Rabin, Michael: Bruch, Kroll, Wieniawski, Tchaikovsky, Sarasate & Saint-Saens (1962, 1969) (Max Bruch - William Kroll - Henryk Wieniawski)

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Among the many tragically short and troubled careers in the history of music, certainly the life of violinist Michael Rabin ranks high among those from the twentieth century. Born into a family of musical elites, Rabin quickly followed suit and found himself thrust into the musical spotlight by his early teens. After more than a decade of an astoundingly busy touring and recording schedule, Rabin's playing took a rapid turn for the worse causing him to temporarily leave the stage. He was able to pull his life back together in time for a final, glorious push only to die tragically from a fall when only 35 years of age. This Audite album compiles Rabin's complete recordings made for the RIAS Berlin, made primarily in 1969 after his successful return to the stage. The disc opens with what turns out to be the least successful piece on the program: Bruch's G minor Violin Concerto. The problem with this performance does not rest with Rabin, but with the disastrously sloppy performance given by the RIAS Symphonie-Orchester. Tutti sections are one trainwreck after another, and listeners can almost hear Rabin trying to steady the out-of-control orchestra each time he enters. The remainder of the album, however, features Rabin with pianist Lothar Broddack in a selection of virtuoso works by Kroll, Wieniawski, Tchaikovsky, and Sarasate. Here, it is immediately obvious why Rabin was in such high demand. His technique is simply astounding and completely effortless. Beyond just pyrotechnics, though, Rabin actually infuses these short pieces with genuine and convincing musical interest. The final piece, Saint-Saëns' Op. 83 "Havanaise," is the only one recorded prior to his temporary departure from stage. It is sadly obvious the effects that the extreme pressure of his career were taking on his abilities.

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