Moody Max Bruch (1838-1920), best known for his sweet-natured violin concerto, spent three not entirely harmonious years in Liverpool conducting the Philharmonic, where he befriended Andrew Kurtz, chairman of the Phil and a considerable amateur pianist, and for whom he wrote his typically tuneful G minor Piano Quintet. It’s given a spirited performance here by Piers Lane and the Goldners, who add the Brahmsian String Quartet No 1 in C minor. And in a joyful burst of melody, first violinist Dene Olding joins Lane for the beguiling Swedish Dances – but none of this really sets the world on fire.
