Praise for Beethoven: Violin Concerto, Romances:
Four stars “And while this is a very classical, traditional recording, it can please
because of the virtuoso and technically flawless playing of the soloist” – Pizzicato
His third album with Signum Records, internationally acclaimed violinist Charlie Siem is joined again by celebrated pianist Itamar Golan for their second recital album performing works by Grieg and Vaughan Williams, including a transcription of ‘Solveig’s Song’ by Siem himself.
Charlie Siem is one of today’s foremost young violinists, with such a wide-ranging diversity of cross-cul- tural appeal. Siem has appeared with many of the world’s finest orchestras and chamber ensembles, includ- ing: the Bergen Philharmonic, the Camerata Salzburg, the Czech National Symphony among many others.
For more than two decades, Itamar Golan has been partnering the most outstanding instrumentalists of our time. His work has brought him great critical acclaim, and he is one of the most sought-after pianists of his generation, collaborating with Vadim Repin, Maxim Vengerov, Julian Rachlin, Mischa Maisky among many others.
★★★★★ “This fascinating coupling works exceptionally well, more so in such excellent performances…beautifully recorded by Andrew Keener…those who are both attracted and intrigued by this thoughtful coupling can purchase this disc with full confidence” – Musical Opinion
★★★★ Performance ★★★★★ Recording “[Grieg’s Violin Sonata No. 2] The central Allegretto tranquillo deftly balances a gentle nostalgia with spurts of zesty temperament, while the finale sparkles with the influence of Norwegian folk dance. Siem’s moody transcription of ‘Solveig’s Song’…rounds off a stimulating recital” – BBC Music Magazine
“Plenty of grit in this unusual sonata programme…His playing is wild and assertive in the Scherzo…the double stops lend a gritty, Prokofievian strength and determination…Itamar Golan matches him in assertiveness and power…Siem brings a melancholy tinge to the expressive melodies and exults in the joyful dances…there is gentle, expressive beauty to his Alegretto tranquillo” – The Strad