Verdi: Messa Solenne, Libera Me - Sacred Works / Riccardo Chailly

A fascinating disc of Verdi rarities, and one in which the dedication of all concerned is beyond doubt.

Reveries / Eiji Oue, Minnesota Orchestra

A wonderfully programmed album that picks up on the theme of reverie as a journey: each piece moves at a docile, ambling pace. 

Chopin: Piano Concertos 1 & 2 / Fialkowska, Tovey, Vancouver SO

Janina Fialkowska is a pianist of considerable technique and much sensitivity.

Hugo Wolf: The Complete Songs, Vol. 5

This recording shows what can be done with enterprise, enthusiasm, dedication, and bold artistic vision. 

Dvorak, Suk: Serenades Tcheques

Here are two of the loveliest and most popular string serenades, with Dvorák’s Nocturne for String Orchestra thrown in for good measure.

Tchaikovsky, Grieg: Piano Concertos / Stewart Goodyear

Stewart Goodyear does indeed impress with his bullseye accuracy, rapid fingerwork, and an overriding sense of confidence borne from the mastery of his instrument.

Chopin: Piano Concertos No 1 & 2 / Kupiec, Et Al

Here's a recording where the composer's accompaniments take on a sense of distinction and musical meaning with which many conductors don't even bother.

Mendelssohn: Midsummer Night's Dream / Judd, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra

If one wanted only one recording of the piece, this is a prime candidate. Once again, Naxos produces a winner.

Schubert, Rossini, Verdi / Cornelia Lanz

Grieg: Holberg Suite, Erotikk, Elegiac Melodies / Tognetti, Australian Chamber Orchestra

As you can well imagine Tognetti has his crack ensemble playing the piece to a fare-thee-well, with all of the passion and drive that one could possibly ask for.