Composer: Fritz Kreisler (1883-1951), Johannes Brahms (1833-1897), Dmitri Shostakovich (1906-1975), Riccardo Drigo (1846-1930), Zdenek Fibich (1850-1900), Manuel de Falla (1876-1946), Henryk Wieniawski (1835-1880), Pablo de Sarasate (1844-1908), Ernest Bloch (1880-1959), Claude Debussy (1862-1918), Nicolai Rimsky-Korsakov (1844-1908), Frederick Delius (1862-1934), Franz Schubert (1797-1828), William Kroll (1901-1980), Maurice Ravel (1875-1937)
Works: Praeludium and Allegro “in the style of Pugnani”; Hungarian Dance No. 1 (arr. Joachim); The Gadfly: Romance; Valse Bluette (arr. Auer); Moods, Impressions and Reminiscences, Op. 41: Poème (arr. Kubelik); La Vida Breve: Danse espagnole (arr. Kreisler); Légende, Op. 17 (arr. Wieniawski); Introduction and Tarantella, Op. 43; Hungarian Dance No. 5 (arr. Joachim); Baal Shem: Nigun; Beau Soir (arr. Heifetz); Caprice viennois, Op. 2; The Tale of Tsar Saltan: The Flight of the Bumble Bee (arr. Heifetz); Hassan: Serenade (arr. Tertis); Ave Maria, D. 839 (arr. Wieniawski); Banjo and Fiddle; Tzigane Rapsodie de concert
Performers: Tasmin Little (violin), Piers Lane (pianoforte)
Recording: St. Michaels, Highgate, 30-31 July 1991
Label: EMI Classics for Pleasure 574 9492
This compilation of violin works, curated under the auspices of the late violinist Fritz Kreisler, showcases a kaleidoscopic array of pieces that echo the virtuosity and flair of the late Romantic and early 20th-century repertoire. Each work has been deftly arranged to highlight the lush expressivity of the violin, a hallmark of Kreisler’s own performance style. The selections are both familiar and nostalgic, evoking a rich tapestry of emotions that resonate deeply with listeners, while also serving as an homage to the traditions of the violin’s storied past.
Tasmin Little’s interpretations are characterized by a remarkable balance of technical prowess and lyrical sensitivity. In the Brahms Hungarian Dances, for example, she embraces the inherent rhythmic playfulness with an infectious buoyancy that feels both spontaneous and grounded. The contrasting tempos she adopts breathe new life into these pieces, allowing them to pulsate with the “gypsy freedom” that Brahms himself so adored. Such interpretative choices not only reflect an understanding of the music’s cultural background but also demonstrate a modern sensibility that reinvigorates these well-trodden works.
The recording quality is commendable, with the sound capturing both the clarity of the violin and the supportive resonance of Piers Lane’s piano accompaniment. Lane’s contributions are subtle yet vital, providing a harmonic foundation that is both robust and transparent. In pieces like the Shostakovich Romance, the interplay between violin and piano feels particularly poignant, with Little’s emotive playing illuminating the work’s melancholic undertones. The engineering captures a warm ambiance that enhances the intimacy of the performance space, allowing the listener to feel as though they are present in the room.
Notably, the “Caprice viennois,” while often a showcase for flashy technique, is rendered with a sense of restraint; Little opts for an interpretation that caresses the melodic lines rather than overwhelming them with bravura. This nuanced approach elevates the performance beyond mere display, inviting the listener to appreciate the lyrical beauty of the piece. Conversely, in the “Tzigane,” both performers unleash a vibrant energy that showcases their technical mastery and interpretative flair, culminating in a thrilling conclusion that feels both inevitable and exhilarating.
Despite the overall success of the album, the arrangement of Schubert’s “Ave Maria” feels somewhat out of place. While Little’s sincerity shines through, the arrangement lacks the ethereal quality typically associated with the original composition, resulting in a performance that, while heartfelt, does not fully resonate as intended. This momentary lapse is a minor blemish in an otherwise compelling collection.
The disc stands as a testament to the enduring charm of these violin miniatures, proving that they can evoke a range of emotions with as much relevance today as they did in their prime. Tasmin Little, through her thoughtful interpretations and exceptional technique, reaffirms her status as a prominent voice in the contemporary violin landscape. This recording is a delightful exploration for both seasoned aficionados and new listeners alike, offering a vibrant snapshot of the beloved genre that continues to captivate audiences.
