Lucerne Festival Historic Performances: Nathan Milstein

Experience the timeless virtuosity of Nathan Milstein in this captivating live recording from the Lucerne Festival. This album, released on September 7, 2018, by audite Musikproduktion, features Milstein's electrifying performances of Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto in E Minor, Op. 64, and Dvořák's Violin Concerto in A Minor, Op. 53. Known for his vigorous, intensive tone and boundless virtuosity, Milstein's playing is both unsentimental and straightforward, showcasing his extraordinary talent and technical prowess.

Recorded in the historic setting of the Lucerne Festival, where Milstein performed from 1949 until 1966, this album captures the essence of his live performances. The Swiss Festival Orchestra, conducted by Igor Markevitch, accompanies Milstein in these stunning renditions of two of the most beloved violin concertos in the classical repertoire. The album's duration is 57 minutes, offering a concise yet comprehensive journey through these masterpieces.

The album is remastered in high-quality 24bit/48kHz FLAC format, ensuring an immersive listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Nathan Milstein's Lucerne Festival Historic Performances is a must-listen, offering a glimpse into the brilliance of one of the 20th century's greatest violinists.

Nathan Milstein, born in Odessa in 1904, was a virtuoso violinist whose career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music world. Known for his silken tone, superb technique, and stylish phrasing, Milstein was particularly celebrated for his interpretations of J.S. Bach's unaccompanied violin sonatas and works from the Romantic repertoire. His career began under the tutelage of the renowned Leopold Auer in St. Petersburg and flourished after he left Russia in 1925, touring Europe with his friend Vladimir Horowitz. Milstein's recordings, which include masterful performances of concertos by Beethoven, Brahms, Mendelssohn, Tchaikovsky, and Bruch, are testament to his ceaseless search for fresh interpretations and his seemingly inexhaustible reservoir of fingerings. His humanity and purity of playing set him apart, earning him the title of "probably the most nearly perfect violinist of his age" by Harold C. Schonberg of the New York Times. Milstein's legacy endures through his extensive discography and the enduring influence of his artistry on generations of violinists.

Album Details

Tracks

About Nathan Milstein

Best vinyl LP prices!