) rec. 1989/90 ALTO ALC1352 [75:14] Maja Weber (cello) Per Lundberg (piano) rec. 2016 SOLO MUSICA SM269 [53:51] [YJH] The stellar musicianship and extended playtime presented in the Alto disc by Gergian notwithstanding, it is the playing of Weber and Lundberg that remains in my thoughts.

David BRAID (b. 1970) Songs, Solos & Duos - Emily Gray (mezzo) Claire Overbury (flute) Elena Zucchini (guitar) Peter Cigleris (clarinet) Sergei Podobedov, Rossitza Stoycheva (piano) David Braid (archtop guitar) rec. 2014/16 MÉTIER MSV28575 [76:35] [JF] The music is interesting, often captivating, never too challenging, and always enjoyable.

Walter BRAUNFELS (1882-1954) String Quartets Nos 1 & 2 - Auryn Qt rec. 1996 CPO 999406-2 [59:14] [SG] The reappraisal and rehabilitation of Braunfels’ music, of late, is something very much to be welcomed.

Havergal BRIAN (1876-1972) Symphonies Nos 8, 21 & 26 - New Russia State SO/Alexander Walker rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.573752 [70:27] [RB] An Odyssean feat completed … Brian's disorientatingly glorious world brought vividly to continuing life.

Anton BRUCKNER (1824–1896) Symphony No. 6 - Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks/Bernard Haitink rec. 2017 BR KLASSIK 900147 [55:15] [MC] This is a performance of the Sixth that can stand comparison with the finest recordings in the catalogue.

Bob CHILCOTT (b. 1955) In Winter’s Arms - Classical Brass Quintet, Canto Primo Youth Ch, Choralis/Gretchen Kuhrmann rec. 2017 SIGNUM CLASSICS SIGCD512 [65:55] [JQ] Welcome premiere recordings of seasonal scores by Bob Chilcott.

Bob CHILCOTT (b. 1955) All Good Things - Commotio/Bob Chilcott, Matthew Berry rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.573383 [71:40] [GPJ] More attractive and often beautiful choral music from Chilcott, much of it in jazz idiom, with some fine instrumental playing.

Artur CIMIRRO (b. 1982) Piano Works Vol. 1 - Artur Cimirro (piano) rec 2016/17 ACTE PRÉALABLE AP0400 [75:31] [EJW] Largely Romantic or Late Romantic in style, I have found listening to the music to be an enjoyable experience.

Loyset COMPÈRE (c.1445-1518) Missa Galeazescha: Music for the Duke of Milan - Odhecaton/Paolo da Col rec. 2005 ARCANA A436 [65.12][GH] Well performed and fascinating music by little-known composers.

Félicien DAVID (1810-1876) Portrait rec. 2014-16 EDICIONES SINGULARES ES1028 [3 CDs: 234:35] [SSi] The recording, like others in this series, successfully furthers our knowledge of an unjustly neglected composer.

Félicien DAVID (1810-1876) A Portrait rec. 2014/16 EDICIONES SINGULARES ES1028 [3 CDs: 234:35 + book] [SG] For anyone coming to this composer for the first time, as I suspect many will be, this set provides an ideal introduction.

Claude DEBUSSY (1862-1918) Jeux, Khamma, La Boîte à Joujoux - Singapore SO/Lan Shui rec. 2014/15 BIS BIS-2162 SACD [75:18] [NB] A truly excellent disc that uniquely couples Debussy’s three late ballet scores.

Claude DEBUSSY (1862-1918) Images, Estampes, Children’s Corner - Steven Osborne (piano) rec. 2016 HYPERION CDA68161 [73:21] [RBe] An outstanding recording.

Michael DENHOFF (b. 1955) Bach Variations - Birgitta Wollenweber (piano) rec. 2017 CYBELE RECORDS 161702 SACD [60:22] [DC] Not ‘easy’ but certainly rewarding if you are prepared to seek intellectual rapport with the composer.

Gaetano DONIZETTI (1797-1848) La Favorite - Elīna Garanča (mezzo) Matthew Polenzani (tenor) Ch & O Bavarian State Opera/Karel Mark Chicon rec. 2016 DEUTSCHE GRAMMOPHON DVD 073 5358 [157 mins] [RJF] This singing cast would have been better served in a concert performance than this travesty of production and set.

Antonín DVOŘÁK (1841-1904) Symphony No. 1 - Nuremburg State Philharmonic/Marcus Bosch rec. 2016 COVIELLO COV91718 SACD [51:09] [MR] Magnificent orchestral playing in vivid sound, but a performance which is unlikely to endear it to those who have not experienced this early Dvořák Symphony before.

Antonín DVOŘÁK (1841-1904) Symphony No. 9 Jean SIBELIUS (1865-1957) Finlandia - Chineke!/Kevin John Edusei rec. 2016 SIGNUM CLASSICS SIGCD515 [49:33] [CC] A remarkable testament to a remarkable orchestra.

Antonin DVOŘÁK (1841-1904) & Josef SUK (1874-1935) Piano Quartets - Josef Suk Piano Qt rec. 2016 SUPRAPHON SU4227-2 [60:44] [JW] I hope Supraphon keeps on with an exciting programme of recording for this excellent ensemble.

Antonín DVOŘÁK (1841-1904) Piano Trios Nos 1 & 2 - Tempest Trio rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.573723 [67.15] [DBi] As good a disc as you can hope to find of these lovely works.

Antonín DVOŘÁK (1841-1904) Piano Quintet No. 2, String Quintet - Pavel Haas Qt, Boris Giltburg (piano) Pavel Nikl (viola) rec. 2017 SUPRAPHON SU4195-2 [74.44] [MC] The Pavel Haas Quartet continues its tradition of adding excellently performed albums to its discography.

Sir Edward ELGAR (1857-1934) The Black Knight, Scenes from the Bavarian Highlands - London SO & Ch/Richard Hickox rec.1995 CHANDOS CHAN10946X [61:24] [SSi] A very fine recording of early Elgar by one of the best Elgarians.

Ferenc FARKAS (1905-2000) Orchestral Music Vol. 5 - Gábor Farkas (piano), MÁV SO/Gábor Takács-Nagy rec. 2016/17 TOCCATA CLASSICS TOCC0286 [73:25] [DM] Not the best album in the series, but Farkas fans will want it; close, somewhat variable sound.

Gabriel FAURÉ (1845-1924) The Complete Songs Vol. 2 - Malcolm Martineau (piano) rec. 2013-15 SIGNUM CLASSICS SIGCD472 [68:53] [GF] Readers who bought the first volume need not hesitate.

Gabriel FAURÉ (1845–1924) Music for Cello & Piano - Andreas Brantelid (cello) Bengt Forsberg (piano) rec. 2015 BIS BIS-2220 SACD [70:13] [GF] This is a disc to return to, over and over again.

