Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Béla Bartók with his remarkable album "Sonata, Contrasts & Rhapsodies." This collection, released on November 5, 1990, under the Hyperion label, is a testament to Bartók's genius and his deep connection to his Hungarian and Romanian roots. The album spans a diverse range of compositions, showcasing Bartók's mastery of both classical and neoclassical styles, with a particular emphasis on the piano.
The album opens with the powerful Sonata for Solo Violin, Sz. 117, a piece that demands technical virtuosity and emotional depth. The four-movement sonata is followed by the lively and engaging Contrasts for Clarinet, Violin & Piano, Sz. 111, a work that highlights Bartók's ability to blend folk influences with classical forms. The Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 56, arranged for violin and piano by Székely, offer a delightful and energetic exploration of traditional Romanian music.
The album concludes with two of Bartók's most celebrated works: the Rhapsody No. 1 for Violin and Piano, Sz. 86, and the Rhapsody No. 2 for Violin and Piano, Sz. 89. These rhapsodies are a perfect blend of passion, intensity, and technical brilliance, showcasing Bartók's unique ability to create music that is both deeply personal and universally appealing.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, this album is a comprehensive journey through the musical landscape of Béla Bartók, offering a rich and rewarding listening experience for both newcomers and seasoned fans alike.
Sonata for Solo Violin, Sz. 117: I. Tempo di ciacconaBéla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz
Sonata for Solo Violin, Sz. 117: II. Fuga. Risoluto, non troppo vivoBéla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz
Sonata for Solo Violin, Sz. 117: III. Melodia. AdagioBéla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz
Sonata for Solo Violin, Sz. 117: IV. PrestoBéla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz
Contrasts for Clarinet, Violin & Piano, Sz. 111: I. Verbunkos "Recruiting Dance". Moderato ben ritmatoBéla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz, Michael Collins, Susan Tomes
Contrasts for Clarinet, Violin & Piano, Sz. 111: II. Pihenö "Relaxation". LentoBéla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz, Susan Tomes, Michael Collins
Contrasts for Clarinet, Violin & Piano, Sz. 111: III. Sebes "Fast Dance". Allegro vivaceBéla Bartók, Michael Collins, Susan Tomes, Krysia Osostowicz
Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 56 (Arr. Székely for Violin & Piano): I. Joc cu bâta "Stick Dance"Béla Bartók, Susan Tomes, Krysia Osostowicz
Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 56 (Arr. Székely for Violin & Piano): II. Brâul "Sash Dance"Béla Bartók, Susan Tomes, Krysia Osostowicz
Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 56 (Arr. Székely for Violin & Piano): III. Pe loc "In One Spot"Béla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz, Susan Tomes
Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 56 (Arr. Székely for Violin & Piano): IV. Buciumeana "Horn Dance"Béla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz, Susan Tomes
Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 56 (Arr. Székely for Violin & Piano): V. Romanian PolkaBéla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz, Susan Tomes
Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 56 (Arr. Székely for Violin & Piano): VI. Mărunțel "Fast Dances 1 & 2"Béla Bartók, Susan Tomes, Krysia Osostowicz
Rhapsody No. 1 for Violin and Piano, Sz. 86: I. Lassú. ModeratoBéla Bartók, Susan Tomes, Krysia Osostowicz
Rhapsody No. 1 for Violin and Piano, Sz. 86: II. Friss. Allegro moderatoBéla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz, Susan Tomes
Rhapsody No. 2 for Violin and Piano, Sz. 89: I. Lassú. ModeratoBéla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz, Susan Tomes
Rhapsody No. 2 for Violin and Piano, Sz. 89: II. Friss. Allegro moderatoBéla Bartók, Krysia Osostowicz, Susan Tomes