Reissues

Mahler Des Knaben Wunderhorn Warner 9029573984 (1968) 50:03 mins Electrifying, inspired performances. Schwarzkopf and Fischer-dieskau show complete mastery of vocal and orchestral colour in this crystal-clear, still-revelatory recording with Szell and the LSO. ★★★★★

Poulenc Gloria, Christmas Motets Saint-saëns Messe a quatre voix Eloquence 482 8798 (1973-82) 81:36 mins A sparkling, precise rendition of Poulenc’s mysterious, often playful Gloria by the Choeur de la Radio Suisse Romande, make a welcome foil for Saint-saëns’s lengthy and occasionally ponderous mass. ★★★★

Verdi Requiem Alto ALC 1602 (2009) 82:04 mins (2 discs) Slightly woolly and hefty sound at times (especially the chorus), but the soloists are appropriately operatic. Plenty of drama and grandeur from Colin Davis and the LSO. ★★★★

Christa Ludwig Brahms: Alt-rhapsodie; Mahler: Des Knaben Wunderhorn, etc. Warner Classics 9029573885 (1962-68) 74:13 mins Christa Ludwig’s classic warmth and richness is still ageless in this heartfelt, passionate account of four landmark Austro-german works. Every word is cherished and supported by the orchestra. ★★★★★