Morton FELDMAN (1926-1987) For Bunita Marcus - Marc-André Hamelin (piano) rec. 2016 HYPERION CDA68048 [72:38] [JW] A performance that is both absorbed and absorbing.

Josef Bohuslav FOERSTER (1859-1951), Pavel HAAS (1899-1944) & Leoš JANÁČEK (1854-1928) Wind quintets - Belfiato Quintet, Jindřich Pavliš (bass clarinet) rec. 2017 SUPRAPHON SU4230-2 [50:56] [JW] This disc offers pure unadulterated pleasure.

César FRANCK (1822-1890) String Quartet Ernest CHAUSSON (1855-1899) Chanson perpétuelle - Quatuor Zaïde, Karine Deshayes (mezzo) Jonas Vitaud (piano) rec. 2017 NOMADMUSIC NMM044 [49.55] [MC] A most desirable release with performances of real merit that do full justice to both works.

Mikolaj GOMÓLKA (c. 1535 – 1591) Audite, Gentes! Psalms of the Golden Age - Paulina Ceremuzynska (soprano) Fernando Reyes (vihuela, Renaissance guitar) Carlos Castro (percussion) rec. 2014 ACCORD ACD214-2 [60:23] [GF] Not only specialists can derive a lot of pleasure from this historically important recording.

Charles GOUNOD (1818-1893) Faust - Charles Castronovo (ten) Irina Lungu (sop) O & Ch Teatro Regio Turin/Gianandrea Noseda rec. 2015 C MAJOR DVD 735108 [2 DVDs: 180 mins] [RJF] Sometimes the excesses and idiosyncrasies of the director, in all his guises as set, costume and lighting designer, go over the top. However, much is redeemed by the musical and sung performance.

Carl Heinrich GRAUN (1704-1759) Christmas Oratorio - Arcis-Vocalisten München, Baroque O L'arpa festante/Thomas Gropper rec. 2016 OEHMS OC1876 [77:11] [JV] A production which is musically largely convincing and sheds light on a very fine work, which deserves more attention.

George Frideric HANDEL (1685-1759) Arias ELOQUENCE 482 4759 [82:34 + 62:34] [JW] An interesting compilation of Handel singing in the 50s and 60s.

George Frideric HANDEL (1685-1759) The Handel Album - Ens Artaserse/Philippe Jaroussky (countertenor & direction) rec. 2017 ERATO 9029577445 [71.58] [MC] Jaroussky is in his element bringing the music to life with engagement and considerable aplomb.

Amanda HARBERG (b.1973) Viola Concerto, Elegy Max WOLPERT (b.1993) Viola Concerto No.1 - Brett Deubner (viola) Southern Arizona SO/Linus Lerner rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.559840 [50:07] [SG] Attractive music, beautifully served.

HILDEGARD von Bingen (1098-1179) Choral works - Tiburtina Ens/Barbora Kabátková rec. 2015 RICERCAR RIC383 [64:17] [MR] Hildegard von Bingen presented, not in historically-informed, dispassionate performances, but as beautiful, manicured, musical candy designed to entice our 21^st century ears.

Paul HINDEMITH (1895-1963) Works for Saxophones - clair-obscur Saxophonquartett, Barbara Buntrock (viola) Robert Kolinsky, Florian von Radowitz (pianos) rec. 2016 WERGO WER73532 [69:15] [SG] For anyone who loves the saxophone, as I do, there’s much to relish in this enjoyable disc.

Paul HINDEMITH (1895-1963) Complete string quartets - Amar Qt rec. 2009/10 NAXOS 8.503290 [3 CDs: 203:15] [SB] Those who enjoy twentieth century quartets will be well rewarded by this excellent cycle.

Gustav HOLST (1874-1934) Orchestral Works - Andrew Watkinson, Nicholas Ward (violin) Stephen Tees (viola) Duke Dobbing (flute) Christopher Hooker (oboe) City of London Sinfonia/Richard Hickox rec. 1993 CHANDOS CHAN10948X [64:04] [SB] An attractive collection of Holst’s smaller orchestral works.

Gustav HOLST (1874-1934) Orchestral Works - Andrew Watkinson, Nicholas Ward (violin) Stephen Tees (viola) Duke Dobing (flute) Christopher Hooker (oboe) City of London Sinfonia/Richard Hickox rec. 1993 CHANDOS CHAN10948X [64:04] [LW] A generally attractive proposition for less familiar works of Holst.

Jacques Martin HOTTETERRE le Romain (1673-1763) Flûte de la chambre du roy - La Simphonie du Marais rec. 2015 MUSIQUES A LA CHABOTTERIE 605016 [69:50] [JV] A compelling recital which shows the music and the recorder in their full glory.

Herbert HOWELLS (1892-1983) Lambert’s Clavichord, Howell’s Clavichord Books 1 & 2 - Julian Perkins (clavichord) rec. 2016 PRIMA FACIE PFCD065/66 [56:11+31:16] [JF] A splendid version of Howells’ synthesis of old and new music in his clavichord ‘albums’.

Jean HUBEAU (1917-1992) & Gian Francesco MALIPIERO (1882-1973) Violin Concertos - Henry Merckel (violin) O Ntl de la Radiodiffusion Française/Henri Tomasi rec. 1953/55 FORGOTTEN RECORDS FR1285 [41:48] [SG] Two concertos which deserve wider currency.

Hans HUBER (1852-1921) Violin Concerto No. 2 Paul JUON (1872-1940) Violin Concerto No. 1 - Maria Solozobova (violin) Collegium Musicum Basel/Kevin Griffiths rec. 2016 SONY CLASSICAL 80358 118320 [55:15] [BSt] A very worthwhile addition to the catalogue.

Jacques IBERT (1890-1962) & Henriette RENIÉ (1875-1956) Trios - Antoine Bareil (violin) Stéphane Tétreault (cello) Valérie Milot (harp) rec. 2017 ANALEKTA AN29888 [64:16] [DJB] The quality of the two trios makes one wish that there were more works of substance for this combination.

Francis JACKSON (b. 1917) Sacred Choral Works - The Exon Singers/Mathew Owens, David Bednall (organ) rec. 2006 DELPHIAN DCD34035 [70:18] [JQ] A varied selection of Francis Jackson’s church music, excellently performed and recorded.

David Hackbridge JOHNSON (b. 1963) Orchestral Works Vol. 1 - Royal Liverpool PO/Paul Mann rec. 2016 TOCCATA CLASSICS TOCC0393 [68:09] [NB] For the listener seeking the unusual and unknown this is a rewarding disc.

Paul JUON (1872-1940) Piano Music Vol. 1 - Rodolfo Ritter (piano) rec. 2016 TOCCATA CLASSICS TOCC0290 [74:53] [JW] An auspicious start to the series.

