MusicWeb International One of the most grown-up review sites around 2024
60,000 reviews
... and still writing ...

Search MusicWeb Here Acte Prealable Polish CDs
 

Presto Music CD retailer
 
Founder: Len Mullenger                                    Editor in Chief:John Quinn             

Some items
to consider

new MWI
Current reviews

old MWI
pre-2023 reviews

paid for
advertisements

Acte Prealable Polish recordings

Forgotten Recordings
Forgotten Recordings
All Forgotten Records Reviews

TROUBADISC
Troubadisc Weinberg- TROCD01450

All Troubadisc reviews


FOGHORN Classics

Alexandra-Quartet
Brahms String Quartets

All Foghorn Reviews


All HDTT reviews


Songs to Harp from
the Old and New World


all Nimbus reviews



all tudor reviews


Follow us on Twitter


Editorial Board
MusicWeb International
Founding Editor
   
Rob Barnett
Editor in Chief
John Quinn
Contributing Editor
Ralph Moore
Webmaster
   David Barker
Postmaster
Jonathan Woolf
MusicWeb Founder
   Len Mullenger

Monthly Listing
April 2019
223 reviews this month

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) Piano Sonatas Nos 30-32 - Steven Osborne (piano) rec. 2018 HYPERION CDA68219 [65:09] [CC] A stunning release, Osborne’s readings will, beyond doubt, move you.

Steve ELCOCK (b. 1957) Chamber Music Vol. 1 - Veles Ens rec. 2018 TOCCATA CLASSICS TOCC0506 [79:36] [RHa] This outstanding disc offers further compelling evidence that the previously unrecognised Steve Elcock is a compositional force to be reckoned with.

Gustav MAHLER (1860-1911) Symphony No. 7 - Budapest Festival O/Iván Fischer rec. 2015 CHANNEL CLASSICS CCSSA38019 SACD [74:45] [JQ] Iván Fischer’s Mahler series ends on a very high note indeed.

Joseph MARX (1882-1964) Eine Herbstsymphonie - Graz PO/Johannes Wildner rec. 2018 CPO 555 262-2 [67:00] [RB] Super-glowing autumnal radiance never missing a glorious beat.

Michelangelo's Madrigal Kate Macoboy (soprano), Robert Meunier (lute) rec. 2016/2017 ET'CETERA KTC1623 [56:36] [JV] A wonderful disc which requires attentive listening.

Adolphe ADAM (1803–1856) Le Corsaire - English CO/Richard Bonynge rec. 1992 ELOQUENCE 4828605 [2 CDs: 131:01] [MBu] Utter tunefulness and goose pimples galore in one of the most romantic ballet finales ever.

Adolphe ADAM (1803-1856) Le corsaire – Vienna State Ballet & Opera O/Valerey Ovsianikov rec. 2016 NAXOS Blu-ray NBD0090V [120 mins] [RMay] This becomes the most generally attractive filmed version of Le corsair.

George ANTHEIL (1900-1959) Violin Sonatas No.1-4 - Alessandro Fagiuoli (violin), Alessia Toffanin (piano) rec. 2016/17 C-AVI MUSIC 8553239 [78:49] [JW] Performances admirably suited to the music and project its bewildering variety with requisite boldness.

Juan Crisóstomo de ARRIAGA (1806-1826) Symphonie, Herminie, Overtures - Berit Norbakken (soprano) BBC PO/Juanjo Mena rec. 2018 CHANDOS CHAN20077 [68.09] [GH] Remarkable works by the “Spanish Mozart”, with Mena coaxing idiomatic style and sophistication from the orchestra.

Kurt ATTERBERG (1887-1974) Barocco, Double Concerto, Sinfonia per archi - Amus Kerstin Andersson (violin) Mats Levin (cello) Örebro CO/Thord Svedlund rec. 1995 DANACORD DACOCD836 [65:47] [JW] Performances which are raptly supportive of the works, thoroughly stylish and refined.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) Cantatas 106 & 182 - Terence Charlston (organ), Amici Voices rec. 2017 HYPERION CDA68275 [61:46] [MR] An intimate and delicate approach by a small UK-based group of vocal and instrumental specialists to two of Bach’s early cantatas and a funeral Motet.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) Chorale Partitas - Stephen Farr (organ) rec. 2018 RESONUS RES10234 [55:45] [MR] An intimate-sounding French-built house organ in the depths of the Sussex Weald plays host to some careful and measured performances of Bach chorale partitas.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) Suites for Solo Cello - Jean de Spengler (cello) rec. 2018 FORGOTTEN RECORDS FR1575/7 [3 CDs: 163:52] [JW] De Spengler’s performances are highly personal and personalised.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) Cantatas, Chorale preludes - Céline Scheen (soprano) Nicholas Scott (tenor) Benoît Arnould (bass) Le Banquet Céleste/Damien Guillon (countertenor) rec. 2018 ALPHA CLASSICS 448 [74.07] [MC] Indispensable listening for devotees of Baroque music.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) Sonatas & Partitas - Theo Olof (violin) rec. 1974 DOREMI DHR8085-86 [2 CDs: 131:57] [SG] Traditional readings, informed by exceptional musicality and clarity of vision.

Sir Arnold BAX (1883-1953) Piano Sonata, In the Night, 4 Pieces, Legend Harriet COHEN (1895-1967) Russian Impressions - Mark Bebbington (piano) rec. 2017 SOMM CÉLESTE SOMMCD0193 [79:20] [MC] Bax admirers will welcome this compellingly performed album.

Ignaz von BEECKE (1733-1803) String Quartets, Piano Quintet - Diogenes Quartett, Andreas Kirpal (piano) rec. 2008 CPO 777 682-2 [63:46] [DC] Learn more about Ignaz von Beecke and let his music entertain you at the same time.

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) Piano Sonatas Nos 8, 14 & 23 - Oleg Akkuratov (piano) rec. 2017 MELODIYA MELCD1002552 [60:13] [RC] A superb debut disc.

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) Diabelli Variations - Gustav Piekut (piano) rec. 2018 DANACORD DACOCD837 [59:05] [JF] A bold choice of repertoire for debut recording from a young Scandinavian pianist.

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) Symphony No. 9 - Westminster Ch, NBC SO/Leopold Stokowski rec. 1941 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC541 [66:04] [SB] A fine wartime live performance rescued from the archives.

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) Piano Concerto No. 2, Triple Concerto - Maria João Pires (piano), Lars Vogt (piano), Gordan Nikolitch (violin) Tim Hugh (cello) London SO/Bernard Haitink rec. 2005/13 LSO LIVE SACD LSO0745 [66:52] [ST] Makes a very good case for the piano concerto in particular.

Paul BEN-HAIM (1897-1984) Evocation - Itamar Zorman (violin) BBC Ntl O of Wales/Philippe Bach rec. 2017 BIS BIS2398 SACD [65:00] [EJW] A wide variety of styles, all given fine performances.

George BENJAMIN (b. 1960) Lessons in Love and Violence - Stéphane Degout, Barbara Hannigan, Royal Opera House O/George Benjamin rec. 2018 OPUS ARTE OABD7199D Blu-ray [93 mins] [DBi] A magnificent production of a superb new opera - hold your nerve and buy it at once.

Richard Rodney BENNETT (1936-2012) Orchestral Works Vol. 3 - Sarah Connolly (mezzo-soprano), BBC Scottish SO/John Wilson rec. 2018 CHANDOS CHSA5230 SACD [64:34] [RB] Fluttering, delicate, steely, playful and mercurial.

Hector BERLIOZ (1803-1869) Symphonie Fantastique - Jean-François Heisser, Marie-Josčphe Jude (piano) rec. 2018 HARMONIA MUNDI HMM902503 [52:28] [RHa] A bold attempt but the view that the Symphonie is impossible to transcribe convincingly may be reinforced on this evidence.

Hector BERLIOZ (1803-1869) Requiem - Richard Lewis (tenor), Royal Philharmonic O & Ch/Sir Thomas Beecham rec. 1959 PRISTINE AUDIO PACO157 [78:48] [RMo] Conveys faithfully the excitement of what was evidently a memorable occasion.

