Performer: Lise de la Salle

Herbert Blomstedt and Lise de la Salle proved an ideal pair in the rarely heard Piano Concerto no. 2 in D minor with the Philadelphia Orchestra.

The French pianist's approach may be uncomplicated, but crisp articulation, interesting dynamics and a fine sense of shifting moods enliven a recital full of variety.

Krzysztof Urbański elects an ideal pace and shape for Tchaikovsky's Fourth Symphony in a guest conducting appearance with the National Symphony Orchestra, on an evening also featuring Lise de la Salle playing Chopin.

Rafael Payare demonstrates his mastery of a late Romantic score and together with the RPO partners Lise de la Salle in an early piano concerto by Mozart.

In guest conductor Ludovic Morlot's first appearance with the Minnesota Orchestra, works by Ravel were paired with a dynamic reading of Prokofiev's Fifth Symphony.

Another evocative salute to Slava in Washington DC/