Dmitri KABALEVSKY (1904-1987) String Quartets Nos 1 & 2 - Stenhammer Qt rec. 2015 CPO 555 006-2 [62:58] [BSt] A disc of unfairly neglected quartets which is well worth a listen.

Kara KARAYEV (1918-1982) Orchestral Works - Bournemouth SO/Kirill Karabits rec. 2017 CHANDOS CHSA5203 SACD [73:10] [RB] Elite treatment … makes a confident step beyond the unknown region.

Édouard LALO (1823-1892) Piano Trios Nos 1-3 - Leonore Piano Trio rec. 2014 HYPERION CDA68113 [79:16] [MC] An engaging and beautifully played album from the Leonore Piano Trio, guaranteed to delight chamber music lovers.

Franz LEHÁR (1870-1948) Giuditta - Christiane Libor (sop) Nikolai Schukoff (tenor) Ch Bayerischen Rundfunks, Münchner Rundfunk O/Ulf Schirmer rec. 2012 CPO 777749-2 [64:31 + 78:03] [ST] In safe hands.

Franz LISZT (1811–1886) Complete Piano Music Vol. 45 - Wenbin Jin (piano) rec. 2015 NAXOS 8.573709 [72:28] [SB] An efficient set of the earlier version of the Transcendental Studies.

Franz LISZT (1811–1886) Metanoia - Années de pèlerinage (excpts), Ballades Nos 1 & 2, Consolations - Beatrice Berrut (piano) rec. 2016 APARTE AP137 [73:00] [JWe] Fine performances from a very talented young pianist.

Gustav MAHLER (1860-1911) Symphony No. 9 - London SO/Sir Georg Solti rec. 1967 ELOQUENCE 482 7163 [80.03] [PCG] While Solti’s Mahler divides opinion, there is no doubt that this represented the best of Decca engineering at the time.

Gustav MAHLER (1860-1911) Symphony No. 9 - London SO/Georg Solti rec. 1967 ELOQUENCE 482 7163 [80:03] [RWM] Solti’s ‘perfection’ is no compensation for his relative emotional coolness.

Marin MARAIS (1656-1728) Folies d’Espagne, Suite en Mi, Le Labyrinthe, Pièces de Violes II & IV - Ens Spirale rec. 2005 ALPHA CLASSICS 338 [61:10] [SSi] An excellent reissue, one that can only strengthen Marin Marais’s cause.

Bohuslav MARTINŮ (1890-1959) Mount of Three Lights, Hymn to St James Petr ŘEZNÍČEK (b.1938)
Dies Irae Petr FIALA (b.1943) Regina coeli laetare - Czech Philharmonic Ch, Brno/Petr Fiala rec. 2017 ARCO DIVA UP0188-2 [67:41] [DBi] A very impressive disc for Martinů enthusiasts with some excellent new music to enjoy as well.

Damijan MOČNIK (b. 1967) ... et Lux perpetua - St Jacobs Kammarkör/Gary Graden, Anders Åstrand, Henrik Ståhlberg (percussion) Strings of Royal College of Music, Stockholm rec. 2010/16 CARUS 83.487 [68:01] [SG] Music tonally accessible and melodically bountiful.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Piano Concertos Nos 14 & 19, Divertimentos - Jean-Efflam Bavouzet (piano) Manchester Camerata/Gábor Takács-Nagy rec. 2017 CHANDOS CHAN10958 [69:34] [PRB] The perfect successor of an excellent volume 1 in a most promising series.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Violin Sonatas Vol. 3 - Alina Ibragimova (violin) Cédric Tiberghien (piano) rec. 2015 HYPERION CDA68143 [48:26 + 55:56] [MG] The rounded, mellow approach honours Mozart in an elegant, balanced yet also vibrant, way.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Symphonies & Concertos - Jean-Pierre Rampal (flute) Dora Wagner (harp) Pierre Pierlot (oboe) Paul Hongne (bassoon) Sarre CO/Karl Ristenpart rec. 1954-56 FORGOTTEN RECORDS FR1332/33 [73:58 + 78:48] [JW] If Ristenpart made bad recordings I’ve certainly not heard them.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791), Gustav MAHLER (1860-1911) & Robert SCHUMANN (1810-1856) Piano Quartets - Berlin Piano Qt rec. 2017 RCA RED SEAL 88985432572 [63:09] [MC] An impressively clear and reasonably well balanced account of popular pieces for piano quartet.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Litanies - Jennifer Vyvyan (soprano) St. Anthony Singers, Boyd Neel O/Anthony Lewis rec. 1954 ELOQUENCE 482 5041 [70:12] Scenes & Arias Works by Haydn & Mozart - Jennifer Vyvyan (soprano) Haydn O/Harry Newstone, London PO/Peter Maag rec. 1956-1958 ELOQUENCE 482 5049 [63:01] [HPR] Exciting and flawless performances of Classical masterpieces by Jennifer Vyvyan.

Modest MUSSORGSKY (1839-1881) Pictures at an Exhibition Josef Gabriel RHEINBERGER (1839-1901) Organ Concerto No. 2 - Jörg Endebrock, Susanne Rohn (organs) Konrad Graf (percussion) rec. 2017 HD-KLASSIK 3D-001701 [60:31] [DC] Spectacular sound, but something of a niche release.

Eduard NÁPRAVNÍK (1839-1916) Piano Trios - Spyos Piano Trio rec. 2016 MDG SACD 9031996-6 [69:32] [JW] Not profound examples of the piano trio genre, but they’re played with great commitment.

Rikard NORDRAAK (1842–1866) Songs & Piano Music - Helene Wold (soprano) Eugene Asti (piano) rec. 2015 LAWO LWC1119 [66:30] [GF] Everything here is worth hearing, not least as a memento of a great talent who died very young.

George ONSLOW (1784-1853) String Quintets Vol. 2 - Elan Quintet rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.573689 [65:48] [RHa] A second helping of Onslow’s string quintets goes down very nicely in the youthful Elan Quintet’s performances brimming with conviction.

Marcus PAUS (b. 1979) Odes & Elegies - Norwegian Radio O/Ingar Bergby, Oslo Camerata/Stephan Barratt-Due, Arctic CO SHEVA CONTEMPORARY SH174 [43:18] [DC] Something of a ‘portrait’ disc, but with some very fine works indeed.

Wayne PETERSON (b.1927] Transformations - PRISM Qt, Boston Modern O Project/Gil Rose rec. 2010-15 BMOP SOUND 1053 SACD [57:08] [RHa] Another BMOP Sound winner featuring a colourful and challenging trio of works from an eloquent, if little known voice. Approachable maximalism for adventurous ears.

