Classical: New releases

Lutoslawski Orchestral Works Vol V

Polish National RSO, Wit (Naxos)

Naxos's exploration of the orchestral oeuvre of the late Witold Lutoslawski continues apace with this dazzling new release. Wit and his Polish forces have the measure, and complexity, of their countryman, with some ravishing playing in the fiendishly difficult Concerto for Orchestra. The partly aleatoric Mi-Parti is just as deftly handled. A top-class recording. HHHH

Poulenc Piano Music Vol I

Olivier Cazal (Naxos)

Francis Poulenc was born on 7 Jan 1899, and this delightful selection of his witty, satirical piano music makes an ideal centenary sampler. The works span Poulenc's career, from his spiky Neo-Classical Les Six phase to more leisurely Intermezzi from the Thirties and Forties. The stylish French pianist Cazal is able to capture real atmosphere in a nuance. HHH