Outstanding performances, intimate recording
A. Grasso | Cleveland, OH, USA | 01/23/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Who knew that it would take a Russian violinist and a German composer to do the finest job at plumbing the emotional depths of Scottish folk tunes? Well, I wouldn't have believed it either, had I not heard this early 1960's recording. And I'm sure my version isn't as good as this 24-bit CD remastering, with all the bells and whistles. I bought mine as a monophonic record for a buck at a local store (granted, it was in extremely clean and fine condition).
What strikes you right away is how "up-front" the recording of the violin is...like you're standing in the conductor's position, instead of out in the audience. Although this may not be the most realistic, in terms of reproducing the concert experience, it certainly works for appreciating Oistrakh's playing in a very intimate way. His performance is tremendously lyrical, warm, and nuanced. In my humble opinion, it blows Heifetz's well-known recording right out of the water. The 3rd, slow section of the Scottish Fantasia is especially moving.
The Hindemith Violin Concerto is an unusual, abstract piece, and probably not for everyone. However, if you like the Mathis Der Maler Symphony and the Metamorphoses on a theme by von Weber, you could get into it. And it doesn't hurt to have Oistrakh in the soloist position, either. Kind of like the Shostakovich concerti. His playing is incisive and aggressive, a very interesting counterpoint to the lyricism and grace of the Bruch.
My advice to lovers of Oistrakh, Bruch, violin, or all of the above: get this album. It costs some dough, but is probably worth it. Other option: scour your local record stores for some low-cost, but high-quality versions of the original Decca vinyl. And if it's mono, don't sweat it, because it won't decrease your enjoyment of the performance one iota.
Happy listening,
Adam"
Track Listings (6) - Disc #1