L'Aurore

Album Description

Carolin Widmann, the renowned German violinist, presents "L'Aurore," her seventh album for ECM New Series and her first solo violin recital for the label. Recorded in July 2021 at the Auditorio Stelio Molo RSI in Lugano, this captivating album spans an impressive thousand years of music history, showcasing Widmann's extraordinary versatility and artistry.

The album opens with the ancient antiphon "Spiritus sanctus vivificans vita" by Hildegard von Bingen and closes with the contemporary "3 Miniatures" by George Benjamin. In between, Widmann navigates through a diverse range of compositions, including works by Eugène Ysaÿe and George Enescu, which significantly expanded the expressive possibilities of the violin. The album also features Bach's iconic "Partita No. 2 for Solo Violin in D Minor, BWV 1004," a cornerstone of the violin repertoire.

"L'Aurore" is a testament to Widmann's imaginative and scholarly approach to music. The album's title, which translates to "the dawn," reflects the journey from ancient to modern compositions, illustrating the evolution of violin music over the centuries. Widmann's technical prowess and interpretive depth shine through in each piece, offering a rich and engaging listening experience.

The album was produced by the legendary Manfred Eicher, with engineering by Markus Heiland, ensuring a high-quality sonic experience. The cover photo, captured by Wilfried Hösl, adds a visual dimension to the album's historical and artistic depth. With a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, "L'Aurore" is a comprehensive and rewarding exploration of the violin's vast musical landscape.

June 17, 2022

℗ 2022 ECM Records GmbH, under exclusive license to Deutsche Grammophon GmbH, Berlin

About Carolin Widmann

Carolin Widmann is a distinguished German violinist renowned for her versatility and commitment to contemporary music. Born in Munich in 1976, Widmann has studied with esteemed mentors such as Igor Ozim, Michèle Auclair, and David Takeno, honing her craft to become one of the most uncompromising violinists of her generation. She plays a rare 1782 violin crafted by Giovanni Battista Guadagnini, adding a touch of historical richness to her performances.

Widmann's repertoire spans classical concerti, new commissions, solo recitals, and chamber music, showcasing her exceptional musicianship and individuality. She has performed with some of the world's most prestigious orchestras, including the Gewandhaus-Orchester Leipzig, Orchestre National de France, and the London Philharmonic Orchestra. Her discography is equally impressive, with highly acclaimed recordings that reflect her deep engagement with the music she performs.

In addition to her performing career, Widmann is a dedicated educator, serving as a professor of violin at Leipzig’s University of Music and Theatre “Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy” since 2006. Her accolades include the Bayerischer Staatspreis for music and the International Classical Music Award, underscoring her significant contributions to the musical world. Widmann's ability to make beautiful music sound more interesting and entertaining sets her apart, making her a captivating artist for both classical aficionados and newcomers alike.