This captivating album, released on October 22, 2012, under the naïve classique label, showcases the extraordinary talent of violinist Patricia Kopatchinskaja. The album spans a duration of 1 hour and 29 minutes, featuring a collection of chamber music compositions that highlight the virtuosity and interpretive depth of Kopatchinskaja. The tracklist includes works by Béla Bartók, Péter Eötvös, and György Ligeti, each contributing unique and challenging pieces that push the boundaries of violin performance.
The album opens with Bartók's Violin Concerto No. 2, a work that demands technical precision and expressive range. Kopatchinskaja's rendition is both powerful and nuanced, capturing the essence of Bartók's complex and innovative composition. Following this, Eötvös's "Seven" offers a contemporary contrast with its five distinct movements, each exploring different textures and rhythms. Kopatchinskaja's performance is marked by her ability to navigate the intricate and often dissonant passages with clarity and control.
The album concludes with Ligeti's Violin Concerto, a piece that is as demanding as it is rewarding. Kopatchinskaja's interpretation is nothing short of breathtaking, showcasing her ability to handle the work's rapid shifts in tempo and dynamics. The collaboration with the Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra and Ensemble Modern, under the direction of Péter Eötvös, adds depth and richness to the performances, making this album a standout in the world of classical music.