A Dream Team for Delius

This glorious pairing of Tasmin Little and Paul Watkins takes Delius' concertos out of this world.

Composer: Delius

Repertoire: Violin Concerto; Cello Concerto; Double Concerto
Artist: Tasmin Little, Paul Watkins
Rating: 5/5

Genre: Orchestral

Label: Chandos CHSA5094



The Music: Delius’s concertos are like no other. The solo writing is not especially idiomatic and instinctively avoids the showiness of Walton or Elgar. But the music is simply glorious. 

The Performances: Even such distinguished exponents as Jean Pougnet and Ralph Holmes failed to entwine the solo line with the pulsating orchestral fabric of the Violin Concerto as convincingly as Tasmin Little and Andrew Davis achieve here. Paul Watkins proves no less eloquent in the Cello Concerto, making even the most awkward figurations sound glowingly lyrical, and when the two join forces in the Double Concerto the musical sparks really start to fly. 

The Verdict: An irresistible programme throughout which Delius’s golden phrases soar aloft as if floating on warm summer breezes, captured in exemplary Chandos sound. 

Want More? Don’t miss Little’s classic disc of Delius’ violin sonatas (Conifer, 75605 51315-2) and Watkins’ stunning Cyril Scott Cello Concerto (Chandos, CHAN 10452).