Hasson: Prokofiev Violin Concerto No. 2 / Paganini Concerto No. 1 - EMI CFP 40052

Jacket VG+ / LP NM / UK pressing

This superb LP from Classics for Pleasure (CFP 40052, English EMI pressing, white label, stereo) features the unjustly forgotten violinist Maurice Hasson in two brilliant concerto performances, both recorded with conductor Gerard Devos and the New Philharmonia Orchestra, both recorded in the late 1960s.

The works are in question are:

Paganini’s Violin Concerto No. 1 in D Major Op. 6

Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 2 in G minor Op. 63

The rear side of the jacket, in addition to carrying liner notes by Evelyng Lance (Paganini) and Matthew Gilbert (Prokofiev), also reproduces a tribute to Hasson from no less than fellow violinist Henryk Szeryng:

“Among the young and brilliant violinists I have had the privilege to advise and encourage in recent years, Maurice Hasson commands special interest and attention. Indeed, his deep musical insight, and concern for each composer’s style go hand in hand with a truly virtuoso approach for the instrument, thus reviving a tradition which seemed about to disappear.

It is my sincere belief that Maurice Hasson will soon receive the international acclaim he so deserves.” – Henry Szeryng, Trieste, January 1971.

The striking cover photo of Hasson was taken by Glyn Mead, while the sleeve design was executed by Clare Osborn.

CONDITION:

The gradations of condition I use are as follows: MINT, Near-Mint, Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor.

The condition of the jacket is VERY GOOD+. There is light shelfwear and discoloration, but that is all. There are no seamsplits, owners’ marking, bends, or other defects, and the album remains solid, bright, glossy, and highly attractive – overall, a very good collector's copy.

The condition of the LP is near-MINT and playback is superb – overall, a truly fine collector's copy.