Julia Fischer : Intimate Review

Violin star Julia Fischer has returned to the Pentatone label for a Double Album with 21 Stereo Selections spanning 117 minutes 34 seconds of music. The program is a window into an extensive catalog from the prolific violinist and an opportunity to sample her most intimate performances. The double album is titled Intimate and features the works of Khachaturian, Schubert, Bach, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, and Glazunov. The music was selected to be an accompaniment for intimate moments. Each selection features Fischer’s beautiful tone playing melancholic melodies, affectionate duets, and comforting concertos.

Bach’s “Sonata for solo violin No. 1 in G minor, BWV1001: Adagio” captures the essence of the project and the beautiful sounds Fischer effortlessly pulls across the strings. Each phrase is flowing and filled with the intent to clarify and communicate the music in an emotive manner. Her double-stop playing is balanced and flawlessly flows between the single-line melodies and the harmony figures. Of course, this is a well-known composition that allows a wide range of listeners to appreciate Fischer’s beautiful playing.

“Piano Trio No. 2 in C Minor, Op. 66, MWV Q 33: II. Andante espressivo” by Mendelssohn is another stunning moment within many on the expanse of the album’s 117 minutes. Cellist Daniel Müller-Schott and pianist Jonathan Gilad join Fischer for the performance. The trio performs the gentile nine eight time signature with a lift that propels while still maintaining a smooth and expressive pulse. Müller-Schott and Fischer blend wonderfully as the rise and fall in dynamics are synchronized. The counterpoint sections are played with fluidity and clarity. The playing is perfect for relaxing moments.

Fischer’s performances throughout Intimate is consistently beautiful. Her tone, control of color, and expression are always musical. Even though the content was all recorded in different settings and periods, her playing is astonishingly consistent and natural. This is a beautiful collection of Fischer’s most introspective and reflective repertoire. Put together with privacy and familiarity in mind, in this world of unknown moments, let Fischer bring sounds that will help relax and soothe with Intimate.