Joshua Bell, the renowned violin virtuoso, presents a captivating debut concerto album recorded at the tender age of 21. This remarkable disc, released in 1988 under the Decca Music Group Ltd. label, showcases Bell's extraordinary talent and marks the beginning of his illustrious relationship with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, conducted by the esteemed Sir Neville Marriner.
The album features two iconic violin concertos: Max Bruch's Violin Concerto No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 26, and Felix Mendelssohn's Violin Concerto in E Minor, Op. 64. Bruch's concerto, a stirring and original work that masterfully blends Classical balance with Romantic expression, is presented in three movements: "Vorspiel. Allegro moderato," "Adagio," and "Finale. Allegro energico." Mendelssohn's concerto, equally captivating, is divided into "Allegro molto appassionato," "Andante," and "Allegretto non troppo – Allegro molto vivace."
With a total duration of 54 minutes, this album is a testament to Joshua Bell's formidable prowess and his ability to deliver powerful and nuanced performances. The recording quality is excellent, with the violin's rich tones and the orchestra's intricate details clearly captured. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a compelling introduction to the world of violin concertos and the extraordinary artistry of Joshua Bell.
Vinylscout