The second volume of Felicja Blumental's Italian Collection on Brana Records presents the Piano Concerto in B flat major by Vincenzo Manfredini, and two of Giovanni Paisiello's Piano Concertos, No. 2 in F major and No. 1 in C major. These performances were recorded in 1972, and though the masters have been cleaned of tape hiss, the analog sound is less than desirable. Once one gets past the faulty reproduction that thins out the orchestral colors, the background noises that suggest these might be live recordings, and the occasional tape splices, the listener may at least appreciate Blumental's playing, which is surprisingly idiomatic and roundly expressive. She brings a Mozartian sensibility to these performances, evident in her exquisite touch, delicately balanced phrasing, and carefully controlled dynamics; as a result, Manfredini's and Paisiello's works sound much better than their bland music warrants. Of the two composers, Paisiello has more to offer in melody, development, and orchestration, so his Concertos are more gratifying to hear than Manfredini's constrained Rococo confection, which is perhaps only appealing for its gallant style. This CD may be of interest to students of the eighteenth century concerto, but others may take it or leave it. ~ Blair Sanderson, All Music Guide
