Saint-Saëns: Violin Sonatas, Triptyque & Élégie

Chronique

A welcome addition to the catalog of Saint-Saëns' chamber music, this disc presents four of his pieces for violin and piano in a balanced and satisfying program. Violinist Ulf Wallin and pianist Roland Pöntinen have a sympathetic feeling for Saint-Saëns that shines through their polished performances, particularly in the two sonatas -- works of such interest and vitality that it is inexplicable that they are infrequently performed and recorded. In its pensive lyricism and effervescent virtuosity, the Violin Sonata No. 1 shows the influences of Brahms and Mendelssohn. Wallin gives full bow to the long, noble melodies in the first two movements, and delivers the brilliant scherzo and finale with verve. The buoyant Violin Sonata No. 2, composed 11 years later, is less direct in its sources of inspiration, and its lightness and apparent independence from German tradition may account for the work's relative neglect. All the same, Wallin and Pöntinen give the sonata an appealing rendition and make a convincing case for including this little-known gem in the standard repertoire. Less ambitious, but providing an agreeable contrast, the picturesque Triptyque and the exquisite Elégie are redolent of fin de siècle lyricism, a hallmark of Saint-Saëns. CPO's superb recording preserves a natural recital ambience without artificially boosting the players' sound.
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