Pianists on Vinyl: Sir Stephen Hough, Angela Hewitt and Marc–André Hamelin

After more than three decades, Hyperion Records has announced its re-entry into the vinyl format, the medium on which the label’s earliest and most influential recordings were released. The initial launch comprises five meticulously curated albums – three of which are recordings by pianists. 

Angela Hewitt’s 2015 Bach Goldberg Variations (2LP set) – A winner of the Diapason d’Or, with glowing reviews from Gramophone and BBC Music Magazine, which praised her playing as 'tender, translucent, and jaw-droppingly felicitous.'

Sir Stephen Hough’s Complete Chopin Waltzes – A recipient of the 2011 Diapason d’Or de l’Année (pictured on main page), The Times lauded Hough’s performance as soulful and intimate, offering 'melting moments' that leave a lasting impression.

Marc-André Hamelin’s Shostakovich Piano Concertos Nos 1 & 2 – Backed by the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra and conductor Andrew Litton, this recording has earned top recommendations for its interpretative depth and technical brilliance.

And the other two:

 A Feather on the Breath of God

This seminal 1982 release, a defining moment in Hyperion’s history, not only earned the label its first of 45 Gramophone Awards but also sold over one million copies, solidifying Hyperion’s position in the classical music world. Originally released during a time when Abbess Hildegard of Bingen was a relatively obscure figure known only to a handful of scholars, A Feather on the Breath of God introduced a global audience to her profound compositions. The ensemble Gothic Voices, featuring the then up-and-coming English soprano Emma Kirkby, was assembled for the recording sessions with little knowledge of the music’s eventual impact. However, both label founder Ted Perry and project director Christopher Page recognized the uniqueness of Hildegard’s work. The album’s success opened the ears of classical listeners to a new and unfamiliar sound, earning high praise from critics worldwide. Gramophone magazine described the experience as “spellbinding”, a sentiment that has persisted over the decades.

Alina Ibragimova’s Mendelssohn Violin Concerto 

Paired with his early D minor Violin Concerto, and performed with the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment under Vladimir Jurowski, this album showcases Ibragimova’s 'verve, brilliance, and imaginative intelligence' (Gramophone).

These limited-edition albums have an initial pressing of just 1,000 copies per title and will be presented in gatefold packaging.

Further information can be found at Hyperion Records

Main image: Stephen Hough © Sim Canetty-Clarke