Jansen’s Tchaikovsky

Tchaikovsky violin concerto

Performed by Janine Jansen, violin, with the Mahler chamber orchestra, conducted by Daniel Harding

In this CD, Janine Jansen, one of my favorite violinists, offers a Tchaikovsky concerto interpretation that is very exciting. I like artists who cause me look at a work in a new way. Her choice of a chamber orchestra leads to a more intimate performance, and she rethinks phrasing and dynamics, with the most noticeable changes in the first movement. The individual ideas are good in allowing us to hear subtle details in this composition that likely were missed before.

Ms. Jansen is part of the remarkable group of young women violin virtuosi who have come to prominence in the last several years. Like the others (Hahn, Fischer, Josefowitz, etc.), she has an impressive technique. She has a distinctive, large, passionate, romantic sound.

She also is an adventurous musician, not only in her choice of repertoire but also in her willingness to rethink the works and take chances with her interpretations.

Ms. Jansen’s smooth and masterfully executed tone is so rich, and she shows us a wonderful elegance in the slow tempo areas. It is worth mentioning that the orchestra under Daniel Harding does a masterful job of accompaniment, as well.

Track Titles are as follows:

 

  • 1. Violin Concerto In D, Op.35 – 1. Allegro Moderato
  • 2. Violin Concerto In D, Op.35 – 2. Canzonetta (Andante)
  • 3. Violin Concerto In D, Op.35 – 3. Finale (Allegro Vivacissimo)
  • 4. Souvenir D’un Lieu Cher, Op.42 – Arr. Strings – 1. Meditation
  • 5. Souvenir D’un Lieu Cher, Op.42 – Arr. Strings – 2. Scherzo
  • 6. Souvenir D’un Lieu Cher, Op.42 – Arr. Strings – 3. Mélodie

Here is Leonidas Kavakos’ explanation of this masterwork

 

 

And now here’s Ms. Jansen in the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto

 

 

Tags: Janine Jansen, Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto

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