Richard Strauss: Violin Sonata in E-flat major, Op. 18
César Franck: Violin Sonata in A major

You can count on one hand the number of Sonatas for Violin and Piano that have achieved a high level of popularity and therefore have seen more of their fair share of recordings by some of the world's leading violinists. Beethoven's "Kreutzer" Sonata for example, which boasts over 150 recordings and of course, the Violin Sonata in A major by César Franck (1822-1890) which, if the catalogue numbers are correct, has been graced with more than 200 recordings. It's always been considered one of the best violin sonatas ever written, and in typical Franck fashion, draws on a rich harmonic palette and is written in a highly romantic style. French violinist Brieuc Vourch lends its Allegro second movement an impetuous and headlong intensity, and actually alters the tonal character of his instrument subject to the emotional impetus behind the music. An interpretive proclivity much better suited to this type of music than a violinist who generates a sweet, silvery tone and nothing else, regardless of the music they're playing. The following slow movement benefits from the same level of intensity, at times highly lyrical and/or darkly subdued. And pianist Guillaume Vincent is right there with him, fuelling the emotive intensity at every turn.

With its boldly emphatic phrasing and demeanour, the Violin Sonata in E-flat major, Op. 18 by Richard Strauss (1864-1949) is no less captivating. It also imposes more technical demands on both the violinist and pianist, which both Vourch and Vincent tackle with self-assurance and panache. The final movement alone, with its sweeping forward momentum and passionate interplay between the two musicians is an impressive bit of writing, and well demonstrates the high degree of musicianship these two young players possess. If you want to hear engaged and committed playing I would recommend this without hesitation.