Search - Edvard Grieg, Helge Kjekshus :: Grieg: Violin Sonatas Nos. 1-3

Excellent performances of excellent music

Rolf C. Erdahl | 05/02/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Grieg's violin sonatas are a wonderful mixture of drama and lyricism. Unfortunately, some musicians ignore the drama (a common problem in Grieg). This results in music that is, while certainly pretty, also boring. There is no risk of that on this particular disc. The twentysomething performers roar through these pieces with energy and dedication. Fortunately, they don't let this get out of hand, and there is still plenty of warmth and charm to be found. The technical aspects are very good- a clear recording with a good balance between the violin and piano. Interestingly, Grieg himself performed these pieces in concert numerous times and was known for a "full speed ahead" approach that probably wasn't far removed from this disc. Enjoy!"

Grieg performed with heart from his homeland

Rolf C. Erdahl | Apple Valley, MN United States | 11/17/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a luxury-class performance on a bargain label. Kraggerud is one of the hottest of the young generation of Norwegian musicians. He has an inate feel for the folk character of Grieg's music which he combines with incredible musical maturity and understanding, passionate drive, and blazing technique. I was privileged to hear him perform the Op. 8 Sonata live at Grieg's home, Troldhaugen. It was tremendously moving to hear a brilliant performance by a Norwegian virtuoso who was approximately the same age Grieg was when he wrote the sonata. Rarely have I heard a performer exhibit such identification with the composer's intentions. I wrote my doctoral dissertation on a manuscript study of Grieg's sonatas for violin and piano, and Henning Kraggerud understands how to make these underperformed pieces shine with full luster. Keep an eye out for this young performer -- enjoy this album, but don't miss the chance to hear him live if you can."

An album of collection!

Hiram Gomez Pardo | Valencia, Venezuela | 07/04/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

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The intimate feature of Edvard Grieg is basically a theorem. And these violin sonatas are by far, the best available evidence. Written in three well different periods of his life, 22, 25 and 35 years old respectively, show us with eloquent persuasion how the mood of this miniaturist allowed him to carve in relief a set of encountered feelings, the ardent passion of his birthplace and a renovated romanticism.



Of course, you may find traces of Richard Nordrak and Johannes Brahmas in which concerns its formal construction, but the way he articulates and ensembles the cantabile ,lines and slender harmonic lines carve in relief an aspect, worthy to pay attention.



In the genre of chamber work, more than any other else, maybe felt the conviction and sublime inspiration, because the form is so tied with the conceptual unity opf his musical thought, that the positive impression you receive is surprising.



In the last years, (and I celebrate for it) there has been a wide interest to play the chamber works of this musician. You have a priceless contribution in this case with these two renowned interpreters around the world. Sop please, don't hesitate just for a second and go for these lovable and if I may very little known works.

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