Dive into the world of classical music with Nigel Kennedy's captivating album, "Les Stars Du Classique: Nigel Kennedy," released on September 15, 2010, under Warner Classics. This collection is a testament to Kennedy's virtuosity and his deep connection with the violin, offering a rich tapestry of timeless compositions that span from the Baroque era to the 20th century.
The album kicks off with a lively performance of Johannes Brahms' Violin Concerto in D Major, showcasing Kennedy's technical prowess and expressive depth. It then seamlessly transitions into the serene beauty of Johann Sebastian Bach's Orchestral Suite No. 3 and Concerto for Two Violins, highlighting Kennedy's ability to convey both the grandeur and intimacy of Bach's music.
Antonio Vivaldi's works are prominently featured, with selections from "L'estro armonico" and "The Four Seasons." Kennedy's rendition of "The Four Seasons" is particularly noteworthy, bringing fresh energy and interpretation to these iconic pieces. The album also includes a delightful arrangement of George Gershwin's "Blue Lullaby," demonstrating Kennedy's versatility and his knack for breathing new life into familiar tunes.
Other highlights include Fritz Kreisler's "Praeludium and Allegro in the Style of Pugnani," Frédéric Chopin's "Nocturne No. 1" arranged by Dębski, and Jean Sibelius' Violin Concerto in D Minor. Each piece is performed with Kennedy's signature style, blending precision with passion.
With a duration of 1 hour and 16 minutes, this album is a comprehensive journey through some of the most beloved works in the classical repertoire, all brought to life by one of the most celebrated violinists of our time. Whether you're a seasoned classical enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Les Stars Du Classique: Nigel Kennedy" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.
Brahms: Violin Concerto in D Major, Op. 77: III. Allegro giocoso, ma non troppo vivaceJohannes Brahms, Nigel Kennedy, Klaus Tennstedt, London Philharmonic Orchestra
Bach, JS: Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major, BWV 1068: II. AirJohann Sebastian Bach, Nigel Kennedy, English Chamber Orchestra, Harold Lester, John Anderson, Paul Barritt
Bach, JS: Concerto for Two Violins in D Minor, BWV 1043: I. VivaceJohann Sebastian Bach, Nigel Kennedy, Daniel Stabrawa, Berliner Philharmoniker
Vivaldi: L'estro armonico, Violin Concerto in A Minor, Op. 3 No. 6, RV 356: I. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, Berliner Philharmoniker, Daniel Stabrawa, Mitzi Meyerson, Olaf Maninger, Taro Takeuchi
Vivaldi: L'estro armonico, Violin Concerto in A Minor, Op. 3 No. 6, RV 356: II. LargoAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, Berliner Philharmoniker, Daniel Stabrawa, Mitzi Meyerson, Olaf Maninger, Taro Takeuchi
Vivaldi: L'estro armonico, Violin Concerto in A Minor, Op. 3 No. 6, RV 356: III. PrestoAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, Berliner Philharmoniker, Daniel Stabrawa, Mitzi Meyerson, Olaf Maninger, Taro Takeuchi
Vivaldi: Concerto for Violin and Oboe in B-Flat Major, RV 548: II. LargoAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, Berliner Philharmoniker, Mitzi Meyerson, Taro Takeuchi
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in F Major, Op. 8 No. 3, RV 293 "Autumn": I. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, Berliner Philharmoniker
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in F Major, Op. 8 No. 3, RV 293 "Autumn": II. Adagio moltoAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, Berliner Philharmoniker
Vivaldi: The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in F Major, Op. 8 No. 3, RV 293 "Autumn": III. Allegro "La caccia"Antonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, Berliner Philharmoniker
Vivaldi: L'estro armonico, Concerto for Two Violins in A Minor, Op. 3 No. 8, RV 522 "Per eco in lontano": I. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, Nigel Kennedy, Daniel Stabrawa, Berliner Philharmoniker
Kreisler: Praeludium and Allegro in the Style of Pugnani in E MinorFritz Kreisler, Nigel Kennedy, John Lenehan
Sibelius: Violin Concerto in D Minor, Op. 47: I. Allegro moderatoJean Sibelius, Sir Simon Rattle, Nigel Kennedy, City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra
Gershwin: 3 Preludes: No. 2, Andante con moto "Blue Lullaby" (Arr. for Violin and Orchestra)George Gershwin, Nigel Kennedy, English Chamber Orchestra, Paul Barritt