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Cedille, 2025
9/10
The violinist Karisa Chiu fleshes out an impressive debut, where Zhu Wang’s keys are present for the 5 detailed pieces by Debussy, Fauré, Scott, Sibelius, and Augusta Read Thomas.
“Five Pieces”, by Sibelius, opens with the meticulous strings and mature keys interacting with much chemistry and warmth, and Debussy’s “Violin Sonata” follows with firm keys amid an unpredictable mood via Chiu’s superb violin playing.
Thomas’ “Incantation For Solo Violin” lands in the middle and allows for the lone violin to draw us in thanks to the emotive appeal, while “Lotus Land” offers a very thoughtful duet that’s sometimes dreamy and other times tense thanks to Scott’s vision.
The last track, Fauré’s “Violin Sonata No. 1, Op 13”, is filled with tremendous grace and precision, where the pair’s inimitable talents makes an indelible impression.
An artist with a Chicago upbringing and Korean-Chinese heritage, Chiu invites us to reflect on what we define as home, and these very thoughtful and technical compositions sure to lend themselves to that occasion.
Travels well with: Stephen Hough- Piano Concerto, Sonatina & Partita; Cavatina Duo- River Of Fire