Benjamin Schmid, the acclaimed Austrian violinist, presents a captivating collection of classical and transcribed pieces in his album "Heifetz Favorites: Transcriptions & More." Released on January 15, 2021, under Gramola Records, this 58-minute album is a testament to Schmid's virtuosity and versatility, accompanied by pianist Ariane Haering.
The album features 18 tracks, showcasing a blend of classical masterpieces and lesser-known gems, all meticulously arranged for violin and piano. Among the highlights are the energetic "The Love for Three Oranges" by Prokofiev, the evocative "Porgy and Bess" selections by Gershwin, and the fiery "Gayaneh: Sabre Dance" by Khachaturian, all arranged by the legendary Jascha Heifetz. Schmid also pays homage to his musical influences with pieces like "Thoughts over Caravan" and "In a Sentimental Mood for Two," inspired by Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn.
Schmid's impeccable technique and expressive playing shine through in each piece, from the delicate "Sicilienne in E-Flat Major" to the lively "Mish Mash." The album also includes beautiful transcriptions of works originally composed for other instruments, such as the "Valse sentimentale" by Tchaikovsky and the "Berceuse" by Faure.
"Heifetz Favorites: Transcriptions & More" is a delightful exploration of Benjamin Schmid's musical prowess and his deep appreciation for the works of Heifetz and other composers. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Tracks
The Love for Three Oranges, Op. 33: March (Arr. J. Heifetz for Piano & Violin)Sergei Prokofiev, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Banjo and FiddleWilliam Kroll, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
4 Airs de Balle: No. 2, Valse bluette (Arr. J. Heifetz for Piano & Violin)Riccardo Drigo, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Porgy and Bess: Tempo di blues (Arr. J. Heifetz for Piano & Violin)George Gershwin, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
2 Canciones Mexicanas: No. 2, Estrellita (Arr. J. Heifetz for Piano & Violin)Manuel Ponce, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Serenade for Strings in C Major, Op. 48, TH 48: II. Valse (Arr. L. Auer for Violin & Piano)Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Gayaneh: Sabre Dance (Arr. J. Heifetz for Violin & Piano)Aram Khachaturian, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Mish Mash (Arr. for Violin & Piano)Antoni Donchev, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Sicilienne in E-Flat MajorSamuel Dushkin, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Valse noble et sentimentales, M. 61: No. 7, Moins vif (Version for Violin & Piano)Maurice Ravel, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Triakontameron: No. 11, Alt Wien (Arr. J. Heifetz for Violin & Piano)Leopold Godowsky, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Prelude No. 15 "Ao pé da fogueira" (Arr. J. Heifetz for Violin & Piano)Flausino Vale, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Porgy and Bess: It Ain't Necessarily So (Arr. J. Heifetz for Violin & Piano)George Gershwin, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Thoughts over Caravan (After Ellington & Tizol)Sabina Hank, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
In a Sentimental Mood for Two (After Ellington)Sabina Hank, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Valse sentimentale, Op. 51 No. 6, TH 143 No. 6 (Arr. H. Morgan for Violin & Piano)Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Berceuse, Op. 16Gabriel Fauré, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
Violin Concerto No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 28: II. Air. Andante (Arr. for Violin & Piano)Karl Goldmark, Benjamin Schmid, Ariane Haering
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