Sibelius Violin Cto. in D Minor Op. 47
Sibelius Symphonic Poem "En Saga" Op. 9
Ravel Daphnis et Chloé Ste. No. 2

Georg Kulenkampf, violin
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra - 1943 and 1944
$9

This is really strange territory for Furtwängler. However, I find the Sibelius very satisfying indeed, especially for Kulenkampf's impassioned performance of the Violin Concerto. The En Saga is very good as well, aided by an excellent recording.

The Ravel is a different matter altogether. French music is far removed from Furtwängler's serious Germanic approach. Still, some might be interested in this as a curiosity. On the other hand, the Sibelius is well worth having.

From Henry Fogel's review of this transfer of the Violin Concerto: "One of only two Sibelius works in the Furtwängler discography, this splendid performance has not been as well treated in prior transfers, and Chibás opens it up marvelously. Pristine and Naxos have not yet gotten around to it, and Chibás' version far surpasses the Music & Arts and Archipel editions. There is a wider palette of color for both Kulenkampff's violin and the Berlin Philharmonic. What this improved sound makes clear is that this is a very special reading worthy of standing on its own terms with the best offerings of Heifetz and Oistrakh."

From his review of this transfer of En Saga: "Chibás' achievement here, when compared to DG and Music & Arts transfers, is to give full reign to the performance's wide dynamic range. This is a crucial element in this music, and it makes this a significant contribution from Chibás. There is an amazing range and variety of soft dynamics in this performance, and they have never been as evident before."







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