Bruch VC2 etc.

[Alan Howe]

...now out on BIS, featuring as soloist Ulf Wallin:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Bruch-Concerto-Deutsches-Symphonie-Orchester-BIS2069/dp/B010GVODFA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1440865688&sr=8-1&keywords=bruch+wallin
VC2 is given a performance of a splendour and sweep I have never before encountered. It is simply magnificent. The Deutsches Symphonie-Orchester Berlin are wonderfully conducted by Okko Kamu and the whole thing is recorded with startling amplitude.
This'll be one of my recordings of 2015.

[raffite33]

Got my copy yesterday.  It is splendid, indeed, as was BIS' Gluzman/Litton SACD of the first concerto.  Here's hoping they'll get around to the 3rd, as well.  There's not a lot of competition for the "reference recording" spot.

[Alan Howe]

You're right! Glad you liked the new CD. The Gluzman/Litton recording was wonderful too, I agree.

[minacciosa]

This my favorite Bruch concerto, one I've played a lot. In fact, I've never performed the first one; whenever I was asked I always suggested No.2, and if that wasn't acceptable we'd pick something else. Just never No.1; it doesn't need my (or anyone's) help.

[Alan Howe]

Quite right!

[JimL]

How about plumping for No. 3.  Anybody?

[Alan Howe]

That's good too, of course.

[minacciosa]

No.3 is terrific as well! It's also the most technically difficult of the three concertos; that and its length conspires to discourage most from giving it a go. Unfortunate; it's prime Bruch.

[Alan Howe]

Again, quite right!