Recordings of the Month

Two very fine contemporary works which place a high value on melody and rhythm [DJB]

I had not expected to be so impressed by this recital [SB]

A most welcome introduction to Lucie Vellère’s music [HC]

Electrifying pianism from a poetic genius of the instrument [PH]

The unmissable first recording of Kurtág’s masterpiece [DHa]

If perfection exists in a recording of this greatest of Baroque solo instrument works, it is here [RMo]

Excellent performances of early specimens of the madrigal genre [JV]

An important disc for Vaughan Williams devotees [JQ]

Two masterpieces transformed by Karajan’s alchemy [JF]

A wonderful new version of Beethoven’s last sonatas, and a fitting swan song for Imogen Cooper [SB]

An exceptional tribute to an exceptional pianist [RCh]

A new recording of Glass’s opera, the best yet [DHa]

A vibrant and vivid exploration of Latin American piano [RCh]

Outstanding accounts of Debussy’s and Szymanowski’s string quartets [LW]

Superb performances of religious works in the French tradition [SB]

Lovers of madrigals should not miss this superb recording [jv]

A perfect disc in almost every respect [WK]

Suzuki offers a brilliant, structurally transparent perspective that combines historical insight with spirit and verve [PB]

A superb recital which should find a welcome home under any Christmas tree [MP]

A revelatory set, superbly performed [JQ]

A peculiar but wonderful release that showcases Kaufmann’s developing and deepening insights into the art of Lieder [ST]

A 90th birthday tribute that serves as an exemplary introduction to Arvo Pärt [LW]

Outstanding Scriabin from an orchestra celebrating its centenary [PH]

Finally, a Symphonie fantastique to rival the vintage versions in superb, vivid, beautifully balanced digital sound [RMo]