Concerto nominations

Shostakovich

Violin Concertos 1 & 2 Alina Ibragimova (violin); State Academic Symphony Orchestra of Russia ‘Evgeny Svetlanov’/vladimir Jurowski

Hyperion CDA68313

Reviewed July 2020

Alina Ibragimova shines striking new light on Shostakovich’s violin concertos, delivering a daring and intelligent performance. Soloist, orchestra and conductor make the most of their intense connection, taking on the emotional and technical challenges of these works with dazzling zeal.

Chopin

Piano Concertos (arr. chamber) Kevin Kenner (piano);

Apollon Musagète Quartett

Fryderyk Chopin Institute NIFCCD0220 Reviewed Christmas 2020

US pianist and previous Chopin Competition winner Kevin Kenner produced his own edition of these concertos for piano and string quintet. This elegant, spontaneous performance is revelatory, begging the question of whether, in fact, these concertos are better suited to a more intimate setting.

Brahms • R Schumann

Brahms: Double Concerto*;

R Schumann: Violin Concerto

Antje Weithaas (violin), *Max Hornung (cello); NDR Radio Phil/andrew Manze

CPO 555 172-2

Reviewed January 2020

Guiding the listener through the emotional rollercoaster that is Schumann’s last major work is the crowning achievement of this recording. Conductor Andrew Manze and violinist Antje Weithaas navigate both it and the Brahms Double with sensitivity and insight, creating a compelling dialogue.