Discover the enchanting world of Joseph Martin Kraus, the German-born Swedish composer, with this remarkable 2012 release from Ondine. "Kraus: Viola Concertos" is a groundbreaking album that presents the first-ever commercial recording of three newly discovered viola concertos, offering a unique glimpse into Kraus's musical genius.
The album features the extraordinary talent of David Aaron Carpenter, accompanied by the Tapiola Sinfonietta, in a captivating performance that spans over an hour. The tracklist includes three complete concertos: the Viola Concerto in E-Flat Major, the Viola Concerto in C Major, and the Concerto for Viola and Cello in G Major. Each concerto is a masterpiece in its own right, showcasing Kraus's distinctive compositional style and his mastery of the concerto form.
The album opens with the energetic and resolute first movement of the Viola Concerto in E-Flat Major, followed by the lyrical and cantabile Adagio e cantabile. The third movement, a Rondo in Moderato, brings the concerto to a lively and satisfying close. The Viola Concerto in C Major follows, with its majestic Allegro maestoso and the tender Larghetto cantabile. The final concerto, for Viola and Cello in G Major, is a delightful blend of the two instruments, with a charming Rondo in Allegro moderato.
This album is a testament to Kraus's enduring legacy and a must-listen for anyone interested in classical music and the viola concerto genre. The performances are impeccable, the recordings are clear and vivid, and the music is nothing short of extraordinary. Immerse yourself in the world of Joseph Martin Kraus and experience the magic of these newly discovered viola concertos.