Tetzlaff's approach to Shostakovich's Violin Concertos is rather different from that of their dedicatee, David Oistrakh...Yet I find Tetzlaff's interpretation [of No. 1] no less riveting...Storgårds and the Helsinki Philharmonic are exceptionally responsive partners...Tetzlaff's stoicism, clarity of vision and architectural mastery pay even great dividents in [the Second Concerto].

Warmly recommended as a supplement to brawnier, more oppressive readings.

The Helsinki Music Centre offers an ideal acoustic, allowing orchestral definition to emerge with clarity. The sound is absolutely terrific...Tetzlaff’s interpretative insights into these complex scores set the bar high. I have no hesitation in nominating this release as a Recording of the Month.

Technically, Christian Tetzlaff’s performances can’t be faulted; there’s an immaculate, cool precision to his playing combined with an utter lack of unnecessary flamboyance or any attempt at attention-seeking, that is hugely impressive. What’s lacking sometimes is a bit of character.