David Grimal, the renowned violinist, teams up with pianist Itamar Golan to present a captivating collection of works by three 20th-century masters: Francis Poulenc, Igor Stravinsky, and Sergei Prokofiev. Released on La Dolce Volta on February 24, 2023, this album offers a rich exploration of chamber music, featuring sonatas and divertimentos that showcase the unique voices of these composers.
The album opens with Poulenc's Sonata for Violin and Piano, FP 119, a work that blends French elegance with emotional depth. The three movements, from the fiery "Allegro con fuoco" to the dramatic "Presto tragico," highlight the composers' signature style. Following this, Stravinsky's Divertimento for Violin and Piano, a reworking of his ballet "The Fairy's Kiss," offers a delightful mix of Russian folk influences and neoclassical sophistication. The four movements, including the lively "Danses suisses" and the playful "Pas de deux," provide a dynamic contrast to Poulenc's sonata.
The album concludes with Prokofiev's Violin Sonata No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 80, a work that combines lyrical beauty with rhythmic complexity. The four movements, from the contemplative "Andante" to the exhilarating "Allegrissimo," demonstrate Prokofiev's mastery of form and expression.
David Grimal's virtuosic playing and Itamar Golan's sensitive accompaniment bring these works to life, offering listeners a profound and engaging musical experience. This album is a testament to the enduring power of these compositions and the artistry of its performers.