Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical chamber music with Augustin Dumay's album "Franck & Strauss: Violin Sonatas." This exquisite collection, released on Onyx Classics in February 2013, showcases the extraordinary talent of violinist Augustin Dumay, accompanied by the brilliant pianist Louis Lortie.
The album features a stunning array of works, including César Franck's renowned Violin Sonata in E Flat Major, Op. 18, a piece celebrated for its passionate and sunny disposition. The sonata is presented in its entirety, with each movement—Allegro, ma non troppo, Improvisation - Andante cantabile, and Finale - Andante, allegro—expertly performed to highlight the depth and complexity of Franck's composition.
In addition to the sonata, the album includes two rarities by Franck: "Mélancolie" and the "Prelude, Fugue and Variation" in B Minor, Op. 18, originally composed for organ and masterfully arranged for violin and piano by Augustin Dumay himself. These pieces add a unique and enchanting dimension to the collection.
The album also features Richard Strauss's Violin Sonata in A Major, a work that showcases the dynamic range and expressive power of the violin. The sonata is divided into four movements: Allegretto ben moderato, Allegro, Recitativo - Fantasia, and Allegretto poco mosso, each offering a distinct emotional and musical journey.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of classical music and the extraordinary skill of its performers. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Augustin Dumay's "Franck & Strauss: Violin Sonatas" is sure to captivate and inspire.