Imaginary

Music: Composers, artists, and major works

Beethoven’s Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 61, is an extended musical study of the movement of life, in blissful harmony. (Follow these links to additional performances by Vengerov, Szeryng,  Oistrakh, Grumiaux, Chung and Stern.)

• Beethoven’s humanism is apparent from the opening bars (00:45), as the orchestra announces the primary theme, which is thoroughly life-affirming in the highly resolved D major key. When the violin soloist joins the party (4:23), he pauses for a time on an extended riff on the theme, and then he and the orchestra explore the main theme and its affirmations throughout the remainder of the first movement (Allegro ma non troppo). There is no need to rush, say the players; life flows in its own time and we along with it.
• The second movement (Larghetto) offers a pause for reflection, contemplation and rest. This, too, is a part of flow. The orchestra sets the peaceful and gentle tone at the outset, and the soloist remains fully in the mood and the moment throughout.
• The third movement (Rondo {Allegro}) is the most forceful and vibrant of the three. It is a full-forward affirmation of a joyful life riding the wave of whatever time and space surrounds us.