Classical Music Reviews: July 2017 - MusicWeb-International

Carl Jonas Love ALMQVIST (1799-1866) Works for piano - Lennart Hedwall (fortepiano) rec. 1982/93 STERLING CDA1808-2 [74:45] [SSi] Characterful but not enlightening miniatures, yet interesting nonetheless.

William ALWYN (1905-1985) Film Music Vol. 4 - BBC PO/Rumon Gamba rec. 2016 CHANDOS CHAN10930 [77:53] [BMC] This valuable series continues.

Hendrik ANDRIESSEN (1892-1981) Orchestral Works Vol. 4 - Netherlands SO/David Porcelijn rec. 2013 CPO 777 845-2 [56:19] [RB] An orchestra on stunning form and its excellence - and that of the music - is well voiced by the recording.

George ANTHEIL (1900-1959) Jazz Symphony, Piano Concerto No. 1, Capital of the World Suite, Archipelago Rumba - Frank Dupree (piano) Deutsche Staatsphilharmonie Rheinland-Pfalz/Karl-Heinz Steffens rec. 2017 CAPRICCIO C5309 [57.47] [IL] A colourful musical cavalcade infectiously performed.

George ANTHEIL (1900-1959) Over the Plains, Symphonies Nos 4 & 5 - BBC PO/John Storgårds rec. 2016 CHANDOS CHAN10941 [65.45] [DC] Very fine but over civilised performances.

Rafał AUGUSTYN (b. 1951) Sub Iove - Cantores Minores Wratislavienses/Piotr Karpeta rec. 2013 CD ACCORD ACD212-2 [64.52] [MW] A wonderful recording of fascinating (and lovely) modern choral works.

Carl Philipp Emanuel BACH (1714-1788) Der Frühling - Rupert Charlesworth (tenor) Café Zimmermann rec. 2016 ALPHA 257 [63:59] [JV] A very fine disc which demonstrates the many qualities of CPE Bach’s oeuvre.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) & Max REGER (1837-1916) Organ works - Erik Boström (organ) rec. 2013 STERLING CDA1687-2 [75:31] [JFL] This is not merely a pleasant surprise but indeed a very happy discovery.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) Brandenburg Concertos - Hamburg CO/Harry Newstone rec. 1959 HERITAGE HTGCD195/6 [49:30 + 56:52] [JW] Newstone was an important figure in his time; these performances help explain why that was.

Johann Sebastian BACH (1685-1750) The Well-Tempered Clavier Books 1 & 2 - Frédéric Desenclos (organ) rec. 1998-2001 ALPHA 819 [4 CDs: 249:15] [DC] New clothes for the ‘Old-Testament’.

Henk BADINGS (1907-1987) Concerto for 2 Violins, Symphony No. 3, Flute Concerto - Herman Krebbers, Theo Olof (violins) Henk van Oordt (flute) Hague PO/Willem van Otterloo rec. 1955/6 FORGOTTEN RECORDS FR1266 [78:33] [SG] This is an absorbing release of music that deserves to be better known and more frequently played.

Samuel BARBER (1910-1981) The Lovers Randall THOMPSON (1899-1984) Frostiana - Martin Häβler (baritone) Saxony State Youth Ch, Leipzig Youth SO/Ron-Dirk Entleutner rec. 2016 RONDEAU PRODUCTION ROP6138 [57:51] [EJW] Relaxing and undemanding Thompson to balance the sometimes tart Barber.

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) Piano Trios Vol. 4 - TrioVanBeethoven rec. 2016 GRAMOLA 99120 [63:53] [DJB] The end of a wonderful series – up there with the best.

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) & Franz Alexander PÖSSINGER (1767-1827) Violin Concertos - Anton Steck (violin) L’arpa festante/Matthew Halls rec. 2016 ACCENT ACC24320 [62:01] [CC] A most refreshing take on a well-known favourite, while piquing one’s interest in the coupling.

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) Violin Sonatas Nos 6 & 9 - James Ehnes (violin) Andrew Armstrong (piano) rec. 2015/16 ONYX 4170 [61:57] [DHu] Impeccably executed performances, if not entirely for those who like their Beethoven with a little more cut-and-thrust.

Ludwig van BEETHOVEN (1770-1827) Symphony No.7 Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828) Symphony No. 8, Moment Musicale, Rosamunde - Philadelphia O/Leopold Stokowski rec. 1927 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC483 [73:43] [RWM] Superb vintage performances of Viennese classics, including a Schubert 8th restored to remarkable sonic standards.

Paul BEN-HAIM (1897-1984) Symphony No.2, Concerto Grosso - NDR Radiophil Hannover/Israel Yannon rec. 2010 CPO 777677-2 [72:16] [EJW] An excellent CD, urgently recommended to lovers of early 20^th Century romantic orchestral music.

Erik BERGMAN (1911-2006) Choral Works 1936-2000 - Helsinki Chamber Ch/Nils Schweckendiek rec. 2011-2013 BIS BIS-2252 [56:08 + 55:55] [SSi] This music raises many challenges, and the performers meet them all head on.

Judith BINGHAM (b. 1952) Organ Works - Stephen Farr (organ & harpsichord) Jeremy Cole (organ) rec. 2011/16 RESONUS CLASSICS RES10191 [69:13 + 53:49] [DC] An invaluable collection of Bingham’s more recent organ works.

Ernest BLOCH (1880-1959) Cello Sonata, Cello Suite, Meditation Hébraïque, From Jewish Life - Raphael Wallfisch (cello) John York (piano) rec. 2015 NIMBUS NI5943 [70:14] [JW] Articulate and thoughtful performances.

Sandro BLUMENTHAL (1874–1919) Piano Quintets, Lieder - Sophie Klußmann (soprano) Oliver Triendl (piano) Daniel Giglberger, Hélène Maréchaux (violins) Corina Golomoz (viola) Bridget MacRae (cello) rec. 2015 TYXART TXA16079 [70:51] [RB] A Venetian unknown given a second chance, and well worth it too.

Alexander BORODIN (1833-1887) Piano Quintet, Cello Sonata, String Quartet No. 2 - Goldner String Qt, Piers Lane (piano) rec. 2016 HYPERION CDA68166 [77:57] [CRo] A compelling insight into the chamber music of a composer better known for other genres.

Johannes BRAHMS (1833-1897) Symphonies Nos 3 & 4, Haydn Variations - Philharmonia O/Arturo Toscanini rec. 1952 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC377 [57:10 + 43:29] [SV] Important documents, and the performances they enshrine are first-class.

