Composer John Corigliano returns again to his very familiar film score The Red Violin for another work based on that score. This time, Corigliano has composed a set of caprices (Theme and Variations) that are immediately reminiscent of Paganini, not just because they are referred to as caprices, but also because of the specific pyrotechnic caprices that Corigliano employs. Also on this album is Corigliano's Sonata for Violin and Piano; although this is one of Corigliano's first "acknowledged" works (composed in 1963), it ...
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Composer John Corigliano returns again to his very familiar film score The Red Violin for another work based on that score. This time, Corigliano has composed a set of caprices (Theme and Variations) that are immediately reminiscent of Paganini, not just because they are referred to as caprices, but also because of the specific pyrotechnic caprices that Corigliano employs. Also on this album is Corigliano's Sonata for Violin and Piano; although this is one of Corigliano's first "acknowledged" works (composed in 1963), it already shows an immense amount of maturity, skill, and sophistication. Three works of Virgil Thomson, all composed before Corigliano would have even completed elementary school, round out the album. Each of Thomson's works -- indeed, each individual track -- is written about a specific person. Regrettably, the liner notes do not go into any detail about these individuals, an addition that certainly would have enhanced understanding and enjoyment. This, however, is the only downside to...
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