Henning Kraggerud, the renowned Norwegian violinist and composer, presents a captivating collection of Scandinavian violin concertos with his album "Halvorsen, Nielsen & Svendsen: Music for Violin & Orchestra." Released on Naxos in February 2017, this album features seven tracks that showcase the elegance and depth of chamber music, with a total runtime of one hour and two minutes.
The album includes the world premiere recording of Johan Halvorsen's Violin Concerto, Op. 33, performed by Kraggerud and the Malmö Symphony Orchestra. This concerto, combined with Carl Nielsen's Violin Concerto, Op. 28, offers a blend of emotive power and pastoral charm. Kraggerud's performance on his 1744 Guarneri del Gesù violin adds a layer of historical richness to these compositions.
The album also features Johannes Svendsen's Romance for Violin & Orchestra, Op. 26, adding a touch of romanticism to the collection. Kraggerud's interpretation brings out the nuances and subtleties of these works, making it a standout recording for both classical music enthusiasts and those new to the genre. This album is a testament to Kraggerud's virtuosity and his deep connection with the music of his Scandinavian heritage.