Search - Alexander Markov - Paganini's 24 Caprices on DVD

Nothing Like It

Rod Saunders | Tulsa, Ok | 10/12/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I looked for something like this for some time and when I learned that there was a video of Markov playing the caprices I was determined to obtain a copy. Then I was told that it wasn't going to be available for awhile and ended up waiting nearly 4 years. Finally I got a copy and I wasn't disappointed with the playing at all, nor the quality of the video. But I sure wish the video editors had refrained from all the annoying video gimmicks and simply provided us with a few good angles of Markov's playing. You would think that they would realize their target audience here is violinists who will want to observe his technique as well as listen to his interpretations. Still there's more than enough here to make it worth the money. A fine addition to your violin video collection."

Fantastic!

T. Q. Nguyen | Boston, MA | 09/30/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This performance is full of inspiration, imagination, most of all, truly expresses what music-making is all about. If you want to have a note-to-note perfect performance, buy a studio recording. There're quite a number of them available. A performance like this one is hard to find."

WHY DID WE HAVE TO WAIT 17 YEARS FOR THIS???

Michael | Denver CO USA | 09/29/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Thank G-d this DVD finally appeared. The CD has been long available. This is a unique interpretation of the Paganini caprices. Lots of very imaginative ideas, lots of liberties, a most exciting and stimulating performance. What the heck if it is controversial and not always in tune? Who cares? This is music-making of the highest order, taking a lot of courage too. I salute and admire Mr Markov. The DVD will remain one of my all-time favorites."

Paganini would be proud

Julian W. Tang | Hong Kong, China | 01/21/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have listened to Paganini's 24 Caprices for over 20 years now, ever since my mother bought me the version by Shlomo Mintz on cassette. Since then, I have always wanted to watch someone play the Caprices, if not live, then at least on video. Now they are available on DVD, and in a style in which I am sure Nicolo Paganini would be proud. Markov's technique, is superb, and although not flawless, any minor errors are only a consequence of the emotional intensity and abandon in which he plays. Musically, I still prefer Shlomo Mintz's version, whose interpretation (particularly of the 1st, 12th, 19th and 24th caprices are still my personal favourites. However, the final joy of seeing the Caprices played live (even on DVD), with Markov's vitality, is a sure tribute to Paganini. For violin virtuoso fans, this is a must buy!"