Elgar/Bloch
Published:
COMPOSERS: Elgar/Bloch
LABELS: Virgin Ultraviolet
WORKS: Cello Concerto; Schelomo
PERFORMER: Steven Isserlis (cello)LSO/Richard Hickox
CATALOGUE NO: CUV 5 61125 2 DDD (1989)
This recording, made in 1988, was recommendable enough at full price; at mid price it’s a terrific bargain. Isserlis is among the most convincing present-day interpreters of the Elgar Concerto, not least because he eschews Du Pré-style histrionics in favour of a more Classical approach. Hickox is a stylish accompanist, and both conductor and soloist make a strong case for Bloch’s 20-minute ‘Hebraic Rhapsody’ Schelomo. Splendidly clear sound. Stephen Maddock