Search - Prokofiev, Joshua Bell, Dutoit :: Violin Concerti 1 & 2

Joshua Bell and Montreal Symphony offer sensitive Prokofiev

Neal M. Weaver | El Paso, Tx USA | 03/28/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The two Prokofiev violin concertos recorded here with Charles Dutoit conducting the Montreal Symphony are wonderful examples of reading beyond the notes. Bell, even though only 25 years old at the time, plays the fiendishly difficult passages with a facile understanding of just how to fit the violin into the fabric of the orchestral score. And, Dutoit never allows the orchestra to overpower or strain the solo lines, giving the entire work a cohesive and organic unity which I have not heard from other recordings. Bell's sense of pitch is nothing short of phenomenal. In addition, the Love of Three Oranges Suite is an exceptionally musical complement to the CD. This album was withdrawn far too soon from the catalogue; it's to be hoped that a reissue is in order."