The pinnacle of violin virtuosity is represented by his 24 Caprices, composed between 1803 and 1817 and published in 1820, in which a kaleidoscope of violin techniques can be found. In this recording project by Centaur Records, Tomás Cotik performs 17 of the 24 Caprices impeccably, easily overcoming the technical challenges, which he resolves in an extremely musical and expressive manner.
In the Cantabile in D major, Op. 17, and in the Sonata a Preghiera, Op. 24, based on the theme of Moses’ prayer “Dal tuo stellato soglio” by Rossini, placed respectively at the opening and closing of the album, he also displays particularly expressive bowing. In these two pieces he is well accompanied on piano by Monica Ohuchi, who never overpowers him and leaves the stage to the violin.
This is a highly enjoyable CD in which listeners can savor some classics of the violin repertoire.
Niccolò Paganini (1782 – 1840): “Capriccio”, Tomás Cotik, violino – GBOPERA