While there has been no lack of great recorded performances of Brahms' violin and viola sonatas over the years, there have been few great recorded performances of them played by the same performer. And, aside from Zukerman's stunning 1975 recordings, there have been none as successful as this 2005 recording by violinist and violist Shlomo Mintz with pianist Itamar Golan. On either violin or viola, Mintz is a warm-toned virtuoso with a supple technique and an expressive lyricism. Although his tempos are broader than many ...
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While there has been no lack of great recorded performances of Brahms' violin and viola sonatas over the years, there have been few great recorded performances of them played by the same performer. And, aside from Zukerman's stunning 1975 recordings, there have been none as successful as this 2005 recording by violinist and violist Shlomo Mintz with pianist Itamar Golan. On either violin or viola, Mintz is a warm-toned virtuoso with a supple technique and an expressive lyricism. Although his tempos are broader than many other performers, his strength and sensitivity make his performances just as convincing and even more passionate. In Mintz's hands, Brahms' themes are melodies, Brahms' shapes are songs, and Brahms' music is endlessly radiant and infinitely consoling. Golan supports Mintz, but does not intrude on him. Avie's sound is incredibly vivid and lifelike. ~ James Leonard, Rovi
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