KARA KARAYEV (1918-1982): Violin Sonata (First Recording), 24 Preludes for Piano (First Complete Recording).

Description: The leading Azerbaijani composer of the twentieth century fused the western traditions exemplified by his teacher Shostakovich with the classical and folk heritage of his homeland. The two works recorded here illustrate Garayev’s stylistic range: the sonata (1960) is neo-classical in manner, whereas the Preludes (1951-63) combine influences from the Russian piano school (not least Prokofiev) with elements from Azeri modes and the rhythms of Arabic-Persian lyric poetry. Includes a 66:43 all-region DVD made in association with the recording. Vadim Repin (violin), Murad Husynov (piano).