Joseph Joachim, one of the greatest and most famous violinists of the 19th century, had vast and sustaining influence on violin playing and teaching. As an arranger and composer, his solid reputation is secure, with his numerous cadenzas for various concerti remaining popular and beloved to this day. Less known, however, are his original works. This new Barenreiter Urtext edition of Joachim’s Fantasy on Hungarian Themes and Fantasy on Irish [Scottish] Themes, both for violin and orchestra (piano reduction), will delight violinists seeking challenging and appealing new repertoire, as well as offer a glimpse into Joachim’s unparalleled virtuosity and musicianship.

 

The Barenreiter edition originates with an autograph copy that was evacuated from Berlin during World War II and later stored in the library of the University of Lodz, Poland. Joachim wrote both Fantasies for his own use, between the ages of 16 and 22, to support his emerging solo career in England. Once that was accomplished, Joachim seems to have put the works aside.