Markov/Thuringen Phil - Henry Vieuxtemps: Fantasie in E major 'La Sentimentale'

Vieuxtemps transformed the technique and aesthetic of violin playing in the 19th century, and as a virtuoso exponent and composer he was considered a worthy successor to Paganini. His works for violin and orchestra illustrate two notable features � a liking for variation form and the fusion of emotional density with virtuosic flair. These can be heard in the impressive Variations on a Theme from Beethoven�s Romance No. 1 and his Fantasie in E major �La Sentimentale�, one of his very greatest concert fantasies, where the music is influenced by bel canto. All of the works on this album were discovered after the composer�s death apart from the the unfinished Violin Concerto No. 8 � one of Vieuxtemps� last compositions and dedicated to his most illustrious pupil, Eug�ne Ysa�e.