François-André PHILIDOR (1726-1795) Six Parisian Quartets - Ars Antiqua/Elizabeth Wallfisch (baroque violin) rec. 2016 NIMBUS ALLIANCE NI6347 [65:07] [MW] Delightful music and an interesting alternative to the Camerata Köln recording.

Francis POULENC (1899-1963) Organ Concerto Joseph JONGEN (1873-1953) Symphonie Concertante Nicolas BACRI (b. 1961) Symphony No. 6 - Robert Bates (organ) U Houston Moores School SO/Franz Anton Krager, Kris Chapman rec. 2017 HDTT BD-A [DBi] A surround spectacular but not always helpfully so.

Francis POULENC (1899-1963) Mass Zoltán KODÁLY (1882-1967) Missa Brevis Leoš JANÁČEK (1854-1928) Otčenáš - Ch St.John’s College, Cambridge/Andrew Nethsingha rec. 2016 SIGNUM CLASSICS SIGCD489 [63:32] [GPJ] The Choir of St. John’s fail to capture the essence of the music they perform here.

Sergei PROKOFIEV (1891-1953) Piano Concertos 2 & 5 - Olli Mustonen (piano) Finnish Radio SO/Hannu Lintu rec. 2016/17 ONDINE ODE1288-2 [57:58] [EJW] A technically excellent recording of these two concertos. The performances are somewhat idiosyncratic, though.

Sergey PROKOFIEV (1891-1953) Symphony No. 7, Love for Three Oranges & Lieutenant Kijé Suites - São Paulo SO/Marin Alsop rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.573620 [55:42] [LW] Alsop concludes her Prokofiev symphony cycle with a fine Seventh.

Giacomo PUCCINI (1858-1924) La Boheme - Giorgio Berrugi (tenor) Irina Lungu (soprano) Ch & O Teatro Regio, Turin/Gianandrea Noseda rec. 2016 C MAJOR 742608 DVD [112 mins] [RJF] The stark modern setting does little to help Noseda bring all the emotion that is present in Puccini’s music to the fore.

Roger QUILTER (1877-1953) Songs - Charlotte de Rothschild (soprano) Adrian Farmer (piano) rec. 2014 NIMBUS NI5930 [63:32] [MR] Some beautiful music making here, but there is an underlying sense that Charlotte de Rothschild’s pure refined soprano voice is not quite the right one.

Sergey RACHMANINOV (1873-1943) Piano Concerto No. 2, Études-tableaux - Boris Giltburg (piano) Royal Scottish Ntl O/Carlos Miguel Prieto rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.573629 [66:58] [RWe] Rachmaninov’s music for piano is being superbly well served on disc nowadays, and this Naxos CD is yet another notable example.

Sergei RACHMANINOV (1873-1943) All-Night Vigil - Catherine Wyn-Rogers (mezzo) Adam Tunnicliffe (tenor) Vasari Singers/Jeremy Backhouse rec. 2017 VASARI MEDIA VIMACD003 [58:23] [JQ] An accomplished and assured account of Rachmaninov’s All-Night Vigil.

Sergei RACHMANINOV (1873-1943) Symphony No. 1 - Philharmonia O/Vladimir Ashkenazy rec. 2016 SIGNUM RECORDS SIGCD484 [43:23] [NB] A performance that should have stayed in the concert hall.

Maurice RAVEL (1875-1837) Daphnis et Chloé, Une barque sur l'océan, Pavane - WDR Ch Cologne, Luxembourg PO/Gustavo Gimeno rec. 2017 PENTATONE SACD PTC5186652 [72:58] [DBi] Fine performances with a spacious but slightly veiled recording.

Jean-Féry REBEL (1666-1747) Dance Suites & Sonatas - Eco dell'Anima: Jeanne Johnson (violin) Brent Wissick (viola da gamba) Peter Marshall (harpsichord) rec. 2010 CENTAUR CRC3430 [76:56] [JV] An important release, for historical and musical reasons.

Ottorino RESPIGHI (1879-1936) Roman Festivals, The Fountains of Rome, The Pines of Rome - Texas Music Festival O/Franz Anton Krager rec. 2016 HDTT BD-A [DBi] For those seeking fine performances and a great demo disc, this will do nicely alongside your Chicago/Reiner Living Stereo.

Wolfgang RIHM (b. 1952) Works for string quartet - Minguet Qt, Jens Peter Maintz (cello) rec. 2015/16 WERGO WER73462 [47:04] [SSi] A wonderful performance by the Minguet Quartett, which should hopefully bring the music of Wolfgang Rihm to a wider audience.

Nikolai RIMSKY-KORSAKOV (1844-1908) Scheherazade Alexander BORODIN (1833-1887) Polovtsian Dances - Amsterdam Concertgebouw O, London PO & Ch/Eduard van Beinum rec. 1956 ELOQUENCE 4825511 [54:09] [JW] Even those seemingly sated with both works will enjoy these vintage performances.

Michael Alec ROSE (b.1959) Unturned Stones, Il Ritorno - Peter Sheppard Skærved (violin) Diana Mathews (viola) rec. 2016 MÉTIER MSV28574 [57:01] [JF] Rose is a composer who can develop and maintain interest using the slenderest of instrumental resources.

Edmund RUBBRA (1901-1986) Orchestral works - Endré Wolf (violin) Edmund Rubbra (piano) City of Birmingham SO/Hugo Rignold; BBC SO/Rudolf Schwarz LYRITA ITTER BROADCAST COLLECTION REAM1134 [72:47] [JQ] These performances are of great interest and value to all those who appreciate the art of this very fine English composer.

Philip SAWYERS (b.1951) Symphony No.3, Songs of Loss & Regret - April Fredrick (soprano) English SO/Kenneth Woods rec. 2015-2017 NIMBUS ALLIANCE NI6353 [66:54] [NB] Nimbus Alliance continue to make available the very impressive music of Philip Sawyers.

Domenico SCARLATTI (1685-1757) Sonatas Vol. 2 - Angela Hewitt (piano) rec. 2017 HYPERION CDA68184 [79:14] [RBe] A major addition to the current Scarlatti discography by one of the great Baroque keyboard interpreters.

Arnold SCHOENBERG (1874-1951) String Quartets 2 & 4 - Gringolts Qt, Malin Hartelius (soprano) rec. 2016 BIS BIS-2267 SACD [64:59] [DBi] An urgently recommendable SACD. Brilliant in all respects.

Arnold SCHOENBERG (1874-1951) String Quartets Nos 2 & 4 - Gringolts Qt, Malin Hartelius (soprano) rec. 2016 BIS BIS-2267 SACD [64:59] [SSi] A very good recording - I hope that BIS give the Gringolts Quartet the opportunity to record the rest.

Franz SCHUBERT (1797–1828) Arias & Overtures - Daniel Behle (tenor) L’Orfeo Barock O/Michi Gaigg rec. 2016 DEUTSCHE HARMONIA MUNDI 88985407212 [60:00] [GF] A valuable addition to any opera lover’s collection.

