The Caprices (2002) consist of a slow, dreamy theme and five variations contrasting in tempo, mood, tonality, texture…In violinist Philippe Quint, Corigliano (b. 1938) has found another virtuoso who can toss off all these and more with ease and aplomb. Quint’s tone is gorgeous, even in the stratosphere…

…Corigliano’s Violin and Piano Sonata (1963) shows the influence of Hindemith and Copland, but its pungent, syncopated rhythms and long, singing melodies have made it a repertory staple.

Virgil Thomson’s Portraits…are all tonal and pleasant…The performers bring admirable commitment…

On this record, the playing’s the thing.

Violinist Philippe Quint and pianist William Wolfram deliver stunning performances track after track. Quint’s “take-no-prisoners” approach to the violin is refreshing and energizing. The Red Violin Caprices, which are filled with astoundingly difficult demands, are tossed off with incredible accuracy and ferocity. Quint is equally capable of warmth and suppleness, making him a delightfully well-rounded performer. Although Wolfram’s role on this particular album is somewhat minimal, his accompaniments are considerate and well balanced, yielding satisfying chamber music performances throughout.

Naxos is also the source of the third CD in this group, one that features works for solo violin and violin and piano by John Corigliano and Virgil Thomson in the excellent American Classics series (Corigliano: The Red Violin Caprices; Naxos 8.559364); the performers are Philippe Quint and William Wolfram. The Caprices and Thomson’s Eight Portraits are for solo violin; Corigliano is also represented by his Violin Sonata from 1963 and Thomson by Three Portraits and Five Ladies. Quint is tremendous in the solo pieces, although his assorted breathing noises do become a bit annoying after a while.