Stravinsky & Brahms: Violin Concertos

Although I’ve been madly passionate about Brahms all my life, it’s been primarily his chamber music that has attracted me. His violin concerto has never really reached out and grabbed me, until I heard Hilary play it with Marriner two weeks ago; now I can’t get the memory out of my mind. She gives it both a sweetness and a sense of drama that I had previously found lacking in the piece. (I feel so guilty writing that - as if Brahms himself were reading this over my shoulder - forgive me, Johannes!) She seems, while performing this, to be literally swept away by the music she herself is playing - almost as if the very notes themselves were flying off the page to enfold her in a cloak made up of all the colors of darkness and light. No, I’m NOT stoned; I was just very much affected by her performance. You will be too. Library Cat 11-7-17

I think this is the best overall performance of this wonderful concerto. The orchestra is open, with a beautiful sound balance; Hahn's violin is vibrant, sweet and clear - good tempo (she sometimes likes to rush - mostly on Bach) - there are many good versions out there but, IMHO, this one is the best. I am a fan of Jansen but this time the recording is not “great” - it seems "hooded" - tight- specially the orchestra --blame the audio engineer if you like.... well those are my 2 cents.