Conversely, the much earlier (1968) Violin Concerto is a model of concentration and cohesion in its three brief movements. The introduction's wistful violin solo opens into a poignant first movement, highlighted by a dramatic discourse between violin and orchestra that includes some engaging coloristic effects, particularly the use of bell tones and tuned percussion. The second movement is notable for its eerily atmospheric vibraphone and harp writing, and Jaakko Kuusisto brings the solo part to life with the just right mix of power and purposeful expressive nuance.

The program concludes with the engaging Palace Rhapsody, a richly melodic piece brilliantly scored (it frequently creates the illusion of strings) for wind ensemble. Ari Rasilainen leads convincing performances with the Staatsphilharmonie Rheinland-Pfalz. CPO's vivid, dynamically-true recording is top-notch.

--Victor Carr Jr, ClassicsToday.com