Discover the enchanting world of Baroque music with Ariane Pfister-Benda's captivating album, featuring the works of two generations of the Benda family. This 53-minute journey showcases the virtuosity of Pfister-Benda as she performs both the viola and violin concertos with remarkable skill and sensitivity.
The album opens with the Viola Concerto in F Major by Johann August Benda, a three-movement work that highlights the expressive range of the viola. The Allegro first movement is full of energy and vitality, while the Largo second movement offers a moment of quiet reflection. The Rondeau third movement is a lively and engaging finale, showcasing Pfister-Benda's technical prowess.
The second half of the album features the Violin Concerto in E-Flat Major by Georg Benda, another three-movement work that showcases the beauty and expressiveness of the violin. The Allegretto first movement is full of grace and elegance, while the Affettuoso ma non troppo. Lento second movement is a deeply moving and introspective piece. The Presto assai third movement is a thrilling and virtuosic finale, demonstrating Pfister-Benda's exceptional talent.
The album concludes with a beautiful arrangement of Bendas Klagen, a work by Georg Benda that has been adapted for viola and orchestra. This piece is a poignant and deeply moving meditation on loss and longing, and Pfister-Benda's performance is both powerful and deeply affecting.
Recorded in 2002 and released on the Naxos label, this album is a testament to the enduring appeal of Baroque music and the extraordinary talent of Ariane Pfister-Benda. Whether you are a seasoned classical music fan or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and inspire.