Hector BERLIOZ (1803-1869) La damnation de Faust - Bryan Hymel (tenor) Karen Cargill (mezzo) London Symphony Ch & O/Sir Simon Rattle rec. 2017 LSO LIVE LSO0809 SACD [56:49 + 69:19] [JQ] A thrilling performance.

Hector BERLIOZ (1803-1869) L’Enfance du Christ - Andrew Staples (tenor) Sasha Cooke (mezzo) Roderick Williams (baritone) Melbourne SO & Ch/Sir Andrew Davis rec. 2018 CHANDOS CHSA5228(2) SACD [53:25 + 36:27] [JQ] A very successful new recording of L’Enfance du Christ.

Julius BITTNER (1874-1939) Vaterland, Symphony No.1 - Siberian SO/Dmitry Vasiliev rec. 2018 TOCCATA CLASSICS TOCC0500 [65:25] [JW] Vigorous and attentive performances which seem to bring out the music’s vitalising core.

François-Adrien BOIELDIEU (1775-1834) Piano Concerto, Overtures - Nataša Veljkoviċ (piano) O della Svizzera Italiana/Howard Griffiths rec. 2015 CPO 555 244-2 [69:18] [MR] Forgotten music which should prove a real eye-opener.

Joseph Bodin de BOISMORTIER (1689-1755) Six Suites de Pičces - Marek Nahajowski (recorder) rec. 2016 RECART 0026 [63:01] [JV] An interesting and musically compelling version.

Joël BONS (b. 1952) Nomaden - Jean-Guihen Queyras (cello) Atlas Ens/Ed Spanjaard rec. 2016 BIS BIS2073 SACD [61.35] [DBi] An unusual issue not easily categorized but worth investigating.

Alexander BORODIN (1833-1887), Dmitri SHOSTAKOVITCH (1906-1975) & Mieczyław WEINBERG (1919-1996) String Quartets - Dragon Quartet rec. 2017 CHANNEL CLASSICS CCS40919 [73:03] [MW] Buy this for the superb, and superbly performed, Weinberg quartet, and the other works will give much pleasure.

Jacques BOYVIN (c1649 - 1706) Suites from the Premier and Second livres d'orgue - David Ponsford (organ) rec. 2017 NIMBUS ALLIANCE NI6358 [2 CDs: 158:40] [JV] Both the playing and the recording are outstanding; no organ aficionado should miss this.

Johannes BRAHMS (1833-1897) Piano Quartet No. 2 - English SO/Kenneth Woods rec. 2017 NIMBUS NI6364 [49:17] [JQ] A disc which presents one of Brahms’ chamber masterpieces in a new and completely sympathetic light.

Johannes BRAHMS (1833-1897) Violin Concerto, Double Concerto - Tianwa Yang (violin), Gabriel Schwabe (cello), Deutsches SO Berlin/Antoni Wit rec. 2017 NAXOS 8.573772 [72:25] [RB] Very fine performances of both works.

Gregers BRINCH (b. 1964) Suite for Solo Cello, Parzival Suite, Sonata Brevis - Rohan de Saram (cello) Julie Groves (flute) rec. 2008/11 CLAUDIO CC5993-6 DVD-A [61.38] [DBi] Very impressive and unusual music superbly recorded and beautifully played.

Gregers BRINCH (b. 1964) Cello sonatas, String Quartet No.2 - Rohan de Saram (cello) William Hancox (piano) Bergersen Qt rec. 2008/9 CLAUDIO DVD-A CC58896 [52.45] [DBi] Absorbing new music typically well recorded and beautifully played by its dedicatees.

Benjamin BRITTEN (1913-1976) Billy Budd - Jacques Imbrailo (baritone) Toby Spence (tenor) Ch & O Teatro Real Madrid/Ivor Bolton rec. 2017 BEL AIR CLASSIQUES BAC154 DVD [2 discs: 175 mins] [WH] An unforgettable staging of a masterpiece of the theatre.

Max BRUCH (1838-1920) Die Loreley - Michaela Kaune (soprano) Thomas Mohr (tenor) Prague Philharmonic Ch, Munich Radio O/Stefan Blunier rec. 2014 CPO 777 005-2 [3 CDs: 143:06] [JW] There’s no doubting the vitality of the music, the generosity of the writing, and the theatricality of the result.

Anton BRUCKNER [1824-1896) Symphony No. 6 - Deutsches SO Berlin/Robin Ticciati rec. 2018 LINN CKD620 [51:30] [SSi] The clarity of the performance makes this a real winner.

Anton BRUCKNER (1824-1896) Symphony No. 9 - Philharmonie Festiva/Gerd Schaller rec. 2018 PROFIL PH18030 [37:09+50:13] [RMo] This new completion trumps all others in terms of both sound and concept.

Anton BRUCKNER (1824-1896) Symphony No. 9; Mass No. 3 - Wiener Singakademie, ORF Vienna RSO/Cornelius Meister rec. 2013/15 CAPRICCIO C5247 [124:22] [SV] Meister’s Bruckner is unfailingly musical but somewhat lacking a metaphysical dimension.

Ferruccio BUSONI (1866-1924) Piano Concerto - Kirill Gerstein (piano) Tanglewood Festival Ch, Boston SO/Sakari Oramo rec. 2017 MYRIOS CLASSICS MYR024 [71:29] [ST] I’d be very surprised if this isn’t one of my discs of 2019.

Ferruccio BUSONI (1866-1924) The Late Works - Svetlana Belsky (piano) rec. 2018 RAVELLO RECORDS RR8007 [54:52] [SSi] A good choice for those who would prefer just a single disc selection of Busoni’s late piano music.

Feruccio BUSONI (1866-1924) Elegien, An die Jugend - Carlo Grante (piano) rec. 2013 MUSIC AND ARTS CD-1300 [61:00] [SB] The exploratory Elegies and the rare An die Jugend in a rewarding recital.

Dietrich BUXTEHUDE (1637-1707) Membra Jesu nostri - Chapel Ch, Trinity Hall, Cambridge, Orpheus Britannicus, Newe Vialles/Andrew Arthur rec. 2018 RESONUS CLASSICS RES10238 [70:17] [SSi] Buxtehude’s masterpiece is given an excellent performance here.

Georgy CATOIRE (1861-1926) & Ignaz FRIEDMAN (1882-1946) Piano Quintets - Bengt Forsberg (piano) Ulf Forsberg, Nils-Erik Sparf (violin) Ellen Nisbeth (viola) Andreas Brantelid (cello) rec. 2017 BIS BIS-2314 SACD [62:08] [RB] High tension late-romantic piano quintets that will please you and broaden your cultural horizons.

Francesco CAVALLI (1602-1676) Missa 1660 - Galilei Consort/Benjamin Chénier rec. 2018 CHÂTEAU DE VERSAILLES SPECTACLES CVS006 [69:05] [JV] An important addition to the Cavalli discography.

Ernest CHAUSSON (1855-1899) Počme de l’amour et de la mer, Symphonie - Véronique Gens (soprano) O Ntl Lille/Alexandre Bloch rec. 2018 ALPHA CLASSICS 441 [60.07] [MC] Lovers of French Romantic music will be in their element with this Chausson album.

Frédéric CHOPIN (1810-1849) Late Piano Works Vol. 2 - Jin Ju (piano) rec. 2018 MDG 94720886 SACD [75:51] [RC] High marks but the competition looms large.

César CUI (1835-1918) Preludes - Jouni Somero (piano) rec. 2018 FC RECORDS FCRCD-9759 [70:48] SSi] A good recording which is superior to the only other version.

Andrzej CWOJDZINSKI (b. 1928) Chamber Music - Dariusz Drzazga (violin), Szymon Krzemień (cello), Karol Garwoliński (piano) rec. 2015-2017 ACTE PRÉALABLE AP0439 [48:50] [SSi] An excellent introduction to music with a real national flavour.

