Stradivarius 1735 Violin "Samazeuilh"

It is my great pleasure that I have been given the privilege to play the extraordinary Antonio Stradivarius 1735 “Samazeuilh” generously loaned by Nippon Music Foundation for my concerts, especially during the recital tour celebrating the 30th anniversary of my debut. In compiling tonight’s program, I have given thoughts to fully present the characteristics of “Samazeuilh”. I feel that this instrument has the combined attractiveness of Stradivarius and Guarneri del Gesu; together with its noble aura, it allows me to play with extensive expressions, from the very deep powerful and captivating lower register to the middle register which reminds of a human voice, and to the bright yet warm higher register. This violin, respectfully kept by collectors, has just reached the moment of awakening, and its potential is limitless. As the core of tonight’s program, Beethoven’s “Kreutzer” sonata, the masterpiece of violin sonatas, and Franck’s sonata show variety of expressions and colors this violin can demonstrate. The beginning of the program, “Baal Shem”, is an intimate and spiritual prayer written by the Jewish composer Bloch, which presents the greatest beauty of “Samazeuilh” through its lower register and rich sound. The pieces by Wagner and Kreisler display the subtleties of romantic human emotions. I hope you will enjoy them with the human voice-like sound of “Samazeuilh”.

(From NMF Concert program March.5, 2019)