Heinrich SCHÜTZ (1585-1672) Complete Works Vol. 15: Becker-Psalter - Dresdner Kammerchor/Hans-Christoph Dademann rec. 2016 CARUS 83.276 [73:15] [JV] Excellent performances which continue the good work in this series.

Dmitri SHOSTAKOVICH (1906-1975) Symphony No. 11 - BPO/Semyon Bychkov rec. 1987 PHILIPS/PRESTO 420 9352 [59:54] Stuttgart RSO/Yakov Kreizberg rec. 1997 SWR CLASSICS SWR10224 [57:12] [DM] Sibling rivalry, with a twist.

Dmitri SHOSTAKOVICH (1906-1975) Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Piano Sonatas Nos. 1 & 2 - Peter Donohoe (piano), Hugh Davies (trumpet), Orchestra of the Swan/David Curtis rec. 2015 and 2016 SIGNUM RECORDS SIGCD493 [79:43] [DM] Excellent sonatas and disappointing concertos; variable sound.

Dmitri SHOSTAKOVICH (1906-1975) Violin Concerto No. 1 Sofia GUBAIDULINA (b. 1931) In tempus praesens - Simone Lamsma (violin) Netherlands Radio PO/James Gaffigan, Reinbert de Leeuw rec. 2011/16 CHALLENGE CLASSICS CC72681 SACD [73:21] [DC] Magnificent performances.

Dmitri SHOSTAKOVICH (1906-1975) Symphony No. 5 Samuel BARBER (1910-1981) Adagio - Pittsburgh SO/Manfred Honeck rec. 2013 REFERENCE RECORDINGS SACD FR-724 [60:17] [NB] Honeck conducts an interpretation of Shostakovich’s Symphony full of deeply personal power and insight. The playing of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is exemplary.

Jean SIBELIUS (1865-1957) Tapiola, En Saga, Songs - Anne Sofie von Otter (mezzo) Finnish RSO/Hannu Lintu rec. 2016 ONDINE ODE1289-5 SACD [54:58] [JQ] A fine Sibelius disc; the song orchestrations by Sallinen are well worth hearing.

Wayne SIEGEL (b. 1953) Celebration rec. 2014 DACAPO 8.226595 [60:18] [RHa] While this work is based on a uniquely fascinating premise, I found it overlong and underwhelming.

Eric STOKES (1930-1999) The Lyrical Pickpocket - Riverside Winds rec. 2009-16 INNOVA RECORDINGS 962 [67:09] [DC] An all-American Malcolm Arnold – excellent stuff.

Richard STRAUSS (1864-1949) Die Liebe der Danae - Krassimira Stoyanova, Tomasz Konieczny, Wiener Konzertvereinigung/Staatsopernchor/Philharmoniker/Franz Welser-Möst rec. 2016 EUROARTS 4297028 [2 DVDs: 160 mins] [PSt] I find myself in the only-too-common position of having to praise the musical side of an issue whilst bemoaning the visual one.

Richard STRAUSS (1864-1949) Die Frau ohne Schatten - Birgit Nilsson, Siv Wennberg (soprano) Royal Stockholm Hovkapellet/Berislav Klobukar rec. 1975 STERLING CDA-1696/1698-2 [3 CDs: 176:10] [PCG] Sterling should be thanked for rescuing this from obscurity and making it readily available.

Richard STRAUSS (1864-1949) Ein Heldenleben, Tod und Verklärung - Gothenburg SO/Kent Nagano rec. 2016 FARAO CLASSICS B108092 [70:43] [SG] The performances compete favourably with the very best in the catalogue.

Igor STRAVINSKY (1882-1971) Music for Violin Vol. 1 - Ilya Gringolts (violin) Peter Laul (piano)
rec. 2016 BIS BIS-2245 SACD [60:48] [DBi] A gripping disc full of good things from a 20th-century master.

Igor STRAVINSKY (1882-1971) Le Rossignol, Pribaoutki, Deux Poêmes de Paul Verlaine - Mojca Erdmann (soprano) WDR Radio Ch & SO Cologne/Jukka-Pekka Saraste rec. 2012 ORFEO C919171A [52:05] [SB] Good performances but without texts or translations.

Karol SZYMANOWSKI (1883-1937) Litany to the Virgin Mary, Stabat Mater, Symphony No.3 - Warsaw PO & Ch/Jacek Kaspszyk rec. 2015 WARNER CLASSICS 9029586450 [61:07] [RWe] Despite some small reservations, these are superb performances.

Karol SZYMANOWSKI (1882-1937) & Mieczysław KARŁOWICZ (1876-1909) Violin Concertos - Tasmin Little (violin) BBC SO/Edward Gardner rec. 2017 CHANDOS CHSA5185 SACD [73:18] [DBi] One great concerto and two very fine ones, beautifully recorded and performed.

Pyotr Ilyich TCHAIKOVSKY (1840-1893) Piano works - Nicola Meecham (piano) rec. 2012 SOMM RECORDINGS SOMMCD0173 [73:36] [PRB] Performances and production values which do their utmost to promote the music.

Pyotr Ilyich TCHAIKOVSKY (1840-1893) & Edvard GRIEG (1843-1907) Piano Concertos - Denis Kozhukin (piano) Berlin RSO/Vassily Sinaisky rec. 2015 PENTATONE PTC5186566 SACD [64:37] [CC] The competition is just too fierce in this repertoire for this disc to flourish.

Pyotr Ilyich TCHAIKOVSKY (1840-1893) Suites from The Queen of Spades & Voyevoda - New Zealand SO/Peter Breiner rec. 2012 NAXOS 8.573015 [66:22] [SV] This can be warmly recommended despite some minor weaknesses.

Georg Philipp TELEMANN (1681-1767) Music for Flute - Barthold Kuijken (transverse flute) Sigiswald Kuijken (violin, viola da gamba) Wieland Kuijken (viola da gamba, cello) René Jacobs (alto) rec. 1978-94 ACCENT ACC24322 [4CDs: 229:00] [JV] A strongly-commended tribute to both Telemann and the flautist Barthold Kuijken.

Ernst TOCH (1887-1964) Solo Piano Pieces - Anna Magdalena Kokits (piano) rec. 2015/16 CAPRICCIO C5293 [61:02] [RK] An often surprising hour of carefully constructed keyboard miniatures, played with panache.

Camillo TOGNI (1922-1993) Works for Flute - Roberto Fabbriciani (flute) rec. 1980-2016 NAXOS 8.573731 [53:02] [RWe] I enjoyed getting to know this elusive music, and suspect many an adventurous collector will do the same.

John TURNER (b. 1943) Christmas Card Carols - Intimate Voices/Christopher Stokes rec. 2017 DIVINE ART DDA25161 [56:44] [JF] These imaginative carols are beautifully sung (and played).

Christopher TYE (c.1505-1573) Complete Consort Music - Phantasm rec. 2016 LINN RECORDS CKD571 [67:00] [DC] Lovely sound, but do we need a bit more grit in the oyster to make true pearls?

Ralph VAUGHAN WILLIAMS (1872-1958) A London Symphony, Sound Sleep, Orpheus with his Lute, Variations for Brass Band - RCM Brass Band, BBC SO/Martyn Brabbins rec. 2016 HYPERION CDA68190 [72:22] [JQ] This splendid performance is now the best way to hear the 1920 version of A London Symphony.

Ralph VAUGHAN WILLIAMS (1872-1958) Dona nobis pacem Leonard BERNSTEIN (1918-1990) Chichester Psalms - Britten Sinfonia, The Ch King’s College, Cambridge/Stephen Cleobury rec. 2017 KINGS COLLEGE KGS0021 SACD [51:20] [JQ] This new orchestration of Vaughan Williams' work doesn’t measure up to other accounts.

Giuseppe VERDI (1813-1901) Overtures & Preludes - Philharmonia Zurich/Fabio Luisi rec. 2017 PHILHARMONIA RECORDS PHR0109 [62:97 + 64:47] [RP] This recording delivers the full impact of Verdi the dramatist without a single note being sung.

Sándor VERESS (1907-1992) String Quartets Nos 1 & 2, String Trio - Doelen Qt Rotterdam rec. 2012 CYBELE RECORDS CYBELE KiG009 [3 SACDs: 222:03] [DC] Excellent music and performances, and further material on the composer’s life and researches.

Tomás Luis de VICTORIA (1548-1611) Works for six voices - Nordic Voices rec. 2016/17 CHANDOS CHSA0402 SACD [55:40] [JV] If you have nothing of Victoria in your collection, it is a perfect way to get a good impression of his oeuvre.

Olli VIRTAPERKO (b. 1973) Romer's Gap, Multikolor, Ambrosian Delights - Perttu Kivilaakso (cello) Joonatan Rautiola (baritone saxophone) Jonte Knif (knifonium) Jyväskylä Sinfonia/Ville Matvejeff rec. 2016 ONDINE ODE13052 [72:27] [RHa] Approachable and mostly well-wrought concertos for exotic instruments from a maverick Finn with an agit-prop rock past. Well worth a listen.

Antonio VIVALDI (1678-1741) Concertos Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) Preludes - Stefan Temmingh (recorder) Capricornus Cons Basel rec. 2017 ACCENT ACC24332 [68:38] [DC] Genuine joy from start to finish.

Richard WAGNER (1813-1883) Scenes & Arias - Michael Volle (baritone) Berlin RSO/Georg Fritzsch rec. 2016 ORFEO C904171A [65.48] [YJH] A montage of Wagner’s genius.

Richard WAGNER (1813-1883) Concert and opera overtures - MDR Leipzig Radio SO/Jun Märkl rec. 2011/12 NAXOS 8.573414 [71.52] [PCG] Superior playing and recording and the presence of the two early concert overtures should appeal to all Wagnerophiles.

Richard WAGNER (1813-1883) Lohengrin - Piotr Beczala (tenor) Georg Zeppenfeld (bass) Anna Netrebko (soprano) Staatskapelle Dresden/Christian Thielemann rec. 2016 DEUTSCHE GRAMMOHON 0735319 DVD [2 DVDs: 215 mins] [PSt] Musically speaking, there is not a weak link in this performance, and only those completely allergic to traditional productions need hesitate.

Sir William WALTON (1902-1983) Symphonies Nos 1 & 2 - Bournemouth SO/Kirill Karabits rec. 2016 ONYX CLASSICS 4168 [73:50] [JQ] A fine coupling of the Walton symphonies from Bournemouth in sound that is robust, punchy and detailed.

Kurt WEILL (1900 – 1950) Wanted - Dagmar Pecková, Jiri Hájek (vocals) Epoque Qt & O/Miroslav Hloucal Jazz Band/Jan Kucera (piano) rec. 2016 SUPRAPHON SU4226-2 [75:07] [GF] Lovers of Kurt Weill’s music should find a lot to admire on this well-filled disc

Mieczysław WEINBERG (1919-1996) Violin sonatas Nos 4 & 5, Sonatina - Maria Sławek (violin) Piotr Różański (piano) rec. 2014 CD ACCORD ACD217-2 [63:00] Katarzyna BROCHOCKA (b.1982) Pas de basse, Suite, Double bass concerto, Sonata Mieczysław WEINBERG (1919-1996) Sonata - Karol Kowal (double bass) Katarzyna Brochocka (piano) CD ACCORD ACD218-2 [63:05] [SA] Both discs deserve not only to be heard by all.

Guy WEITZ (1883-1970) & Joseph JONGEN (1873-1953) Organ Works - Peter Van de Velde (organ) rec. 2014/15 AEOLUS AE11091 SACD [81:32 + 78:12] [SG] A valuable addition to the organ discography.

Kenneth YOUNG (b. 1955) Shadows & Light - New Zealand SO/Kenneth Young rec. 2014 ATOLL ACD216 [66:00] [RHa] Gripping, colourful and deserving of the widest currency.

Wladyslaw ZELENSKI (1837-1921) Songs, Duets - Marta Trybulec (soprano) Witold Wrona (tenor) Wiktoria Zawistowska (mezzo) Elzbieta Konopczak (piano) rec. 2016 ACTE PREALABLE AP0384 [57:43] [GF] It is good to have these songs recorded, and Acte Préalable should be applauded for their ambitions.

Otton Mieczysław ŻUKOWSKI (1867-1942) Opera omnia religiosa 7 & 8 - Ch Music Everywhere, Chamber Mixed Ch Duc in altum/Beata Śnieg rec. 2016 ACTE PRÉALABLE AP0391/2 [58:58] [68:25] [JW] This is good honest work in promoting unknown Polish composers, but I fear it won’t appeal too widely.

Amadeus Quartet The RIAS Recordings Vol. 5: Romanticism - Cecil Aaronowitz (viola) Heinrich Geuser (clarinet) Conrad Hansen (piano) rec. 1950-69 AUDITE 21.425 [6 CDs: 375:21] [JW] A richly valuable box.

Laila Andersson-Palme (soprano) From Queen of the Night to Elektra rec. 1970/88 STERLING CDA1806/07-2 [79:39 + 79:40] [GF] Sterling deserve an armful of roses for releasing this full-length portrait of one of the great Swedish singers of the last few decades.

