Embark on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of American music with violinist Augustin Hadelich's latest album, "American Road Trip." Set for release on August 23, 2024, via Warner Classics, this exquisite collection of classical and chamber music pieces spans a diverse range of styles and moods, all masterfully performed by the acclaimed artist.
The album opens with a blend of romantic and bluesy tones, featuring works by Beach and Perkinson, before delving into the intricate and evocative compositions of Charles Ives. Hadelich's virtuosity shines in the three movements of Ives' Violin Sonata No. 4, capturing the essence of a lively camp meeting. The program continues with the playful "Banjo and Fiddle" by Kroll and the enchanting "Estrellita" by Ponce, arranged for violin and piano by Heifetz.
A significant portion of the album is dedicated to the six movements of "Netsuke" by Robert S. Hartke, each piece a miniature masterpiece inspired by Japanese folklore. These movements showcase Hadelich's technical prowess and expressive depth, as he navigates the intricate and imaginative landscapes Hartke has crafted.
The second half of the album offers a mix of energetic and contemplative pieces, including works by Roumain, Forrester, and South. Hadelich's interpretation of Adams' "Road Movies" is particularly noteworthy, with its blend of groove and introspection. The album concludes with beloved classics from Bernstein's "West Side Story" and Copland's "Rodeo," arranged for violin and piano.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes, "American Road Trip" is a testament to Augustin Hadelich's artistry and versatility. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises an engaging and rewarding listening experience.
Beach: Romance for Violin and Piano, Op. 23Amy Beach, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Perkinson: Louisiana Blues Strut "A Cakewalk"Coleridge-Taylor Perkinson, Augustin Hadelich
Ives: Violin Sonata No. 4 "Children's Day at the Camp Meeting": I. AllegroCharles Ives, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Ives: Violin Sonata No. 4 "Children's Day at the Camp Meeting": II. Largo - AllegroCharles Ives, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Ives: Violin Sonata No. 4 "Children's Day at the Camp Meeting": III. AllegroCharles Ives, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Kroll: Banjo and FiddleWilliam Kroll, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Ponce: Estrellita (Arr. Heifetz for Violin and Piano)Manuel Ponce, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Hartke: Netsuke "6 Movements for Violin and Piano": No. 1, Tengu, the Shapeshifter that Feeds on the Falsely HolyStephen Hartke, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Hartke: Netsuke "6 Movements for Violin and Piano": No. 2, Tadamori and the Oil-thiefStephen Hartke, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Hartke: Netsuke "6 Movements for Violin and Piano": No. 3, Tanuki Playing the SamisenStephen Hartke, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Hartke: Netsuke "6 Movements for Violin and Piano": No. 4, Baku, the Monster that Devours NightmaresStephen Hartke, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Hartke: Netsuke "6 Movements for Violin and Piano": No. 5, Demons Carrying a Rich Man to HellStephen Hartke, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Hartke: Netsuke "6 Movements for Violin and Piano": No. 6, Jewel of Widsom with Mountain PavilionsStephen Hartke, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss
Roumain: FilterDaniel Bernard Roumain, Augustin Hadelich
Forrester: Wild Fiddler's Rag (Arr. Hadelich for Solo Violin)Howdy Forrester, Augustin Hadelich
South: Black GypsyEddie South, Augustin Hadelich, Orion Weiss