Johannes BRAHMS (1883-1897) Complete Duets & Quartets - Juliane Banse (soprano) Ingeborg Danz, Iris Vermillion (mezzo) Marianne Beate Kielland (alto) Christoph Prégardien, Marcus Ullmann (tenor) Andreas Schmidt (baritone) Helmut Deutsch, Wolfram Rieger (piano) rec. 1997-2003 CPO 777 537-2 [3 CDs: 149.25] [MW] High artistry, charm and sheer delight – a set to enjoy.

Johannes BRAHMS (1833-1897) String Sextets Nos 1 & 2 - Roland Glassl (viola) Wolfgang Emanuel Schmidt (cello) Mandelring Qt rec. 2016 AUDITE 97.715 [71:41] Renaud Capuçon, Christoph Koncz (violins) Gérard Caussé, Marie Chilemme (violas) Gautier Capuçon, Clemens Hagen (cellos) rec. 2016 ERATO 9029 588837 [76:49] [RK] Two fine recordings, though that on Erato is surely the most likely to give lasting pleasure.

Giuseppe Antonio BRESCIANELLO (1690-1758) Concerti à 3 Vol. 1 - Der musikalische Garten rec. 2016 COVIELLO CLASSICS COV91705 [67:27] [JV] Energetic and expressive performances.

Anton BRUCKNER (1824-1896) Symphony No. 1, Four Orchestral Pieces - Luxembourg PO/Gustavo Gimeno rec. 2016 PENTATONE PTC5186613 SACD [63:06] [YJH] There is little to be gained from this recording, unless one is tempted by the novel choice of works.

Anton BRUCKNER (1824-1896) Symphony No. 3 Richard WAGNER (1813-1883) Tannhäuser Overture - Gewandhaus O Leipzig/Andris Nelsons rec. 2016 DEUTSCHE GRAMMOPHON 479 7208 [75.48] [MC] Nelsons conducts a noble and compelling performance.

Anton BRUCKNER (1824-1896) Symphony No. 3 - Dresden Philharmonic/Rafael Frühbeck de Burgos rec. 2006 GENUIN GEN87086 [57:54] [SV] Frühbeck fans could do worse for a memento.

Anton BRUCKNER (1824-1896) Symphony No. 4 - Staatskapelle Dresden/Christian Thielemann rec. 2015 PROFIL PH16064 [73.06] [RMo] An electric live recording, captured in phenomenal sound.

Kenji BUNCH (b. 1973) The Snow Queen - Orchestra NEXT/Brian McWhorter INNOVA 977 [49:37 + 52:56] [DC] A highly effective new large-scale ballet score.

Hubert CLIFFORD (1904-1959) Orchestral works - BBC Concert O/Ronald Corp rec. 2016 DUTTON CDLX7338 [77:38] [RB] Tuneful imaginative music in freshness-imbued performances. It lulls and sparkles with the delightful best.

Marcel COMINOTTO (b. 1956) Works for Duos - Jean-Pol Zanutel & Sébastien Walnier (cellos) Jean Schils & Dominique Swinnen (pianos) Duo Gemini, Hugues Kolp & Adrien Brogna (guitars) AZUR CLASSICAL AZC146 [68:17] [SG] Challenging music interest of which lies in its resourceful scoring and varied instrumental blends.

Aaron COPLAND (1900-1990) Symphony No. 3, Three Latin American Sketches - Detroit SO/Leonard Slatkin rec. 2013/15 NAXOS AMERICAN CLASSICS 8.559844 [55:18] [LW] Slatkin and the Detroit Symphony shine in Copland.

Paul CORFIELD GODFREY (b.1950) Akallabêth and other Tolkien Works - Tara McSwiney (soprano) Andrew Henley (tenor) Adam Jondelius (baritone) Nicola Loten (flute) Niamh Ferris (viola) Immanuel Carl Maria Vogt, Connor Fogel (piano) PRIMA FACIE RECORDS PFCD059 [67:32] [BW] Persuasive performances of approachable and often profound contemporary music.

Claudio DALL’ALBERO Polyphonia in Excelsis - Ch Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge/David Skinner rec. 2016/17 RESONUS RES10190 [72:39] [RHa] Ancient modes and contemporary harmonies converge in attractive sacred choral works from a new Roman master.

Mark DARVILL-EVANS Seeds of Time: Meditations for Piano - Siwan Rhys (piano) PRIMA FACIE PFCD056 [64:51] [JW] His music recollects times and places and people with tranquility but also a most generous sense of texture, colour and harmonic nuance.

Frederick DELIUS (1862-1934) & Sir Edward ELGAR (1857-1934) String Quartets - Villiers Qt rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.573586 [71.24] [NB] The presence of the two first versions from the Delius Quartet are the most valuable aspect of this release.

Leonid DESYATNIKOV (b. 1955) Sketches to sunset, Russian seasons - Brno PO, Lithuanian CO/Philipp Chizhevsky rec. 2014/16 QUARTZ QTZ2122 [58:50] [SA] Performances that do a marvellous job in bringing this composer’s music thrillingly to life.

Pascal DUSAPIN (b. 1955) Item - Arne Deforce (cello) Benjamin Dieltjens (clarinet) rec. 2015/17 AEON AECD1756 [59:37 + 40:59] [SSi] This most valuable release confirms Dusapin as a leading French composer of his day.

Antonín DVOŘÁK (1841-1904) String Quartet No. 12, String Quintet - Škampa Qt rec. 2015 CHAMPS HILL RECORDS CHRCD110 [61:19] [LW] The Škampa Quartet delivers exceptional accounts of Dvořák’s ‘American’ works.

Anders ELIASSON (1947-2013) Notturno, Senza Riposte, Fogliame, Trio - Norrbotten Neo rec. 2016 BIS BIS-2270 SACD [67:47] [RHa] Thoughtful and subtle chamber works from a late-lamented Swedish master.

Johann Jacob FROBERGER (1616-1667) … avec discretion … - Anne Marie Dragosits (harpsichord) rec. 2015 DIVOX ANTIQUA CDX-71602 [63:31] [SSi] Enjoyable performances, marred by a rather poor recording.

Philip GLASS (b. 1937) Life: A Journey Through Time - The Hague Philharmonic/Carolyn Kuan ORANGE MOUNTAIN MUSIC OMM0116 [58.36] [MW] An enjoyable introduction to the wonderful world of Glass.

