Bohuslav Matousek; Christopher Hogwood: Czech Philharmonic Orchestra - Martinu: The complete music for violin and orchestra, Vol. 3

This is the third volume in Hyperion�s set of the complete works for violin and orchestra by Martinu, featuring the wonderful Bohuslav Matousek with the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra under Christopher Hogwood. Many first recordings are included in the series, as well as works totally unperformed outside the Czech Republic. The two very different versions of Martinu�s Suite concertante are fascinating rarities. The only well-known work on this disc is the Rhapsody-Concerto for viola and orchestra: a lyrical, virtuosic piece written for Jascha Viessi and one of the most performed viola concertos of the twentieth century.The programme notes by Ales Bresina are meticulously researched and provide a comprehensive background to the intriguing genesis and performance history of these works.