The Piano Quintet, unusually scored for clarinet, horn, violin and cello, is a product of Fibich's maturity. The Largo is the heart of the work, one of the most richly Romantic slow movements in the Czech chamber repertoire. These excellently recorded performances are near-ideal. The performers provide idiomatic, affectionate readings that fully convey the originality and lyrical assurance of these works.

If you ever feel the overpowering urge to hear a disc with the best performances of the best music ever written for violin and piano by Czech composers, this is that disc. If you ever feel the overwhelming compulsion to hear a disc with sweetly lyrical, passionately expressive, and deeply soulful music played with unparalleled insight, unmatched understanding, and complete comprehension, this is that disc. The music is truly the best ever written for violin and piano by Czech composers. Smetana's Pieces (2) from The Homeland are charming. Dvorák's Sonatina and Romantic Pieces are heartfelt and instantly memorable. Suk's Ballade and Pieces (4) are works of stunning intensity and staggering expressivity. And Dvorák's transcription of his Slavonic Dance in E minor is a bravura display of nationalist fervor. The performances are the best ever recorded for the repertoire.