Virtuosic Violin Duo

BY R2 International

At Neilson Hays Library

Thursday, 30th January 2025 at 19:30PM

Tickets: 1,200THB for general public, 1,000THB for Library Members

Henryk Wieniawski: Étude-Caprice No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 18

Henryk Wieniawski (1835–1880), a renowned violin virtuoso and composer, crafted his Étude-Caprices, Op. 18, as a set of eight challenging duets for two violins. Étude-Caprice No. 1 in G Minor showcases his genius in blending technical demands with expressive artistry. This dramatic and virtuosic work features fiery arpeggios, intricate double stops, and seamless dialogue between the two violins. A lyrical middle section contrasts the intensity, highlighting Wieniawski’s melodic elegance. Both a technical study and a concert piece, it exemplifies Wieniawski’s ability to transform virtuosic challenges into captivating musical narratives, earning its place in the violin repertoire.

Louis Spohr: Grand Duo Concertante for Two Violins, Op. 67

Louis Spohr (1784–1859), a leading German violinist and composer, was celebrated for his lyrical and virtuosic works. His Grand Duo Concertante, Op. 67, is a masterpiece of the violin duo repertoire, showcasing his ability to blend technical brilliance with Romantic expressiveness. This three-movement work features intricate interplay between the two violins, with equal prominence given to both parts. The opening movement is dramatic and lyrical, followed by a tender and expressive slow movement. The finale is a lively and spirited showcase of virtuosity. The Grand Duo is a testament to Spohr’s skill in crafting music that is both technically demanding and deeply musical.

Handel/Halvorsen: Passacaglia for Violin and Viola

The Passacaglia for violin and viola is a remarkable arrangement by Norwegian composer Johan Halvorsen (1864–1935) based on a theme from the final movement of George Frideric Handel’s Suite in G Minor for Harpsichord, HWV 432. Halvorsen transformed Handel’s stately baroque passacaglia—a form built on a repeating bass line—into a virtuosic and dramatic duet.

This work showcases both instruments equally, with dazzling interplay and inventive variations. The piece begins with the noble passacaglia theme, followed by increasingly elaborate and demanding variations. Both violin and viola are pushed to their technical and expressive limits, with rapid passages, intricate double stops, and striking dynamic contrasts.

Halvorsen’s adaptation breathes new life into Handel’s music, blending baroque elegance with Romantic flair. Beloved by audiences and performers alike, the Passacaglia is a thrilling display of artistry, virtuosity, and collaboration between two string players.

Jean-Marie Leclair: Sonata for Two Violins No. 5 in E Minor, Op. 3

Jean-Marie Leclair (1697–1764), known as the founder of the French violin school, was celebrated for his ability to blend French elegance with Italian virtuosity. His Sonata for Two Violins No. 5 in E Minorfrom Op. 3 exemplifies his mastery in writing for two equal instruments, showcasing intricate counterpoint and lyrical expressiveness.

The work unfolds in four movements: an elegant Adagio sets a contemplative tone, leading to a lively Allegro full of spirited dialogue and technical brilliance. The third movement, Sarabande: Largo, offers a poignant and expressive contrast, highlighting Leclair’s gift for lyrical beauty. The final Allegro bursts with energy, featuring dazzling interplay between the violins and rhythmic vitality.

This sonata demonstrates Leclair’s genius in creating music that is both technically demanding and emotionally rich, making it a favorite among violinists and a gem of the Baroque chamber repertoire.

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