Customer Reviews

Tchaikovsky, Sibelius: Violin Concertos - The Classic Sound / Chung, Previn

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Kyung Wha Chung is one of the truly outstanding (and diffident) violinists of the 20th century. Musically and technically, she stands on the cusp of the late 20th century: the irrefutable influence of the aging Russian models of near-perfection (heifetz, milstein, oistrakh, kogan etc) and the currently evolving schools of purity and accuracy lacking personality or spirit. Anyone listening to Chung will recognise her style, as one does the Great Masters of the early-mid 20th century, but marvel at her accuracy and purity, and musical intelligence.

The Sibelius is probably the finest version on disc, taking into consideration the main competitors (Heifetz versions and possibly another Oriental virtuoso).

Strengths in Chung's performance:
a) Interpretation is 5 gold stars, dazzling and passionate, with plenty of "Fire without warmth" that characterizes Sibelius. No hint of over-romaticizing in the second movement, though it is the Heifetz versions which move me to tears with the intensity and darkness of the brilliance here.
b) Rapport with Andre Previn, who is one of the most seriously underrated conductors of his time. 5 Gold Stars.
c) Orchestral playing by the LSO at their very best. 5 Gold Stars
d) Recording quality and remastering are absolutely excellent. 5 Silver Stars.

I was awestruck by this version when I first heard it on vinyl release, and I have never tired of it after 30 years of listening on all media to date. I have no adverse comments whatever.

The Tchaikovsy is excellent, really vibrant and spontaneous. 5 Stars. I listen to the versions by Milstein (1959 stereo, Steinberg cond) and Leonid Kogan (1959 stereo, Silvestri cond) more frequently, however, for their silvery articulation. Nevertheless, I love to hear Chung's from time to time, for its freshness and recorded quality. A great version.

You will cherish this CD.

Yes, the Tchaikovsky is good. But buy this disc for the Sibelius if you like this concerto. The quality of the Sibelius recording is superior to that of the Tchaikovsky and I rather think Chung was a little more on her form. The Tchaikovsky is not up to the standards of the Classic Sound series in my opinion, but the Sibelius is definitely first class.

Purchased based on guidance found here and from Gramophone, I am not disappointed in Ms. Chung's reading of the venerable violin concertos from Tchaikovsky and Sibelius. Overall the CD is very satisfying both in terms of performances and sound. Ms. Chung's performance has a wonderful personal quality which, while technically satisfactory will seem somewhat delicate to listeners more accustomed to (and expecting parity with) Heifetz, Stern or Mutter. This departure from expectation shows refreshing independence relative to the dogma of precision over passion. Though a departure from more traditional readings, Ms. Chung's personal style does not disappoint. The Tchaikovsky concerto is excellent though I recommend considering Mutter or Josefowicz. The Sibelius, however, is first-rate by any standard and fully justifies the critic's accolades. In both accounts Previn and the London Symphony are in top form, as they deliver superior support while ensuring proper balance between orchestra and soloist. A wonderful addition to the catalog of these classics.

Incredible. Simply the best version I have heard.