You have sent me the most wonderful birthday present! Many, many thanks for this new recording of my concerto, which must surely become the ultimate model for all future performances. You have not only observed the tempi and phrasing that we agreed on for your first recording with me in 1994, but you have considerably refined and honed your interpretation of many details which I was absolutely thrilled to hear. I am also grateful to the Buizingen Band under Luc Vertommen for playing so beautifully, with obvious commitment. I haven't had time yet to hear all the other tracks, but I know already that the Sarasate will be a MUST as the perfect encore for a long time to come. Once again, congratulations Steven on this new CD and my sincerest admiration for your genuine understanding of my work.

Yours, - Joseph Horovitz (soon to celebrate his 80th birthday)