Latvian National Symphony Orchestra Jean Claude Casadesus, conductor Kristīne Balanas, violin Great Guild Hall, Riga 29/12/2023 Latvian National Radio TV4
Composed in 1868, Introduction and Rondo Capriccioso is one of the works whose composition is intrinsically linked to the insolent talent of the Spanish violinist Pablo de Sarasate. The work is presented skillfully in two movements: a slow introduction, Andante malinconico, full of poetry and lyricism, then a main part full of energy, with a syncopated melody and numerous virtuoso passages, notably the final part where the violin rushes to the point of exhaustion. The violinist's entire palette is brought to bear, in a subtle balance between classicism and romantic passion. This essential piece is aimed to the great talent of Kristīne Balanas of which her wild, daring and dramatic acting makes her a idiosyncratic presence on stage. A violin that always gives me chills ! Thanks Kristine. *Lucien*
I've heard this piece a hundred times but never found it as moving as this. Is it just her talent? Or has she found a way to dig deeper into the real meat of the piece? And that despite a not very cooperative conductor.
Really lovely playing. A delight to hear. I enjoy everything on YT she plays. But what happened to the 4 octave arpeggio at the very end that virtually every player follows as written. I do realize it's probably not missed at all by the hoi polloi. Perhaps she figured the orchestra drowns out the effort. But it's really highly unusual to omit that last flourish.
There were certainly a few glances from the soloist when the orchestra started getting heavy and overpowering. But this lady is amazing her playing is world class and with that sumptuous sound deserves to be elevated to the highest tier of truly great violinists.
