“Concert-Centenaire” Vol. I
Judith Ingolfsson, violin
Vladimir Stoupel, piano
Rudi Stephan (1887-1915)
“Groteske” for Violin and Piano (1911)
Albéric Magnard (1865-1914)
Sonata for Violin and Piano in G major, op. 13 (1901)
Violinist Judith Ingolfsson and pianist Vladimir Stoupel are both accomplished soloists with international concert careers. In 2006, they began a successful collaboration, searching for new paths in chamber music and devoting themselves to the cultivation of an uncommon repertoire. One of their projects is “Concert-Centenaire,” dedicated to composers whose lives were influenced by the First World War.
The German composer Rudi Stephan, who died at a young age, was one of the great hopefuls among the composers of the pre-war era. The Grotesque for violin and piano, which is his only surviving work for chamber music, is a fascinating testimony of his very unique, colorful and contrasting musical language, whose extremes of expression are an exciting challenge for every artist. Albéric Magnard was one of the greatest French composers of that era: Expansive, noble themes with a powerful style, expressive harmonies and contrapuntal finesse – these outstanding qualities of his work are also brought to light in his Violin Sonata.
“Concert-Centenaire” is a series of three CDs including works by Albéric Magnard, Rudi Stephan, Louis Vierne, and Gabriel Fauré.
“Ingolfsson’s playing is simply superb throughout a fascinating CD, with Stoupel providing terrific support.” The Whole Note