EuroArts gives us some memorable archival performances of several of Strauss’ greatest vocal proponents caught in their prime
Classic Archive: Collector’s Edition, Vol. 3 [Rostropovich/Richter, Et al.] Blu-ray Review
This Collector’s Edition contains a raft of definitive performances of many core chamber music works
Chopin: Piano Concertos Nos. 1 & 2 [Warsaw Philharmonic/Ohlsson] Blu-ray Review
An outstanding survey of Chopin’s two piano concertos is rendered by international star soloist Garrick Ohlsson and the Warsaw Philharmonic, ably led by Antoni Wit.
Steve Reich: Phase to Face Blu-ray Review
A fascinating inside look into the life and compositions of Pulitzer prize-winning composer Steve Reich. This film follows Reich on an 18-month tour and includes selections of some of his best known works.
Verbier Festival 2010: Martha Argerich [Gábor Takács-Nagy] Blu-ray Review
Living piano legend Martha Argerich holds sway at this 2010 Verbier Festival video, featuring piano works by Beethoven, Shostakovich and Scarlatti. The superb performances are somewhat undermined by PCM 2.0 channel sound only.
Beethoven: Symphonies Nos. 4 & 7 [Jurowski/Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment] Blu-ray Review
This all-Beethoven program from the Paris Art Deco Theatre of the Champs-Elysees features period instruments and reduced forces. While maestro Vladimir Jurowski tries to stir up enthusiasm for this approach, most Beethoven-lovers will find these performances, sonically undernourished.
