Hommage à Kurtág
New Focus, 2022
8/10
The esteemed violin player Movses Pogossian centers this recording around György Kurtág’s “Signs, Games and Messenges”, and his interpretation comes with direct influence from Kurtág, and new works from several composers only add much more intrigue to this solo violin listen.
The first 15 tracks belong to Kurtág’s “Signs, Games and Messenges”, where the precisely played violin can be bare and pretty, as well as firm and jarring, and even touches on stirring, poetic qualities, too.
Deeper into the tracks, Aida Shirazi’s “Sign” moves with much sublime atmosphere, where mood is key, while Jungyoon Wie’s “Message” emits much grace and warmth in its emotive presence that’s focused on pitch and mystery.
Further still, “Melodia, from Sonata for Solo Violin”, by Béla Bartók, is often mournful, and unfolds with absorbing gestures, and Kurtág’s work returns with the meticulous playing of “In Nomine- all’ongharese”.
Pogossian made his debut in America back in 1990, and he’s picked up many accolades along the way. His work has excelled in both solo and chamber situations, and this endeavor certainly ranks up there with his best yet, where diverse movements illustrate an adaptive nature and unbounded creativity.
Travels well with: Greg Stuart- Subtractions; Departure Duo- Immensity Of