FRANZ CLEMENT (1780-1842): Violin Concerto in D, LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN (1770-1827): Violin Concerto in D, Op. 61.

Description: Clement was none other than the violinist for whom Beethoven wrote his violin concerto, which has always seemed to stand alone stylistically for its period. Neither Spohr nor Rode nor Viotti (and certainly not Paganini) can compare to the lofty seriousness of purpose and broad conception of Beethoven's concerto. Until now. Clement's concerto predates Beethoven's by a year and, while it may have been modelled on the sweep and form of Beethoven's existing piano concertos, it's also clear that Beethoven's concerto is modelled on it. A real ear-opener and a recording event of historical importance for collectors and scholars of the late Classical violin concerto. 2 CDs for the price of 1. Rachel Barton Pine (violin), Royal Philharmonic Orchestra; José Serebrier.