Experience the virtuosity of Leonid Kogan in this captivating live album, "Wieniawski, Szymanowski & Waxman," released in 2021. This collection of chamber music masterpieces showcases Kogan's unparalleled skill and artistry, accompanied by Vladimir Degtyarenko and other esteemed musicians. The album features a diverse range of compositions, including mazurkas, polonaises, and fantasias, each performed with Kogan's signature passion and precision.
The album opens with Henryk Wieniawski's "Mazurka in G minor, Op. 12 No. 2 'Polish Song,'" a lively and rhythmic piece that sets the tone for the rest of the album. Kogan's performance is both energetic and nuanced, highlighting the intricate melodies and harmonies of the composition. Other notable tracks include Wieniawski's "Variation on an Original Theme in A major, Op. 15" and "Polonaise brillante No. 2 in A major, Op. 21," both of which showcase Kogan's technical prowess and expressive playing.
In addition to Wieniawski's works, the album features compositions by Karol Szymanowski and Franz Waxman. Szymanowski's "Legende" in G minor, Op. 17, is a hauntingly beautiful piece that Kogan performs with sensitivity and depth. Waxman's "Fantasia for Violin and Orchestra on the themes from opera 'Carmen' by Georges Bizet" is a thrilling and dramatic work that Kogan brings to life with his dynamic playing.
The album also includes a beautiful "Nocturne & Tarantella for Violin & Piano, in E minor, Op. 28," a piece that showcases Kogan's versatility and range as a musician. The album concludes with Waxman's "Adagio élégiaque in A major, Op. 5," a poignant and reflective piece that Kogan performs with grace and elegance.
With a duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, this live album is a testament to Kogan's enduring legacy as one of the greatest violinists of all time. Whether you're a fan of classical music or simply appreciate exceptional artistry, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.
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