À la carte

Indulge in a delightful musical journey with Itzhak Perlman's "À la carte," a sumptuous collection of shorter pieces that showcase the violinist's unparalleled artistry and versatility. Released in 2015 on Warner Classics, this album is a testament to Perlman's enduring appeal and his ability to captivate audiences with his expressive playing.

"À la carte" presents a delectable menu of beloved works, including Massenet's enchanting "Méditation" from Thaïs and Rachmaninov's evocative Vocalise. These pieces, among others, are often associated with Perlman's illustrious predecessors, such as Fritz Kreisler, Jascha Heifetz, Nathan Milstein, and David Oistrakh, highlighting the rich tradition of violin playing that Perlman continues to uphold.

The album features a diverse range of composers, from Glazunov and Sarasate to Rimsky-Korsakov and Tchaikovsky, offering a pleasing variety of musical styles and moods. Perlman's technical prowess and musical sensitivity shine through in each performance, making this recording a joy to experience from start to finish.

Accompanied by the Abbey Road Ensemble and conducted by Lawrence Foster, Perlman's playing is beautifully supported, allowing the violinist's artistry to take center stage. With a duration of just over an hour, "À la carte" is an ideal introduction to Perlman's discography or a welcome addition to the collections of his longtime admirers.

Born in Tel Aviv in 1945, Itzhak Perlman overcame the challenges of polio to become one of the most celebrated violinists of our time. His widespread exposure and popularity are a testament to his extraordinary talent and the universal appeal of his music. "À la carte" is a wonderful opportunity to experience the magic of Perlman's playing and to appreciate the enduring power of classical music.

Itzhak Perlman, the legendary Israeli-American violinist, is renowned for his virtuoso technique and captivating performances that have enchanted audiences worldwide. Born in Tel Aviv in 1945, Perlman overcame polio at a young age to become one of the most celebrated musicians of our time. His illustrious career spans over six decades, marked by his debut on "The Ed Sullivan Show" in 1958 and performances at prestigious events such as a state dinner for Queen Elizabeth II and the inauguration of Barack Obama. Perlman's repertoire is vast, encompassing classical, jazz, and klezmer music, and he has collaborated with major orchestras and conductors. Beyond his performing career, Perlman is also a dedicated teacher and conductor, inspiring new generations of musicians. With 16 Grammy Awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and four Emmy Awards to his name, Perlman's contributions to music are unparalleled. His charisma and musical prowess have earned him superstar status, making him a beloved figure in the classical music world.