Claude DEBUSSY (1862-1918) & Karol SZYMANOWSKI (1882-1937) Études - Julian Riem (piano) rec. 2017/18 TYXART TXA18100 [56.41] [RBe] Some exceptionally fine playing - an excellent first solo outing.

Alma DEUTSCHER (b. 2005) Cinderella - Opera San José O, Ch & Dancers/Jane Glover rec. 2018 SONY CLASSICAL 19075895049 DVD [2 discs: 150 min] [MBu] The vision of a young girl who had the chance to see her fairy-tale become reality.

Stephen DODGSON (1924-2013) Piano Sonatas Vol. 2 - Bernard Roberts(piano) rec. 1999 CLAUDIO RECORDS CC4941-2 [66:44] [SSi] Sonata No. 3 is the best introduction to Stephen Dodgson and his piano music.

Ernő DOHNÁNYI (1877-1960) The Complete Solo Piano Music Vol. 4 - Martin Roscoe (piano) rec. 2018 HYPERION CDA68054 [81:20] [SSi] Martin Roscoe’s attention to detail, coupled with his flair and panache, makes this an essential disc, and indeed series, for any lover of Dohnányi’s music.

Gaetano DONIZETTI (1797-1848) L’Ange de Nisida - Joyce El-Khoury (soprano) David Junghoon Kim (tenor) Ch & O ROH Covent Garden/Sir Mark Elder rec. 2018 OPERA RARA ORC58 [79.54 + 76.49] [MC] Donizetti devotees and opera lovers in general have no reason to hesitate.

Franz DOPPLER (1821-1883) Doppler Discoveries - András Adorján (flute), Emmanuel Pahud (flute), Jan Philip Schulze (piano), Arcis Hornquartett rec. 2018 FARAO CLASSICS B108104 [79:20] [MC] Outstandingly performed, and should appeal to an audience beyond flute enthusiasts.

Maurice DURUFLÉ (1902-1986) Complete Choral Works - Houston Chamber Ch/Robert Simpson, Ken Cowen (organ) rec. 2017 SIGNUM CLASSICS SIGCD571 [68.42] [GH] Richly luxuriant.

Andrzej DZIADEK (b. 1957) Symphony No. 1, Cello Concerto, Magnificat rec. 1991-2014 DUX 1439 [69:35] [SG] I am pleased to have been given the chance to delve deeper into the Dziadek oeuvre.

Sir Edward ELGAR (1857-1934) Enigma Variations, In the South, Serenade - Royal Liverpool PO/Vasily Petrenko rec. 2018 ONYX 4205 [66:31] [RMo] Decently played, but no more.

Sir Edward ELGAR (1857-1934) Caractacus - Huddersfield Ch Soc, O Opera North/Martyn Brabbins rec. 2018 HYPERION CDA68254 [2 CDs: 96:16] [JQ] This very fine performance enables us to appreciate the stature of Caractacus as a key work in Elgar’s development.

Sir Edward ELGAR (1857-1934) Caractacus - Huddersfield Choral Society, O Opera North/Martyn Brabbins rec. 2018 HYPERION CDA68254 [2 CDs: 96:16] [PCG] A welcome release, but does not supplant the Groves version.

George ENESCU (1881-1955) Violin Sonatas Nos 2 & 3, Impressions d'enfance - Duo Brüggen-Plank rec. 2018 GENUIN GEN19642 [72:31] [RWe] One for both the Enescu enthusiast and explorers of the violin and piano repertory.

Manuel de FALLA (1876-1946) La Vida Breve - Nancy Fabiola Herrera (mezzo) Aquiles Machado (tenor) RTVE Symphony Ch, BBC Philharmonic/Juanjo Mena rec. 2018 CHANDOS CHAN20032 [62:08] [ST] Worthwhile, but doesn’t trouble the best.

Friedrich Ernst FESCA (1789-1826) & Franz DANZI (1763-1826) Psalms - Bachkor Karlsruhe, Camerata 2000/Bernhard Gärtner rec. 2016 CPO 555 073-2 [65:56] [GP] If this repertoire interests you, this is a disc you can buy with confidence.

John FIELD (1782-1837) Concertos, Sonatas & Nocturnes - Benjamin Frith (piano) Northern Sinfonia/David Haslam, Royal Scottish Ntl O/Andrew Mogrelia rec. 1995-2014 NAXOS 8.506033 [6 CDs: 372:48] [RHa] Lively, heartfelt performances of all the Field one is ever likely to need.

César FRANCK (1822-1890) Franck Edition rec. 1976-2014 BRILLIANT CLASSICS 95793 [23 CDs: ca 23 hrs] [SG] A useful introduction to the composer at bargain price.

Johann Jakob FROBERGER (1616–1667) Suites for Harpsichord Vol. 1 - Gilbert Rowland (harpsichord) rec. 2018 ATHENE ATH23204 [2 CDs: 119:70] [JF] An enjoyable and satisfying musical experience.

Giovanni GIORNOVICH (1747-1804) ‘London’ Concertos - Bojan Čičić (violin) The Illyria Consort rec. 2018 DELPHIAN DCD34219 [65:46] [PRB] I’m already looking forward to hearing more of this fascinating composer’s music before too long.

Paul GRAENER (1872-1944) Orchestral Works Vol. 4 - Uladzimir Sinkevich (cello) Henry Raudales (violin) Christiane Dohn (flute) Munich Radio O/Ulf Schirmer rec. 2014 CPO 777 965-2 [56:20] [JW] Refined, sensitive and thoroughly sympathetic performances.

Edvard GRIEG (1843-1907) Incidental Music to Peer Gynt, Piano Concerto - Jean-Efflam Bavouzet (piano) Bergen PO & Ch/Edward Gardner rec. 2016/17 CHANDOS CHSA5190 SACD [83:12] [ST] Stacks up well against lots of fierce competition.

Joseph HAYDN (1732-1809) String Quartets Op. 71 & Traditional Scottish Tunes - Maxwell Quartet rec. 2018 LINN CKD602 [73:53][MR] Every bit as enjoyable as it is puzzling.

Paul HINDEMITH (1895-1963) Violin Concerto, Clarinet Quartet, Cello Sonata - Henry Merckel (violin), Guy Deplus (clarinet), Robert Gendre (violin), Enrico Mainardi (cello), Fritz Lehmann (piano), O de l’Association Concerts Lamoureux/Roger Désormière rec. 1948/53 FORGOTTEN RECORDS FR1568 [73:49] [JW] A valuable restoration.

Herbert HOWELLS (1892-1983) String Quartet No.3, Lady Audrey's Suite, Piano Quartet - Dante Qt, Gould Piano Trio, David Adams (viola) rec. 2017 NAXOS 8.573913 [76:08] [RB] Throatiness and abrasion as well as English honey.

Leoš JANÁČEK (1854-1928) Sinfonietta, Taras Bulba, Opera preludes - Pro Arte O/Charles Mackerras, Czech PO/Karel Ančerl rec. 1959-62 ALTO ALC1380 [68:00] [RB] So much more than a reminder of the arrival of Janáček’s music in an unsuspecting West.

Paul JUON (1872-1940), Max BRUCH (1838-1920) & Friedrich Wilhelm VOIGT (1833-1894) Trios - Soren Birkelund (clarinet) Ulrikke Host-Madsen (cello) Merete Westergaard (piano) rec. 2017 DANACORD DACOCD838 [59:25] [JW] Well crafted, technically accomplished, and generous.

Viktor KALABIS (1923-2006) The Complete Piano Works - Ivo Kahánek (piano) rec. 2016-2018 SUPRAPHON SU4259-2 [55:10 + 69:18] [JW] Deeply sympathetic and astute performances.

Eleni KARAINDROU (b. 1941) Tous des oiseaux - Eleni Karaindrou (piano) Camerata O rec. 2017/18 ECM NEW SERIES 2634 [58:26] [RHa] Two fine scores movingly brought to life by long-standing Greek accomplices and sound-sculptor-in chief Manfred Eicher.

