Beethoven and Beyond

María Dueñas, the 21-year-old Spanish violinist, makes a stunning debut with her album "Beethoven and Beyond," released on Deutsche Grammophon. This captivating collection showcases her extraordinary talent and versatility, featuring a mix of classical masterpieces and lesser-known gems. The album opens with Beethoven's monumental Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 61, where Dueñas delivers a performance of remarkable depth and technical brilliance, accompanied by the Wiener Symphoniker under the baton of Manfred Honeck. Her interpretations are further enhanced by her own cadenzas, adding a personal touch to these timeless works.

Beyond Beethoven, Dueñas explores a diverse range of compositions, including Berlioz's Symphonie Concertante for Violin, Harp and Orchestra, and solo pieces by Saint-Saëns, Massenet, and Tchaikovsky. Each piece is rendered with exquisite sensitivity and virtuosity, demonstrating Dueñas' ability to convey a wide spectrum of emotions and styles. The album also includes three charming Old Viennese Dances, arranged for violin and orchestra, adding a delightful contrast to the more substantial works.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 39 minutes, "Beethoven and Beyond" offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. Dueñas' radiant playing and the superb support of the Wiener Symphoniker make this album a standout debut, promising a bright future for this exceptional young artist. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.