Martinu: The Complete Music For Violin & Orchestra

Bohuslav Matousek - Violin and Viola
Czech Philharmonic Orchestra
Christopher Hogwood - Conductor

1-4. Suite Concertante (first version)
5-8. Suite Concertante (second version)
9. Rhapsody-Concerto

This is the third volume in Hyperion's set of the complete works for violin and orchestra by Martinu, featuring the wonderful Bohuslav Matousek with the Czech Phiharmonic Orchestra under Christopher Hogwood. Many first recordings are included in the series, as well as works totally unperformed outside the Czech Republic. The two very different versions of Martinu's Suite concertante are fascinating rarities. The only well-known work on this disc is the Rhapsody-Concerto for viola and orchestra: a lyrical, virtuosic piece written for Jascha Viessi and one of the most performed viola concertos of the twentieth century.
The programme notes by Alés Bresina are meticulously researched and provide a comprehensive background to the intriguing genesis and performance history of these works.
Gramophone Editor's Choice - July 2008

Price: $19.98