It’s difficult to imagine a more impressive career in classical music than that of violinist Joshua Bell, whose name recognition goes far beyond the genre's realm. And although his authority as a soloist is unquestionable, Bell's 2011 selection as music director of London's Academy of St Martin in the Fields—the first American to hold the post—caused a sensation. This is the first recording with Bell at the helm of the group. Conducting and playing from the concertmaster’s chair, he brings buoyant exuberance to Beethoven’s Fourth and Seventh symphonies. Bell’s instinct for drama is ideal for the oft-overlooked Fourth, and it hints at the rich potential of his new appointment.
- Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Michael Tilson Thomas, London Symphony Orchestra, Philharmonia Orchestra, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Zubin Mehta, Pinchas Zukerman, Claudio Abbado, Carl Pini & Los Angeles Philharmonic
- Isaac Stern, Itzhak Perlman & Pinchas Zukerman
- Yo-Yo Ma, Yuri Temirkanov & Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra
- Richard Egarr & Academy of Ancient Music
- Riccardo Muti, Jessye Norman & The Philadelphia Orchestra
- Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Fritz Reiner & Van Cliburn
- Gil Shaham & Orpheus Chamber Orchestra