Brahms Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77 David Oistrakh (violin) Conductor: George Szell The Cleveland Orchestra Recorded: May 1969 Oistrakh's Brahms Violin Concerto has about 4-5 recordings, but the two stereo recordings, the 1960 recording with Klemperer/Orchestre National de la Radiodiffusion Française and this one, are generally highly regarded. Which is superior is a matter of preference, making it a truly difficult choice. In the 2017 "500 Great Recordings," the 1960 recording was ranked 2nd and the 1969 recording 3rd, with only a one-point difference, so it's almost negligible. Combined, they are only one point behind the 1st-place Heifetz recording, but comparing Heifetz and Oistrakh is difficult because their personalities are almost opposite. Oistrakh's tone is warm and full of humanity, yet remarkably stable, a performance that allows you to feel the depths of the soul. Oistrakh was a great Russian violinist, praised for his robust, warm, and dignified style. In this performance, you can hear a powerful violin with great dignity, and the sound, which is neither too bright nor overly refined, is perfect for Brahms. Szell's conducting is precise and powerful, but the refined sound he shows in performances of Mozart's symphonies is subdued here. I think this approach suits this piece better. And the overall content is fulfilling. Please, by all means, listen to it carefully. Oistrakh's violin solo has a sharp attack, but it is overall expansive and lustrous, and the generosity of leaving everything to the stable orchestral expression makes it the best expression of this piece. The orchestra is the Cleveland Orchestra, conducted by George Szell, arguably the best in the 20th century, and the superb ensemble, rigorously trained, and the beauty of the tone of each part fully bring out the symphonic charm of this piece, making it a first-class performance. Japanese domestic pressing, with obi, no scratches on the disc. 12 Slight scratches on the plastic case. *Bulk purchase discounts available (please comment beforehand) 2 items purchased → 150 yen off, 3 items purchased → 300 yen off 4 items purchased → 450 yen off, 10 or more items → 150 yen off all items (Discounts for single purchases are not available)