"This is an extraordinarily good album! Not only because it combines Sibelius’ Violin Concerto with pieces for violin and piano, but above all because it presents exemplary interpretations.
Thomas Albertus Irnberger inspires with his very bright, clear playing on the violin, which contrasts pleasantly with the dark sound of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. This creates a completely new sound constellation, especially as Irnberger’s playing always remains fine and transparent and has a flowing, narrative character. The emotions are well dosed and very cleverly balanced, and Irnberger proves to be an imaginative designer who is always in a constructive and congruent dialogue with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. The orchestra is conducted by the 74-year-old Israeli Doron Salomon. He conducts with care and does justice to the Sibelius score in every respect. The interplay with the soloists is optimal, so I have no hesitation in placing this Gramola recording alongside my two favorite recordings by Vengerov/Barenboim/Chicago and Kuusisto/Segerstam/Helsinki.
Irnberger also offers great interpretive artistry in the pieces for violin and piano, where he has the outstanding pianist Michael Korstick as his partner. Here, too, the listener experiences absolutely captivating chamber music. As an additional treat, there is the Danse champêtre by Sibelius and the Valse Triste by Franz von Vecsey, both with Korstick at the piano. This great and very spacious recording is highly recommended."
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