For her first solo recording for BIS, Alina Ibragimova joins pianist Cédric Tiberghien in the opening volume of their acclaimed cycle of Beethoven’s complete violin sonatas. Known for her work with the Chiaroscuro Quartet, Ibragimova performs on a gut-stringed violin, while Tiberghien plays a fortepiano modeled after a Viennese instrument from 1794. Together, they explore these masterpieces on instruments closely related to those Beethoven himself would have known.
The programme opens with the three Violin Sonatas, Op. 12, Beethoven’s first published violin sonatas and among the works that established his reputation in Vienna. Although originally designated “for harpsichord or fortepiano with violin accompaniment,” these sonatas follow Mozart’s example in giving both instruments an equal and engaging role, creating true chamber music dialogues.
The album concludes with the beloved Sonata No. 5 in F major, Op. 24, known as the “Spring” Sonata. Its lyrical warmth and effortless charm have made it one of Beethoven’s most popular chamber works, and one of his most poetic.
This recording marked the beginning of a remarkable Beethoven cycle, combining historical insight with vivid musicianship to reveal these familiar works in a fresh and illuminating light.
