The subtitle of this Telos Music disc featuring violinist
Ingolf Turban and pianist Lukas Maria Kuen is "Friendship," an apt title if ever there was one. While we may be better acquainted with the collaborative results of Johannes Brahms and violinist Joseph Joachim, less celebrated but equally significant was the friendship and partnership that existed between Robert Schumann and violinist Ferdinand David (who was Joachim's teacher). David was clearly responsible for the inspiration of Schumann's works for violin, but Schumann himself was equally as inspiring to the violin virtuoso. Though they are rarely played today, David was active as a composer, as well, and this disc features 16 of his short character pieces whose piano accompaniments were written by Schumann. Though these works can sometimes come across as a bit didactic, in the right hands they can be nimble, sparkling, energetic pieces.
Turban possesses just such an approach to David's music, infusing them with vigor, playfulness, and dazzling technique. This world-premiere recording of David's character pieces is worthwhile on its own, but it also includes commanding performances of Schumann's three violin sonatas. Together with Kuen,
Turban emphasizes the similarities in character and approach between these two friends. His tone is bright, but not shrill, and his technique is refined, though not flawless. Telos' sound is clear and unfettered.