Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Joachim Raff's violin sonatas with the release of "Raff: Complete Violin Sonatas, Vol. 2" on November 8, 2019, under the esteemed Naxos label. This album is a testament to Raff's mastery of the violin sonata form, showcasing his unique compositional voice and technical prowess.
Spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this collection features the complete third, fourth, and fifth violin sonatas by Raff. The third sonata, Op. 128, is a vibrant and dynamic work in D Major, comprising four distinct movements that range from the lively "Allegro" to the introspective "Andante quasi larghetto." The fourth sonata, Op. 129, nicknamed "Chromatic" for its use of chromatic harmonies, is a single-movement work that showcases Raff's innovative approach to tonality.
The fifth sonata, Op. 145, is a monumental work in C Minor, featuring four movements that explore a wide range of emotions and technical challenges. From the impassioned "Allegro patetico" to the virtuosic "Presto," this sonata is a testament to Raff's ability to push the boundaries of the violin sonata form.
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Raff's violin sonatas are a treasure trove of melodic invention, harmonic sophistication, and technical brilliance, and this album is a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the rich and diverse world of 19th-century chamber music.