GRAHAM WHETTAM (1927-2007): Concerto Scherzoso for Harmonica and Small Orchestra, ALAN HOVHANESS (1911-2000): 7 Greek Folk Dances for Harmonica and String Orchestra, Op. 150, VILÉM TAUSKY (1910-2004): Concertino for Harmonica and Orchestra, ASTOR PIAZZOLLA (1921-1992): Oblivion, GABRIEL FAURÉ (1845-1924): Pavane (arr. Littera).

Description: A thoroughly delightful disc with what must be the world premiere recording of Whettam's 11-minute concerto (it was tracked down after much effort by the soloist here) whose very Jewish second movement underlines the surprise of the composer's ancestry (Whettam isn't an obviously Jewish name, is it?). Tausky's was recorded by Chandos 37 years ago but its late Romantic, quasi-Czech inflected music surely deserves another one while Hovhaness' group of authentic Greek folk dances are perfect for the harmonica, capable as it is of producing the quarter tones present in Greek and Middle Eastern folk music. Gianluca Littera (harmonica), Orchestra Stesichoros; Francesco Di Mauro.