James MacMillan: Work For Chamber Orchestra With Soloists (Challenge Classics CC72638) James MacMillan, conducting the Netherlands Radio Chamber Philharmonic, presents his own chamber works; firmly rooted in his Scottish identity. The CD includes From Ayrshire, written for violinist Nicola Benedetti and performed here by Linus Roth. The Tuireadh for clarinet (Lars Wouters) and string orchestra is a touching lament for victims of the Piper Alpha oil-rig disaster. As others see Us is a musical depiction of several paintings in the National Portrait Gallery in London. A must for devotees.

Brahms Beloved: John Axelrod (Telarc, TEL-34659-02) John Axelrod, a leading exponent of Brahms, give a fascinating insight into the composer’s unconsummated love for Clara Schumann.

Brahms’ first and third symphonies can be portraits of her qualities, he suggests. Axelrod couples each symphony with songs by Clara, featuring baritone Wolfgang Holzmair and soprano Dame Felicity Lott. A fascinating approach to their respective music and a great platform for Clara’s own neglected works. Highly recommended.

Mister Dowland’s Midnight: Christopher Denoth (Signum SIGCD382) Swiss guitarist Christoph Denoth explores the enchanting lute music of John Dowland in a collection of his own arrangements made from Dowland’s original handwritten scores. Denoth’s melodic playing is very appealing.