Classic Archive: Itzhak Perlman – Elgar, Prokofiev, Saint-Saëns DVD

UPC 899132000541

Overview

Classic Archive: Itzhak Perlman – Elgar, Prokofiev, Saint-Saëns is an extraordinary collection that brings to life the iconic artistry of violin virtuoso Itzhak Perlman. Spanning three unique performances, this compilation highlights key moments in Perlman’s career, from his youthful brilliance to his mature interpretations of some of the violin repertoire’s most celebrated works. Restored with cutting-edge technology, the DVD preserves the energy and intimacy of each concert, offering viewers a timeless journey into the world of classical music.

The collection begins with Perlman’s 1970 performance of Saint-Saëns’s Introduction et Rondo capriccioso, a piece renowned for its lively character and challenging passages. Accompanied by the Sadler's Wells Orchestra under the baton of Charles Mackerras, this performance captures Perlman’s mastery of the spiccato bowing technique, a hallmark of the French style he absorbed from his teacher, Ivan Galamian. Perlman’s dazzling agility and precise articulation highlight his early virtuosity, offering a breathtaking rendition that brings out the music’s wit and charm. This performance, originally broadcast on BBC as part of a New Year’s celebration, became an instant classic and set the stage for Perlman’s career as one of the world’s most beloved violinists.

Moving forward a decade, the DVD features Perlman’s interpretation of Prokofiev’s Violin Concerto No. 1 in D major, filmed during the BBC Symphony Orchestra’s 50th Anniversary concert in 1980. Conducted by Gennadi Rozhdestvensky, this performance showcases Perlman’s range and expressiveness as he moves through Prokofiev’s intricate and emotional landscape. His interpretation is marked by a deep understanding of the concerto’s modern Russian style, balancing lyrical moments with intensity and precision. This rare recording allows audiences to witness the emotional depth and technical mastery Perlman brings to this challenging piece, making it a highlight of the BBC’s celebrated anniversary concert.

The journey culminates with Elgar’s Violin Concerto in B minor, filmed in 1981 at the iconic Royal Albert Hall for the Sunday Prom. Here, Perlman’s mature style shines as he explores the introspective, bittersweet Romanticism of Elgar’s expansive concerto. Under Rozhdestvensky’s direction, Perlman delves into the emotional layers of the work, navigating its demanding passages with remarkable fluidity and bringing out its profound longing and passion. This performance remains one of the definitive interpretations of Elgar’s concerto, a deeply moving rendition that captures the heart of English Romanticism.

Together, these performances offer an unparalleled look at Itzhak Perlman’s artistry, his technical finesse, and his profound emotional connection to the music. Each piece has been meticulously restored to showcase the brilliance of Perlman’s interpretations, making this DVD a valuable addition for classical music enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Product Features

• Performances:

  • Prokofiev, Violin Concerto No. 1 in D major, Op. 19

    • BBC Symphony Orchestra
    • Conductor: Gennadi Rozhdestvensky
    • Filmed: BBC Symphony Orchestra's 50th Anniversary Concert, 22 October 1980

  • Elgar, Violin Concerto in B minor, Op. 61

    • BBC Symphony Orchestra
    • Conductor: Gennadi Rozhdestvensky
    • Filmed: The Sunday Prom, Royal Albert Hall, 9 August 1981

  • Saint-Saëns, Introduction et Rondo capriccioso, Op. 28

    • Sadler's Wells Orchestra
    • Conductor: Charles Mackerras
    • Filmed: London Coliseum Theatre, BBC Gala Performance, 25 October 1970

• Format: NTSC

• Region Code: All Regions
• Sound: Digital Restoration
• Running Time: 90 minutes
• Label: Medici Arts
• Catalog Number: EDV 1333 3085228

Interesting Facts

• These performances capture Perlman at pivotal stages in his career: from his early years with the French-influenced, masterful spiccato in Saint-Saëns to his later, mature mastery in Prokofiev and Elgar.
• Perlman’s performance of Elgar’s Violin Concerto showcases his unique understanding of Romanticism, imbuing the piece with emotional depth and technical prowess, reflective of his studies under the influential teacher Ivan Galamian.
• Conducted by Gennadi Rozhdestvensky, the Prokofiev concerto performance marked a prestigious BBC Symphony Orchestra anniversary, celebrating the orchestra's rich history and contributions to classical music.
• The Introduction et Rondo capriccioso by Saint-Saëns, captured at the London Coliseum Theatre, was originally broadcast on New Year’s Day in 1971, offering a festive, memorable experience for audiences.

Publishers

• Distributor: Medici Arts, in association with BBC and CNC

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