Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical chamber music with Gil Shaham's exquisite album, featuring a stunning collection of violin sonatas and a virtuosic showpiece. This 1990 release on Deutsche Grammophon showcases Shaham's extraordinary talent and musicality, accompanied by a pianist of equal prowess.
The album opens with César Franck's intense and dramatic Sonata No. 1 in D Minor for Violin & Piano, a work that demands both technical brilliance and emotional depth. The first movement, Allegro agitato - Adagio, is a tour de force, while the second movement, Allegretto moderato - Allegro molto, offers a contrast in its lively and playful character.
Next, you'll be transported to a world of elegance and refinement with Camille Saint-Saëns' Sonata in A Major for Violin & Piano. This four-movement work is a delight from start to finish, with its charming Allegretto ben moderato first movement, the intricate and expressive Allegro- Quasi lento- Tempo 1 (Allegro) second movement, the imaginative Recitativo - Fantasia third movement, and the graceful Allegretto poco mosso finale.
The album concludes with Maurice Ravel's Tzigane, a dazzling display of violin technique and musical invention. This work, inspired by Hungarian and Romanian folk music, is a thrilling and exhilarating finale to an already remarkable album.
With a total duration of one hour, this album is a testament to Gil Shaham's artistry and his ability to bring out the best in these beloved works of the violin repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire you.