Violin Concerto Collection

"There's an impressive level of excellence throughout, though Swensen is adaptable to moods between and within concertos…I love his natural way with slow movements, especially Mendelssohn's and Brahms's - faster speeds than usual, no excess sentiment but plenty of love. The tone is always sweet, the intonation what players call 'speaking', which means a constant alertness that is especially refreshing in the familiar." BBC Music Orchestral Choice Feb 2019

"…it is unusual to encounter a performance of the Dvořák Concerto in which the soloist takes on the extra responsibility of directing the orchestra. Fiery and intense in the opening movement, Swensen produces a particularly magical sound in the gorgeous lyrical melodies of the slow movement. ...the haunting Nocturne which is given a very atmospheric performance." (BBC Music on the Dvorak)

"Lack[s] nothing in attack or passion but benefit[s] in clarity of detail from the chamber size of the ensemble and the superb recording standards befitting this label."
The Observer on the Mendelssohn

"If you like top notch orchestral playing combined with excellent sound quality this new Brahms CD from Linn is definitely one for your collection. The Scottish Chamber Orchestra is becoming well known for its innovative performances and this recording is no exception, as they tackle Brahms with all the power of a full orchestra and all the precision that comes with a smaller group."
(BBC Classical reviews on the Brahms)