Viktoria Mullova's 2003 album "Beethoven / Mendelssohn: Violin Concertos" is a captivating journey through two of the most celebrated violin concertos in classical music. Accompanied by the Orchestre Révolutionnaire et Romantique under the direction of John Eliot Gardiner, Mullova delivers a performance that is both technically brilliant and deeply expressive.
The album features Ludwig van Beethoven's Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 61, known for its lyrical beauty and structural innovation. Mullova's silky tone and unforced motion bring a fresh perspective to this timeless piece, with the ORR winds adding a soulful depth to the performance. The concerto's three movements—Allegro ma non troppo, Larghetto, and Rondo. Allegro—are rendered with a sense of spontaneity and elegance that highlights Mullova's virtuosity.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Felix Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto in E Minor, Op. 64. Mullova's approach to this concerto is marked by a refusal to romanticize or sentimentalize, resulting in a performance that is both vivid and restrained. The three movements—Allegro molto appassionato, Andante, and Allegretto non troppo – Allegro molto vivace—showcase Mullova's ability to convey the concerto's emotional depth and technical demands with equal mastery.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 8 minutes, this album is a testament to Mullova's artistry and her ability to breathe new life into these beloved works. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
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