Osvaldo GOLIJOV (b. 1960) The Dreams and Prayers of Isaac the Blind Christian LINDBERG (b. 1958) The Erratic Dreams of Mr Grönstedt - Emil Jonason (clarinet) Vamlingbo Qt, Norrköping SO/Christian Lindberg
rec. 2015/16 BIS BIS-2188 SACD [59:57] [RHa] A dazzling new concerto from Christian Lindberg unleashed by a flamboyant young Swedish virtuoso.

Adam GORB (b. 1958) Dancing in the Ghetto - Royal Liverpool Phil 10/10 Ens/Clark Rundall; Royal Northern College of Music Wind Ens/Mark Heron, Timothy Renish; Manchester Camerata/Mark Heron rec. 2014/15 PRIMA FACIE PFCD047 [67:54] [DC] A very well balanced and at times thought-provoking programme from one of the UK’s leading composers.

Christoph GRAUPNER (1683-1760) Das Leiden Jesu - Solistenensemble Ex Tempore, Barockorchester Mannheimer Hofkapelle/Florian Heyerick rec. 2016 CPO 555 071-2 [68:41] [DC] Significant discoveries even for Graupner fans.

Edvard GRIEG (1843-1907) String Quartets - Meccore Qt rec. 2016 MDG 903 1998-6 SACD [57:09] [RK] Intensity and precision make for a notable performance of Grieg’s wonderful first - and only complete - string quartet.

George Frederic HANDEL (1685-1759) Il trionfo del Tempo e del Disinganno - Sabine Devieilhe, Franco Fagioli, Le Concert d’Astrée/Emmanuelle Haïm rec. 2016 ERATO Blu-ray 9029 581929 [138 mins] [MC] With the imaginativeness of Warlikowski’s opera-like staging and the outstanding cast, I fully expect Il trionfo to win the composer many new friends.

Stephen HARTKE (b. 1952) The Ascent of the Equestrian in a Balloon, Alvorada, A Brandenburg Autumn, Muse of the Missouri - Boston Modern O Project/Gil Rose rec. 2010 BMOP SOUND 1052 SACD [59:17] [DC] Vitality and artistic integrity in excellent performances.

Siegmund von HAUSEGGER (1872-1948) Aufklänge, Dionysische Phantasie, Wieland der Schmied - Bamberg SO/Antony Hermus rec. 2013/14 CPO 777 810-2 [68:34] [RB] I am far from convinced by the Phantasie but the other two works speak strongly for a future for von Hausegger's music.

Franz Josef HAYDN (1732–1809) Concertos - Maurizio Baglini (piano) Silvia Chiesa (cello) Camerata Ducale/Guido Rimonda (violin) rec. 2015 DECCA 4815395 [65:24] [JB] I look forward to hearing much more of this maestro and his chamber orchestra.

Joseph HAYDN (1732-1809) Keyboard Concertos - Viviane Chassot (accordion) Kammerorchester Basel rec. 2016 SONY CLASSICAL 88985407452 [74:29] [DC] Yet another highly effective platform for accordion appreciation.

Joseph HAYDN (1732-1809) String Quartets op. 20 Vols 1 & 2 - Chiaroscuro Qt rec. 2015 BIS BIS2158/68 SACD [74:34 & 75:08] [DJB] Good enough to convert non-believers to the authentic instrument side.

Franz Joseph HAYDN (1732-1809) The Seasons - Carolyn Sampson (soprano) Wrocław Baroque O, Gabrieli Consort & Players/Paul McCreesh rec. 2016 SIGNUM CLASSICS SIGCD480 [67:42 + 65:26] [DBi] A lovely performance and recording, in English, of Haydn's great oratorio.

Jennifer HIGDON (b. 1962) Viola & Oboe Concertos, All Things Majestic - Roberto Díaz (viola) James Button (oboe) Nashville Symphony/Giancarlo Guerrero rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.559823 [62:47] [DJB] Three very impressive pieces of modern orchestral music that retain the principles of melody and rhythm.

Paul HINDEMITH (1895-1963) Ludus Tonalis Hugo WEISGALL (1912-1997) Sonata for Piano - Martin Perry (piano) rec. 2016 BRIDGE RECORDS 9487 [69:43] [DC] Excellent disc: an adventurous and satisfying feast of piano.

Michael HURD (1928-2006) Choral Music Vol. 1 - Martin Ford (organ) Vasari Singers/Jeremy Backhouse rec. 2016 LYRITA SRCD363 [70:47] [WK] Jeremy Backhouse and the Vasari Singers are especially attuned to the skill with which Hurd sets his texts.

John IRELAND (1879-1962), Frederick DELIUS (1862-1934) & Arnold BAX (1883-1953) Cello sonatas - Lionel Handy (cello) Jennifer Hughes (piano) rec. 2016 LYRITA SRCD.361 [70:52] [JF] An essential purchase for all cello music enthusiasts as well as advocates for the three composers represented.

August KLUGHARDT (1847-1902) Concert Overture, Konzertstück, Cello Concerto, Auf der Wanderschaft - Horst Beckedorf (cello), NDR Radiophil/Willy Steiner, Curt Cremer, Hans Herbert Jöris rec. 1975-80 STERLING CDS1054-2 [55:15] [DJB] The hunter of the unsung will find much to enjoy here.

László LAJTHA (1892–1963) Suite No. 3, Hortobágy Suite, Symphony No. 7 -Pécs SO/Nicolás Pasquet rec. 1994 NAXOS 8.573647 [75:41] [RB] Deals with tough issues and speaks accordingly while the two suites show a more relaxed and often brilliant aspect.

Rued LANGGAARD (1893-1952) Piano Works Vol. 3 - Berit Johansen Tange (piano) rec. 2016 DACAPO 6.220631 SACD [66:32] [SSi] An ideal introduction to the piano music of one of Denmark’s most individual composers.

Orlande de LASSUS (1532-1594) Requiem a 5 - Ch of Girton College, Cambridge/Gareth Wilson, Historic Brass of the Guildhall, London; Lucy Morrell (organ) rec. 2016 TOCCATA CLASSICS TOCC0397 [60.48] [GH] A compelling disc.

Franz LISZT (1811-1886) Complete Piano Music Vol. 44 - Joel Hastings (piano) rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.573557 [76:25] [JWe] A valuable addition to the Naxos Liszt series.

Franz LISZT (1811-1886) & Richard WAGNER (1813-1883) Piano works - Imogen Cooper (piano) rec. 2016 CHANDOS CHAN10938 [74:36] [SB] A splendid recital if the rather curious programme suits.

Franz LISZT (1811-1886) Angelus: Sacred Piano Music - Irene Russo (piano) rec. 2015 BRILLIANT CLASSICS 95196 [72:35 + 75:41] [SB] An enterprising pianist and programme worthy of support.

