BENJAMIN GODARD (1849-1895)

 

Violin Concertos

 

Concerto No. 2 for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 131

Concerto Romantique for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 35

Scènes Poetiques for Orchestra, Op. 46

 

Chloe Hanslip - Violin

 

Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestera, Košice / Kirk Trevor

 

As a boy, Benjamin Godard was a celebrated violin prodigy, but later turned to composition as his life’s work. With the notable exception of the ever-popular Berceuse from the opera Jocelyn, most of Godard’s works have fallen out of the repertoire. A thorough romantic in the Schumann-Mendelssohn mould, Godard was best known for his short atmospheric pieces and stage works, while his short piano pieces have recently garnered new respect. Two of his most successful longer works are the Concerto Romantique and the Violin Concerto No. 2, both featuring deft virtuoso writing for the violin and the romantic sensibility of the mid-nineteenth century.

 

“Outstanding…a very special violinist. Hanslip’s sound is sensual, vocal and yearning, and totally radiant in its top register…she is likely to become the greatest violinist of her generation.” Limelight

 

“The blossoming career of the gifted young violinist Chloë Hanslip has been a delight to watch in recent years. This characterful performer has worked assiduously at her technique and range of tone, and her spirited playing can safely be described as both versatile and mature.” The Strad magazine

 

Naxos 8570554