The orchestra's performance of Tod und Verklärung is spectacular. In a score that loves to show off its lushness, Runnicles highlights not only that luxuriance, but fills it with vigor, intensity, grandeur and, simply, beauty--just listen to the gorgeous oboe solo near the start. You need not fear too much melodrama, however, and the transfiguration theme is presented near the end with utter ease and dignity.

Strauss' Four Last Songs have been well represented on CD, but Brewer's and Runnicles' reading is ravishing. Because Brewer's voice is in its prime, she can do almost anything with it; her long-spun phrases are as natural-sounding as the high-lying vocal line is arching and beautifully offered. The sound is excellent, with big voice and big orchestra perfectly balanced.