Franz LISZT (1811–1886) 12 Grande Etudes - Wenbin Jin (piano) rec. 2015 NAXOS 8.573709 [72:28] [JWe] A magnificent recording of a formidable set of works.

Kate LODER (1825-1904) Piano works - Ian Hobson (piano) rec. 2016 TOCCATA CLASSICS TOCC0321 [70:52] [JW] A disc that shines renewed and welcome light on one of Britain’s unjustly overlooked musical families.

Witold LUTOSŁAWSKI (1913-1994) Opera Omnia Vols 4 & 5 - NFM Wroclaw PO & Ch/Stanislaw Skrowaczewski, Jacek Kaspszyk rec. 2012/3 CD ACCORD ACD196/7-2 [58:23 & 66:54] [SB] Two more in this luxuriously produced series of Lutoslawski’s complete works.

Witold LUTOSŁAWSKI (1913-1994) Opera Omnia Vol. 6 - Garrick Ohlsson (piano) Tomasz Daroch (cello) NFM Wroclaw PO/Jacek Kaspszyk; Court-circuit/Jean Deroyer; Lutosławski Piano Duo rec. 2013 CD ACCORD ACD198-2 [61:08] [DC] Highly attractive and well performed, but has it been overtaken by alternatives?

Gustav MAHLER (1860-1911) Symphony No. 5; Des Knaben Wunderhorn (excerpts); Rückert-Lieder - Siegfried Lorenz (baritone); Staatskapelle Berlin/Otmar Suitner; Berlin SO/Günther Herbig rec. 1979-1982 BERLIN CLASSICS 0300922BC [104:23] [DM] A rough and wayward Mahler Fifth, redeemed by Siegfried Lorenz’s splendid singing in the vocal items; variable playing and sound.

Gustav MAHLER (1860-1911) Symphony No. 9 - NDR SO/Kurt Sanderling rec. 1987 PROFIL PH17007 [79:40] [RMo] Sanderling’s way with this is indubitably both valid and effective.

Bohuslav MARTINŮ (1890-1959) Complete Piano Trios - Trio Martinů rec. 2016/17 MUSICAPHON M56970 [75:20] [DBi] Yet another competitive disc coupling these four works.

Emilie MAYER (1812-1883) Piano Trios - Trio Vivente rec. 2015 CPO 555029-2 [63:22] [DJB] A delightful discovery.

Johann Simon MAYR (1763 – 1845) Telemaco - Simon Mayr Ch, Concerto de Bassus/Franz Hauk rec. 2015 NAXOS 8.660388-89 [72:44 + 63:07] [GF] Another feather in the cap for Franz Hauk and his circle of collaborators.

Johann Simon MAYR (1763-1845) Mass, Stabat Mater - Orpheus Vocal Ens, Concerto Köln/Florian Helgath rec. 2015 CARUS 83.480 [77:51] [JV] These performances are a strong case for this more or less forgotten master.

Giuseppe Saverio MERCADANTE (1795-1870) Francesca da Rimini - Leonor Bonilla (soprano) O Internazionale d’Italia/Fabio Luisi rec. 2016 DYNAMIC 37753 [2 DVDs: 200:13] [RK] Probably for bel canto enthusiasts only, but for those who enjoy lesser-known Rossini and Donizetti operas, Mercadante’s Francesca di Rimini will be a treat.

Johann Kaspar MERTZ (1806-1856) The Last Viennese Virtuoso - Frank Bungarten (guitar) rec. 2015 MDG 905 1954-6 SACD [67:10] [DC] Revelatory sounds from 19th-century Vienna.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Symphonies Nos 38 & 41, Piano concerto No. 20, Serenade No.13 - Vienna PO/Bruno Walter rec. 1936-38 OPUS KURA OPK2118/9 [64:34 + 39:00] [SG] Newly remastered, Walter’s Mozart recordings sound vital and fresh, with depth and perspective.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Great Mass - Kammerch & Hofkapelle Stuttgart/Frieder Bernius rec. 2016 CARUS 83.284 [56:06] [RK] A good and rewarding performance, though not the very finest around.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) The Salzburg Marian Mass - NFM Ch, Wrocław Baroque Ens/Andrzej Kosendiak rec. 2014 CD ACCORD ACD215-2 [46:33] [PCG] The sense of occasion could have been more readily conveyed by a performance more “grandiose” than this reconstruction proposes.

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART (1756-1791) Complete Flute Quartets - Lisa Friend (flute), Brodsky Qt rec. 2016  CHANDOS CHAN10932 [59:07] [MG] These well-crafted accounts can take their place alongside those of William Bennett and the Grumiaux Trio.

Modest MUSSORGSKY (1839-1881) Pictures at an exhibition, Night on bald mountain - Leipzig Gewandhaus O/Igor Markevitch rec. 1973 BERLIN CLASSICS 0300891BC [43:09] [RMay] The music-making here is impressive, but the short playing time is a problem.

Dimitar NENOV (1901-1953) Piano Concerto, Ballade No. 2 - Ivo Varbanov (piano) Royal Scottish Ntl O/Emil Tabakov rec. 2016 HYPERION CDA68205 [64.46] [PCG] One looks forward with anticipation to further releases of Nenov’s music.

Feliks NOWOWIEJSKI (1877-1946) Quo Vadis - Aleksandra Kurzak (soprano) Artur Rucinski (baritone) Feliks Nowowiejski Warmia SO/Mazury PO/Piotr Sulkowski rec. 2016 DUX 1327/8 [64:45 + 31:05] [RHa] This opera-oratorio is well worth hearing – especially in this vividly recorded and assured performance.

Kent OLOFSSON (b. 1962) Champs D’étoiles - Lipparella DB PRODUCTIONS DBCD178 [71.01] [MW] A fascinating and enjoyable example of contemporary music from an electroacoustic specialist.

Ignacy Jan PADEREWSKI (1860-1941) The Very Best of Paderewski rec. 1996-2010 DUX 1300 [70:19 + 62:15] [RMay] This release is to be warmly welcomed.

Giovanni PAISIELLO (1740-1816) La Grotta di Trofonio - Benedetta Mazzucato (mezzo) Caterina Di Tonno (soprano) Matteo Mezzaro (tenor) Italian Interntl O/Giuseppe Grazioli rec. 2016 DYNAMIC CDS7754.02 [78.27 + 69.18] [PCG] Welcomed more as a first recording, than as an opera or a performance.