Tamara KONSTANTIN (b. 1961) Ręverie - Tamara Konstantin, Marc Verter (piano) Jiaxin Lloyd Webber (cello) Yu-Mien Sun (violin) rec. 2017/18 NAXOS 8.579032 [76:56] [PRB] Like Marmite, you will either love it or hate it.

Erich Wolfgang KORNGOLD (1897–1957) Das Wunder der Heliane - Annemarie Kremer, Ian Storey, PO Freiburg/Fabrice Bollon rec. 2017 NAXOS 8.660410-12 [3 CDs: 161:33] [WK] For those new to the opera, this is the obvious choice.

Jonathan LESHNOFF (b.1973) Symphony No. 4, Guitar Concerto, Starburst - Jason Vieaux (guitar) Nashville SO/Giancarlo Guerrero rec. 2016/18 NAXOS 8.559809 [RB] Blitzes along and does not set out to be difficult.

Zara LEVINA (1906-1976) Piano Sonatas; Poème; Violin Sonata - Maria Lettberg (piano), Yury Revich (violin), Gernot Adrion (viola), Ringela Riemke (cello), Katia Tchemberdji (piano) rec. 2018 CAPRICCIO C5356 [75:59] [JW] Levina’s music continues to impress.

Franz LISZT (1811-1886) Via Crucis, Vater unser - Collegium Vocale Gent/Reinbert de Leeuw (piano), Marnix de Cat (organ) rec. 2017 ALPHA CLASSICS 390 [50:12] [RHa] Via Crucis is never an easy listen, but this absorbing account gets close to Liszt’s expressive and artistic aims.

Carl LOEWE (1796-1869) Das Sühnopfer des Neuen Bundes - Arcis-Vocalisten München, Barockorchester L’arpa festante / Thomas Gropper rec. 2018 OEHMS OC1706 [62:01 + 41:11] [NH] The sincere but somehow understated spirituality has a way both of commanding respect and of drawing you in.

Gustav MAHLER (1860-1911) Symphony No. 3 - Sara Mingardo (contralto), Gürzenich-Orchester KölnFrançois-Xavier Roth rec. 2018 HARMONIA MUNDI HMM905314.15 [2 CDs: 93:23] [JQ] A fresh, stimulating account of Mahler’s Third.

Gustav MAHLER (1860-1911) Symphony No. 9 - Boston Philharmonic Youth O/Benjamin Zander rec. 2018 BRATTLE MEDIA BM 2CD-QZ8LQ18-06 [28:56+57:15] [JQ] A recording of the Ninth that can sit proudly in any Mahler collection.

Gustav MAHLER (1860-1911) Symphony No. 9 - Essen PO/Tomáš Netopil rec. 2018 OEHMS CLASSICS OC1890 [82:33] [WH] A deeply satisfying reading of Mahler’s masterpiece that earns its place in any collection.

Bohuslav MARTINŮ (1890-1959) Cello Sonatas - Petr Nouzovský (cello) Gérard Wyss (piano) rec. 2018/19 ARCO DIVA UP0212-2 131 [60:13] [JW] A cycle of probity, thoughtfulness, and real care.

Bohuslav MARTINŮ (1890-1959) Songs - Martina Janková (soprano) Tomáš Král (baritone) Ivo Kahánek (piano) rec. 2017 SUPRAPHON SU4235-2 [82:34] [JW] The contrast and variety offered by two singers provides a point of difference to the competition.

Joseph MARX (1882-1964) Orchestral Songs - Angela Maria Blasi (soprano) Stella Doufexis (mezzo) Bochum SO/Steven Sloane rec. 2003 NAXOS 8.573833 [56.35] [RB] Intrepid as ever this disc bears high the laurels for Marx's orchestral songs.

Johann Simon MAYR (1763–1845) I Cherusci - Markus Schäfer (tenor) Yvonne Prentki (soprano) Simon Mayr Ch, Concerto de Bassus/Franz Hauk rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.660399-400 [71:38 + 81:24] [GF] Collectors of this series can invest with confidence in this latest issue.

Johann Kaspar MERTZ (1806-1856) Fantasias - Giuseppe Chiaramonte (guitar) rec. 2018 BRILLIANT CLASSICS 95722 [63:05] [GPu] The best performances of Mertz’s solo pieces that I have heard.

André MESSAGER (1853-1925) Les P'tites - Violette Polchi (mezzo) Anne-Aurore Cochet (soprano) Chœur d'Angers Nantes Opéra/Xavier Ribes, O Ntl Pays de la Loire/Pierre Dumoussaud rec. 2018 BRU ZANE BZ1034 [59.25 + 43.30] [MC] Bru Zane’s Opéra français series continues to captivate.

Matej MEŠTROVIČ (b. 1969) Rhapsodies - Matej Meštrović (piano) Zagreb PO/Miran Vaupotić rec. 2018 NAVONA RECORDS NV6219 [58:09] [PRB] An easy-listening product which some will find lacking in any real musical substance or challenge whatsoever.

Bernhard MOLIQUE (1802-1869) Piano Trios - Trio Parnassus rec. 2018 MDG 303 2116-2 [63:34] [JW] Typically sympathetic performances.

Stanisław MONIUSZKO (1819-1872) Straszny dwór - Ch & SO Stanisław Moniuszko Academy of Music in Gdańsk/Zygmunt Rychert rec. 2018 DUX 1500/1 [78:23 + 66:14] [GF] Worth any opera lover’s acquaintance.

Alexander MOYZES (1906-1984) Symphonies Nos 9 & 10 - Slovak RSO/Ladislav Slovák rec. 1994/95 NAXOS 8.573654 [69.54] [RB] Two symphonies in - and out of - the disillusioned and cynical tradition.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) The Final Quartets  - Alexander String Qt rec. 2017 FOGHORN CLASSICS FCL2016 [51:14 + 50:50] [DC] Performances and a recording to relish.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Piano Quartets - Joyce Yang (piano) Alexander String Qt rec. 2017 FOGHORN CLASSICS CD2018 [64:09] [JW] Technically accomplished and expressively sensitive.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Piano Concertos Nos 12 & 13 - Haiou Zhang (piano) NDR Philharmonic String Players rec. 2018 HÄNSSLER CLASSIC HC18101 [50:34] [MC] If string quintet arrangements appeal, do not hesitate.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Don Giovanni - Ildebrando D'Arcangelo (bass) Myrto Papatanasiu (soprano) O Fondazione Regionale delle Marche/Riccardo Frizza rec. 2007 C MAJOR DVD 749308 [2 discs: 174 mins] [RJF] Superb singing and acting, but be aware that the visuals are bordering on adults-only at times.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Piano Concerti Nos 20 & 24 - Denis Matthews (piano), O Vienna State Opera/Hans Swarowsky rec. 1958 FORGOTTEN RECORDS FR1591 [61:23] [JW] All concerned are in fine, authoritative form.

Modest MUSSORGSKY (1839-1881) Pictures from an Exhibition Maurice RAVEL (1875-1937) Miroirs Olivier MESSIAEN (1908-1992) Cantéyodjayâ - Peter Donohoe (piano) rec. 2018 SIGNUM RECORDS SIGCD566 [73:18] [DM] The Mussorgsky has its moments, but the Ravel and Messiaen are unremarkable.

Josef MYSLIVEČEK (1737-1781) Complete Music for Keyboard - Clare Hammond (piano) Scottish CO/Nicolas McGegan rec. 2018 BIS SACD BIS2393 [76:18] [CC] Hammond’s Mysliveček is as refreshing as a well-timed sorbet.

Alberto NEPOMUCENO (1864–1920) Symphony, Brazilian Suite, O Garatuja - Minas Gerais PO/Fabio Mechetti rec. 2018 NAXOS 8.574067 [67:47] [RB] Bubbles, barks, struts, serenades and effervesces.

Zygmunt NOSKOWSKI (1846-1909) Complete Songs Vol. 1 - Bogumila Tarasiewicz (mezzo-soprano), Karol Schmidt (piano) rec. 2016 ACTE PRÉALABLE AP0421 [64:46] [GF] Some marvellous songs that should be more widely known.

