Momentum : Walton, Respighi

Liya Petrova's "Momentum: Walton, Respighi" is a captivating journey through the works of two distinguished composers, William Walton and Ottorino Respighi. Released on May 19, 2023, under the Mirare label, this album showcases Petrova's exceptional artistry alongside the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Duncan Ward, and pianist Adam Laloum.

The album opens with Walton's Violin Concerto, Op. 30, a piece that begins with a languid dialogue between the solo violin and wind instruments, exuding a sultry warmth that draws the listener in. The concerto's three movements—Andante tranquillo, Presto capriccioso alla napolitana, and Vivace—highlight Petrova's technical prowess and expressive depth.

Following Walton's concerto, the album presents Respighi's Sonata for Violin and Piano in B Minor, P. 110. This three-movement sonata—Moderato, Andante espressivo, and Allegro moderato ma energico—showcases the dynamic interplay between Petrova and Laloum, offering a rich and nuanced listening experience.

Recorded in two distinct locations—St. John's Smith Square in London for the Walton concerto and the Auditorium of the Queen Elisabeth Music in Brussels for the Respighi sonata—this album benefits from the acoustic excellence of these renowned venues. The high-quality FLAC format, with a sampling rate of 96 kHz and 24-bit depth, ensures that every note is captured with pristine clarity.

"Momentum: Walton, Respighi" is a testament to Liya Petrova's artistic ambition and her ability to bring out the best in both the music and her collaborators. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a rewarding and enriching experience.