Paul PARAY (1886-1979) Chamber works - Eliot Lawson (violin) Samuel Magill (cello) Diane Andersen (piano) rec. 2016 AZUR CLASSICAL AZC155 [66:29] [SG] Paray’s gift for melody permeates these delightful scores.

Arvo PÄRT (b. 1935) Live - Ch Bayerischen Rundfunks, Münchner Rundfunkorchester/Ulf Schirmer; Robert King, Peter Dijkstra, Hilliard Ens/Marcello Viotti rec. 2000-2011 BR KLASSIK 900319 [70:08] [DC] An admirable collection of fine live recordings.

Sergei PROKOFIEV (1881-1953) Piano Concertos 1 & 3, Overture on Hebrew Themes - Simon Trpčeski (piano) Royal Liverpool PO/Vasily Petrenko rec. 2016 ONYX 4140 [52.23] [PCG] Excellent prformances, rather short measure.

Sergei RACHMANINOV (1873-1943) Rare Piano Transcriptions - Julia Severus (piano) rec. 2016 NAXOS 8.573468 [73:26] [NB] Admirers of this composer really need not delay - this is an excellent recital in every respect.

Karol RATHAUS (1895-1964) Violin Sonatas - Karolina Piątkowska-Nowicka (violin) Bogumiła Weretka-Bajdor (piano) rec. 2014 DUX 1347 [60:57] [JW] This disc reflects Rathaus’s journey to accommodate tonal and non-tonal elements in his music.

Max REGER (1873-1916) Fantasias & Fugues - David Goode (organ) rec. 2003 SIGNUM CLASSICS SIGCD476 [43:29 + 42:48] [CRo] Goode’s achievement here can only be applauded if this subtle approach wins people around to Reger’s organ music who might otherwise find it forbidding.

Nikolai RIMSKY-KORSAKOV (1844-1908) Le Coq d’Or - Alexsei Korolyov (bass) Nina Polyakova (soprano) Grand Ch & SO of All-Union Radio & Television/Alexei Kovalyov & Yevgeni Akulov rec. 1956-68 MELODIYA MELCD1002331 [48:05 +69:06] [RMo] Probably the most recommendable version of this rarely performed opera overall.

Nikolai RIMSKY-KORSAKOV (1844-1908) Romances - Marina Prudenskaya (mezzo) Cord Garben (piano) rec. 2010 CPO 777 783-2 [68.58] [PCG] A judicious and enjoyable selection.

Giovanni Alberto RISTORI (1692-1753) Cantatas, Oboe Concerto - Maria Savastano (soprano) Jon Olaberria (oboe) Ens Diderot/Johannes Pramsohler rec. 2016 AUDAX ADX13711 [68:12] [SG] These world premiere recordings should help win Ristori many new friends.

Betty ROE (b.1930) Songs - Sarah Leonard, Anne Marie Sheridan (sopranos) Robin Tritschler (tenor) Stephen Varcoe (baritone) Nigel Foster (piano) rec. 2014-16 MÉTIER MSV28566 [65:52] [JF] Convincingly performed, this is a well-produced retrospective of the songs of Betty Roe.

Julius RÖNTGEN (1855-1932) Symphonies Nos 9 & 21, Serenade - Brandenburgisches Staats O/David Porcelijn rec. 2005 CPO 777 120-2 [55:37] [SG] David Porcelijn has full sympathy with the music, and his persuasive accounts make a strong case for these absorbing scores.

Camille SAINT-SAËNS (1835-1921) Proserpine - Véronique Gens (soprano) Flemish Radio Ch, Munich RO/Ulf Schirmer rec. 2016 EDICIONES SINGULARES ES1027 [55:32 + 39:18] [GF] A quality product indeed!

Othmar SCHOECK (1886–1957), Richard STRAUSS (1864–1949) & Gustav MAHLER (1860–1911) Lieder - Britta Glaser (soprano) Matthias Veit (piano) rec. 2016 TYXART TXA17089 [63:07] [IL] Bliss - the Schoeck Wandsbecker is quite delightful.

Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828) Lieder Vol. 3 - Ian Bostridge (tenor) Julius Drake (piano) rec. 2014 WIGMORE HALL LIVE WHLIVE0088 [79:31] [JQ] A highly distinguished Schubert recital: artistry at the highest level.

Franz SCHUBERT (1797-1828) The Piano Trios - Michael Korstick (piano) Thomas Irnberger (violin) David Geringas (cello) rec. 2016 GRAMOLA 99110 SACD [52:24 + 64:40] [DJB] Unlikely to displace your favourites.

Dmitri SHOSTAKOVICH (1906-1975) Symphonies 1 & 3 - USSR Ministry of Culture SO/Gennadi Rozhdestvensky rec. 1984/85 ALTO ALC1344 [66:55] [YJH] Both readings are top drawer, but the sound is poor.

Dmitri SHOSTAKOVICH (1906-1975) Symphony No. 1, Scherzos, Theme and Variations, Five Fragments - Luxembourg PO/Gustavo Gimeno rec. 2016 PENTATONE PTC5186622 SACD [68:33] [YJH] The lesser-known works fare better than the Symphony, which gets a somewhat timid reading.

Dmitri SHOSTAKOVICH (1906-1975) Piano Trio No.2, Piano Quintet - Alexey Goribol (piano), Ilya Ioff, Lidiya Kovalenk (violins) Andrey Dogadin (viola) Alexey Massarsky (cello) rec. 2006 MELODIYA MELCD1002451 [60.25] [DBi] Exciting and committed performances cleanly recorded. Urgently recommended.

Ryszard SIELICKI (1916-2005) Chamber Works - Opium Qt, Pawłowski Tomasz (piano) rec. 2016 ACTE PREALABLE AP0390 [61:31] [RB] An unsullied sweetness and directness of utterance … very attractive music.

Leone SINIGAGLIA (1868-1944) & Antonio ILLERSBERG (1882-1953) Violin Concertos - Alfonso Mosesti (violin) Roma della RAI SO/Ferruccio Scaglia; O Filarmonica Triestina/Octavio Ziino rec. 1953/59 RHINE CLASSICS RH-003 [67:43] [JW] This brace of Italian concertos preserves much that is lyric and generous-minded.

Camilla SÖDERBERG (b. 1953) Endless Games - Johannes Thorell (saxophone) Magnus Sköld (piano) Sverrir Guðjónsson (voice) Camilla Söderberg (tenor recorder) rec. 2007 DB PRODUCTIONS DBCD181 [71.24] [MW] An excellent example of electronic music with some striking compositions.

