Bloch: Violin Concerto; Baal Shem

Michael Guttman's 1992 album, "Bloch: Violin Concerto; Baal Shem," is a captivating journey through the works of Ernest Bloch, featuring the renowned violinist's interpretations of two of the composer's most significant pieces. The album opens with Bloch's Violin Concerto, a three-movement work that showcases Guttman's technical prowess and expressive depth. The Allegro deciso of the first movement is a tour de force, followed by the introspective Andante of the second movement, and culminating in the energetic Deciso of the third movement.

The second half of the album is dedicated to Bloch's "Baal Shem" (Three Pictures of Chassidic Life), a suite inspired by the composer's exploration of his Jewish heritage. Guttman's rendition of the three movements—Vidui (Contrition), Nigun (Improvisation), and Simchas Torah (Rejoicing)—is both sensitive and vibrant, capturing the spiritual essence of each piece. The album concludes with two additional works by Bloch, "Poema Elegíaco" and "Momento Psicológico," further demonstrating Guttman's versatility and mastery of the violin.

Recorded in 1992 and released under the Decca label, this album is a testament to Michael Guttman's artistry and his deep connection with Bloch's music. With a total duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, it offers a comprehensive exploration of Bloch's violin works, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.