Yet, a good amount of the performance's impact is centered in the orchestral accompaniment. Thomas Hengelbrock makes the original score sound edgier and more dramatic than the one we've become accustomed to, thanks to flowing tempos, sharp attacks, pointed accents, and volatile dynamics, all brilliantly played by the Chamber Orchestra of Europe. Performed in the "authentic" style, the concerto sounds more baroque than romantic, yet the emotional sweep of the music is irresistible.

There's emotion aplenty in the Octet as well, as Hope and soloists from the orchestra offer a gripping rendition, with Hope's first violin soaring above the nervous ostinatos in the first and third movements. The gorgeously rendered Andante and the joyfully sung Finale complete a hugely satisfying performance. The program concludes with Hope's accomplished arrangements of three Mendelssohn songs in seductive performances with pianist Sebastian Knauer. The recorded sound for all three venues is first rate, which adds to this disc's excellence. It's a must-have for Mendelssohn fans.

--Victor Carr Jr, ClassicsToday.com