Après un rêve Works by Fauré, Vivaldi, Tchaikovsky, Falla, Ravel, Schubert & Casals - Petr Nouzovský (cello) Miriam Rodriguez Brüullová (guitar) rec. 2015 ARCO DIVA UP0189-2 131 [57:56] [JW] A genial, somewhat old-fashioned recital.

The Art of Dancing 21st-Century Concertos for Trumpet, Piano and Strings - Simon Desbruslais (trumpet)
Clare Hammond (piano) English String O/Kenneth Woods rec. 2015/16 SIGNUM SIGCD513 [63:02] [RHa] Simon Desbruslais’ missionary zeal reduces the chance of repertoire crises for today’s solo trumpeters - a quartet of entertaining new double concertante works.

Beecham at the Royal Festival Hall Vols. 1 & 2 - Frederick Riddle (viola) Royal PO rec. 1959 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC502/4 [58:42 & 70:43] [JW] Things look set fair for the final volume in this series.

British Music for Violin & Piano Clare Howick (violin) John Paul Ekins (piano) rec. 2017 NAXOS 8.573790 [79:56] [SSi] An attractive disc of English chamber music that should appeal to any Anglophile.

Cantelli In New York Vol. 2 Wilhelm Backhaus, Walter Gieseking (piano) New York PSO/Guido Cantelli rec. 1951/56 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC510 [71:46 + 71:50] [GPJ] More memorable recordings of Cantelli’s work brought to us by Pristine. His Don Juan in particular is sensational.

Carnevale 1729 Ann Hallenberg (mezzo) Il pomo d’oro/Stefano Montanari rec. 2016 PENTATONE PTC5186678 SACD [52.23 + 46.17] [JW] Hallenberg is a tremendous artist perfectly attuned to the milieu.

Chorale Masses & Sacred Concertos Works by Schein, Bernhard, Zachow & Fischer - Rheinische Kantorei/Hermann Max rec. 1985 MDG 6020169-2 [44.27] [GH] An odd but interesting selection, well-performed and recorded.

Crazy Girl Crazy Luciano BERIO (1925-2003) Sequenza III Alban BERG (1885-1935) Lulu Suite George GERSHWIN (1898-1937) Girl Crazy Suite - Ludwig O/Barbara Hannigan (soprano) rec. 2016 ALPHA 293 [57:23] [IL] Talented and versatile Barbara Hannigan delivers an adventurous and enterprising programme, if rather dark and wild. Repeated hearings advised.

Marianne Crebassa (mezzo) Secrets - Fazil Say (piano) Bernhard Krabatsch (flute) rec. 2017 ERATO 9029576897 [69.23] [MC] Crebassa is in remarkable form with this well-chosen collection of French songs.

Doráti In Holland Concertgebouw O, Het Residentie O rec. 1952-59 ELOQUENCE 482 5659 [2 CDs: 156:11] [RMay] Shines a useful light onto an arguably pivotal stage of Doráti's career.

Erotica Antiqua Neapolitan Villanellas - Letizia Calandra (soprano) Ens Arte Musica/Francesco Cera (harpsichord) rec. 2016 BRILLIANT CLASSICS 95448 [60:48] [SSi] A wonderful disc, one that clearly shows the origin of the madrigal, whilst being less formal than its better known descendant, and one which matched by the quality of the performance.

Felice un tempo Chamber cantatas by Bononcini, Legrenzi & D Scarlatti - Paper Kite rec. 2016 COVIELLO CLASSICS COV91719 [61:18] [JV] This disc is Paper Kite’s debut, and it is a very good one.

France Revisited Works by Onslow, Debussy & Poulenc - Piano à Deux rec. 2015 DIVINE ART DDA25132 [73:33] [JF] A vibrant and imaginative programme.

From Beethoven to Present – The Sound of the Horn Works by Beethoven, Schumann Widmann & Brahms - Mischa Greull (French horn) Seung-Yeun Huh (piano) Andreas Janke (violin) rec. 2017 SOLO MUSICA SM268 [62.04] [MC] Quite outstanding playing in a judiciously chosen and engaging selection of works.

Funeralissimo Matthias Well (violin) Maria Well (cello) Zdravko Živković (accordion) rec. 2017 GENUIN GEN17486 [54:04] [JW] A track listing that is almost defiantly whimsical.

Gods & Monsters 19th Century German Narrative Lieder - Nicholas Phan (tenor) Myra Huang (piano) rec. 2016 AVIE AV2368 [64:27] [RK] A very satisfying recital.

The Golden Age Works by Gade, Schubert & Schumann - Copenhagen Piano Duo rec. 2017 DANACORD DACOCD786 [63:00] [JF] These brilliantly executed works are hugely enjoyable.

Grandissima Gravita Works by Pisendel, Tartini, Veracini & Vivaldi - Brecon Baroque rec. 2016 CHANNEL CLASSICS CCSSA39217 SACD [69:08] [DC] Full of verve and colour; rich pickings for fans of 18^th century violin virtuosity.

Grima Jón Bernharosson (horn) Una Svenbjarnardóttir (violin) Reykjavik CO/Bernhardur Wilkinson rec. 2000-13 SMEKKLEYSA SMK91 [54.53 + 52.05] [GH] One cannot fault the recording or the discipline of the ensemble.

Franco Gulli (violin) Works by Mendelssohn & Schubert - Enrica Cavallo (piano) O of the Fenice Theatre, Venice/Ettore Gracis rec. 1956/59 FORGOTTEN RECORDS FR1338 [71:37] [SG] Performances distinguished by profound and assured musicianship.

Halo Works by Phibbs, Tabakova & Kendall - Andrew Matthews-Owen (piano) rec. 2017 NIMBUS ALLIANCE NI6354 [63:36] [DC] An intrepid and intriguing collection of new piano music.

Jascha Horenstein: Early Recordings Works by Bach, Haydn Mozart & Schubert - Berlin PO rec. 1929 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC506 [69:02] [JW] It's good to have Horenstein’s complete 78rpm legacy now neatly and well transferred.

Bruce Hungerford (piano) Beethoven Sonata Recital 1965 KASP RECORDS 57741 [36:17 + 59:37] The Last Recital 1976 - Works by Mozart, Schubert & Beethoven KASP RECORDS 57761 [55:33 + 36:57] [SG] On the strength of the compelling musicianship found in these performances, Hungerford is a pianist that deserves to be better known.

In the Moment Arabella String Qt rec. 2014 NAXOS 8.579013 [68:33] [GF] Even well-stocked quartet lovers will probably find new acquaintances here.

Pilar Lorengar (soprano) Spanish Romances - Siegfried Behrend (guitar) Alicia de Larrocha (piano) rec. 1966/77 ELOQUENCE 482 5944 [44:39 + 40:34] [GF] This is a great recital and it should serve as a timely reminder of the talent of Pilar Lorengar.

