Bartók / Eötvös / Kurtág

Kim Kashkashian's "Bartók / Eötvös / Kurtág" is a captivating exploration of the viola's expressive range, featuring works by three seminal composers of the 20th century. Recorded in 1999 at the Muziekcentrum Vredenburg in Utrecht, this ECM New Series release showcases Kashkashian's virtuosity and interpretive depth, accompanied by the Netherlands Radio Chamber Orchestra under the baton of Peter Eötvös.

The album opens with Béla Bartók's Viola Concerto, a work completed by Tibor Serly, which demands both technical prowess and emotional nuance from the soloist. Kashkashian navigates the concerto's three movements with remarkable skill, bringing out the music's folk influences and modernist harmonies. The concerto's range of moods, from the introspective Moderato to the spirited Allegro vivace, is vividly realized under her touch.

The album also includes two contemporary works: Peter Eötvös' "Replica" and György Kurtág's "Movement for Viola and Orchestra." These pieces, like the Bartók, push the boundaries of the viola's expressive capabilities, and Kashkashian rises to the challenge with compelling performances. Eötvös' "Replica" is a tour de force of extended techniques, while Kurtág's "Movement" is a haunting exploration of the instrument's darker hues.

Throughout the album, Kashkashian's playing is marked by a deep understanding of the score and a commitment to the composers' unique voices. Her collaboration with the Netherlands Radio Chamber Orchestra is seamless, with the orchestra providing sensitive and supportive accompaniment. The recording, engineered by the renowned team at ECM, captures the performances in vivid detail, making this album a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

Kim Kashkashian is a renowned American violist, celebrated for her unique voice and profound contributions to the world of classical music. Born in Detroit to Armenian parents, Kashkashian honed her craft at the Peabody Conservatory under the guidance of legendary violists Karen Tuttle and Walter Trampler, and later with Felix Galimir at the Marlboro Music Festival. Her career spans both the U.S. and Europe, where she has collaborated with numerous contemporary composers, earning her a reputation as one of the world's top violists.

Kashkashian's discography, particularly her work with the ECM label, has garnered international acclaim, including a Grammy Award in 2013 for her solo recording of works by György Ligeti and György Kurtág. Her performances are noted for their emotional depth and technical mastery, making her a standout in the chamber music genre. Beyond her musical achievements, Kashkashian is also a dedicated educator, having taught viola and chamber music at the New England Conservatory since 2000. Her artistry continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.