Zino Francescatti <br> An Evening of Paganini <BR> BRIDGE 9125

Fanfare: Best of Year This never before issued recital was given in 1954, when Zino Francescatti was at the peak of his formidable powers. The legendary French violinist, whose musical ancestry goes back to Paganini, plays with such stunning precision and musicality that these works leap off the page with acrobatic joy. Francescatti's `old world' approach to this music includes his use of piano accompaniment in the famous D major Concerto, and in the seven Caprices. (Francescatti never made a commercial recording of Caprice No. 17, so this stands as a new addition to his discography.) This electrifying CD is for enthusiasts of the grand era of virtuoso violin playing, and reconfirms Francescatti's place, along with Heifetz and Milstein, among the three greatest players of their generation.   Reviews: “Paganini’s music seldom has been so lovingly and intelligently served, and the archival recording boasts ample bloom and presence for its time and place. An absolute must for violin fans.