Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Camille Saint-Saëns with this exquisite collection of his violin concertos and concertante pieces. Released on January 1, 1977, by Warner Classics, this album spans a generous 2 hours and 29 minutes, offering a comprehensive journey through Saint-Saëns' violin repertoire.
The album showcases Saint-Saëns' three violin concertos, each a masterpiece in its own right. The Violin Concerto No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 20, begins with a dramatic Allegro, followed by a tender Andante espressivo, and concludes with a spirited Tempo primo. The Violin Concerto No. 2 in C Major, Op. 58, presents a more lyrical and introspective side of Saint-Saëns, with its Allegro moderato e maestoso, Andante espressivo, and Allegro scherzando quasi allegretto. The Violin Concerto No. 3 in B Minor, Op. 61, rounds out the collection with its rich, romantic themes and intricate orchestration.
Beyond the concertos, the album also features some of Saint-Saëns' most beloved concertante pieces, including the enchanting Introduction and Rondo capriccioso, Op. 28, and the lively Havanaise, Op. 83. Other highlights include the Morceau de concert pour violon et orchestre, Op. 62, the Caprice andalous pour violon et orchestre, Op. 122, and the Prélude from Le déluge, Op. 45.
The album also includes a selection of shorter pieces, such as the Romance pour violon et orchestre, Op. 48, and the Romance pour flûte et orchestre, Op. 37, arranged for violin and orchestra. Additionally, the album features an arrangement by Eugène Ysaÿe of Saint-Saëns' 6 Études, Op. 52, including the Étude en forme de valse, No. 6.
This album is a testament to Saint-Saëns' enduring legacy as a composer of remarkable depth and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Vinylscout