Edward SOLOMON (1855-1895) & F. C. BURNAND (1836-1917) Pickwick George GROSSMITH (1847-1912) Cups and Saucers - Simon Butteriss (baritone) Gaynor Keeble (mezzo) Stephen Higgins (Musical director/piano) rec. 2016 RETROSPECT OPERA CDRO002 [73:31] [JW] It’s a pleasure to see so barely known a work as Pickwick promoted with such care and joie de vivre.

Giovanni Battista SOMIS (1686-1763) Nostalgia - Wolfram Schurig (recorder) Johannes Hämmerle (harpsichord) rec. 2016 FRA BERNARDO FB1711192 [55:37] [JV] You don't need to be a recorder aficionado to enjoy this disc.

Enrique SORO (1884-1954) Tres aires chilenos, Sinfonía romántica - Chile SO/José Louis Domínguez rec. 2015 NAXOS 8.573505 [56.15] [DJB] Very underwhelming – not a keeper.

Charles Villiers STANFORD (1852-1924) Preludes - Sam Haywood (piano) rec. 2016 HYPERION CDA68183 [69:41] [MR] The 48 Preludes in all keys bring Bach to mind, but stylistically Stanford is very much his own man. Sam Haywood masterfully handles these mighty miniatures.

Charles Villiers STANFORD (1852-1924) Complete Organ Works Vol. 5 - Daniel Cook (organ) rec. 2016 PRIORY PRCD1174 [79:53] [JF] The final installment of a monumental achievement.

Sir Charles Villiers STANFORD (1852-1924) Choral works - Ch of Trinity College, Cambridge/Stephen Layton; Trinity Brass, Owain Park & Alexander Hamilton (organ) rec. 2016 HYPERION CDA68174 [81:02] [JQ] An extremely fine disc which shows why Stanford’s reputation as a composer of excellent liturgical music is so deservedly secure.

Igor STRAVINSKY (1882-1971) Rarities - Igor & Soulima Stravinsky (piano) Beecham SO/Thomas Beecham; Royal Albert Hall O/Eugene Goossens; Berlin State Opera O/Oskar Fried; Philadelphia O/Leopold Stokowski rec. 1916/38 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC496 [78:13] [JW] An ingenious choice of early Stravinsky performances.

Igor STRAVINSKY (1882-1971) Rarities - Igor & Soulima Stravinsky (piano) Beecham SO/Thomas Beecham; Royal Albert Hall O/Eugene Goossens; Berlin State Opera O/Oskar Fried; Philadelphia O/Leopold Stokowski rec. 1916/38 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC496 [78:13] [GPJ] Fascinating early performances make this a ‘must’ for Stravinsky enthusiasts.

Georgy SVIRIDOV (1915-1998) Russia Cast Adrift, The Virgin in the City - Dmitri Hvorostovsky (baritone) St. Petersburg State SO/Constantine Orbelian rec. 2016 DELOS DE1631 [36:34] [EJW] An interesting and unusual CD of superbly sung vocal music by a Russian master of the idiom.

Tivadar SZÁNTÓ (1877-1934) Complete Piano Works Vols 1 & 2 - Artur Cimirro (piano) rec. 2016 ACTE PRÉALABLE AP0386/7 [70:46 & 71:35] [JW] Szántó has a strong personality if not necessarily an ideally strong musical identity.

Karol SZYMANOWSKI (1882-1937) Songs - Rafal Majzner (tenor) Katarzyna Rzeszutek (piano) rec. 2016 DUX 1369 [50.11] [EJW] An interesting recording of Szymanowski’s early songs, but the absence of sung texts, let alone translations, is a problem.

Sergei TANEYEV (1856-1915) & Nikolai RIMSKY-KORSAKOV (1844-1908) Piano Trios - Leonore Piano Trio rec. 2016 HYPERION CDA68159 [77.58] [MC] Chamber music lovers have little reason to hesitate with this rewarding album.

Alexandre TANSMAN (1897-1986) Ballet Music - Polish Radio SO/Łukasz Borowicz, Wojciech Michniewski rec. 2002-2014 CPO 777 987-2 [55:03] [SB] Delightful music, well worth exploring.

Peter Ilyich TCHAIKOVSKY (1840-93) Symphony No. 6, Manfred Symphony, Romeo & Juliet, Capriccio Italien - Vienna PO & Boston SO/Claudio Abbado, London SO/Yuri Ahronovich, Berlin PO/Ferdinand Leitner rec. 1959-77 ELOQUENCE 482 6184 [65.31 + 80.53] [PCG] Prospective purchasers may well be attracted by the Abbado and Leitner performances, but will need to look elsewhere for a Manfred.

Georg Philipp TELEMANN (1681-1767) Reformations-Oratorium 1755 - Regula Mühlemann (soprano) Daniel Johannsen (tenor) Ch Bavarian Radio/Bayerische Kammerphil/Reinhard Goebel rec. 2016 SONY 88985373872 [60:54] [JV] Probably not one of Telemann's finest works, but the performance doesn't fully satisfy either.

Georg Philip TELEMANN (1681-1767) & Johann WALTER (1496-1570) Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott - Concerto Melante/Raimar Orlovsky rec. 2016 DEUTSCHE HARMONIA MUNDI 88985347982 [70:31] [GPJ] The brilliant young German ensemble Concerto Melante have come up with a delightful disc celebrating both Martin Luther and Telemann.

Viktor ULLMAN (1898-1944) Piano Concerto, Piano Sonata No. 7, Variations and Double Fugue on a theme of Arnold Schoenberg - Moritz Ernst (piano) Dortmund PO/Gabriel Feltz rec. 2011/15 CAPRICCIO C5294 [56.33] [GH] An enjoyable and interesting disc of Ullman’s still-too-little-known music.

Giuseppe VERDI (1813-1901) Otello - José Cura, Dorothea Röschmann, Staatskapelle Dresden/Christian Thielemann rec. 2016 C MAJOR 740104 Blu-ray [147 mins] [MC] A striking feeling of engagement and artistic integrity.

Giuseppe VERDI (1813-1901) Messa da Requiem - Erika Grimaldi (soprano) Daniela Barcellona (mezzo) Francesco Meli (tenor) Michele Pertusi (bass) London SO & Ch/Gianandrea Noseda rec. 2016 LSO LIVE LSO0800 SACD [77:45] [JQ] A disappointing Verdi Requiem.

Pauline VIARDOT (1821-1910) Deutsche Lieder - Miriam Alexandra (soprano) Eric Schneider (piano) rec. 2016 OEHMS CLASSICS OC1878 [71:17] [SSi] A good disc, let down by the engineers in a few songs, but indispensable for those who want to delve into the musical art of Pauline Viardot.