Zygmunt NOSKOWSKI (1846-1909) Complete Songs Vol. 2 - Bogumiła Tarasiewicz (mezzo-soprano), Karol Schmidt (piano) rec. 2015/16 ACTE PRÉALABLE AP0422 [64:49] [GF] More enjoyment here, from songs of Noskowski’s maturity.

Zygmunt NOSKOWSKI (1846 – 1909) Complete Songs Vol. 3 - Bogumila Tarasiewicz (mezzo-soprano), Karol Schmidt (piano) rec. 2015-18 ACTE PRÉALABLE AP0423 [55:34] [GF] Completion of the series with some very recent discoveries.

Nigel OSBORNE (b.1948) Sensations of Travel - Hebrides Ens rec. 2018 DELPHIAN DCD34198 [70.28] [GH] Passionate performances of music of changing texture and complexity.

Giovanni Pierluigi da PALESTRINA (ca.1525-1694) Missa Tu es Petrus - Ch St Luke in the Fields/David Shuler rec. 2017 MSR CLASSICS MS1698 [63:43] [MR] The combination of an outstanding choir, a deeply perceptive conductor and sumptuous recorded sound makes this an essential Palestrina recording.

Antony PITTS (b. 1969) Missa Unitatis & other works - Capella Pratensis & Netherlands Chamber Ch/Stephen Layton rec. 2011-16 CHALLENGE CLASSICS CC72711 [64:06] [WH] A fascinating and varied programme around two contemporary mass settings.

Francis POULENC (1899-1963) Sonata for Two Pianos, 12 Improvisations - Onda Verde (pianos) rec. 2016/18 PALADINO MUSIC PMR0098 [75:00] [MR] Onda Verde bring out every facet of Poulenc’s astonishingly varied personality in these delightfully-tailored performances of his four-handed and two-piano music.

David POPPER (1843-1913) Cello Concertos - Martin Rummel (cello) Czech Chamber PO/Tecwyn Evans rec. 2017/18 NAXOS 8.573930 [79:02] [BS] Generally good performances of some disappointingly modest concertos.

Florence Beatrice PRICE (1887-1953) Symphonies No.1 & 4 - Fort Smith Symphony/John Jeter rec. 2018 NAXOS 8.559827 [69.04] [MW] A significant release for anyone interested in the development of the American symphony, and highly enjoyable on its own merits.

Sergei PROKOFIEV (1891-1953) Piano Concertos Nos. 1, 3 & 4 - Vadym Kholodenko (piano) Fort Worth SO/Miguel Harth-Bedoya rec. 2015-17 HARMONIA MUNDI HMM907632 [70:33] [LW] Kholodenko displays fine pianistic skills in Prokofiev, but the competition is formidable.

Sergei PROKOFIEV (1891-1953) Romeo and Juliet - Stuttgart Ballet, Stuttgart O/James Tuggle, rec. 2017 C MAJOR 801008 DVD [2 discs: 220 mins] [SB] A wonderful realization of the Cranko version by its home company.

Giacomo PUCCINI (1858-1924) Madama Butterfly - Ermonela Jaho (soprano), Marcelo Puente (tenor), O & Ch of The Royal Opera House/Antonio Pappano rec. 2017 OPUS ARTE OA1268D DVD [149 mins] [RJF] Cast, set and musical performance, together with superb acted and sung realisations, make this one of the finest realisations of this work on film.

Giacomo PUCCINI (1858-1924) Tosca - Anja Harteros (soprano) Aleksandras Antonenko (tenor) Ludovic Tézier (baritone) Staatskapelle Dresden/Christian Thielemann rec. 2018 C MAJOR DVD 748308 [120 mins] [RJF] An updated version of Puccini’s melodrama, with additions and staging by the director that contradict the libretto.

Giacomo PUCCINI (1858-1924) La bohčme (Pavarotti’s debut) - O & Ch Teatro Municipale Reggio Emilia/Francesco Molinari-Pradelli rec. 1961 REVITALIZED CLASSICS [105.00] [MMB] A curiosity, but a compelling one, as it gives the listener a measure of the range, beauty and clarity of Pavarotti’s voice at the beginning of his career.

Giacomo PUCCINI (1858-1924) Transcriptions for Piano Four Hands - Fabrizio Datteri, Nadia Lencioni (piano) rec. 2018 TACTUS TC850005 [73:32] [PRB] Of interest to Puccini’s aficionados, or to those who enjoy playing piano-duets.

Sergei RACHMANINOV (1873-1943) Symphony No. 1, The Isle of the Dead - London PO/Vladimir Jurowsky rec. 2014-2016 LPO LPO0111 [64:51] [EJW] A knockout Isle of the Dead but a less than completely successful symphony.

Sergei RACHMANINOV (1873-1943) & Nikolai MYASKOVSKY (1881-1950) Cello Sonatas - Bruno Philippe (cello), Jérôme Ducros (piano) rec. 2018 HARMONIA MUNDI HMM902340 [70:51] [RWe] There are plenty of very good accounts of the Rachmaninov sonata but for now this will be the one I will listen to.

Sergei RACHMANINOV (1873-1943) & Sergei PROKOFIEV (1891-1953) Cello Sonatas -  Mstislav Rostropovich (cello), Alexander Dedyukhin, Sviatoslav Richter (piano) rec. 1950-58 ALTO ALC1373 [76:07] [RW] Anyone who admires Rostropovich, or just wonders what the fuss was about, will want to hear this.

Stanislaw RADWAN (b. 1939) Theatre and Film Music - Beethoven Academy O/Rafał Jacek Delekta rec. 2017 DUX 1535 [61:53] [MW] A most enjoyable introduction to a most accomplished composer, in suitably theatrical performances.

Max REGER (1873-1916) Complete Organ Works Vol. 5 - Jean-Baptiste Dupont (organ) rec. 2017/18 HORTUS 163/4 [66:34 + 69:34] [SSi] This is a very good release which makes me want to search out the other volumes in the series.

Carl REINECKE (1824-1910) Complete String Quartets - Reinhold Qt rec. 2017/18 CPO 555184-2 [2 CDs: 123:33] [SG] Although they don't reach inspirational heights, these quartets do offer the listener a positive experience.

Ottorino RESPIGHI (1879-1936) Feste romane, Fontane di Roma, Pini di Roma - Buffalo PO/JoAnn Falletta rec. 2018 NAXOS 8.574013 [62:13] [PCG] Despite occasional cavils, a lustrous addition to the Naxos catalogue.

Knudĺge RIISAGER (1897-1974) Violin Concerto, Etudes - Ian van Rensburg (violin) Aarhus SO/Andreas Delfs rec. 2017 DACAPO 8.226145 [64:00] [JW] Very appealing and enjoyable works.

Johan Helmich ROMAN (1694-1758) Golovinmusiken - Höör Barock/Dan Laurin rec. 2017 BIS BIS2355 SACD [81:53] [DBi] A delightful collection of Baroque dance music supremely well performed.

Nino ROTA (1911-1979) I due timidi, La notte di un nevrastenico - Giorgio Celenza (baritone) Daniele Adriani (tenor) Sabrina Cortese (soprano) Reate Festival O/Gabriele Bonolis rec. 2017 DYNAMIC 57830 Blu-ray [105 mins] [PCG] The fans of Rota’s music need not hesitate, but there are a number of negatives.

Joseph-Nicolas-Pancrace ROYER (1703-1755) Premiere Livre de Pičces de Clavecin - Mie Hayashi (harpsichord) rec. 2018 RESONUS CLASSICS RES10236 [65:11] [JV] The more lyrical, 'tender' pieces come off best in Hayashi's performances.

Dominique SCHAFER (b. 1967) Vers une présence réelle - ens proton bern/Matthias Kuhn rec 2018 KAIROS 0015036KAI [66:05] [RHa] Absorbing pieces by yet another contemporary figure seemingly known only to the cognoscenti.

