Michael Ludwig - Corigliano: Violin Concerto, The Red Violin - Phantasmagoria (2010/2015) [Official Digital Download 24/192]

With this new recording, JoAnn Falletta and the Buffalo Philharmonic continue their revelatory exploration of Corigliano’s highly engaging and imaginative symphonic music.

Phantasmagoria draws material from his immense opera The Ghosts of Versailles, with subliminal quotes from Mozart, Rossini and Wagner.

Music from his third film score, The Red Violin, provided elements which Corigliano elaborates in the Violin Concerto, its opening Chaconne being described by the composer as ‘a passionate romantic essay’ which he has complemented with an effervescent Scherzo, an intensely emotional Andante and a racing, rollicking Finale.

“…[it's] not surprising that violinists are lining up to play this reinvigoration of the grand manner.” (Gramophone Magazine)

“Phantasmagoria juxtaposes several elements, including appropriately haunting and ethereal 'ghost music' associated with Versailles's one-time occupants and guests, music in an opera buffa style (much of it transparently borrowed from Rossini and Mozart) and music associated with the collisions between the opera's different 'planes of reality'…a roller-coaster for the ears” (International Record Review)

Tracklist:
1. Phantasmagoria - Suite from The Ghosts of Versailles 22:04
Violin Concerto, 'The Red Violin'
2. I. Chaconne 17:16
3. II. Pianissimo scherzo 05:24
4. III. Andante flautando 06:28
5. IV. Accelerando finale 09:50

Personnel:
Michael Ludwig, violin (on The Red Violin Concerto)
Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra
JoAnn Falletta, conductor

Digitally remastered