Richard WAGNER (1813-1883) Parsifal - Lars Cleveman (tenor) Katarina Dalayman (soprano) Hallé Youth Ch & O/Sir Mark Elder rec. 2013 HALLÉ CDHLD7539 [4 CDs: 258:57] [MC] This Parsifal doesn’t quite have the distinction to place it alongside the haunting and profoundly spiritual Knappertsbusch account but it’s still a fine achievement.

Richard WAGNER (1813-1883) Declaration of Love - Maria Bulgakova (soprano) Andreij Hoteev (piano) rec. 2016 HÄNSSLER CLASSIC HC16058 [55:51] [YJH] With two of the five pieces as world premieres, this disc would interest numerous Wagnerians.

Sir William WALTON (1902-1983) Violin Concerto, Partita, Hindemith Variations, Spitfire Prelude and Fugue - Anthony Marwood (violin); BBC Scottish SO/Martyn Brabbins rec. 2013 and 2016 HYPERION CDA67986 [81:26] [BW] A very strong contender in all the individual works and my overall choice for the coupling.

Carl Maria von WEBER (1786-1826) Overtures - Staatskapelle Dresden/Gustav Kuhn rec. 1985 CAPRICCIO C8009 [53:12] [DHu] Weber well worth reissuing, played with vitality, dignity and power, in sumptuous sound.

Mieczysław WEINBERG (1919-1996) Works for flute - Antonina Styczeń (flute) Polish Ch PO Sopot/Wojciech Rajski rec. 2016 TACET 232 [69:28] [SA] An enthralling disc.

Mieczysław WEINBERG (1919-1996) Solo Violin Sonatas Nos 1-3 Alfred SCHNITTKE (1934-1998) Fugue - Renate Eggebrecht (violin) rec. 2015 TROUBADISC TRO-CD01450 [68:48] [SG] This is deeply rewarding music, in imaginative, inspired and resourceful performances.

Felix WOYRSCH (1860-1944) Piano Trio, Vier Lieder Rubin GOLDMARK (1872-1936) Piano Trio - Carolina Ullrich (soprano) Hyperion Trio rec. 2016 CPO 555122-2 [70:41] [DJB] I greatly enjoyed the Goldmark, but found Woyrsch rather wanting.

Józef ZEIDLER (1744-1806) Missa - Sinfonia Varsovia, The Katowice Singers, Ensemble Camerata Silesia/Jerzy Maksymiuk rec. 2015 DUX 1314 [60:40] [DC] A fine discovery from a largely forgotten composer.

Alexander ZEMLINSKY (1871-1942) Die Seejungfrau, Sinfonietta - Helsinki PO/John Storgårds rec. 2014 ONDINE ODE12375 SACD [69:25] [EML] Highly recommended: luscious, passionate and radiant.

John ZORN (b. 1953) Book of Angels Vol. 30: Leonard - Garth Knox (viola, viola d’amore) Saltarello Trio rec. 2016 TZADIK TZ8350 [48:13] [DC] Poetic and quietly joyous music in sublime arrangements and performances.

39’45 Works by Lutosławski, Tansman, Rathaus & Panufnik - Sinfonia Varsovia/Jerzy Maksymiuk & Renato Rivolta rec. 2014 WARNER CLASSICS 9029 591751 [39:45] [SG] A fascinating selection of orchestral music in impressive, state-of-the-art sound. However, take note, you only get 40 minutes!

Aztec Dances Works by Bedford, Gregson, King, Rose & Runswick - Jill Kemp (recorder) Aleksander Szram (piano) rec. 2914 PRIMA FACIE PFCD052 [70:56] [DC] Superb performances and some fresh new angles on an ancient instrument.

Johan Botha (tenor) Arias from operas by Beethoven, Richard Strauss & Wagner - Vienna State Opera O rec. 1997-2014 ORFEO C906171B [72:57] [MMB] A must for any Botha fan or for anyone who admires extraordinary singing.

Julie Boulianne (mezzo) Alma Oppressa - Arias by Vivaldi & Handel - Clavecin en Concert/Luc Beauséjour rec. 2016 ANALEKTA AN28780 [58:53] [GF] Mostly unhackneyed repertoire superbly sung and played in spotless recordings.

Dans les services da santé Amaury Breyne (piano) rec. 2016 HORTUS 723 [68:17] [JW] The music is adventurously selected and the range of composers attractive but the performances can be over-cautious and constrained.

Elgar and his Peers Works by Elgar, Beecham, O'Donnell & Vaughan Williams - London Symphonic Concert Band/Tom Higgins rec. 2016 SOMM SOMMCD0170 [74:33] [JQ] This disc is valuable, especially for the welcome light it sheds on a less familiar side of Elgar’s output.

Exiles Works by Bloch, Korngold, Prokofiev & Alberstein - Ophélie Gaillard (cello) Monte-Carlo PO/James Judd rec. 2015/16 APARTÉ AP142 [69.00] [MC] Full of interesting music, played with style and expression.

Flemish Baroque Treasures Unveiled Works by Drymans & Kennis - Utopia, Euterpe Baroque Consort/Bart Rodyns rec. 2015/6 PHAEDRA PH92093 [53:54] [JV] Well worth investigation, despite the rather short playing time.

The Forgotten Gem The Organ of King’s Lynn Minster - Francesca Massey (organ) rec. 2016 PRIORY PRCD1178 [77:50] [JF] A varied and interesting programme showcasing this splendid and historically important organ.

Elīna Garanča (soprano) Arias by Mozart and Vivaldi - rec. 2004/5 ERATO 9029 590599 [62:06] [MC] This collection does justice to the remarkable Elīna Garanča’s talents.

Gems of Eastern Europe Works by Bartók, Lepianka, Prokofiev & Szymanowski - Piotr Tarcholik (violin) Monika Wilińska-Tarcholik (piano) rec. 2016 CD ACCORD ACD229-2 [47.20] [MW] An admirable recital of significant works.

Véronique Gens (soprano) Visions - Munich RSO/Hervé Niquet rec. 2017 ALPHA CLASSICS 279 [55.43] [MC] With Gens in quite sensational form, this is an eminently desirable album of rarely heard French arias.

Grand Tour - Baroque Road Trip Myrsini Margariti (soprano) New Dutch Academy/Simon Murphy (viola) rec 2016 PENTATONE PTC5186668 SACD [78:39] [JV] A nice disc which every lover of baroque music will enjoy, despite the rather unadventurous programming.

