This mixed Haydn concert opens with a highly sophisticated performance of the urbane Sinfonia concertante written in London (which Hoboken's catalogue wrongly identified as Symphony No. 105). Solo and orchestral playing is consistently polished, interplay between the four protagonists deft and alert. The opening movement is spirited yet properly spacious, with plenty of room for the players to savour details like the wonderful chromatic counterpoint of the development, and the sallies for oboe and bassoon in the finale (Gordon Hunt's creamy tone a constant pleasure) are deliciously managed... In the D major Cello Concerto, whose popularity continues to defy regular critical broadsides, Ralph Kirshbaum is a strong, eloquent soloist, and negotiates with agility and aplomb Haydn's taxing and sometimes ungrateful figuration. I specially enjoyed his grace and concentration of line in the Adagio, where he brings a beautiful hushed intensity to the main theme's reprise (4'03"). Other readings, including those by Truls Mork and Yo-Yo Ma — both more conveniently coupled with the C major Concerto — have displayed a more subtle range of colour and a more delicate, fanciful touch in the finale; but Kirshbaum stands up pretty well against some hot competition.

-- Gramophone [1/1996]