Violinist Lea Birringer’s performance of the Christian Sinding selections are impressive. Her Mendelssohn Violin Concerto, though, is missing drive, excitement, and passion.
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Classical Album Reviews: Sibelius Symphonies from Klaus Mäkelä and Owain Arwel Hughes
Conductor Klaus Mäkelä may be young, but, on the merits of this set, he sure seems to be the real deal. Buckle up: this ought to be an exciting career.
Classical Album Review: “A Sicilian Traveller” — Exploring Different Corners of the Globe
Cellist Alessio Pianelli’s playing is songful and lovely. The Avos Chamber Orchestra — essentially a student orchestra — imbues their performances with a confidence and surety that is inspiring.
Classical CD Reviews: Birringer Duo’s “Lifelines,” Steve Reich’s “Drumming,” and Liza Stepanova’s “Tones and Colors”
The Birringer Duo’s disc is a terrific, engaging release, The Colin Currie Group’s performance is nothing short of a powerhouse, and pianist Liza Stepanova plays with lots of character and color.
CD Reviews: Joshua Bell’s Classical Collection; the Baltic Chamber Orchestra plays Shostakovich and Strauss
The Classical Collection proves that violinist Joshua Bell is only now entering his prime; the Baltic Chamber Orchestra serves up a grim and underwhelming disc.