Franz SCHUBERT (1797 – 1828) Heimweh - Anna Lucia Richter (soprano), Gerold Huber (piano), Matthias Schorn (clarinet) rec. 2018 PENTATONE PTC5186722 SACD [80:58] [GF] I was deeply touched by the whole programme.

Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828) Symphonies Vol. 1 - City of Birmingham SO/Edward Gardner rec. 2018 CHANDOS CHSA5234 SACD [74:11] [MG] These spirited, state-of-the-art accounts are crowned by the most sensitive and satisfying account of the Unfinished I have ever heard.

Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828) Schubert (Un)Finished - Florian Boesch (Bass-baritone) Concentus Musicus Wien/Stefan Gottfried rec. 2018 APARTÉ AP189 [76:00] [RBe] The programme for this recording is highly innovative and much of the playing and singing is superb.

Alexander SCRIABIN (1872-1915) Complete Late Piano Music - James Kreiling (piano) rec. 2015/17 ODRADEK ODRCD366 [77:04 + 52:38] [SB] Scriabin’s late works make a fine collection, played idiomatically and sensitively here.

Hans SEELING (1828-1862) Piano Works - Jouni Somero (piano) rec. 2017 FC RECORDS FCRCD-9760 [43:00] [RB] A musical christening for a forgotten composer.

Igor SHAMO (1925-1972) Complete Piano Music - Dimitri Tchesnokov (piano) rec. 2017/18 PIANO CLASSICS PCL10152 [3 CDs: 196:46] [RB] Planted squarely in the folk-romantic but who allowed entry to slightly more advanced idioms.

Dimitri SHOSTAKOVICH (1906-1975) Symphony No. 1 Ralph VAUGHAN WILLIAMS (1872-1958) Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis & works Amirov & Kurka - New York P-SO/Leopold Stokowski rec. 1960/62 GUILD HISTORICAL GHCD2415 [73:06] [SFV] Enjoyable, but nothing that represents a significant contribution to the discography.

Jean SIBELIUS (1865-1957) Symphony No. 1, En Saga - Gothenburg Symphony/Santtu-Matias Rouvali rec. 2018 ALPHA CLASSICS 440 [58.44] [MC] Gripping and distinctive performances that draw the listener in and definitely take a place near the top.

Sir Charles Villiers STANFORD (1852-1924) Mass Via Victrix, At the Abbey Gate - BBC Ntl Ch & O Wales/Adrian Partington rec. 2018 LYRITA SRCD382 [79:57] [JQ] After 99 years, Stanford’s Mass Via Victrix has finally emerged from the shadows in this splendid and important recording.

Ronald STEVENSON (1928–2015) Piano Music Vol. 3 - Christopher Guild (piano) rec. 2018 TOCCATA CLASSICS TOCC0403 [70:22] [RB] Affecting poetry and blood-stirring fire in confluence with folk voices and an over-arching simplicity.

Richard STRAUSS (1864-1949) Tod und Verklärung Dimitri SHOSTAKOVICH (1906-1975) Symphony No. 5 - Hallé O/Sir John Barbirolli rec. 1963 BARBIROLLI SOCIETY SJB1095 [70:15] [JQ] Admirers of Barbirolli should certainly seek out this release, especially for his probing account of the Shostakovich.

Richard STRAUSS (1846-1949) Also sprach Zarathustra, Ein Heldenleben - Oslo PO/Vasily Petrenko rec. 2016 LAWO CLASSICS LWC1166 [79.56] [MC] Beautifully played readings that don’t quite challenge the finest.

Igor STRAVINSKY (1882-1971) Chant funèbre, L'Oiseau de feu Dmitri SHOSTAKOVICH (1906-1975) Symphony No. 12 - ORF RSO Wien/Cornelius Meister rec. 2017/18 CAPRICCIO C5352 [69:23] [MC] Fine performances of the Stravinsky works, but the Shostakovich is quite simply top drawer.

Zsigmond SZATHMÁRY (b. 1939) Organ Works - Martin Schmeding (organ) rec. 2018 CYBELE RECORDS 2SACD 061807 [2 discs: 56:44 + 54:12] [DC] Not ‘easy’, but a wealth of nuance and sonic revelations await.

TAN Dun (b. 1957) Violin Concerti - Eldbjørg Hemsing (violin), Oslo PO/Tan Dun rec. 2018 BIS BIS-2406 [62:37] [MR] Eldbjørg Hemsing shows a powerful affinity for this very visual, symbolic music, while the BIS SACD sound is nothing short of magnificent.

Alexandre TANSMAN (1897-1986) Piano Music - Giorgio Koukl (piano) rec. 2018 GRAND PIANO GP788 [66:21] [SG] Glowing accounts of thought-provoking music.

Andrea TARRODI (b. 1981) & Ylva SKOG (b. 1963) Piano Pieces - Ann-Sofi Klingberg (piano) rec. 2018 DB PRODUCTIONS DBCD190 [53:30] [GF] A disc that should convert listeners who still think that anything composed after the Great War is unlistenable.

John TAVERNER (c.1490-1545) Missa Gloria tibi Trinitas; Gaude plurimum - Ch of the Queen’s College Oxford, Contrapunctus/Owen Rees rec. 2018 SIGNUM SIGCD570 [76:16] [JQ] Taverner’s wonderful music is brought vividly to life in assured and skilled performances.

Pyotr Ilyich TCHAIKOVSKY (1840-1893) Swan Lake - State Academic SO of Russia "Evgeny Svetlanov"/Vladimir Jurowski rec. 2017/18 PENTATONE PTC5186640 SACD [2 discs: 151.46] [RC] A spirited and thoroughly idiomatic account.

Pyotr Ilyich TCHAIKOVSKY (1840-1893) Symphony No. 4 Modest MUSSORGSKY (1839-1881) Pictures at an Exhibition - London SO/Gianandrea Noseda rec. 2017/18 LSO LIVE SACD LSO0810 [74:18] [LW] Noseda’s Tchaikovsky Fourth is solid and well played, but his Pictures is more interesting.

Georg Philipp TELEMANN (1681-1767) Cantatas - Ex Tempore, Mannheimer Hofkapelle/Florian Heyerick rec. 2016 CPO 555 083-2 [50:47] [JV] Nobody interested in Telemann's music should overlook this disc.

Georg Philipp TELEMANN (1681-1767) Moralische Cantaten - Benno Schachtner (alto) Hamburger Ratsmusik/Simone Eckert rec. 2017 CPO 555 141-2 [73:32] [JV] Another important addition to the growing Telemann discography.

Anna THORVALDSDOTTIR (b. 1977) Aequa - Cory Smythe (piano) International Contemporary Ens/Steven Schick rec. 2018 SONO LUMINUS DSL-92227 BD-A/CD [57:10] [RHa] Yet more outstanding Icelandic music from Sono Luminus in exceptional sound.

Michael TIPPETT (1905-1998) Symphonies No. 3 & 4 - Rachel Nicholls (soprano) BBC Scottish SO/Martyn Brabbins rec. 2018 HYPERION CDA68231/2 [57:49 + 62:51] [SB] Brabbins’s new Tippett cycle should now become the standard version of these rewarding works.

Galina USTVOLSKAYA (1919-2006) Complete Works for Violin and Piano - Evgeny Sorkin (violin), Natalia Andreeva (piano) rec. 2018 DIVINE ART DDA25182 [49:19] [RB] Nothing of glamour or neon.

Ralph VAUGHAN WILLIAMS (1872-1958) Symphonies 1-9 - London SO & Ch/Bryden Thomson rec. 1979/80 CHANDOS CHAN9087-91 [5 CDs: 359:26] [JQ] A fine achievement which should not be overlooked.

Antonio VIVALDI (1678-1741) Violin Concerto & Sonata, Cello Concertos Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) Violin Concerto - Joseph Bernstein (violin), Robert Starer (piano), Leo Rostal (cello), Concert Hall String O rec. 1949/50 FORGOTTEN RECORDS FR1569 [55:58] [JW] A worthwhile, specialist restoration.

