Feliks Janiewicz (1762–1848) was one of the most distinguished Polish violinists of his era. Following his successes in Paris and London, he became a celebrated virtuoso, composer, and an important contributor to Britain’s musical life. His five violin concertos rank among the most valuable achievements of Polish music at the turn of the nineteenth century and are also among the earliest examples of the brilliant style in European violin literature.

This two-disc album presents the complete violin concertos of Janiewicz, performed by Bartłomiej Nizioł, winner of the Henryk Wieniawski International Violin Competition. He is joined by the Wrocław Baroque Orchestra, performing on period instruments under the direction of Andrzej Kosendiak. Of particular significance is the Violin Concerto No. 2, which receives its world premiere recording on this release. The album restores Janiewicz’s music to its rightful place in the history of both Polish and European music.

Programme:

FELIKS JANIEWICZ (1762–1848)
CD 1
Violin Concerto No. 1 in F major (c. 1788) [21’28]
[1] Moderato 11’47
[2] Romance 5’28
[3] Rondo 4’13

Violin Concerto No. 2 in E major* (c. 1788) [24’31]
[4] Allegro moderato 11’35
[5] Adagio 4’57
[6] Polonaise: Allegro moderato 7’59

Violin Concerto No. 3 in A major (c. 1791) [21’30]
[7] Allegro 9’54
[8] Adagio 5’43
[9] Rondo 5’53

total time: 67’44

* World premiere recording

CD 2
Violin Concerto No. 4 in A major (c. 1797) [23’57]
[1] Moderato 13’06
[2] Adagio 4’14
[3] Rondo: Allegretto 6’36

Violin Concerto No. 5 in E minor (1803–1807) [27’21]
[4] Largo. Allegro moderato 15’41
[5] Adagio 4’47
[6] Rondo: Allegretto 6’54

total time: 51’25

All cadenzas by Bartłomiej Nizioł