Search - Karol Szymanowski, Simon Rattle, Silke Avenhaus :: Karol Szymanowski: Violin Concertos Nos. 1 & 2; Three Paganini Caprices; Romance

Brilliant performances of exotic masterpieces.

06/15/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Once again, Rattle and the CBSO show us exactly how it should be done - take lesser known repertoire by a brilliant but underrated composer, add some sizzling playing by a great soloist and simmer to perfection! Szymanowski undoubtedly wrote some of the most lush and exotic-sounding music this century (Symphony No 3 is a perfect example), and thankfully Sir Simon Rattle has decided to give his music the exposure it deserves. The 1st concerto in particular is a showcase for this Polish master's very individual soundworld - somewhere between Debussy and Scriabin in terms of unabashed romanticism and constantly shifting chromatic harmonies. Zehetmair is a fabulous violinist, almost at one with Rattle and his band of merry players - this music comes alive and makes one wish that Szymanowski had written more! A superb introduction for those who may not yet have discovered this brilliant composer."

Lovely Interludes

David Thierry | Chicago, IL United States | 03/19/2010

(5 out of 5 stars)

"If you like Bartok's violin concertos you will most likely enjoy these as well. The first charms from the beginning with twittering woodwinds and chimes and it does maintain a somewhat fairy tale atmosphere. You have the samples to convince you further. I've owned a copy for I don't know how long and the music always sustains me. My appreciation of these pieces continues to grow over the years and so might yours. Not that much competition in these works so let's be thankful for what we have. Sir Simon thought it was worth doing so why shouldn't you? It's all easy listening ear candy. If you, however, find Bartok's and Prokofiev's violin concertos too dissonant for words, then these are not for you either for they belong very much in that same sphere."