Violin Concerto

Album review

The combination of a talented violinist, an equally talented orchestra, and very suitable repertoire performed on a Stradivarius add up to an album that is a classy, enjoyable listening experience. Kolja Blacher plays Robert Schumann with the Mahler Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Vassily Lobanov on this CD of understated good taste. The violin concerto's introduction is dark and active, with echoes of Beethoven, but then it turns smooth as Blacher's full, powerful violin enters. Even his piano dynamics maintain a solid sound, and yet this fullness is still expressive and romantic. The repertoire is well chosen for Blacher, though one senses he could push the envelope with more emotion. In the second movement, he plays with a lighter bow touch, yet there is always a beautiful, flowing legato that makes the music sing. The orchestra is an excellent complement to his understated elegance. The rapid runs, slurs, and athletic playing make Blacher a joy to hear, even if it is not the most exciting of Schumann's compositions. The Violin Sonata No. 1 in A minor is different in character. One can hear the violin's yearning from the beginning, accompanied by a pianist who is Blacher's equal; Vassily Lobanov's style is full, confident, and majestic. Blacher plumbs the depths of the strong, dark register, and yet he sings and soars in the higher register. The middle movement is brief and lively, with levity to it, but the most exciting part is the passionate third movement. The good recording quality makes the bow attacks and strokes very clearly audible: one can hear Blacher's tremendous bow control. Blacher gives the music his all. In sum, it is a great example of chamber music. The Three Romances for violin and piano are indeed romantic, and yet interpreted with a subdued quality that is not over-the-top. Blacher keeps supple tension in the lines, and there is a certain sadness that pervades the music now and then. This, too, is not Schumann's most dramatic music, but Blacher is a wonderfully tasteful violinist with excellent technique. He has also chosen worthy musicians to accompany him on this Schumann journey.
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