Carolin Widmann, the renowned German violinist, presents "L'Aurore," her seventh album for ECM New Series and her first solo violin recital for the label. Recorded in July 2021 at the Auditorio Stelio Molo RSI in Lugano, this captivating album spans an impressive thousand years of music history, showcasing Widmann's extraordinary versatility and artistry.
The album opens with the ancient antiphon "Spiritus sanctus vivificans vita" by Hildegard von Bingen and closes with the contemporary "3 Miniatures" by George Benjamin. In between, Widmann navigates through a diverse range of compositions, including works by Eugène Ysaÿe and George Enescu, which significantly expanded the expressive possibilities of the violin. The album also features Bach's iconic "Partita No. 2 for Solo Violin in D Minor, BWV 1004," a cornerstone of the violin repertoire.
"L'Aurore" is a testament to Widmann's imaginative and scholarly approach to music. The album's title, which translates to "the dawn," reflects the journey from ancient to modern compositions, illustrating the evolution of violin music over the centuries. Widmann's technical prowess and interpretive depth shine through in each piece, offering a rich and engaging listening experience.
The album was produced by the legendary Manfred Eicher, with engineering by Markus Heiland, ensuring a high-quality sonic experience. The cover photo, captured by Wilfried Hösl, adds a visual dimension to the album's historical and artistic depth. With a duration of 1 hour and 9 minutes, "L'Aurore" is a comprehensive and rewarding exploration of the violin's vast musical landscape.
