Immerse yourself in the captivating world of classical music with Gil Shaham's exquisite album, "Haydn: Violin Concertos Nos. 1 & 4 - Mendelssohn: Octet for Strings." Released on March 1, 2010, under the esteemed Canary Classics label, this album is a testament to Shaham's virtuosity and the Sejong Soloists' mastery of chamber music.
The album opens with Joseph Haydn's Violin Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Hob. VIIa:1, a piece that showcases Shaham's technical prowess and expressive depth. The concerto's three movements—Allegro Moderato, Adagio, and Finale. Presto—are performed with a finesse that brings out the intricate details and emotional nuances of Haydn's composition.
Following this, the album presents Haydn's Violin Concerto No. 4 in G Major, Hob. VIIa:4, another brilliant display of Shaham's artistry. The concerto's three movements—Allegro Moderato, Adagio, and Finale. Allegro—are rendered with a clarity and passion that highlight the concerto's lyrical beauty and structural complexity.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Felix Mendelssohn's Octet for Strings in E-Flat Major, Op. 20. This monumental work, performed by the Sejong Soloists, is a tour de force of chamber music. The four movements—Allegro molto e vivace, Andante, Scherzo, and Molto allegro e vivace—are executed with a precision and cohesion that underscore the octet's intricate counterpoint and rich harmonies.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 2 minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of two of classical music's most enduring works. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Gil Shaham and the Sejong Soloists' performances are sure to captivate and inspire.
Vinylscout