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Henning Kraggerud sounds positively intoxicated by the expressive unpredictability [of these works]. His multiple-stopping is clean as a whistle without the slightest hint of strain, and under even the most fiendish technical pressure he retains his cantabile tonal composure.
Kraggerud deserves a place at the top of anyone's shortlist for a recording of these endlessly diverting works, especially in sound so alluringly atmospheric. [Julian Haylock / The Strad Selection]
This Norwegian violonist makes a big impression by the very fact that he does not force his virtuosity ... The phrasing is imaginative, the tone never less than fragrant. [FINANCIAL TIMES, June 28th 2008]
All six sonatas make phenomenal demands on the performer, to which Kraggerud responds with complete mastery of the sheer physical hurdles, the complex counterpoint and the multiple stopping.
Even more importantly, he possesses the interpretative insight to make the music bristle with character and with a powerfully communicative spectrum of expression. [DAILY TELEGRAPH, July 19th, 2008]
... Kraggerud allows the music to speak directly, giving it plenty of tenderness but never slackening in intensity or rhythmic direction. His technical assurance is second to none, and the most demanding passages are breathtaking. [Kraggerud shows] enough bravura to make the most important dramatic movements sound as if the world's axis is turning around the hairs of his bow.
The white-heat of inspiration which saw Ysaÿe create these works in a short period during his 66th year is reflected in Kraggerud\'s perormance with utter conviction from beginning to end.
Henning Kraggerud's exellent performances with their value-added SACD recording can be considered alongside all corners as one of the very best at the highest level. [Musicweb-international, Dominy Clements, August 2008]
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Kraggerud, Henning (violin)
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