Yuuko Shiokawa and András Schiff present an insightful and delightful collection of sonatas for violin and piano, released on October 27, 2017, under the ECM New Series label. This album, titled "Bach - Busoni - Beethoven: Violin Sonatas," offers a captivating journey through the works of three master composers, spanning the Baroque, Romantic, and Classical periods.
The album opens with Johann Sebastian Bach's Violin Sonata No. 3 in E Major, BWV 1016, showcasing the intricate and harmonious interplay between the violin and piano. The sonata's four movements, ranging from the serene Adagio to the lively Allegro, demonstrate Bach's timeless compositional genius.
Following Bach, the album features Ferruccio Busoni's Violin Sonata No. 2 in E Minor, BV 244. This sonata, with its complex and expressive movements, highlights Busoni's unique blend of Romantic and Baroque influences. The piece is a testament to the musicians' technical prowess and interpretive depth.
The album concludes with Ludwig van Beethoven's Violin Sonata No. 10 in G Major, Op. 96. This sonata, known for its lyrical beauty and structural innovation, offers a fitting finale to the collection. The four movements, from the Allegro moderato to the Poco allegretto, showcase Beethoven's enduring appeal and the musicians' ability to bring his compositions to life.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album is a must-listen for classical music enthusiasts and those seeking to explore the rich tapestry of violin and piano sonatas. Yuuko Shiokawa's exquisite violin playing and András Schiff's masterful piano accompaniment create a harmonious and engaging musical experience that is sure to delight and inspire.