Duos Concertants / Sic Duos Caracteristiques

Complementing the release of Bériot’s Violin Concertos Nos. 1, 8 & 9 (8.555104) and Nos. 2, 3 & 5 (8.570360), this disc presents his equally virtuosic Duos concertants for two violins whose disarming lyricism, cheerful vivacity and Classical three-movement structure mask many formidable technical challenges. Based on themes from Prince Yusupov’s once popular Ballet Espagnol, Bériot’s Six Characteristic Duos add a dash of Iberian sunshine, the two violins imitating guitars, romancing each other, marching together and even dancing a fandango and bolero.