Saint-Saëns: Havanaise, Op. 83

“He has the clean, clear-cut and effortless technique that is a prime necessity for [the Sibelius] concerto. The reading is straightforward, with no lack of intensity...Ricci is especially impressive in the Finale [of the Tchaikovsky], where the soloist's brilliance comes into its own - inspiring an electricity in Sargent's conducting which was often lacking in his studio recordings.” Penguin Guide, 2011 edition

“Benedetti shows a real individuality and maturity. It's an interesting programme well suited to her excellent technique and tone, which she intuitively adapts to suit each of the works...Best of all though is her stunningly mature performance of the Chausson Poème. This piece suits her playing perfectly and she produces a consistent line throughout as good as some of the greats of the past.” Claire Rogers, bbc.co.uk, 9th May 2005

“It's enough to make you weep – Saint-Saëns wrote his first tune at the age of three, analysed Mozart's Don Giovanni from the full score when he was five, and at 10 claimed he could play all Beethoven's 32 piano sonatas from memory.
There's some consolation that, according to a contemporary, physically 'he strangely resembled a parrot', and perhaps even his early brilliance was a curse rather than a blessing, as he regressed from being a bold innovator to a dusty reactionary. In his thirties (in the 1870s) he was at the forefront of the Lisztian avant-garde. He was the first Frenchman to attempt Liszt's new genre, the 'symphonic poem', bringing to it a typically French concision, elegance and grace.
Charles Dutoit has few peers in this kind of music; here's playing of dramatic flair and classical refinement that exactly matches Saint-Saëns intention and invention. Decca's sound has depth, brilliance and richness.” Gramophone Classical Music Guide, 2010

“Beautifully played performances, recorded in the Kingsway Hall with splendid atmosphere and colour. Charles Dutoit shows himself an admirably sensitive exponent of this repertoire, revelling in the composer's craftsmanship and revealing much delightful orchestral details...Altogether a splendid collection.” Penguin Guide, 2011 edition

“A fiery version of Sarasate's Zigeunerweisen.” Classic CD