Recordings of the Month

A welcome return to the music of Shostakovich by the Jerusalem Quartet [DHa]

Virtuosic performances of Haydn full of wit, zest and the exuberance of life [PH]

These two works are ideal companions and Hirose is fervent in her brilliant playing of them [RCh]

Gloriously rich two piano works from an undeservedly forgotten Italian [RCh]

Rana again shows her affinity for Bach in these most wonderfully joyous performances [DJB]

A wonderful performance of Ravel’s masterpiece [JQ]

Tsybuleva scores very highly in this impressive set [RCh]

Superb accounts of Sibelius’ last two symphonies put the seal on a triumphantly successful series [RMo]

A compelling and profound work in a very fine premiere recording [JQ]

Another utterly satisfying and convincing traversal of Schumann’s enigmatic late sonatas [RHa]

Excellent recordings of three highly imaginative scores [JQ]

Authoritative and heartfelt performances, warmly recommended [SG]

An extravagant, gothic horror funfest from beginning to end [MP]

Another testimony to Zelenka’s brilliance [JV]

Immaculate production, impassioned musicianship, impeccable planning – do not let it pass you by [RHa]

Something rather special [DC]

A tremendous performance of an unexpectedly compelling French rarity [PSt]

A truly outstanding recording in every respect [PRJ]

A completely convincing account of a rarely performed opera in a new orchestration for chamber orchestra [MP]

This disc will certainly be my favourite Yuletide companion for years to come [GF]

A Titanic Shostakovich Tenth of almost unique power and darkness [MB]

An outstanding performance marks the 50th birthday of MacMillan’s great ballet [RMay]

Notated Jazz from the master of the art, Nikolai Kapustin, performed by his leading exponent [JW]

How can this wonderful music have lain undiscovered for so long? [DJB]