The American Columbia label initially decided not to release Joseph Szigeti's recordings of Bach's solo violin works on 'artistic grounds,' but they were later purchased and issued by the Vanguard label.
Notable Performances
Although Frederick Grinke premiered Vaughan Williams's Violin Sonata in 1954, Joseph Szigeti became a staunch advocate for the work, including it in his 'Eleven Masterpieces of the Twentieth Century' recital series.
Performer Biography
Joseph Szigeti, the violinist on this recording, was in the sunset of his career when these pieces were recorded, yet his interpretations are noted for their probing musical ideas and clarity of thought.
Notable Performances
Joseph Szigeti's teacher, Jenö Hubay, gave the premiere of Brahms's Violin Sonata No.3 in D minor with the composer himself at the piano in 1888.
Recording & Production
This album includes a live recording of Vaughan Williams's Violin Sonata from a 1955 recital in Seattle, which Joseph Szigeti never commercially recorded.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Joseph Szigeti believed that recordings were crucial for a composer's recognition, providing a more durable impact than sporadic concert hall performances.
Composition History
Ralph Vaughan Williams's Violin Sonata in A minor, one of his few substantial chamber works, was written in 1952 for the Canadian-born violinist Frederick Grinke.
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