How welcome to have a new recording from Tasmin Little, now at the peak of her form, as we heard in her masterly Prom reading with Sir Simon Rattle and the Berlin Philharmonic of the formidable Violin Concerto by Ligeti. Though this collection of lollipops represents the opposite end of her repertory, it is exceptional in many ways, not least in being beautifully constructed to make a satisfying, well-contrasted programme.
It might be unique for a violin disc to start with a virtuoso flourish from the accompanist, but that is how Tchaikovskiana opens: it is a fantasy on Tchaikovsky themes, mainly from Swan Lake. Initially improvised by the two performers in recitals, here it is given in a more formalised version. It harks back endearingly to the virtuoso pot-pourris so beloved of performers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, full of display, with Lenehan an equal partner. Sly references to the Violin Concerto and the First Piano Concerto only add to the sense of fun evident throughout.
Elgar's Salut d'amour is expressive yet not sentimental, with breathtaking pianissimi. The dynamic range of Little's playing is remarkable throughout: the rare "Légende" by Delius provides a fine example, with high contrasts of dynamic, expression and tone.
There is weight, too, in the "Scherzo" that Brahms contributed to the "FAE Sonata", jointly composed with Schumann and Albert Dietrich, a tough, animated performance with Lenehan again an equal partner. The Ravel is seductively slinky, as is the unpretentious little salon piece by Lionel Sainsbury, "Cuban Dance No 2", and the three Kreisler items are ideally chosen. Kreisler is the arranger of Heuberger's most famous theme, "Im chambre separé", labelling it "Midnight Bells", and Heifetz's delicious arrangement of Ponce's "Estrellita" brings more seduction.
The Janacek "Dumka" is an attractive rarity, and Little and Lenehan reserve for the end their flamboyant arrangement of an old warhorse, Monti's "Czardas". The joy of the performers on this disc makes you share in it.
GRAMOPHONE (Edward Greenfield)