Dominika Falger and Gajusz Kęska - Wieniawski, Nikodemowicz: Works for Violin and Piano (2023) [Hi-Res]

This new release from DUX presents selected works of Henryk Wieniawski and Andrezej Nikodemowicz for violin and piano; performed here by violinist Dominika Falger and pianist Gajusz Keska.Henryk Wieniawski was one of the most outstanding violinists of the second half of the 19th century. In the first years of his career, his works were mainly virtuoso pieces; compositions testifying to the technical efficiency of an excellent violinist (including the Polonaise in D Major, Op. 4, Caprices, Op. 10, the Concerto in F-sharp Minor, Op. 14). In later works, he clearly sought a compromise between the technical layer and the depth of musical expression. In the works recorded on this album, Wieniawski refers to the best traditions of salon music.

The Kujawiak in A Minor, Chanson polonaise Op. 12 No. 2, Obertas in G Major and The Piper in D Major Op. 19 Nos. 1 and 2 kept in a folk character, with melody of noble simplicity, went down in the 19th-century violin music as compositions of Polish pedigree.

The music of Andrzej Nikodemowicz bears traces of fascination with the works of Johann Sebastian Bach, Fryderyk Chopin, Alexander Scriabin, Karol Szymanowski as well as with elements of sonorism and dodecaphony.

Pieces for violin and piano from the early creative period of Andrzej Nikodemowicz Nocturne, Op. 3 (1946), Romance, Op. 6 (1947) and Sonata, Op. 10 (19481949) are characterized by a romantic aura, distinct expression, and natural beauty of the sound of the concert instruments. Their melodies, provided with a broad phrase, are complemented by colourful harmony, sometimes slightly dissonant, but always alert to changing moods. In turn, Lullaby, Op. 86 (2nd version, 1993) and 5 Lullabies, Op. 94 (1991) are an expression of a longing for the past and the happiness of childhood.