Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Alfredo Campoli's masterful violin performances with "Campoli - The Decca 78s, Volume 5." This meticulously curated collection, released on July 26, 2024, under Universal Music Australia Pty. Ltd., brings together a stunning array of classical pieces, all remastered by the acclaimed Mark Obert-Thorn. Spanning a rich hour of music, this album showcases Campoli's virtuosic talent and deep musicality, accompanied by the equally skilled pianist Eric Gritton.
The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful Violin Sonata in G Minor, GT 2.g10 "Didone abbandonata," a work that highlights Campoli's ability to convey profound emotion through his playing. The sonata's four movements, from the Adagio ma non troppo to the Allegro comodo, demonstrate Campoli's technical prowess and expressive depth. The collection also features a captivating arrangement of Bach's Keyboard Concerto No. 5 in F Minor, BWV 1056, showcasing Campoli's versatility and adaptability.
Paganini's 24 Caprices for Solo Violin, Op. 1, MS 25, are represented by two standout pieces: No. 13 in B-Flat Major "The Devil's Laughter" and No. 20 in D Major. These caprices, arranged for violin and piano by Fritz Kreisler, display Campoli's dazzling technique and precision. The album also includes Kreisler's arrangement of "La campanella," Op. 7, a piece that further highlights Campoli's ability to bring clarity and brilliance to complex compositions.
The album concludes with a selection of works by Bach, including the Air "on the G String" from the Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major, BWV 1068, and the Violin Concerto No. 1 in D Major, Op. 6. These pieces, along with the Violin Sonata No. 12 in D Minor, Op. 5/12 "La Folia," underscore Campoli's deep connection to the Baroque repertoire and his ability to breathe new life into these timeless works.
"Campoli - The Decca 78s, Volume 5" is not just a collection of recordings; it is a testament to Alfredo Campoli's enduring legacy as one of the greatest violinists of the 20th century. Whether you are a longtime admirer of Campoli's work or a newcomer to his artistry, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that celebrates the beauty and power of the violin.