Franck: Piano Quintet in F Minor, FWV 7 (Live from Verbier Festival / 2014)

Perched up in the mountains of Switzerland, the Verbier Festival is one of Europe’s musical gems, and this recording from 2014 is typical of its tradition for bringing together unique and exciting lineups. Violinist Joshua Bell and cellist Steven Isserlis have been friends for years and here they’re joined by three other first-class players. The piano part of this, one of Franck’s greatest works, is challenging—it was premiered by Saint-Saëns—and Marc-André Hamelin plays superbly. The high emotional pressure is thrillingly carried from first note to last in this very impressive live performance.