Gramophone Magazine
August 2025
Editor's Choice

Parry Karp (cello), BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Kenneth Woods

Bloch, E: Schelomo
Bloch, E: Suite for Viola and Orchestra, B. 41 (Arr. for Cello and Orchestra by Adolph Baller and Gábor Rejitö)

Schelomo: Rhapsodie Hébraïque is the most celebrated part of Ernest Bloch’s Jewish Cycle, and although originally conceived for voice, Bloch determined that only the cello could adequately embody the character of Solomon. The Suite for Viola and Piano was composed between February and May 1919, and the cello version is the work of the pianist and composer Adolph Baller and cellist Gábor Rejtő, who recorded their version in 1969. This album sees the World Premiere Recording of the cello version for orchestra, with cellist Parry Karp, who studied with Rejtő.

"Karp and conductor Kenneth Woods are attentive to detail, clarity and colour. There’s also no lack of expressive intensity when required, and I would rate this alongside the recordings by Steven Isserlis and Raphael Wallfisch among the very best of recent versions." - Gramophone Magazine, August 2025