Henri Marteau's "Marteau, Vol. 4: Violin Concerto in C Major, Op. 18 & Serenade, Op. 20" is a captivating journey through the works of the renowned French composer. Released on January 11, 2019, under the Solo Musica label, this album spans a total of 1 hour and 4 minutes, featuring seven tracks that showcase Marteau's exceptional musical prowess.
The album opens with the Violin Concerto in C Major, Op. 18, a three-movement piece that highlights Marteau's ability to blend technical virtuosity with profound emotional expression. The first movement, "Allegro risoluto - Allegro energico, ma non troppo," sets a lively and energetic tone, while the second movement, "Adagio," offers a moment of serene reflection. The concerto concludes with the "Rondo. Allegro con fuoco, ma non troppo," a dynamic and fiery finale.
The second half of the album is dedicated to the Serenade, Op. 20, a four-movement work that showcases Marteau's skill in composing for winds. The "Entrata" opens the serenade with a grand and majestic introduction, followed by the "Adagietto," a tender and lyrical movement. The "Scherzino" brings a playful and whimsical energy, while the "Tema con variazioni" concludes the serenade with a series of elegant and intricate variations.
Performed by the talented Raoul Grüneis and the Deutsche Radio Philharmonie Saarbrücken Kaiserslautern, this album is a testament to Marteau's enduring legacy. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, "Marteau, Vol. 4" is sure to delight and inspire.