This violin concerto in G minor, Op. 26, was completed in 1866 by German composer Max Bruch (1838 - 1920). Although Bruch wrote two more violin concertos, this is the famous one that is often ranked among the most popular of all time. The focus on the first concerto frustrated Bruch, who once wrote: “I cannot listen to this concerto any more.” Fortunately, we can. The concerto is traditional in its three movement layout, and is full of wonderful melodies. The average playing time is 23 minutes (AllMusic). I have three versions, of which I have a preference for Arthur Grumiaux with the New Philharmonia Orchestra under Heinz Wallberg on a Philips CD.
