Legendary violinist Ivry Gitlis, known for his powerful and expressive playing, is featured in this 1997 recording of Bach’s violin concertos and solo works, released on the Rhine Classics label. Gitlis is joined by Natalia Likhopoi in the Double Violin Concerto and the Louisiana Museum Art Ensemble for the concertos, while the solo works were recorded live in Tokyo in 1990.
The A minor and E major violin concertos showcase Gitlis’s virtuosity and emotional depth. His interpretations are bold and personal, with a strong sense of musical narrative. The slow movements are particularly poignant, with Gitlis’s rich, singing tone and expressive vibrato bringing out the music’s inherent beauty. The Louisiana Museum Art Ensemble provides sensitive and responsive accompaniment, creating a balanced and engaging dialogue with the soloist.
In the Double Violin Concerto, Gitlis and Likhopoi demonstrate a strong musical partnership, their lines intertwining and complementing each other with grace and precision. The famous Largo movement is a highlight, with both violinists expressing the music’s sublime serenity.
The solo works, recorded live in Tokyo, offer a glimpse into Gitlis’s profound musicianship. The Chaconne from Partita No. 2 is a tour de force, with Gitlis navigating the work’s complex architecture and emotional landscape with authority and insight. The Fugue from Sonata No. 3 and the Gavotte en rondeau from Partita No. 3 are equally impressive, showcasing Gitlis’s technical prowess and interpretive depth.
The recorded sound is clear and well-balanced, capturing the warmth and detail of Gitlis’s playing. The live solo recordings have a slightly different acoustic but are still of high quality, with minimal audience noise.
Overall, this Rhine Classics release is a testament to Ivry Gitlis’s enduring artistry and his deep affinity for Bach’s music. While some listeners may prefer more historically informed performances, Gitlis’s interpretations are undeniably compelling and emotionally resonant. This recording is a must-have for fans of Gitlis and anyone who appreciates passionate, virtuosic violin playing in the grand tradition.