While performed less frequently than the First Violin Concerto, the remaining Paganini violin concertos are no less impressive examples of the Italian master's ability to push the limits of the violin's abilities and to promote his own unique performance capabilities. Following his recording of the First and Third concertos, violinist
Ingolf Turban returns to the Telos label in this recording of the Second and Fourth concertos. These two concertos follow a very similar structural pattern, one that worked well for Paganini in demonstrating his abilities both at high speeds and in the instrument's lyrical stratosphere. While technical bravura is certainly a highlight, Paganini was not devoid of ability in writing memorable, enjoyable musical lines and satisfying interaction between soloist and orchestra.
Turban's playing comes across as theatrical and demonstrative as Paganini's could be imagined to be. His interplay with the orchestra is dramatic but not overdone, and he has much of the technical bravura and lyrical suaveness necessary for a successful performance. There are times when
Turban's technical polish falters -- occasional intonation blemishes or strained passage work -- but his execution is generally solid and reliable. His tone is penetrating and robust, but his vibrato is incessantly intense and wide, which may be a turnoff for some listeners.