Bartok's viola concerto as completed by Erdelyi ?

[Scion7]

I've never heard this.  I read the praises about it, but what are the opinions of those that have compared the recording of the Erdelyi/Taddei/New Zealand Symphony (Concordance 003) with the earlier version that we are more familiar with?

[xuantu]

I am not sure about others' opinions. Speaking for myself I am totally amazed by this version. It is drastically different from the Serly version we know. And I don't mean just the solo viola line or the orchestration (a snare drum was added to the first appearance of the main dance theme of the finale!), but also the dynamics and the supporting harmony. Phrase after phrase it registers with a certain inevitability. It leaves me in no doubt that the 1995 revision made by the composer's son Peter is a missed opportunity. The entire piece sounds richer, heavier and more confrontational than both the Serly realization and the 1995 revision, while still giving the agonized viola its central stage. Erdelyi's playing did not seem to be favorably reviewed against the likes of Hong-mei Xiao or Kim Kashkashian for its tone beauty, but it speaks truths about the work and is utterly compelling. This is vintage Bartok in my book.

The Harold in Italy on the same disc is also played with taste and conviction.