Pieces that have blown you away recently

[Symphonic Addict]

The Timpani label left us many gems that otherwise probably wouldn't see the light of day like this succulent disc of chamber works by Jean Cartan (1906-32). Born to a family of scientists, Jean decided to follow a musical career, having as mentors famous names like Widor and Roussel, mostly the latter influenced his style, but also Ravel, Debussy and Stravinsky whom he considered spiritual fathers. Cartan died prematurely of tuberculosis at the young age of 26.

Judging by the potential of these four works (two string quartets, Introduction et Allegro for piano and wind quintet and Sonatine for flute and clarinet), Cartan really had something substantial to contribute to the world of music. The string quartets are some of the most decidedly sparkling pieces in the form I've stumbled upon recently, combining some sharp and mildly astringent gestures with others playful to the bone. If they don't put a grin on your face, go to the doctor to check your health! Likewise, the Introduction et Allegro displays a good dose of charming personality. Quite an entertaining piece I must say, so is the Sonatine with its echoes of Poulenc, mostly in the lively Rondeau. All in all, a wholly delightful and pleasing product, including the eye-catching cover art.




Another work worth mentioning here is the recording of Hartmann's Symphony No. 6 via the Kubelik/Symphonieorchester des Bayerischen Rundfunks interpretation on Wergo. Not a first listen, but the last time I played it the impact on this listener was superlative. It simply is one of the most staggering symphonies of the 20th century bar none, and that coruscating performance did absolute justice to the gripping atmosphere of the 1st movement and the relentless power of the 2nd movement. That's a recording for the ages without a doubt.

[Roasted Swan]

Two things impressed me in opposite ways:

1) Obviously, the peerless playing of the violinist. If there's a perfect performance ever of anything, it must be this one. Ridiculously spectacular.

2) The indifference of some on the audience. I mean, come on! Somebody exhibits a jaw-dropping technique and they just react like if the performance wasn't convincing at all, no applauses, no smiles, nothing whatsoever? It baffles me big time. I can imagine how miserable their lives had to be. Granted, Paganini's music often feels empty and uninteresting, but that's not a fair reason not to be impacted by the fine art of that performer.

To your 2nd point - its the kind of (non) reaction from that audience that gives Classical Music a bad name - a kind of uptight/show no emotion vacuum.  If this isn't going to get you screaming approval what is!?!?  Reading a bit more about Hirschhorn apart from the tragedy of his early death from a brain tumour, he was apparently also afflicted by performance nerves.  If I played like that and got a cool reception perhaps I'd question my playing too!