Immerse yourself in the virtuosic world of Henryk Wieniawski with Leonid Kogan's masterful rendition of some of the composer's most celebrated works. Released on October 16, 2007, under the MUSIC ONLINE label, this album spans a concise yet captivating 51 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of Wieniawski's musical genius.
The album opens with the grandeur of "Legend, Op. 17," followed by the intricate "Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 15." Kogan's technical prowess shines through in the "Polonaise Brillante in A Major, Op. 21," a piece that showcases both the composer's flair for the dramatic and the violinist's exceptional skill. The album also features two enchanting Mazurkas, "Op. 19, - 'Obertas'" and "Op. 12, - 'Polish Song'," which highlight Wieniawski's ability to blend traditional Polish folk elements with classical sophistication.
Kogan's interpretation of the "Fantasie Brillante sur Gounod's 'Faust', Op. 20" is a standout, demonstrating his ability to bring depth and nuance to a piece that is both technically demanding and emotionally resonant. Throughout the album, Kogan's playing is marked by a deep understanding of Wieniawski's style, making this a must-listen for both classical music enthusiasts and those new to the composer's work.