Kurtag: Complete Works For Ensemble And Choir – Reinbert de Leeuw

   in Classical Music (Jul, 2017)
These works are well-represented already on disc, but this compelling new set both enriches that legacy and makes an ideal introduction to the composer’s intricate, dazzling soundworld. For De Leeuw, this was clearly a labour of love and, working closely with the composer, he delivers razor-sharp performances that draw the listener inexorably in. Playing is uniformly electric, pianist Tamara Stefanovich and cellist Jean-Guihen Queyras especially shining, while soprano Natalia Zagorinskaya gives a definitive reading of the relatively early masterpiece Messages of the Late Miss R V Troussova. With fine choral contributions, demonstration quality sound and presentation, this is an unmissable set. …