Reissues

Mozart/bach Preludes and Fugues

Mozart Divertmento in E flat, K563

Pentatone PTC 5186714 (2006) 73:33 mins Fascinating to hear what Mozart dreamed up to precede Bach fugues; and to hear the fugues played so cleanly by Matt Haimovitz’s string trio.

The Divertimento is careful and twilit. ★★★★ Brahms Piano Quintet; Clarinet Quintet

Praga Digitals PRD 250390 (1956/64) 80:25 mins Seriously rugged, ruggedly serious Brahms from the Budapest String Quartet and friends. Serkin is magnificent in the Piano Quintet, but it is Oppenheim playing the Clarinet Quintet who shines. ★★★★ Brahms • Franck Piano Quintets

Alto ALC 1361 (1958/60) 79:16 mins

The sound quality really does interfere with this recording, but both performances featuring Sviatoslav Richter remain remarkable for their no-holds-barred intensity. ★★★

Rachmaninov Cello Sonata Reger Suite No. 2 Kodály Sonata for Solo Cello

Praga Digitals PRD 250411 (1955/57) 78:51 mins This is crowned with a Kodály Solo Sonata by Zara Nelsova that burns into the soul. The Reger has charm and the Rachmaninov presents a beautifully balanced partnership with Artur Balsam. ★★★★★