Folia

Album Description

Nils Mönkemeyer, the acclaimed German violist, presents "Folia," a captivating chamber music album released in 2011 under Sony Classical. This 59-minute collection is a testament to Mönkemeyer's exceptional artistry and versatility, offering a blend of classical masterpieces and lesser-known gems, all beautifully adapted for viola and strings.

The album opens with a selection from Michel Richard Delalande's "Symphonies de Noël," featuring the lively "Premier Tambourin" and the charming "Air pour un Nyais et une Nyaise." These tracks set a festive and engaging tone, showcasing Mönkemeyer's ability to bring historical works to life with fresh energy.

The centerpiece of the album is the "Concerto for Viola, Strings and Continuo in G Major" by Georg Philipp Telemann, a four-movement work that highlights the expressive range of the viola. Mönkemeyer's interpretation is both technically impressive and deeply expressive, making this concerto a standout piece on the album.

Also noteworthy is the "Sonata No. 12 in D minor/G minor 'La Folia'" by Arcangelo Corelli, adapted for viola and strings. This arrangement offers a unique perspective on the well-known "Folia" theme, demonstrating Mönkemeyer's skill in reimagining classical compositions.

The album concludes with a selection of works by Johann Sebastian Bach, including the "Harpsichord Concerto No. 1 in D Minor, BWV 1052," arranged for viola and chamber orchestra. Mönkemeyer's rendition of these timeless pieces is both respectful of the original compositions and innovative in its approach.

"Folia" is a must-listen for fans of classical music and chamber ensembles, offering a rich and varied listening experience. Nils Mönkemeyer's virtuosity and musical insight make this album a standout addition to any classical music collection.

17 januari 2011

(P) 2011 Sony Music Entertainment Germany GmbH

About Nils Mönkemeyer

Nils Mönkemeyer is a renowned German violist celebrated for his versatility and virtuosity across a wide range of musical styles and genres. Born in 1978, Mönkemeyer has earned international acclaim through his captivating performances and numerous award-winning recordings. His discography includes a diverse array of viola literature and innovative arrangements that have significantly elevated the instrument's solo repertoire.

Mönkemeyer's career highlights include premieres of contemporary works, such as Dieter Ammann's Viola Concerto, and collaborations with esteemed musicians like Viktoria Mullova. He has performed with leading orchestras worldwide, including the Sinfonieorchester Basel, Philharmonia Zurich, and Sapporo Symphony Orchestra.

In addition to his performing career, Mönkemeyer is deeply committed to education and community engagement. He has been a professor at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Munich since 2011 and founded the "Klassik für Alle" chamber music festival in collaboration with Caritas Bonn. This festival aims to make classical music accessible to a broader audience and support social music projects.

Mönkemeyer plays a viola crafted by Philipp Augustin, and his performances are noted for the rich and varied sounds he draws from his instrument. His repertoire spans from Spanish Baroque music to modern compositions, showcasing the viola's expressive potential. Mönkemeyer's passion for music and teaching is evident in his dynamic performances and dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians.