> Richter/Vivaldi: The Four Seasons.
Daniel Hope (violin), Konzerthaus Kammerorchester Berlin.
Deutsche Grammophon CD.
However, this one is very different; the big print on the cover says ''Recomposed by Max Richter'' and it has indeed been given some refreshing treatment. Recomposed but not demolished, all done in a respectful and interesting way, enhanced by just a touch of electronic sound and quite beautiful recording.
Richter, a German-born English composer who was co-founder of the contemporary music group Piano Circus, has won awards for his film music compositions.
He has bravely plucked out his favourite parts of the original Vivaldi score, then dispensed with some 75% of the original material, adding his own careful but brilliant interpretations of Vivaldi's notes in modern, ''post-minimalist'' vein. It works! It is not blasphemous but intended respect to the original music.
Richter subtly alters rhythms, phases and loops sounds played sympathetically by conventional instruments, including harpsichord. It is not the monotonous Philip Glass type of minimalism. Its aim is to concentrate listeners back into a new and surprising enjoyment of Vivaldi's music.
He follows the same format of four concertos consisting of three movements, but with a brief prelude to the opening Spring.
The German musicians, conducted by Andre De Ridder, produce a wonderfully controlled sound, with velvety bass, but the bouquet certainly must go to English solo violinist Daniel Hope, who is magnificent in his major role in this new work. I found it interesting throughout and magical in places - haunting music that should be joyfully acclaimed.
Verdict: Not guilty of murder, Richter gives Vivaldi a rebirth.
