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February 7, 2025

In this captivating solo recital, Nikolay Madoyan brings to life a selection of timeless masterpieces. The performance opens with Bach’s iconic Partita No. 2 where the first four movements evoke elegant dance forms culminating by the profound Ciaccona, crafted in the form of variations.

As the recital unfolds, we delve into Ysaÿe’s Sonata No. 2, where Bach is not just the inspiration but the "obsession". The first movement begins with the resonant introduction of Bach's Prelude from the E-major Partita, which Ysaÿe then dismantles, infusing it with echoes of the Dies irae chant found in the traditional Requiem mass.

Next, Khachaturian’s Adagio immerses listeners in solitude and reflective melancholy, probing the fundamental anguish of the human condition. The music powerfully captures intense sorrow, conveyed through its soft dynamics and flowing lines.

The lyrical Uzundara dance by Khachaturian is traditionally performed by women as a part of the wedding rite. The composer skilfully intertwines asymmetric structures and rhythmic nuances typical of Armenian folk music.

The program then transitions to Paganini, whose Variations on "God Save the King" showcase his groundbreaking approach to violin technique. Based on the British national anthem, this work weaves a dazzling tapestry of variations that push the boundaries of violin artistry.

The recital concludes with Caprice Farewell, a lively piece dedicated to composer Eduard Eliason, whom Paganini met in London. This work presents original musical ideas interwoven with complex and contrasting passages.


Programme:

J.S. Bach - Partita No. 2 in D minor, BWV 1004

INTERVAL

E. Ysaÿe - Sonata for Solo Violin No.2 in A minor Op.27

A. Khachaturian - Adagio from ballet “Gayane”, Act III (arr. A. Yampolsky)

A. Khachaturian - Uzundara from ballet “Gayane”, Act I (arr. M. Fichtenholz)

N. Paganini - Variations on “God Save the King” Op.9

N. Paganini - Farewell Caprice in E Major, Op. 67

1 hour 45 minutes including 20-minute interval

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