Marin Alsop's continuing Samuel Barber series for Naxos is exceptionally well planned. The standards of performance here are at least as high as on previous issues. The RSNO seems unfazed by the technical demands of the Concerto, even in its breakneck five-time finale, and the American Stephen Prutsman is a strong, characterful soloist. Marin Alsop captures the dark, brooding atmosphere of the Medea scene well. The recording of the orchestra is exceptionally vivid...collectors of the Naxos series can add this volume with confidence.

Prutsman gives a powerful reading of Barber's formidable Piano Concerto, fully in command of the bravura writing of the outer movements and tenderly expressive in the central Canzonetta.

The American Classics series has been one of the most innovative and exciting recording projects in recent years. The exploration of Barber's works has persistently provided the brightest jewels in the Naxos crown.