Better known as a composer of virtuoso piano music, Nikolai Medtner also wrote three violin sonatas, two of which are recorded here. The 'Sonata Epica' is one of the most ambitious and colossal works in the repertoire and without doubt one of the most important violin sonatas of the twentieth century. It draws deeply on Medtner's Russian heritage, with intimations of orthodox chant and folk dances, and shows why Medtner was fleetingly regarded as one of Russia's most progressive composers during the first decade of the twentieth century. The Violin Sonata No.1 is more understated and reminiscent of FaurÃ©. ChloÃ« Hanslip has proved herself an eloquent performer of the lesser-known Romantic violin repertoire, displaying rare commitment and resonant vitality.

Tracklist:

Violin Sonata No 3 in E minor Sonata Epica Op 57 Introduzione Andante Meditamente Allegro [16'26]
Violin Sonata No 3 in E minor Sonata Epica Op 57 Scherzo Allegro Molto Vivace E Leggiero [7'54]
Violin Sonata No 3 in E minor Sonata Epica Op 57 Andante Con Moto [9'15]
Violin Sonata No 3 in E minor Sonata Epica Op 57 Finale Allegro Molto [13'12]
Violin Sonata No 1 in B minor Op 21 Canzona Canterellando, Con Fluidezza [8'12]
Violin Sonata No 1 in B minor Op 21 Danza Allegro Scherzando [5'58]
Violin Sonata No 1 in B minor Op 21 Ditirambo Festivamente [7'41]

UPC: 034571179636
Label: Hyperion
Release Date: 9.10.13
Format: CD

Medtner / Hanslip / Tchetuev - Violin Sonatas 1 & 3 (CD)