Discover what’s new in recorded classical music each Saturday evening at 8:00 on WHRO-FM with “This Just In.” This week, host Raymond Jones explores a sweep of recently released performances that spotlight both beloved masterpieces and lesser-known gems.
We begin with a fresh look at one of the cornerstones of the cello repertoire: Bach’s Cello Suite No. 1, performed by Inbal Megiddo. Her new Atoll release of the complete suites, issued just last month, has drawn praise for its “remarkable freedom and expressive depth.”
From there, we turn to a vibrant English voice with Thomas Pitfield’s “Concerto Lirico,” performed by violinist Emma McGrath with the Liepāja Symphony Orchestra under Paul Mann. Drawn from a recent Toccata release devoted to Pitfield’s orchestral music, this lyrical concerto showcases the composer’s knack for melody, clarity, and charm.
Staying in the realm of string writing, we feature a new interpretation of Beethoven’s Cello Sonata No. 5, performed with exceptional sensitivity by cellist Emanuel Gruber and pianist Arnon Erez, a standout entry in Bridge’s ongoing Beethoven series.
The program then widens its scope with a major symphonic statement: the London Symphony Orchestra’s live recording of Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5, part of Gianandrea Noseda’s acclaimed traversal of all the Shostakovich symphonies for the LSO’s own label.
We close in England with a work of deep introspection: George Lloyd’s “Requiem,” featuring countertenor Stephen Wallace, organist Jeffrey Makinson, the Exon Singers, and conductor Matthew Owens.
Hear it all Saturday evening at 8:00 on WHRO-FM 90.3, or stream online, and discover what’s new in recorded classical music with “This Just In.”
