The Complete Josef Hofmann, Volume 5
Transfer whiz Ward Marston presents a treasure trove designed to lure both  pianophiles and archivists alike. For starters, Hofmann's 1935 Victor test recordings  include all known alternate takes. Encores from a 1938 Philadelphia concert reveal the  pianist's superficial side, but a careful representation from his problematic Bell  Telephone Hour broadcasts flesh out Hofmann's recorded repertoire with a simple,  unforced DebussyClaire de Luneand a rollicking Prokofiev March, op. 12, no. 1.  Best of all are five 1935 HMV tests, of which Chopin'sF-sharp Nocturne,A- flat Waltz, op. 42, and Chopin/LisztMaiden's Wishreveal Hofmann at his  most unhurried, aristocratic, and purposeful. A home recording of Gluck/SgambatiMélodiefrom Orfeo caps this important collection, garnished with superb  annotations.--Jed Distler