“THE GENIUS OF YSAŸE” presents several masterpieces by the legendary Belgian violinist and composer Eugène Ysaÿe (1858-1931), including three world premiere recordings – the first recording of his recently discovered Introduction for Solo Viola, as well as the world premiere recordings of Ysaÿe’s final versions of his Two String Trios for violin, viola and cello (Op. 33 and Op. 34). Ysaÿe’s marvelous Sonata for Solo Cello, Op. 28 is also among the gems on this album, in addition to his most well-known masterpiece – the “Ballade” (Sonata No. 3) from his Six Sonatas for Solo Violin Op. 27.

The performers of this splendid album – violinist Elmira Darvarova, violist Ronald Carbone and cellist Samuel Magill – have been involved for years with Ysaÿe’s String Trio No. 1, Op. 33, also known as “Le Chimay” (a work, hailed in the press as one of the greatest chamber music compositions of the 20th Century), and they presented its New York premiere in 2008. After thoroughly studying and researching manuscripts and various editions of Ysaÿe’s Trios, the artists came across the recently published editions of Ysaÿe’s final versions of his Two String Trios for violin, viola and cello, Op 33 and Op. 34 – as revised and finalized by the composer. These magnificent works reflect the undiminished power of the immortal legacy of Eugène Ysaÿe as a genius musician whose extraordinary achievements as a superstar performer, teacher, ensemble leader, orchestra conductor, and composer spread beyond his time. This album brings superb interpretations of stunningly beautiful compositions, as a glorious tribute to one of the most brightly shining stars that ever graced the world of virtuoso artists – the incomparable Eugène Ysaÿe.