Joshua Bell, one of the most celebrated violinists of our time, presents "Romance of the Violin," a captivating album released on October 17, 2003, under the Sony Classical label. This 51-minute classical masterpiece is a testament to Bell's virtuosity and his deep connection with the violin.
The album features a diverse range of compositions, from Puccini's "O mio babbino caro" to Debussy's "The Girl with Flaxen Hair," showcasing Bell's versatility and musical prowess. Each track is a delicate arrangement for violin and orchestra, highlighting the instrument's expressive range and Bell's exceptional skill.
"Romance of the Violin" is not just a collection of songs; it's an exploration of the violin's romantic repertoire. Bell's interpretations are both sensitive and powerful, drawing out the emotional depth and technical brilliance of each piece. The album includes well-known works like Saint-Saëns' "The Swan" and Schubert's "Serenade," as well as lesser-known gems like Chausson's "Elegie" and Dvořák's "Songs My Mother Taught Me."
The album's production quality is impeccable, with clear and rich sound that brings each note to life. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Romance of the Violin" offers a rewarding listening experience. It's a beautiful addition to any music collection, showcasing the timeless allure of the violin and the extraordinary talent of Joshua Bell.
(P) 2003 SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT
Tracks
Gianni Schicchi: O mio babbino caro (Arr. C. Leon for Violin & Orchestra)Giacomo Puccini, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern
The Girl with Flaxen HairClaude Debussy, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
Nocturne No. 20 in C-Sharp Minor, Op. posth (Arranged for Violin & Orchestra)Frédéric Chopin, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
The Carnival of the Animals, R. 125: XIII. The SwanCamille Saint-Saëns, Joshua Bell, Craig Ogden, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
Serenade, D. 957, No. 4Franz Schubert, Joshua Bell, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields, Michael Stern, Craig Ogden
Casta Diva from NormaVincenzo Bellini, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
Piano Concerto No. 21 in C Major, K. 467: II. Andante (Arranged for Violin & Orchestra)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
Orfeo ed Euridice, Wq. 30: Dance of the Blessed Spirits (Arranged for Violin & Orchestra)Christoph Willibald Gluck, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
String Quartet No. 2 in D Major: III. NocturneAlexander Borodin, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
Songs My Mother Taught Me, Op. 55, No. 4 (Arr. for Violin and Orchestra)Antonín Dvořák, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Craig Ogden, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
Pur ti Miro from "L'incoronazione di Poppea"Claudio Monteverdi, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Jacob Heringman, John Constable, Stephen Orton, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
Elegie: O doux printemps d'autrefoisJules Massenet, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields
Kinderszenen, Op. 15: No. 7, Träumerei (Arr. for Violin and Orchestra)Robert Schumann, Joshua Bell, Michael Stern, Academy of St. Martin in the Fields