Brigitte Huyghues de Beaufond (violin) Works by Kiyose, Mozart, Rebel & Villa-Lobos - Radiodiffusion-Télévision Française CO/Pierre Capdevielle, Jacqueline Dussol, Norihiko Wada (piano) rec. 1957-62 FORGOTTEN RECORDS FR1279 [68:16] [SG] Long forgotten, these live recordings make a welcome appearance.

Italian Rococo at the Hermitage Claire Genewein (transverse flute) La Cetra Consort rec. 2013 SOLO MUSICA SM258 [59.12] [MC] It's easy to imagine both newcomers and specialists being attracted to this marvellous collection.

Medieval Songs and Dances St George’s Canzona/John Sothcott CRD 3421 [49:47] Merry it is while Summer lasts St George’s Canzona/John Sothcott rec. 1982 CRD 3412 [47:22] New Fashions Cries & Ballads of London - Red Byrd/Nancy Hadden rec. 199 CRD 3487 [66:22] [EML] All three discs can be recommended despite the outdated presentation and slightly unprofessional appearance of the booklets.

Music of the Night: American Nocturnes Cecile Licad (piano) rec. 2017 DANACORD DACOCD783/4 [65:10 + 53:39] [JF] Cecile Licad is impeccable, absolute master of these diverse styles.

A Noble and Melancholy Instrument Music for horns and pianos of the 19th century - Alec Frank-Gemmill (horn) Alasdair Beatson (piano) BIS BIS-2228 SACD [65:56] [SSi] An excellent disc that charts the development of the horn in the nineteenth century; both performers are in fine form.

Pace e Guerra Arias for Bernacchi - Terry Wey (countertenor) Bach Consort Wien/Rubén Dubrovsky rec. 2016 DEUTSCHE HARMONIA MUNDI 88985410502 [74:40] [JW] Deft and colourful.

Piano Etudes Works by Bacewicz, Czerny, Łukaszewski, Moszowski & Sawa - Marcin Tadeusz Łukaszewski (piano) rec. 1998-2006 ACTE PRÉALABLE AP0380 [61:00] [JW] Don’t think these are simply virtuosic teaching studies devoid of intrinsic value: that’s far from the case.

Jean-Pierre Rampal in Prague The Complete Supraphon Recordings rec. 1955-58 SUPRAPHON SU4217-2 [79:44 + 82:39] [JW] This twofer catches Rampal at a time of new exploration with a new audience and collaborators, and an expanded repertoire.

Rímur Trio Mediaeval, Arve Henriksen (trumpet) rec. 2016 ECM NEW SERIES 2520 [51:01] [DC] Something a bit special.

Rosa Mystica Choral Music for the Soul - Maria Magdalena Kammarkör/Mats Nilsson rec. 2015 FOOTPRINT RECORDS FRCD087 [61:12] [JQ] From first to last the singing is extremely fine and the music itself is lovely.

Sentirete una canzonetta In Tabernae Musica rec. 2014 TACTUS TC580002 [60:53] [JV] The programme is very entertaining, and the artists deliver engaging interpretations.

Sinfonia Concertante Works by Holzbauer, Mozart & Pleyel - Basel CO/Julia Schröder, Umberto Benedetti Michelangeli rec. 2015 SONY CLASSICAL 88985 411782 [67:00] [DJB] An hour of elegant music, but perhaps a little too refined.

The Steinmeyer Organ of Nidaros Cathedral Magne H. Draagen (organ) rec. 2014 LAWO CLASSICS LWC1075 [79:48] [DM] This well-filled album is mighty impressive, and that goes for the sound as well; in short, a triumph.

Sway NZTrio RATTLE RATD064 [64:40] [DJB] Stylish and communicative contemporary trios in vibrant performances.

Michał Szymanowski (piano) Works by Chopin, Paderewski, Szymanowski & Wieniawski rec. 2015 CD ACCORD ACD219-2 [70:14] [CC] A delightful disc, really well programmed and well performed by a talented, eminently musical pianist.

El teatro del arpa Sara Águeda (harp) Adriana Mayer (mezzo) Víctor Sordo (tenor) Calia Álvarez (vihuela de arco) Daniel Garay (percussion) rec. 2016 DUX 1359 [70:17] [JV] This disc is the best possible case for the harp.

Temps Nouveau Works by Gounod, Massenet, Franck, Bizet & Saint-Saëns - Michèle Losier (mezzo) Olivier Godin (piano) rec. 2015 ATMA CLASSIQUE ACD22720 [72:08] [GF] Marvellous singing and a repertoire that is far from everyday fare.

Vale Richard Craig (flutes) Cora Schmeiser (soprano) Distractfold Ens rec. 2011/14 MÉTIER MSV28540 [60:51] [JF] An interesting exploration of modern music for flute, voice and other instruments; the performances appear to me to be brilliant.

Violoncelle Français Works by Debussy, Fauré, Franck & Saint-Saëns - Cheng² Duo rec. 2016 AUDITE 97.698 [60:55] [DHu] A wonderful debut.

Bruno Walter Rarities Vol. 2 Works by Berlioz, Wagner, Mozart, Handel & Weber rec. 1923-38 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC492 [72:28] [CC] A fascinating compilation, beautifully transferred by Mark Obert-Thorn.

Bruno Walter The Complete Columbia Acoustic Recordings Works by Berlioz, Mendelssohn, R Strauss, Wagner & Weber - Royal PO rec. 1924-25 PRISTINE AUDIO PASC482 [76:50] [RWM] A well-restored release of much interest to Walter enthusiasts.

Tex Williams I Got Texas In My Soul rec. 1944-1954 RETROSPECTIVE RTR4309 [79:15] [BMC] A fine collection in excellent sound.

Strings & Bass Florian Willeitner, Johannes Dickbauer (violins), Matthias Bartolomey (cello) Georg Breinschmid (double bass, bass guitar) rec. 2016 GRAMOLA 99140 [76:56] [DJB] Fine music across a number of genres, and brilliantly performed – just ignore the bonus track.

Delius and Norway by Andrew J. Boyle, publ. 2017 The Boydell Press [SG] Boyle’s book provides a fascinating insight into the spiritual and inspirational influences Norway and its artists had on Frederick Delius, both the person and his music.

Svara-Kanti Simon Thacker (guitar) Japjit Kaur (voice) Jacqueling Shave (violin) Sarvar Sabri (tabla) rec. 2012/13 SLAP THE MOON RECORDS STMRCD02 [72.51] [EML] I love this disc; it has a real sincerity, and the love of, and knowledge of, Indian music and philosophy really shines through.

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