Sarasate: Music for Violin and Orchestra, Vol. 4

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Pablo de Sarasate's virtuosic compositions with "Sarasate: Music for Violin and Orchestra, Vol. 4." This album, released on October 1, 2013, by Naxos, is the final installment in Tianwa Yang's critically acclaimed series of Sarasate's works for violin and orchestra. The album features eight enchanting pieces, including the lively "Introduction and Tarantella, Op. 43" and the spirited "Jota de San Fermín, Op. 36," showcasing Sarasate's mastery of blending traditional Spanish themes with classical orchestration.

The highlight of this collection is the inclusion of two extended concert fantasies: "Concert Fantasy on Don Giovanni, Op. 51" and "Concert Fantasy on Der Freischütz, Op. 14." These works demonstrate Sarasate's brilliance in weaving operatic melodies into intricate violin showcases. The album also includes shorter, equally charming pieces like "Jota de Pamplona, Op. 50," "Airs écossais, Op. 34," "Rêve, Op. 53," and "L'Esprit Follet, Op. 48," each offering a unique blend of technical prowess and melodic beauty.

Performed by the exceptional violinist Tianwa Yang and the Orquesta Sinfónica de Navarra, conducted by Ernest Martínez Izquierdo, this album captures the essence of Sarasate's compositions with precision and passion. With a total duration of 1 hour and 6 minutes, it's a perfect addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection.

Pablo de Sarasate, born in Pamplona, Spain, in 1844, was a virtuoso violinist, composer, and conductor whose name is synonymous with the golden age of classical music. Beginning his violin studies at the tender age of five, Sarasate quickly rose to prominence, becoming one of the most celebrated violinists of the Romantic period. His extraordinary talent and charismatic stage presence captivated audiences across Europe and beyond. Sarasate's compositions, such as the iconic "Zigeunerweisen" and the enchanting "Spanish Dances," reflect his deep connection to his Spanish heritage and his mastery of the violin. His virtuosic performances and compositions have left an indelible mark on the world of classical music, inspiring generations of musicians. Sarasate's legacy endures through his timeless music, and his 1724 Antonio Stradivari violin, which he bequeathed to the Musée de la Musique, continues to inspire musicians today.