geoffrey terry

Some critics still recognise passion and style

December 21, 2011 02:12

I have added one or two postings recently concerning the wonderful Wanda Wilkomirska, and have been very surprised that none of you violin aficionados have either commented or apparently shown any interest.
Maybe if you care to read the latest review of her performance of the Britten Violin concerto you will sit up and take notice, just click on the link below:
http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2011/Dec11/Britten_VC_CD122011.htm
Wanda plays with passion, unlike the majority of modern violinists who appear terrified at the thought of taking the bow from the strings and simply play the notes one after the other, without any phrasing or personal interpretation.
Of course no one has heard of Alfredo Campoli? I have also mentioned him in previous postings, without attracting any attention.
Modern technique and performance seem to have settled into a rut. I have spoken to several artists following their boring performances over the past few years and they do not seem to understand what I am talking about.
My concern is, as I mentioned above, the current approach to performance which seems to be that it is sufficient to play the notes accurately and with the marked dynamics etc.
I just hope that one day a new star will appear on the scene who has feeling; probably needs to be someone who has suffered and as a result has sensitivity.
The Campoli recording with Peter Katin from the Fairfield Halls Croydon, (orchestral concert cds CD3/2009) received the most incredible reviews and yet just a handful of copies were picked up.
The reviews stressed the 'Bel Canto', Alfredo's trade mark and unique, instantly recognisable tone.
What happened to passion and individual approach?
It is just amazing how powerful a brief silence can be between phrases. Try it.
Whatever, I wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy healthy and prosperous New Year
Geoffrey

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Some critics still recognise passion and style

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