Prompted by a remark by a friend, I took down my CD of the three violin concertos by Camille Saint-Saëns, played by the French violinist Fanny Clamagirand. I have always had a soft spot for the music of Saint-Saëns, with the second violin concerto being a particular favourite. I first got to know the concerto in a recording by Ivry Gitlis, where the beautiful andante espressivo second movement was subjected to a highly inappropriate vibrato, phrasing and portamenti that were entirely inappropriate. No such problems with Ms. Clamagirand; her playing in all three concertos is an object lesson in how they should sound. The Naxos CD has the Sinfonia Finlandia conducted by Patrick Gallois. Admirably balanced and recorded; the orchestral parts in the three concertos are not mere accompaniments.
It is difficult to understand the comparative neglect of Saint-Saëns' music. Yes, he wrote volumes of music in his long life and, yes, it is not music that reaches for the spheres (as does not most classical music). But the music is melodic, well-written and makes enjoyable listening. Not many violinists see fit to play the three concertos; the third concerto is the most popular; the second concerto the most enjoyable (unless played by Ivry Gitlis). I have no less than 26 different recordings of the third concerto, played by almost every violinist one can think of. But only three of the second concerto, and seven of the first. Anyway, all praise here to Naxos, and to Fanny Clamagirand.
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