The DCD Classical 'Cast is also available as an enhanced podcast. When played through iTunes, the DCD Enhanced Classical 'Cast displays the album art of the works as they play, and provide links to webpages where you can find out more information and purchase the selections.

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

DCD 061 - Bach Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin

The 61st episode of the "DCD Classical 'Cast" features the violin artistry of Garrett Fischbach. His recording of Bach's Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin has garnered critical acclaim, and the CD has done well since its initial release.

This two disc set includes all three sonatas and partitas for solo violin that Bach composed. These solo works provide ample opportunity for artistic expression, and Fischbach delivers on every track.

As The American Record Guide said:

The playing is very clean... His textures are refreshingly light, and he often rolls his chords, as was done in the 18th Century, rather than break them. Sections of movements are clearly distinguished by changes in dynamics or articulation. [Fischbach] sometimes inserts his own personal touches, as in the Fugue in Sonata 1 where he plays one passage sul ponticello.
We present three selections from this extraordinary recording on this podcast episode.

And remember: you don't need an iPod to enjoy a podcast. You can listen on your computer, or download it to other kinds of players or smart phones!

- Ralph

This episode we play:

Johann Sebastian Bach: Sonata No. 1 in G minor for Solo Violin, BWV 1001 (Adagio and Fugue)
Garrett Fischbach, violin

Johann Sebastian Bach: Partita No. 2 in D minor for Solo Violin, BWV 1004 (Chaconne)
Garrett Fischbach, violin

Johann Sebastian Bach: Partita No. 3 in E major for Solo Violin, BWV 1006 (mvts. 3-5)
Garrett Fischbach, violin

Friday, January 09, 2009

DCD 060 - Music for Viola

In episode #60 of the "DCD Classical 'Cast" we showcase a new release from Laurel Records. Laurel's been building an impressive catalog of compositions by Ernest Bloch, and this CD adds substantially to that. "Bloch - Music for Viola" brings together his music for solo viola in a variety of settings.

Included is the Suite Hebraique for Solo Viola and Orchestra; "Nigan" for Solo Viola and String Quartet; the Suite for Solo Viola and Piano; and the Suite for Solo Viola. All of these works are ably performed by virtuoso violist Karen Elaine. The Los Angeles Times once described her as "...the soloist to bring the viola out of obscurity." With this recording, she demonstrates how true that assessment was.

- Ralph

This program we play:

Ernest Bloch: "Nigan" for Solo Viola and String Quartet
Karen Elaine, viola
Laurel Records

Ernest Bloch: Suite for Solo Viola and Piano, Mvt. 1 - Lento
Karen Elaine, viola; Delores Stevens, piano
Laurel Records

Ernest Bloch: Suite Hebraique for Viola and Orchestra, Mvts. 2 & 3
Karen Elain, viola; London Symphony Orchestra; David Amos, conductor
Laurel Records