The Voice of Pilar Lorengar (soprano) London PO, Suisse Romande O/Jesús López-Cobos rec. 1978/83 ELOQUENCE 4807840 [76:07] [GF] This is an admirable disc that should win the Spanish soprano many new admirers.

O Holy Night A Merton Christmas - Merton College Ch, Oxford PO/Benjamin Nicholas rec. 2016 DELPHIAN DCD34192 [68:19] [JQ] This excellent and highly enjoyable disc has definitely put me in a Christmas mood.

The Organs of St Thomas, Leipzig Ullrich Böhme (organ) rec. 1992-2016 RONDEAU ROP6117 [70:57] [MR] I very much like the energy and vitality of Bohme’s playing here.

Olga Peretyatko (soprano) Russian Light - Arias by Glinka, Rimsky-Korsakov, Rachmaninov, Stravinsky & Shostakovich - Ural PO/Dmitry Liss rec. 2016 SONY 88985352232 [54:52] [GF] Highly attractive programme and classy singing!

Nilla Pierrou (violin) Recital - Works by Aulin, Gibbs, Grieg & Ysaÿe - Karl Bergemann (piano) rec. 1978-81 OAK GROVE CD2035 [57:15] [GF] Lovers of great violin playing should have this.

Prague–Vienna: Journey in Songs Martina Janková (soprano) Barbara Maria Willi (fortepiano) rec. 2006 SUPRAPHON SU4231-2 [53:34] [JW] More than a few loose ends with this disc, no matter how accomplished the performances.

Rarities of Piano Music at Schloss vor Husum 2016 rec. 2016 DANACORD DACOCD789 [78:31] [EJW] A very fine CD of short, rare piano works recorded live, beautifully performed and presented.

Rarities of Piano Music at Schloss vor Husum 2016 rec. 2016 DANACORD DACOCD789 [78:31] [JW] Another sure-fire winner from Husum.

Reflets Works by Catoire, Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninov, Boulanger, Fauré & Ravel - Feodor Rudin (violin) Florian Noack (piano) rec. 2017 ARS PRODUKTION SACD 38235 [74:38] [JW] The programming makes sense with it and the performances are poised and refreshing.

Heinz Rehfuss (baritone) The Decca Recitals - Hans Willi Häusslein, Frank Martin (piano) rec. 1953-55 ELOQUENCE 482 4607 [81:39] [GF] A product that should be snapped up by all admirers of good singing.

Russian Masters Works by Prokofiev, Shostakovich, Tchaikovsky, Glazunov, Borodin & Shchedrin - Jamal Aliyev (cello) Anna Fedorova (piano) rec. 2015 CHAMPS HILL RECORDS CHRCD127 [80:15] [DHu] Less than optimal mains, but the substantial fillers make for a satisfying dessert.

The Sound of Hamburg Works by Baltzar, Schop, Telemann & Weckmann - La Porta Musicale rec. 2016 GENUIN GEN17462 [69:39] [JV] The two members of La Porta Musicale are eloquent advocates of the interesting pieces recorded here.

Telemandolin Works by Telemann, CPE Bach, Abel & Fasch - Alon Sariel (mandolin, archlute, baroque guitar) Concereto Foscari rec. 2016 BERLIN CLASSICS 0300934BC [66:03] [MR] Often stylistically questionable, but it is impossible not to be captivated by the vigour and enthusiasm of these enchanting performances.

Terra Works by Bartók, Ginastera, Halffter & Schubert - Cuarteto Quiroga rec. 2017 COBRA 0059 [75:31] [RK] Outstanding performances of three important 20^th Century string quartets from three continents.

The Tudors – I love, alas Robert Spence (lute) Jeremy Brett (reader) Purcell Consort of Voices/Grayston Burgess rec. 1969 ELOQUENCE 482 2570 [48:42] The Tudors – Lo, country sports James Tyler (lute) John Neville (reader) Purcell Consort of Voices/Grayston Burgess rec. 1969/70 ELOQUENCE 482 2562 [44:58] [ST] These two discs give you a window into a lovingly crafted historical experience.

Venetia, Mundi Splendor Ens Oktoechos/Lanfranco Menga rec. 2016 TACTUS TC390001 [79:55] [GH] A disc worth exploring if taken in short bursts.

Virtuoso Arrangements for Piano by Earl Wild Vol. 2 Martin Jones (piano) rec. 2016 NIMBUS NI5965 [72:55] [NB] As a tribute to the art of Earl Wild as well as another memorable recital by the indefatigable Martin Jones this disc gives repeated pleasure.

Vitae Pomeranorum Vol. 2 Consortium Sedinum rec. 2015 RECART 0018 [58:34] [JV] This is a disc curious minds should investigate.

 Vittoria-Vittoria A Recital of 17th Century Italian & English Songs - Richard Wistreich (voice) Robin Jeffrey (lute & chitarrone) Celia Harper (chamber organ) Erin Headly (lirone) rec. 1987 CLAUDIO RECORDS DVD-A CR3710-6 [53:27] [DBi] An unusual recital of 17th century songs extremely well sung and recorded.

Bruno Walter in Vienna, London & New York Works by Haydn, Schumann & Wagner - Vienna PO, London SO, New York PO rec. 1935-41 OPUS KURA OPK2120 [70:55] [SG] Valuable historical documents, brought vividly to life.

Kurt Weill, Weimar & Exile Peter Coleman-Wright (baritone) Nexas Qt, Benjamin Burton (piano) rec. 2017 ABC CLASSICS 576 2204 [64:39] [JQ] A most interesting album.

Fritz Wunderlich sings Operetta Arias rec. 1954-65 SWR MUSIC SWR19038CD [51.38 + 67.15] [MC] The extraordinary voice of Fritz Wunderlich is at its sparkling best.

Other Reviews

Arthur Sullivan - A Musical Reappraisal by Benedict Taylor publ. 2017 ROUTLEDGE [RJW] The latest addiiton to a commendable series.

Yves Montand Les Feuilles Mortes - His 26 Finest rec. 1947-1952 RETROSPECTIVE RTR4313 [75:27] [BMC] A choice collection of seldom-heard French popular songs.

Fascinating Jane Morgan The Days the Rains Came rec. 1956-62 RETROSPECTIVE RTS4314 [79:39 + 78:42] [JW] Her enduring legacy is the sequence of Kapp LPs and singles that she made in her heyday on disc and they sound excellent here.

Conducting the Brahms Symphonies by Christopher Dyment publ. 2016 BOYDELL & BREWER [GD] A valuable addition to the fascinating history of great conductors of the past.

Articles and Notices

Forgotten Artists - 24. Tibor Paul by Christopher Howell

Adriano: In his 30th Year of Recording - an interview by Jim Westhead

Second Thoughts and Short Reviews: Autumn 2017-3 by Brian Wilson and Dan Morgan

Sir John Manduell - an obituary by Kenneth Shenton