The Australian Chamber Orchestra (ACO) celebrates its 50th birthday with a magnificent Violin Concertos album featuring two works considered among the greatest in the repertoire. The ACO, under the leadership of Richard Tognetti for over three decades, has solidified its position as one of the world's premier chamber ensembles. This release marks a significant milestone in their career, and the results are nothing short of impressive.
The close recording quality faithfully replicates the ACO's signature sound – an amalgamation of modern playing techniques with historical instruments, such as gut strings and period wind – making for intensely involving performances. The permanent core of 20 players was supplemented by guest instrumentalists from other Australian orchestras, but it is their suppleness and coherence that remain persuasive.
Tognetti's approach to both concertos has garnered attention, particularly in the Beethoven concerto, where he prioritizes urgency over lyricism. This is evident in his expansive, 27-minute account of the first movement, which boasts a unique synthesis of cadenzas composed by Vieuxtemps, Auer, and Kreisler. While this approach may not resonate with everyone, it serves as a testament to Tognetti's innovative spirit.
In contrast, the Brahms concerto presents a more traditional interpretation, characterized by outstanding woodwind solos intertwined with the solo violin line, while maintaining light and transparent textures. Even if these performances do not surpass those of other versions on disc, they are thoroughly convincing and make for an excellent souvenir of this remarkable partnership between Tognetti and the ACO.
This release is a must-listen for any music enthusiast, offering a glimpse into the ACO's 50-year journey and solidifying their position as one of the world's leading chamber ensembles.
The close recording quality faithfully replicates the ACO's signature sound – an amalgamation of modern playing techniques with historical instruments, such as gut strings and period wind – making for intensely involving performances. The permanent core of 20 players was supplemented by guest instrumentalists from other Australian orchestras, but it is their suppleness and coherence that remain persuasive.
Tognetti's approach to both concertos has garnered attention, particularly in the Beethoven concerto, where he prioritizes urgency over lyricism. This is evident in his expansive, 27-minute account of the first movement, which boasts a unique synthesis of cadenzas composed by Vieuxtemps, Auer, and Kreisler. While this approach may not resonate with everyone, it serves as a testament to Tognetti's innovative spirit.
In contrast, the Brahms concerto presents a more traditional interpretation, characterized by outstanding woodwind solos intertwined with the solo violin line, while maintaining light and transparent textures. Even if these performances do not surpass those of other versions on disc, they are thoroughly convincing and make for an excellent souvenir of this remarkable partnership between Tognetti and the ACO.
This release is a must-listen for any music enthusiast, offering a glimpse into the ACO's 50-year journey and solidifying their position as one of the world's leading chamber ensembles.
just heard that climate change is causing coral bleaching at an alarming rate... 
in the Great Barrier Reef, Australia's iconic marine wonderland... it's heartbreaking to think about the future of our oceans... 
meanwhile, this violin concertos album by ACO is all nice and pretty... but what's the point if we're gonna lose our planet? 
! Can't believe they're celebrating 50 years already, feels like just yesterday they were a tiny ensemble 
. Richard Tognetti is a genius, I mean have you heard his approach to those Beethoven concertos? It's like he's speaking directly to your soul 
...and the way they recorded it is so crisp and clear, love how they kept that historical feel 
. Definitely adding this one to my playlist 
! 50 years in the game, they're still killing it with that unique sound - I mean who else can rock modern techniques with historical instruments like that? 
I've been listening to classical music for years and I have to say, their approach is so refreshing. Richard Tognetti's got some great ideas going on, especially with those extra cadenzas he threw in - it's like a breath of fresh air! 
they're like proof that with dedication & leadership (shoutout to richard tognetti 
) u can make a real difference in music 
. Richard Tognetti is pure genius, man... his approach to those concertos is so unique and innovative, it's like he's breathing new life into these classics 
and Richard Tognetti's violin playing is insane! but I have to ask, how do you feel about his unique approach to the Beethoven concerto? I mean, using Vieuxtemps, Auer, and Kreisler's cadenzas is so cool, but also a bit unconventional. does it change the way you experience the piece? 
His approach to the Beethoven concerto is super unique and it's awesome to hear his take on it. The way he combines those crazy-fast cadenzas from different composers is mind-blowing! 
. This album is a MUST LISTEN for anyone who loves music, trust me! 
Tognetti's approach is like that one friend who always tries to "improve" your favorite song 
, but you still love them for it 
. This album is like that cool uncle who always plays the hits at family gatherings 
. And can we talk about the guest instrumentalists? 
. I mean, its not like they're tryin' to reinvent the wheel or anythin', just masterful execution 
. The recording quality is insane too 
. And that Brahms concerto? perfection 
with my fam, and it was SO EPIC! The waves were so gnarly, but the sun was shining, and we had a blast building sandcastles. I swear, it's one of the most beautiful spots in all of Australia 
️. Tognetti's approach to playing the violin is like sipping that perfect cup of tea – it's all about finding that balance between style and substance, ya know? 
. Richard Tognetti's approach to the Beethoven concerto is pretty cool, I like how he adds a modern twist to the classic piece. And the Brahms concerto is just beautiful, it reminds me of when we did that classical music project in school 
! This album release from the ACO has got me thinking... what makes a great concertos album? Is it just about the music, or is there something to be said for the way the tracks are structured? For this release, I think the 27-minute account of the first movement in Beethoven's concerto is pure genius. I mean, who needs brevity when you can have a full-on cadenza fest 
... those gut strings are giving me life 
