Paganini’s Fifth Concerto, the last he composed, is preserved only in the form of a solo part, which, however, contains copious indications concerning the orchestration. This recording uses Federico Mompellio’s completion. I find more convincing the lighter, simpler version by Francesco Fiore, heard on Massimo Quarta’s recording; but perhaps in a work focused primarily on the solo part the differences aren’t of major significance.

The disc stands out for its crisply defined recording and for the exceptional playing of Ivan Pochekin, whose pure tone, wide expressive range and precise articulation and tuning bring Paganini’s ideas vividly to life. The concerto’s Andante is especially eloquent in Pochekin’s hands and the high passagework in the outer movements has authentic force and brilliance. There are some drawbacks: the orchestral playing is sometimes lacking in verve, particularly in the tuttis after the first movement’s first solo, and before the return of the finale’s rondo theme. And the finale’s curious second episode, with its amiable woodwind melody accompanied by springing violin arpeggios, is far more successful in Accardo’s gentler, more laid-back account than in Pochekin’s up-front version.

The other two items are both excellent: I palpiti’s variation in double-stopped harmonics, taken quite slowly, sounds truly beautiful. And the Moto perpetuo is just as spectacular – wonderful bow control and a lively sense of rhythm. I’m sure even Paganini himself would be impressed.