Your guide to classical music online

THE ARTISTRY OF OLEH KRYSA, VOL. 2

Victor Carr Jr

Artistic Quality:

Sound Quality:

Though billed as a celebration of the artistry of violinist Oleh Krysa, the real star of this release is composer Boris Lyatoshynsky (1895-1968). The program opens with the acerbic sounds of Lyatoshynsky’s 1926 Violin Sonata, a classically proportioned, 12-tone composition that employs a mode of expression reminiscent of Berg. The following Trio No. 1 (completed one year earlier) opens with a serenely affecting melody set against cascading piano runs, evoking an altogether different sound world with its Scriabinesque chromaticism. Paradoxically, the latest piece, the 1942 Trio No. 2, sounds the earliest, recalling early Rachmaninov with its rich, late-romantic style.

The Sonata understandably provides the biggest showcase for Krysa’s talents, which are considerable indeed. His unerring pitch and impeccable musicianship lend an engaging lyricism to Lyatoshynsky’s prickly dissonances while allowing the ear to focus more on the music’s brilliant construction. The Trios show Krysa to be a sensitive and intuitive collaborator as he partners with cellist Natalia Khoma and pianist Tatiana Tchekina. Still, Krysa’s warmly singing tone and impressive artistry continuously come to the fore, particularly in the luxuriously appointed sonorities of Trio No. 1. The recording presents the string players in ringing clarity, but unfortunately drapes a sonic gauze over the piano. Still, the instruments are balanced well enough for you to hear all the intricate and finely woven detail of Lyatoshynsky’s compelling music, making this disc an important acquisition.


Recording Details:

Album Title: THE ARTISTRY OF OLEH KRYSA, VOL. 2
Reference Recording: None

BORIS LYATOSHYNSKY - Violin Sonata; Trio No. 1; Trio No. 2

    Soloists: Oleh Krysa (violin)
    Natalia Khoma (cello)
    Tatiana Tchekina (piano)

Search Music Reviews

Search Sponsor

  • Insider Reviews only
  • Click here for Search Tips

Visit Our Merchandise Store

Visit Store
  • Ideally Cast Met Revival of Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette
    Metropolitan Opera House, Lincoln Center, NY; March 19, 2024—The Met has revived Bartlett Sher’s 1967 production of Gounod’s R&J hot on the heels of its
  • An Ozawa Story, November, 1969
    Much has justifiably been written regarding Seiji Ozawa’s extraordinary abilities and achievements as a conductor, and similarly about his generosity, graciousness, and sense of humor
  • Arvo Pärt’s Passio At St. John The Divine
    Cathedral of St John the Divine, New York, NY; January 26, 2024—When one thinks of musical settings of Christ’s Passion, one normally thinks of the