Drum Beats Beethoven

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Created: 23 August 2010

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This 2009 recording features Janine Jansen as the solo violinist. It includes two violin concertos, one by Beethoven and the other by Britten, recorded in different eras. Beethoven’s Violin Concerto was first performed in 1806, while Britten’s Violin Concerto was first performed in 1940. Despite their nearly 100-year difference in style, both concertos share an interesting commonality: the first movement of both is led by timpani drum beats. I believe the recording artists paid special attention to the timpani, resulting in clear and clean sounds.

The DECCA CD recording is generally good. Both concertos were conducted by Paavo Jarvi. The accompanying orchestra for Beethoven’s Concerto was Die Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen, an orchestra that seemed to use authentic instruments, giving it a lighter and cleaner sound. However, they still supported Jansen’s modern and warm playing style. She used the candaza by Fritz Kreisler.

Accompanying Jansen for Britten’s Concerto was the London Symphony Orchestra. While it’s a modern classical work, it’s still pleasing to listen to. The music consists of three movements. The first movement is stable, the second movement lively, and the last movement is the longest and heavy. The effect of the Spanish Civil War on the composer is clearly evident in the music.

I prefer Jansen’s style for the Britten Concerto. As for the Beethoven Concerto, there are already so many interpretations available that it’s challenging to stand out. However, Jansen’s interpretation does bring a fresh perspective to the piece.

Britten’s concerto is known for its large mood swings, which can be difficult for both the soloist and the orchestra to navigate. The final movement is particularly demanding, as it begins directly from the second movement without a break. The violin plays a long note throughout the movement, gradually building in intensity and mood. The timpani beats become increasingly hopeless and silent, leading to a tragic and melancholic conclusion.