Isaac Stern, a renowned violinist, presents a captivating collection of works by Béla Bartók and Alban Berg in this 2018 release from Sony Classical. The album features two of Bartók's Violin Rhapsodies, No. 1 and No. 2, each divided into two movements, showcasing Stern's virtuosic prowess and the intricate compositions of the Hungarian master. The Rhapsodies, with their folk-inspired melodies and rhythmic complexity, offer a rich tapestry of sounds that highlight Stern's technical brilliance and expressive depth.
The album also includes Berg's Violin Concerto "To the Memory of an Angel," a deeply moving and introspective piece dedicated to the memory of Manon Gropius, the daughter of Alma Mahler and Walter Gropius. Stern's performance is a testament to his ability to convey the concerto's profound emotional resonance and technical demands.
This remastered edition, released in 2018, brings renewed clarity and richness to Stern's recordings, originally made in the mid-20th century. The album's duration of 46 minutes makes it a concise yet impactful journey through these classical masterpieces. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Isaac Stern's interpretations of these works are sure to leave a lasting impression.