One of the greatest violinists ever, performing a concerto that he waited almost 30 years to record (see liner notes). Hi-Fi enthusiasts take note: this is a monophonic recording! "It will not become obsolete." (so sayeth the notes on the back)It's hard for me to be impartial regarding the playing of Mr. Menuhin. I'm not sure just why he is one of my favorite violinists of all-time, perhaps I was inundated with his performances when I was growing up.
side 1:
I. Allegro deciso - Cadenza (19:22) The composer Ernest Bloch referred to the initial theme of this piece as "American Indian", and indeed, it has those trace elements, at least to this descendant of the Huichol/ Sauk & Fox. Menuhin goes from piano to forte during this cadenza, with his lilting solos contrasted against the full force of the Philharmonia Orchestra (or the Bath Festival Orchestra - both are listed). This is one of those great performances that one can either enjoy with their full attention, or have on in the background while doing chores, reading, etc.
side 2:
II. Andante (6:43) For some reason, this music evokes the landscape of Southern Wyoming, with its valleys of buttes and plateaus. One could also imagine the stark environs of the prairie, the desert or even the forest or the sea. This is slow and sparse.
III. Deciso - Allegro moderato (11:01) As the liner notes indicate, more new themes are introduced here, and the textures of the "contrapuntals" add to the overall feeling of this part of the concerto. Big finish!
Hawkeye Joe