Kreutzer - Spring Sonata [Import]

From the liner notes of this CD (Newport 60097): "In this recording, the violin (made by Maurice Whitaker of London in 1760, with a classical bridge & gut strings) is supported by the left hand almost entirely, with only occasional help from the chin for shifting down from high positions. Vibrato is used as most contemporary sources suggest: sparingly, for special expressive effect or accent only. Similarly, the width of vibrato is quite narrow when compared with modern standards, while its speeds vary, depending on the character of the passage at hand. The clear sound that results creates a transparent sonority better in keeping with the light construction of the early instruments. Some of the chords played by the keyboard are 'rolled' in keeping with the style of playing prevalent in Beethoven's time. The performers have also added a few embellsihments. And finally, in the first movement of the 'Kreutzer,' they have used the holds at measures 27 & 36 to continue the dialogue suggested in the opening adagio. Beethoven would certainly have approved: when playing the sonata with violinist George Bridgewater, the composer is reported to have jumped up & embraced his colleague when he added an improvised flourish at this point."