This disc groups some of Dohnányi's rare works together and most of them are quite intriguing discoveries. The American Rhapsody is full of gorgeous melodies although it is quite loosely structured, however it receives a splendid performance from Farrer and the ES who play the music for all its worth. The Harp Concertino finds Dohnányi in lyrical mood and Lucy Wakeford is an ideal exponent with her instrument recorded in a spacious acoustic thus very revealing in clarity. The main work is the 2nd Violin Concerto which also receives a spanking performance especially the beautiful inner movements, both quite in contrast with each other. Janice Graham plays with commitment and panache, and she is sympathetically accompanied by Farrer and his orchestra. The other works are a rousing Wedding waltz from 'The Veil of Pierette' and the pensive Romanza from the Serenade in C arranged by Dmitri Shostakovitch. Both are splendidly played by farrer and the ES. AS&V provide a beefy, clear cut recording that adds to the enjoyment of the music which is never less than excellent. Recommended to lovers of romantic music from this Hungarian master.
Copyright © 2001, Gerald Fenech