Raff: Complete Violin Sonatas, Vol. 2

Immerse yourself in the rich, romantic compositions of Joachim Raff with the release of "Raff: Complete Violin Sonatas, Vol. 2." This album, released on November 8, 2019, under the Naxos label, is a captivating collection of Raff's violin sonatas, featuring Sonatas Nos. 3, 4, and 5. The performances, brought to life by the talented duo KAYALEH / SCHNEIDER, offer a profound exploration of Raff's musical genius, spanning a duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes.

The album opens with the Violin Sonata No. 3 in D Major, Op. 128, a piece that showcases Raff's ability to blend technical brilliance with emotional depth. The sonata's four movements—Allegro, Allegro assai, Andante quasi larghetto, and Allegro vivace—take the listener on a journey through a range of moods and tempos. Following this is the Violin Sonata No. 4 in G Minor, Op. 129, known as the "Chromatic," which is notable for its intricate and innovative use of chromaticism.

The final piece on the album is the Violin Sonata No. 5 in C Minor, Op. 145. This sonata, with its four movements—Allegro patetico, Andante, Presto, and Allegro agitato—is a testament to Raff's mastery of the violin sonata form. Each movement is a study in contrast, from the dramatic and impassioned Allegro patetico to the lively and energetic Allegro agitato.

This album is not just a collection of sonatas; it's a celebration of Joachim Raff's contributions to the romantic repertoire. The performances by KAYALEH / SCHNEIDER are both technically impressive and emotionally resonant, making this album a valuable addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado of romantic music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a rewarding listening experience.