Hindemith, Britten, Penderecki: Lachrymae

Kim Kashkashian's "Hindemith, Britten, Penderecki: Lachrymae" is a captivating chamber music album released on September 1, 1993, under the ECM New Series label. This 50-minute journey through the works of three distinguished composers is a testament to Kashkashian's virtuosity on the viola.

The album features four tracks, each showcasing a different facet of Kashkashian's artistry. "Trauermusik for Viola and String Orchestra" by Paul Hindemith opens the album with a somber yet powerful piece. This is followed by Benjamin Britten's "Lachrymae, Reflections on a Song of John Dowland, Op. 48a," a work that Britten composed in 1950 to mark the centennial anniversary of the composer John Dowland. The third track, "Viola Concerto" by Krzysztof Penderecki, is a challenging and expressive piece that highlights Kashkashian's technical prowess.

Kim Kashkashian, a renowned violist known for her expressive playing and deep musical insights, brings these compositions to life with her nuanced interpretations. Her collaboration with conductor George Benjamin on this album is particularly noteworthy, adding another layer of depth to the performances.

The album is a beautiful blend of classical elegance and modern expressionism, making it a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. The recording quality is exceptional, allowing the listener to fully appreciate the intricate details of Kashkashian's playing and the rich textures of the string orchestra.

Kim Kashkashian is a renowned American violist, celebrated for her unique voice and profound contributions to the world of classical music. Born in Detroit to Armenian parents, Kashkashian honed her craft at the Peabody Conservatory under the guidance of legendary violists Karen Tuttle and Walter Trampler, and later with Felix Galimir at the Marlboro Music Festival. Her career spans both the U.S. and Europe, where she has collaborated with numerous contemporary composers, earning her a reputation as one of the world's top violists.

Kashkashian's discography, particularly her work with the ECM label, has garnered international acclaim, including a Grammy Award in 2013 for her solo recording of works by György Ligeti and György Kurtág. Her performances are noted for their emotional depth and technical mastery, making her a standout in the chamber music genre. Beyond her musical achievements, Kashkashian is also a dedicated educator, having taught viola and chamber music at the New England Conservatory since 2000. Her artistry continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.