In Vadim Gluzman we find yet another superb violinist of the Russian school (though he now makes his home in Israel). For sheer fiery virtuosity this version of the Tchaikovsky concerto is pretty hard to beat. Particularly in the finale Gluzman’s passage work in double-stops is jaw-droppingly spectacular, and if the orchestra seems to be straining to keep up with him now and then, well, it’s just part of the fun. He’s pretty remarkable elsewhere too; the first movement has plenty of Romantic passion, aided by Litton’s eruptive orchestral tuttis. Gluzman phrases the Canzonetta with apt simplicity and taste, if without quite the poise that makes Milstein incomparable here. Still, this is a terrific performance, and it’s wonderful to have the lovely Souvenir d’un lieu cher in Glazunov’s skillful orchestration as a bonus.
Speaking of Glazunov, his concerto hovers on the edge of the repertoire, probably because of its odd form–a single movement in three parts that doesn’t really wake up until the finale–and because of its timing–less than 20 minutes. But when the music does get going, watch out! It really does deserve more attention: the tunes are great and the violin writing is obviously rewarding. Once again Gluzman plays with Heifetz-like virtuosity and precision, and the brilliantly clear and clean sonics capture every tidbit of Glazunov’s colorful orchestration (including harp and glockenspiel). Enthusiastically recommended! [2/21/2008]
