Presto Recording of the Week
18th February 2022

Gidon Kremer (violin)

Weinberg: Sonata for Solo Violin No. 3, Op. 126
Weinberg: Sonata for Solo Violin No. 2, Op. 95
Weinberg: Sonata for Solo Violin No. 1, Op. 82

The three sonatas of Polish composer Mieczyslaw Weinberg, written in 1964, 1967 and 1979, are among the most richly creative and technically challenging 20th century works for solo violin, and their radical expressivity draws the listener in. Gidon Kremer, a key figure in the revival of interest in Weinberg's music, ranks these pieces with the Bartk sonata for their challenges and rewards.

As he has said, "I am very pleased that the world is slowly recognising Mieczyslaw Weinberg as an important composer. For me personally, the treasure trove of his compositions remains a constant source of enthusiasm and inspiration." Recorded at the Lockenhaus Chamber Music festival and at Studio Residence Palesius, Lithuania, this edition of the Weinberg violin sonatas is issued on the occasion of Kremer's 75th birthday.

"At times, the music seems to draw its power and energy not so much from the notes themselves as from Kremer’s audibly impassioned engagement with his instrument – heavy, dug-in bowing (including some forceful double-stopping), and a generally vibrato-free sound with nothing of the refined or comfortable about it." - David Smith, Presto Music, 18th February 2022.