Fritz Kreisler: The Complete RCA Recordings
A Fritz Kreisler recording can always be recognized by the violinist's  beefy, baritonal sonority, inimitable portamento, and communicative warmth. Most  of the repertoire here consists of the short, encore pieces that prevailed in  the era of 78rpm records, many penned or arranged by Kreisler, who was always on  the lookout for memorable tunes. Familiar classics like the duets with John  McCormack, and Schubert, Beethoven, and Grieg sonata collaborations with  Rachmaninoff turn up alongside rare alternate takes and Kreisler's lone  recording as a piano soloist in Dvořak'sHumoresque. One should  savor these musical sweetmeats in small portions, rather than wolfing down each  disc in chronological gulps. Ward Marston's transfers are beyond praise.-- Jed Distler