Search - Claude Debussy, Gabriel Faure, Sergey Prokofiev :: French and Russian Masterworks (The Art of the Violin, Volume 2)

Senofsky impressive in large-scale works

12/30/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is volume 2 of a planned multi-volume career retrospective of the legendary American violinist, Berl Senofsky. In volume one, Cembal d'Amour served up an amazing collection of short concert favorites, showcasing the incredible virtuosity and musical finesse of this brilliant violinist. Volume 2 features four large-scale works--the Faure sonata, the Debussy sonata, Prokofiev's sonata in D, and Stravinsky's Suite Italienne. In all of these works, Senofsky proves that he is not only the master of small-scale gems, but is also able to carve out large-scale works in a way that is unmatched. The intensity and power of his playing compels you to listen to him, and his performances leave such an indelible impression that you cannot imagine the pieces being played any other way. And when you consider that these are all live performances, you are blown away! The sound is variable, as some of these performances date back to the late 'forties, but that is a small consideration when weighed against the minted gold of these readings. One hopes that remaining volumes will be released soon. This is a must for all serious musicians!!"