Gidon Kremer, a virtuoso violinist renowned for his profound interpretations and championing of both classical and contemporary repertoire, presents "Porträt of the Artist," a captivating album released on December 20, 2006, under the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. This extensive collection, spanning over two hours and thirty-seven minutes, is a testament to Kremer's versatility and artistry, encompassing a diverse range of genres including chamber music, classical, tango, and minimalism.
The album features a meticulously curated selection of works, showcasing Kremer's mastery of the violin. Highlights include Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto in D Major, performed live with a captivating cadenza by Reger, and Brahms' Sinfonia Concertante for Violin and Viola in E-Flat Major. Kremer's collaboration with other esteemed musicians, such as Maxim Vengerov and Mischa Maisky, adds depth and richness to the performances.
"Porträt of the Artist" also delves into lesser-known compositions, such as Paganini's Variations for Solo Violin and Astor Piazzolla's tango "Oblivion," demonstrating Kremer's commitment to exploring and revitalizing diverse musical traditions. The album concludes with a poignant rendition of Schubert's "Wie der alte Leiermann...", a hauntingly beautiful piece that underscores Kremer's ability to evoke deep emotional resonance.
Throughout his career, Gidon Kremer has been influenced by mentors such as Eldar Nebolsin, Sir András Schiff, and has collaborated with leading contemporary composers, further enriching his interpretive approach. This album is a celebration of Kremer's artistic journey, offering listeners a profound and engaging musical experience.
Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77: I. Allegro non troppo (Cadenza: Reger) - LiveGidon Kremer, Wiener Philharmoniker, Leonard Bernstein
Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77: II. Adagio - LiveGidon Kremer, Wiener Philharmoniker, Leonard Bernstein
Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77: III. Allegro giocoso, ma non troppo vivace - LiveGidon Kremer, Wiener Philharmoniker, Leonard Bernstein
Sinfonia concertante for Violin and Viola in E-Flat Major, K. 364: II. AndanteGidon Kremer, Kim Kashkashian, Wiener Philharmoniker, Nikolaus Harnoncourt
Concerto for Violin, Piano & Strings in D Minor, MWV O4: III. Allegro moltoGidon Kremer, Martha Argerich, Orpheus Chamber Orchestra
Violin Concerto No. 1: I. Crotchet = 104 – Crotchet = 120Gidon Kremer, Wiener Philharmoniker, Christoph von Dohnányi
Concerto grosso No. 1: V. Rondo. AgitatoGidon Kremer, Tatiana Grindenko, Yuri Smirnov, Chamber Orchestra of Europe, Heinrich Schiff
Concerto da camera: 6. EpilogoGidon Kremer, Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen, Thomas Klug
Violin Sonata No. 7 in C Minor, Op. 30 No. 2: I. Allegro con brioGidon Kremer, Martha Argerich
Violin Sonata No. 7 in C Minor, Op. 30 No. 2: II. Adagio cantabileGidon Kremer, Martha Argerich
Violin Sonata No. 7 in C Minor, Op. 30 No. 2: III. Scherzo. AllegroGidon Kremer, Martha Argerich
Violin Sonata No. 7 in C Minor, Op. 30 No. 2: IV. Finale. AllegroGidon Kremer, Martha Argerich
Octet in F Major, D. 803: III. Allegro vivaceGidon Kremer, Isabelle van Keulen, Tabea Zimmermann, David Geringas, Alois Posch, Eduard Brunner, Radovan Vlatkovic, Klaus Thunemann
Paganiniana, Variations for Solo ViolinGidon Kremer
Sonata for Violin and Piano in E flat, Op. 18: 2. Improvisation (Andante cantabile)Gidon Kremer, Oleg Maisenberg
Piano Quartet No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 25: IV. Rondo alla ZingareseMartha Argerich, Gidon Kremer, Yuri Bashmet, Mischa Maisky
"Wie der alte Leiermann..."Gidon Kremer, Kremerata Baltica
Fuga y misterio - Arranged by Andrei PushkarevGidon Kremer, Andrei Pushkarev, Kremerata Baltica