Frank Peter Zimmermann, a German violinist of remarkable talent and accomplishment, presents a captivating collection of violin concertos and a virtuosic showpiece in "Berg & Stravinsky: Violin Concertos - Ravel: Tzigane." Recorded in 1991 and released under Warner Classics, this album offers a compelling journey through the works of three distinct composers, each contributing a unique voice to the violin concerto repertoire.
The album opens with Alban Berg's deeply expressive Violin Concerto "To the Memory of an Angel," a piece that reflects the composer's personal grief and pays homage to the memory of Manon Gropius, the daughter of Alma Mahler and Walter Gropius. The concerto's rich harmonies and intricate structure are brought to life by Zimmermann's nuanced performance, showcasing his technical prowess and emotional depth.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Igor Stravinsky's Violin Concerto in D Major, a work that exemplifies the composer's neoclassical style. The concerto's four movements—Toccata, Aria I, Aria II, and Capriccio—offer a delightful mix of rhythmic vitality, lyrical beauty, and virtuosic display. Zimmermann's precise and articulate playing captures the essence of Stravinsky's distinctive musical language.
The album concludes with Maurice Ravel's "Tzigane," a dazzling showpiece that combines elements of Gypsy music with Ravel's characteristic impressionistic style. Zimmermann's performance is a tour de force, showcasing his exceptional technical skill and musical sensitivity.
Throughout the album, Zimmermann is accompanied by the Radio-Sinfonieorchester Stuttgart, conducted by Gianluigi Gelmetti. Their collaborative efforts result in a recording that is both technically impressive and deeply engaging, offering listeners a rich and rewarding musical experience.
Vinylscout