Yossif Ivanov & Brussels Philharmonic - Violin Concertos (2022)

It’s a very nice idea to pair the Tchaikovsky and Stravinsky Violin Concertos. Two concertos in D major from two major Russian masters, the former a proper old repertoire warhorse, the latter rather more neglected, one wonders why more people haven’t thought of it.
There’s also much to admire in these assured performances, beginning with Belgian violinist Yossif Ivanon’s beautifully rich tone and technical polish. Just listen to the velvety huskiness with which he makes his first Tchaikovsky entry, and the way he maintains a rounded glow and finesse of attack even through the fastest, thorniest passagework. Plus, he’s matched by a wonderfully deep, burnished warmth and weight from the Brussels Philharmonic, including some fabulously characterful and Russian-sounding woodwind and brass colour.
The readings themselves then very much match that sumptuous sound quality. This is a big-boned, leisurely-paced, Romantic Tchaikovsky concerto to which Ivanon brings a wide array of portamenti and some seriously luxurious rubato moments. In fact some will decide his first movement cadenza has been overly stretched out. Add the occasional moment where the orchestra tips from feeling unhurried to bogged down, and if you’re someone who likes your Tchaikovsky to come with a more freely flying feel, then you’re best heading to Janine Jansen with the Mahler Chamber Orchestra and Daniel Harding, or for a brand new rising name, Johan Dalene with the Norrköping Symphony Orchestra and Daniel Blendulf.

Track List:
1. Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35: I. Allegro moderato (18:57)
2. Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35: II. Andante canzonetta (6:44)
3. Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 35: III. Allegro vivacissimo (10:44)
4. Violin Concerto in D Major, W 61: I. Toccata (5:42)
5. Violin Concerto in D Major, W 62: II. Aria I (4:29)
6. Violin Concerto in D Major, W 63: III. Aria II (5:03)
7. Violin Concerto in D Major, W 64: IV. Capriccio (6:06)