Janine Jansen, the acclaimed violinist, presents a captivating album that masterfully pairs two iconic violin concertos. The album opens with Johannes Brahms' beloved Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77, a piece renowned for its lyrical depth and technical brilliance. Jansen's interpretation, recorded live in Rome with Antonio Pappano conducting the Orchestra dell'Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia, is both sensitive and virtuosic, showcasing her extraordinary range and musicality.
The second half of the album features Béla Bartók's Violin Concerto No. 1, Sz. 36, recorded in London with the London Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Antonio Pappano. This concerto, with its distinctive Hungarian folk influences and complex rhythms, offers a striking contrast to the Brahms. Jansen's performance is electrifying, capturing the concerto's energy and intricacy with remarkable precision.
The album, released under Decca Music Group Ltd. in 2015, spans a total of five tracks and runs for just under an hour. Jansen's artistry shines through in every note, making this a compelling addition to any classical music collection. Whether you're a longtime fan of Jansen or new to her work, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.