Kim Kashkashian - Kancheli: Vom Winde beweint / Schnittke: Konzert für Viola und Orchester (LP)

Kim Kashkashian's 1992 album, "Kancheli: Vom Winde beweint / Schnittke: Konzert für Viola und Orchester," is a captivating exploration of chamber music, showcasing her extraordinary talent as a violist. Released under the prestigious ECM New Series label, this album is a testament to Kashkashian's deep musicality and her ability to convey profound emotion through her instrument.

The album features two distinct works: Giya Kancheli's "Vom Winde beweint" and Alfred Schnittke's "Konzert für Viola und Orchester." Kancheli's piece is a four-movement work that ranges from the mournful "Largo molto" to the more animated "Allegro moderato," demonstrating Kashkashian's versatility and technical prowess. Schnittke's concerto, with its three movements, offers a different kind of challenge, with its complex rhythms and harmonies.

Throughout the album, Kashkashian's playing is both precise and expressive, her tone rich and resonant. The accompanying orchestra provides a lush backdrop, enhancing the overall listening experience. The album's duration of just over an hour ensures that the listener is fully immersed in the music from start to finish.

For those interested in chamber music and the viola in particular, this album is a standout example of the genre. Kashkashian's interpretation of these works is both insightful and moving, making this a recording that will be appreciated by both casual listeners and serious music enthusiasts alike.