Carl Maria von WEBER (1786-1826) Der Freischütz - Julia Kleiter (sop), Eva Liebau (sop), Michael König (tenor), Ch & O Teatro alla Scala/Myung-Whun Chung rec. 2017 NAXOS Blu-Ray NBD0092V [135 mins] [ST] By some margin the best opera film I’ve seen in 2019 so far.

Mieczyslaw WEINBERG (1919-1966) Preludes - Gidon Kremer (violin) rec. 2017 ACCENTUS MUSIC ACC30476 [47:21] [CC] Kremer’s virtuosity is on full display, and also in absolute resonance with Weinberg’s language.

Leó WEINER (1885-1960) Toldi - Budapest SO MÁV/Valéria Csányi rec. 2017 NAXOS 8.573847 [64:49] [RB] Advocates Weiner well.

Charles-Marie WIDOR (1844-1937) Organ Symphonies 5, 6 & 8-10 - Christian Schmitt (organ) rec. 2012-14 CPO 777 706-2 SACD [3 discs: 182:06] [SSi] This is now my go-to set for the complete Widor organ symphonies.

Grace WILLIAMS (1906-1977) Chamber Music - London Ch Ens/Madeleine Mitchell (violin) rec. 2018 NAXOS 8.571380 [71:45] [PRB] This excellent CD is very hard to put down, and will undoubtedly encourage you to investigate more of Grace Williams’s other works.

Thomas WILSON (1927-2001) Symphonies Nos 3 & 4, Carillon - Royal Scottish Ntl O/Rory Macdonald rec. 2018 LINN CKD616 [73:20] [GH] An enterprising release of the first order.

Gernot WOLFGANG (b. 1957) Vienna and the West - rec. 2018 ALBANY TROY1760 [68:45] [JW] These freewheeling pluralistic compositions cleverly weave the past and the present in a way that reflects well on both.

Isang YUN (1917-1995) Isang Yun und das Cello - Adele Bitter (cello), Holher Groschopp (piano) CYBELE RECORDS 4SACD KiG011 [4 SACDs: 315:12] [DC] Another valuable volume from this source.

Nikolaus ZMESKALL (1759-1833) String Quartets - Zmeskall Quartet, Rita Papp (harpsichord) rec. 2009-11 PAVLIK RECORDS PA 0074-2/9 CD/DVD-A [3 discs: 187:54] [SG] A scholarly endeavour.

After the Darkness Works by Krása, Klein, Weiner, Kattenburg & Weinberg - Hague String Trio rec. 2018 COBRA 0065 [61:13] [JW] The performances are very persuasive and the programme balanced and attractive.

Amarae Morti El León de Oro/Peter Phillips rec. 2016 HYPERION CDA68279 [66:24] [RHa] A fine Iberian choir and Peter Phillips have fashioned a most enjoyable disc.

Ascent Matthew Lipman (viola), Henry Kramer (piano) rec. 2017/18 CEDILLE CDR90000184 [64:37] [MR] A most impressive debut solo disc from young American violist Matthew Lipman.

As You Like It Patrizio Mazzola (piano) Südwestdeutsche Philharmonie Konstanz/Kevin Griffiths rec. 2016/18 ORLANDO RECORDS OR0040 [63:42] [PRB] If you’re prepared to give this CD the time, then you should ultimately find it as rewarding as I have.

Le bal des Animaux Sophie Karthäuser (soprano) Dominique Visse (counter-tenor) Eugene Asti (piano) rec. 2016 HARMONIA MUNDI HMM902260 [71:19] [NH] A carefully planned and winning song recital that works on so many levels.

Sir John Barbirolli (conductor) Works by Delius, Elgar, Moeran & Vaughan Williams - Constance Shacklock (contralto) Hallé O rec. 1945-63 BARBIROLLI SOCIETY SJB1094 [67:24] [JQ] A most rewarding compilation of British music.

Blue Hour Works by Brahms, Mendelssohn & Weber - Andreas Ottensamer (clarinet), Yuja Wang (piano), Berlin PO/Mariss Jansons rec. 2018 DEUTSCHE GRAMMOPHON 4836069 [61:54] [LW] Ottensamer and Wang’s programme of clarinet and piano works disarms criticism.

Jorge Bolet (piano) Vol. 3: Berlin 1961-74 - Berlin Radio SO/Moshe Atzmon rec. 1961-74 AUDITE 21.459 [3 CDs: 224:28] [JW] The remastering does as much justice to Bolet’s tonal qualities as it can.

Alfredo Campoli (violin) Violin sonatas by Beethoven, Brahms & Mozart - Peter Katin (piano) rec. 1963-73 ORCHESTRAL CONCERT CDs CD3/2009 [69.27] [DBi] Another finely recorded reminder of two great musicians in seamless cooperation.

Chansons Françaises NDR Ch/Philipp Ahmann rec. 2013-17 ES DUR ES2074 [67:44] [WH] Outstandingly fine singing in modern French repertoire.

Deep Within Music of Arundel and Brighton in Lourdes - Michael Carver (keyboard), Arundel & Brighton Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes/Anne Ward rec. 2017 HERALD HAVPCD404 [77:52] [MW] An accomplished introduction to interesting and consoling contemporary Catholic music.

Desires A Song of Songs Collection - ORA Singers/Suzi Digby rec. 2016 HARMONIA MUNDI HMM905316 [71:20] [JQ] A stimulating sequence, superbly performed.

Katarzyna Dondalska (soprano) Me and My World - SO Filharmonii Koszalińskiej im. Stanislawa Moniuszki/Stefan Johannes Walter rec. 2018 ACTE PRÉALABLE AP0430 [70:54] [GF] Readers who have already fallen under her spell can safely invest in this latest offering.

Double Trouble David Huang, Bengt Forsberg (piano 4 hands) rec. 2018 DB PRODUCTIONS DBCD189 [65:29] [SSi] An interesting and delightful recording.

Abdel Rahman El Bacha (piano) Queen Elisabeth Competition rec. 1978 MUSO MU013 [60:16] [RC] El Bacha’s many fans will want to hear these historic performances, which catapulted him to international success.

An English Coronation 1902-1953 Gabrieli Consort & Players, Chetham’s Symphonic Brass Ens/Paul McCreesh rec. 2018 SIGNUM CLASSICS SIGCD569 [81:18 + 78:03] [JQ] A truly exciting release.

Forgotten Russians Vladimir Feltsman (piano) rec. 2018 NIMBUS ALLIANCE NI6377 [74:19] [SB] A valuable introduction to this rare repertoire.

French Music for Ballet Works by Sauget, Massenet & Ibert - Estonian Ntl SO/Neeme Järvi rec. 2018 CHANDOS CHAN20132 [68:19] [NB] Not the finest disc from this label or conductor that I have heard.

Wilhelm Furtwängler (conductor) The Radio Recordings - Berlin PO rec. 1939–1945 BERLINER PHILHARMONIKER RECORDINGS BPHR180181 SACD [22 discs: 22 hrs] [MC] Devotees of Furtwängler will probably already have some of this music, but in most cases the sound is better in these remasterings.

Silvestro Ganassi: La Fontegara Le Concert Brisé/William Dongois rec. 2017 RICERCAR RIC395 [65:47] [JV] A most intriguing and thought-provoking disc.

Anaďs Gaudemard (harp) Solo rec. 2018 HARMONIA MUNDI HMN916111 [58:42] [RHa] A carefully planned and beautifully played harp recital that avoids twee miniatures and bon-bons.

Leticia Gómez-Tagle (piano) Si! Works by Chopin, Liszt & Scarlatti rec. 2018 ARS PRODUKTION SACD ARS38270 [65:05] [JW] A pianist of elegance.

Grand Tour Cicerone Ens rec. 2018 GENUIN GEN19648 [72.33] [MW] A fascinating and enjoyable programme, superbly and sensitively performed.

Bernard Haitink (conductor) Portrait - Bavarian RSO & 1997-2016 BR KLASSIK 900174 [11 discs] [ST] This set celebrates a great partnership of a great orchestra and a great conductor.

