Joshua Bell - Beethoven: Symphonies 4 & 7 (2013) [Hi-Res]

Joshua Bell’s first recording as Music Director of the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, where he both directs and plays from the concertmaster’s chair. Recorded at the famed Air Studios in London, is the first Beethoven release as they plan to record the composer’s entire cycle.

“there's a winning fluidity to the collaboration. Bell's semi-historical approach involves sheer textures and blistering speeds, sweetened here and there with soloistic vibrato. The Seventh could do with more mist and awe but the dances are tightly and brightly pointed.” (The Independent)

“These are splendidly alert performances, responding to every nuance in the music, and they made me listen to Beethoven with fresh ears. Particularly impressive is the pianissimo playing Bell obtains from the orchestra...This recording is a real pleasure.” (BBC Music Magazine)

“Bell's interpretative reach isn't long but nothing is out of place. Readers who like music 'played straight' may be very satisfied” (Gramophone)

Joshua Bell, violin
Academy of St Martin in the Fields