Album

Ivan Ženatý

Benda: Violin Concertos

Catalogue Number: SU 4064-2
Published: 13th April 2012
Genre: Chamber Music
The most distinguished Czech violinist of the 18th century? The first name that springs to mind is that of František Benda. His illustrious career led him to the post of concert master of the court orchestra of Frederick II, King of Prussia. He was highly praised by his contemporaries and, according to the period sources, when delivering slow movements he often moved the audience to tears. Benda's influence throughout Germany was comparable with the enormous authority the celebrated Giuseppe Tartini enjoyed in Italy. As a composer, he was evidently inspired by Vivaldi's concertos, which he was thoroughly familiar with. Yet Benda's concertos are singular works in their own right, abounding in invention, naturally flowing and extremely forcible melody. At the beginning of the 21st century, Ivan Ženatý is among Czech violinists a serious candidate for the title Benda would have been awarded in the 18th century. This, after all, is documented by his collaboration with superlative orchestras and conductors (Baudo, Gergiev, Bělohlávek, Marriner, etc.). On Ivan Ženatý and the excellent Prague Philharmonia's recording, Benda is splendidly melodious and technically brilliant.
František Benda
Concerto for Violin, Strings and Basso continuo in C major, Lee II-1
1. Allegro 05:45
2. Adagio 06:12
3. Presto 05:32
František Benda
Concerto for Violin, Strings and Basso continuo in B flat major, Lee II-18
4. Allegro 06:04
5. Adagio 04:39
6. Presto 04:37
František Benda
Concerto for Violin, Strings and Basso continuo in D major, Lee II-2
7. Allegro ma non molto 08:03
8. Largo 05:00
9. Allegro 05:45
František Benda
Concerto for Violin, Strings and Basso continuo in A minor, Lee II-16
10. Allegretto ma non molto 08:37
11. Affettuoso ma con spirito 07:16
12. Vivace. Scherzando 04:24