Although we have had an impressive survey of recordings from Marco Polo with regard to Rubinstein's orchestral music, the Cello Concerto has remained, quite strangely, out of the recorded repertoire.
This issue is therefore doubly welcome as it also includes a recording of fifteen minutes or so from 'The Demon' another void in the Rubinstein discography.
Gerhardt's interpretation of the music is quite excellent and he manages to add some felicitous touches to proceedings that may seem somewhat dull occasionally. Likewise, Hanson's conducting of the lanky 'Don Quixote' is extremely involving and he brings much colour and character to the piece.
The recording is crisp and clear and anyone who is interested in such Russian repertoire should not hesitate.
Copyright © 2003, Gerald Fenech