Ida Haendel, a renowned violinist of her time, presents a captivating collection of works for violin and piano in this album. Released on January 1, 2000, under Decca Music Group Ltd., this album spans a generous 2 hours and 14 minutes, offering a rich tapestry of musical compositions that showcase Haendel's virtuosity and versatility.
The album features a diverse range of pieces, including works by Enescu, Bartók, Szymanowski, and others. It opens with Enescu's "Mythes, Op. 30," a set of three pieces inspired by Greek mythology, followed by his "Violin Sonata No. 3 in A minor, Op. 25." Bartók's "Violin Rhapsody No. 1, Sz. 87" adds a touch of Hungarian folk music to the collection. The album also includes Bartók's "Romanian Folk Dances, Sz. 68," performed in two different recordings, one from 1947 and another from 1996, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate the evolution of Haendel's interpretation over the years.
Other notable works include Schubert's "Violin Sonata No. 8 in G Major, Op. 30, No. 3," Dvořák's "Violin Sonatina in G Minor, D. 408," and a selection of shorter pieces such as Sarasate's "Zapateado, Op. 23, No. 2," and "Hebrew Melody." The album concludes with a beautiful arrangement of "Roxane's Song" from Szymanowski's opera "King Roger."
Haendel's technical prowess and expressive depth shine through in each piece, making this album a testament to her enduring legacy as one of the most celebrated violinists of the 20th century. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding listening experience that highlights the breadth and richness of the violin repertoire.