NIKOLAI MEDTNER (1880-1951): Violin Sonatas No. 1 in B Minor, Op. 21 and No. 3 in E Minor, Op. 57 "Sonata Epica".

Description: The massive, four-movement Third (over 46 minutes) from 1938 is distinctly Russian with its references to folk music and Orthodox chant and has a bleak slow movement which likely reflects Medtner's bitter acceptance of permanent exile from his homeland. The First (1910) is much lighter with its first movement barcarolle-like Canzona, rhythmically idiosyncratic Danza and wistful Dithyramb finale. Not the most unusual of repertoire by now but we offer it for collectors of the label and/or the violinist. Chloë Hanslip (violin), Igor Tchetuev (piano).