Brilliant Classics proudly presents the brand-new 5-album sets series: QUINTESSENCE, attractively priced compact box sets containing essential core classical repertoire in outstanding performances. Aimed at attracting both the discerning classical connoisseur and the classical newcomer it presents the pillars of classical music: Bach Famous Cantatas, Dvorák Complete Concertos and Symphonic Poems. Mozart Complete Wind Concertos and Serenades, Beethoven Complete Violin Sonatas and Cello Sonatas and Sibelius Complete Symphonies and Symphonic Poems. World class performers include Staatskapelle Dresden with Herbert Blomstedt, Netherlands Bach Collegium with Pieter Jan Leusink, Klára Würtz, Timora Rosler, Kristóf Baráti, Berliner Sinfonie-Orchester with Kurt Sanderling and others. The fresh and colorful artwork is eye-catching while the booklet contains liner notes in English. A new series at an unbeatable price! The present release features Jean Sibelius’s complete symphonies and symphonic poems performed by the Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra.

REVIEW:

Sanderling glories in detail. He can tend towards a steadiness that occasionally decays the pulse and thrust of the music. Often however his unglamorous approach brings out details that others gloss and chamfer. He is not afraid to allow these Northern flowers and trees to bloom at a natural pace. He is no stranger to drama but will not fabricate it unnaturally. Tension is exposed rather than created. This set is in many ways a most agreeable library staple and conductor, orchestra and recording all lend themselves to long-term listening rather than immediate emotional returns and short-term neon high-drama.

– MusicWeb International