Linda Rosenthal studied with Jascha Heifetz, crown jewel of twentieth century violinists, who defined the technical art of violin playing. While not in the same fantasy league as Heifetz, Ms. Rosenthal presents the listener with a well-played, greatly spirited and magnificently recorded program of ten brief dazzling violin pieces, some of them used by Heifetz as encores.
Here is abundant brio and striking dynamic range. From Fiddler on the Roof , pieces by Bartok, Novacek and Smetana, as well as William Kroll’s Banjo and Fiddle and the Heifetz specialty, Hora Staccato, this CD wil bring great pleasure to all music lovers.
Winston Ma of FIM recordings employs this “black vinyl” process along with encoding for completely compatible HDCD. It is higher definition [looks like a litttle children’s 5-inch LP. And the cost is half that of xrcds…Ed.] The sound is immediate and crystalline. One anticipates the spray of resin as Ms. Rosenthal’s bow strikes her violin strings. This is as fine a recording of a close-miked violin as I have encountered.
The total time of the disc is only 41:22. Don’t, however be put off by brevity. This is a uniquely enjoyable CD, worthy of the inimitable Heifetz. Heartily recommended!
