Dive into the enchanting world of romantic classical music with Lisa Batiashvili's captivating album, "Secret Love Letters." Released on Deutsche Grammophon, this exquisite collection showcases Batiashvili's intimate and flexible interpretative style, making it a standout in her discography. The album features a blend of chamber music and violin concertos, including works by Chausson, Saint-Saëns, and Tchaikovsky, performed with the Philadelphia Orchestra under the baton of Yannick Nézet-Séguin.
"Secret Love Letters" spans a range of themes from forbidden love to the nuances of romance seen through the lens of age and experience. The album opens with Tchaikovsky's Violin Sonata in A Major, M. 8, followed by his Violin Concerto No. 1, Op. 35, both of which highlight Batiashvili's technical prowess and expressive depth. The album also includes Chausson's Poème, Op. 25, and Saint-Saëns' Beau Soir, L. 6 (L. 84), arranged for violin and piano by Jascha Heifetz.
With a duration of 1 hour and 11 minutes, this album is a testament to Batiashvili's artistry and her ability to breathe new life into beloved classical pieces. The accompanying booklet, spanning 20 pages, provides additional context and insights into the music and the artist's approach. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Secret Love Letters" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.