Perched up in the mountains of Switzerland, the Verbier Festival is one of Europe’s musical gems, and this recording from 2014 is typical of its tradition for bringing together unique and exciting lineups. Violinist Joshua Bell and cellist Steven Isserlis have been friends for years and here they’re joined by three other first-class players. The piano part of this, one of Franck’s greatest works, is challenging—it was premiered by Saint-Saëns—and Marc-André Hamelin plays superbly. The high emotional pressure is thrillingly carried from first note to last in this very impressive live performance.

CD

These are the Goldberg Variations as you’ve never heard them before – Bach’s beloved keyboard masterpiece arranged for string trio
For this special project, celebrated cellist Mischa Maisky teamed up with violinist Julian Rachlin and violist Nobuko Imai – world-class musicians who are both acclaimed soloists and chamber musicians in their own right
The arrangement for string trio, which is dedicated it to the memory of pianist Glenn Gould, was done by the violinist and conductor Dmitry Sitkovetsky in 1985 to celebrate Bach’s tercentenary
The arrangement brings a soft, warm string sound to the well-known melodies, creating a joyful listening experience for a broad audience as well as a new vision of the popular piece for specialists
An revelatory new version of one of the milestones of keyboard repertoire