Nicolo Paganini (1782-1840)
24 Caprices for violin solo, op 1
This performance of one of the most challenging scores in the violin repertory, Paganini's 24 Caprices, is by the internationally celebrated violinist, Alexander Markov, recorded in Reggio Emilia, Italy. It combines intense passion with extraordinary technical ability.
Director Bruno Monsaingeon, himself a concert violinist, first heard Markov during a recital in New York entirely devoted to the Caprices and was left utterly dumbfounded.
He says of that concert, "the technical difficulties, as if naturally overcome, had been replaced by an incandescent musical imagination which made the Paganini Caprices a thrilling experience, far removed from the school-masterly and cautious approach of most violinists."
"Once I managed to hear his performance of the 24 Paganini Caprices on TV. I am certain that he is one of the most interesting young violinists of his generation in the entire world."
- Mstislav Rostropovich
"The most exciting violin recital this listener has heard in quite some time...Mr Markov scoops and slides with an emotional intensity that has all but vanished from contemporary violin playing. Somewhere Mischa Elman is smiling."
- New York Times
