“A richly experienced chamber musician, Kathleen Long (1896-1968) was partnered and praised by Casals, played Ravel's 'Ondine' to the composer and gave over 60 National Gallery concerts during the Second World War. Though her playing may initially seem too restrained, you find yourself wondering why you've never enjoyed music so much or been made so aware, however unobtrusively, of its innermost spirit. It's in Fauré's Ballade that she makes her finest impression. Indeed, it's difficult to imagine this magical work played more serenely or inwardly. Even French critics wary of foreign interpreters marvelled over this recording. Her affection is evident in every caressing bar and makes for a perfect conclusion to a delectable disc. Long was a born aristocrat of the keyboard and you'll look in vain for any overt or disfiguring drama in her lucid and stylish performance of Mozart's C minor Concerto. The recordings have come up well and the inclusion in the booklet of a 1950 Gramophone interview is an illuminating bonus.”
Click on any of the works listed above for alternative recordings.
