Violin Concertos Nos. 13 & 7

Intelligent, thoughtful, technically brilliant, imaginative, scintillating are only some of the adjectives that come to mind when one listens to Bacewicz's Concertos in Joanna Kurkowicz's rendition. Her new CD is one of conviction, palpable love for the works, undeniable understanding of Bacewicz and of both the Polish, and the cosmopolitan aspects of the concertos. Borowicz and the Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra create lively, colorful, vibrant soundscapes, lyricism and strength when one is called for. Concertos 1, 3, and 7 constitute an entire compendium of Bacewicz's rich imagination and admirable range as a composer who be counted among the stars in the 20th-century Polish compositional "school"--a formidable group indeed. Brava to Joanna for bringing these concertos to the wider attention they deserve. She does this effortlessly, and in style. It has been a privilege to follow the course of Kurkowicz's development and career. She is a consummate artist unafraid of challenges, poised and polished. As evident in her recording output, she is also diverse and mindful of her audiences. She undertakes worthy and valuable projects, and makes an important contribution to the musical legacy of our times. I am looking forward to the release of the remaining concertos by Bacewicz by the artists on the disc hereby reviewed. The entire set is sure to constitute an irreplaceable collection for every violinist's and music lover.

Blanka Bednarz, violinist

I purchased this item last year (in early 2010) after finding a few positive reviews online--I think it appeared on a few "best of 2009" type lists. As I recall, I was looking for something off the beaten track, and definitely feel like I was rewarded.

The album starts with the latest work on the disc, the 7th violin concerto. In all honesty, I find it un-listenable (and yes, I know that's not a word). In fact, the first time I played the disc, I initially thought I'd made a bad purchase, figuring that the rest of the disc would be this bad. I've listened a few more times sense, and haven't changed my opinion of this work, but in fairness, I should note that I've read a few reviews (including the Amazon.com review) that are positive. To me, however, the work doesn't hold itself together and ended up more cacophony than music.

However, the remainder of the disc is really excellent and I listen to it regularly. Concertos #1 & #3 are really excellent music. Both works have a lot energy with some interesting melody and rhythm. I can't quite come up with a good comparison, though I find it has general similarities with other music of the 1st half of the 20th century. There is definite dissonance, but Bacewicz still has a good sense of melody, and imbues the music with color and emotion. The first concerto is playful and has a bit of dance like feel especially in the outer movements. The 3rd concerto is somewhat similar: I still hear some dance rhythms, but it is a little less playful and more on the serious side.

The disc finishes with a short Overture. This work really packs a punch. It has a quick tempo (most of the time) and alternates been powerful and driving and delicate and a bit pastoral, all in less than 6 minutes.

On top of all that, the sound quality is really good--the both the soloist and orchestra come through clear. Music fans who are generally turned off by 20th century composers may not find much to like here. On the other hand, if you like Prokofiev, Shostakovich, Ravel, Janacek, Bartok and other composers from the first half or so of the 20th century, you will probably find much to like in Bacewicz. These are really energetic works with a lot of color, personality, and emotion. Definitely work a try.