djb

by David Barker

restrained celebration of Gidon Kremer’s career in Baltic music [DJB]

Best seen as a memento of a concert that will have been enjoyed by all present [DJB]

Burnished and relaxing, but a little too relaxed in places [DJB]

Very fine performances; the Florestan Trio remains at the top of the tree, but only just [DJB]

Of particular interest for the relative rarities, and a good Mendelssohn as well [DJB]

A forgotten concerto headlines this very enjoyable and valuable recording [DJB]

Pared back Haydn that will divide opinion [DJB]

Balm in a troubled world [DJB]

Three delightful Neo-classical gems [DJB]

The curiosity value far exceeds the musical quality [DJB]

An ideal mix of grace and energy, and a quite exceptional Fourth Concerto [DJB]

Propulsive readings that could have been leavened with a little more emotion [DJB]

An experiment in performing these great works which doesn’t produce obvious benefits [DJB]

Some good things here but a Pastoral I wish I’d not heard [DJB]

How can I have missed the first 53 volumes of this series? [DJB]

Gentle and pleasant works that need a little more variety [DJB]

Interesting for the extra Tombeau movements, but otherwise not competitive [DJB]

An individual vision that doesn’t quite come off [DJB]

Lyrical works that follow in the long tradition of British string music [DJB]

An enjoyable selection of lesser-known Williams, showcasing his versatility [DJB]

A good sampling of Respighi’s chamber music, but don’t expect Roman fireworks [DJB]

by David Barker

A Martinů symphony cycle for the ages [DJB]