Jascha Heifetz (violin) Concertos by Mozart, Prokofiev & Mendelssohn - Boston SO/Serge Koussevitzky, Bell Telephone O/Donald Voorhees rec. 1947/1949 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC558 [68:30] [JW] Nothing new to the Heifetz discography here, and some of the transfers are less successful than usual for this label.

Innovators Works by Bartók, Beethoven & Debussy - Benyounes Qt rec. 2018 CHAMPS HILL RECORDS CHRCD147 [70:39] [PRB] Superb performances and recordings of three works that the Quartet members themselves describe as “part of their DNA”.

Juilliard String Quartet The Complete RCA Recordings rec. 1957-60 RCA RED SEAL 19075863412 [11 CDs: 510 mins] [JW] A handy box with which to get to grips with the Juilliard’s legacy.

Leningrad String Quartets by Basner, Okunev, Slonimsky, Chernov & Prigozhin - Taneyev Qt rec. 1966-73 NORTHERN FLOWERS NFPMA99129 [71:10] [RB] Clean and vivid … holding nothing back in advocating this very unfamiliar music.

Lazare-Lévy and Victor Staub (piano) The Complete Studio Recordings rec. 1927-55 APR 6028 [77:29+74:18] [JW] A further release in what is developing into a valuable series.

Leichte Muse Von Zemlinsky bis Gershwin - Ildikó Raimondi (soprano) Junge Philharmonie Wien/Michael Lessky rec. 2016 GRAMOLA 99173 [53:23] [GF] A truly delicious disc!

Dinu Lipatti (piano) The Last Recital rec. 1950 SOLSTICE SOCD358 [81:24] [DC] New insight into a legendary concert.

Locus iste Ch of St John’s College, Cambridge/Andrew Nethsingha rec. 2018 SIGNUM CLASSICS SIGCD567 [73:51] [ST] A lovely disc that will appeal to anyone with an interest in the English musical tradition.

Jaakko Luoma (bassoon) Concertos by Hummel, Mozart, von Winter & Rossini) - Tapiola Sinfonietta/Janne Nisonen rec. 2017 ONDINE ODE1324-2 [68:51] [NH] The works themselves are a mixed bag, but the performances are consistently excellent.

Marais Meets Corelli Lina Tur Bonet (violin) Ens Musica Narrans/Jakob Rattinger (viola da gamba) rec. 2015 PAN CLASSICS PC10395 [64:56] [RHa] A delight from first bar to last.

Mdina Etienne Cutajar (horn) Carmine Lauri (violin) John Reid (piano) rec. 2017 DIVINE ART DDA25189 [72:28] [JF] A fascinating and stimulating release.

Melba’s Farewell at Covent Garden Nellie Melba (soprano) O Royal Opera House/Vincenzo Bellezza rec. 1926 REVITALIZED CLASSICS [37.50] [MMB] A creditable, deserving initiative, contributing effectively to preserving music history.

Yves Nat (piano) Works by Beethoven, Chopin & Schumann rec. 1953 FORGOTTEN RECORDS FR1513 [79:49] [SG] A wonderful pianist whom time forgot.

One Note Away Works by Destenay, Goepfart & Loeffler - Juliette Bausor (flute), Daniel Bates (oboe), Matthew Hunt (clarinet), Adam Newman (viola), Olga Jegunova (piano) rec. 2017 STONE 5060192780840 [58:43] [JW] A splendidly played, sensitive recital.

Opera Overtures, Choruses and Duets rec. 1959-1993 BRILLIANT CLASSICS 95414 [3 CDs: 184:59] [NH] Best to enjoy it for what it is, rather than fretting too much about what it isn’t.

Olga Peretyatko (soprano) Mozart+ - Basel SO/Ivor Bolton rec. 2018 SONY 19075919052 [60:01] [GF] Some fine characterisation, and stylish accompaniment.

Polish Choral Music Polish Chamber Ch/Jan Łukaszewski rec. 2018 DUX 1505 [67:25] [SSi] An intriguing and excellently sung disc of attractive modern Polish choral music.

Pietro Scarpini (piano) Discovered tapes - Busoni & Liszt rec. 1938-75 RHINE CLASSICS RH-007 [6 CDs: 358:10] [SG] Impressive virtuosity fused with a probing intellect.

Hansheinz Schneeberger (violin) The Legendary Swiss Violinist rec. 1965-2001 TELOS MUSIC TLS235 [72:46 + 71:42] [SG] A fascinating encounter and worthy 90th birthday tribute.

Serenata Mexicana Works by Basulto & Márquez - Morgan Szymanski (guitar), Jamie MacDougall (tenor), Gabriella Dall’Olio (harp) Shakespeare Sinfonia/David Curtis rec. 2018 TOCCATA NEXT TOCN0001 [62.50] [MW] Lovely lyrical music by contemporary composers – enjoyment guaranteed.

Denn Silbermann wird aus dem Werck erkennt Works by Bach & Krebs - Lucas Pohle (organ) rec. 2018 RONDEAU ROP6160 [65:18] [JV] Crostau has every reason to be proud of this fine instrument, whose qualities are so convincingly demonstrated on this disc.

Soir Berceuses (mais pas que…) - Eugénie Warnier (soprano) Marine Thoreau La Salle (piano) Quatuor Les Heures du Jour rec. 2016 MUSO MU027 [60:28] [SSi] This is a lovely disc, one for all lovers of art song.

Sonates de la Côte d'Albâtre Violin sonatas by Delvincourt, Paray & de la Presle - Gautier Dooghe (violin) Alain Raës (piano) rec. 2016 AZUR CLASSICAL AZC164 [74:33] [SG] A rewarding musical journey to the Côte d'Albâtre.

Supersize Polyphony Works by Hildegard, Striggio & Tallis - Armonico Consort/Christopher Monks, Ch Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge/Geoffrey Webber rec. 2018 SIGNUM CLASSICS SIGCD560 [61:37] [ST] The performances are excellent, but it’s the structure of the programme that really makes this disc a winner.

Jean Tews (piano) Composer Masterworks Vol. 1: Works by Brahms, Chopin & Mendelssohn rec. 1988-91 JEAN TEWS PIANO JTP001 [78:53] [JW] Clearly a labour of love.

Vive la difference Anthony Robb (flute) Jeremy Polmear (oboe) Michael Bell (piano) rec. June 2018 OBOE CLASSICS CC2035 [61:22] [JW] Zesty and lyric pleasures.

Other reviews

Howard Keel (bass-baritone) Bless Yore Beautiful Hide - A Centenary Tribute rec. 1950-55 RETROSPECTIVE RTR4348 [79:36] [GF] A beautiful, steady and expressive voice.

Enchanté! The Great French Stars - 50 Bonnes Chansons rec. 1926-61 RETROSPECTIVE RTS4346 [2 CDs: 158 mins] [RB] A classy introduction to the genre.

The Rite of Spring by Gillian Moore publ. 2019 Head of Zeus [JQ] An excellent introduction to a truly seminal work in twentieth-century music.

Articles and Notices

Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin - a survey by Ralph Moore

Romance in The Land of Heart’s Desire by Ben Janken

Second Thoughts & Short Reviews - Spring 2019-2 by Brian Wilson

Debussy's Pelleas et Melisande - a survey by Ralph Moore

John Langdon - an obituary by Kenneth Shenton

 



Advertising on
Musicweb


Donate and keep us afloat

 

New Releases

Naxos Classical
All Naxos reviews

Chandos recordings
All Chandos reviews

Hyperion recordings
All Hyperion reviews

Foghorn recordings
All Foghorn reviews

Troubadisc recordings
All Troubadisc reviews



all Bridge reviews


all cpo reviews

Divine Art recordings
Click to see New Releases
Get 10% off using code musicweb10
All Divine Art reviews


All Eloquence reviews

Lyrita recordings
All Lyrita Reviews

 

Wyastone New Releases
Obtain 10% discount

Subscribe to our free weekly review listing