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Editorial Reviews

Sibelius composed his Violin Concerto at a crucial point in his artistic development, turning away from the romantic expansiveness of his first two symphonies and beginning to forge a more spare and concentrated style. Depending on the performance, this transitional work can sound either like a sequel to the lushly lyrical Tchaikovsky concerto or a rugged harbinger of Sibelius' later masterpieces. Joshua Bell seems to opt for the former approach, in an interpretation that's most notable for its gentle elegance. If he sometimes smooths over the music's jagged edges, he never indulges in sentimentality, keeping his tone appropriately lean and pure. Esa-Pekka Salonen is with him all the way, making his Los Angeles orchestra sound as dark and velvety as the Berlin Philharmonic. Karl Goldmark's Violin Concerto makes an interesting companion, and an apt one, as Goldmark was one of Sibelius' teachers. Bell is a persuasive advocate for this underrated work, playing with a satisfying blend of grace, ardor, and (in the final movement) wit. This young violinist's quickly growing discography proves he is not only a virtuoso of the top rank, but a passionate musician with a mind of his own. Andrew Farach-Colton, Barnes & Noble

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