Description:

David Oistrakh (1908-1974), a brilliant master in the history of 20th century violin performance, won the first prize at the All-Union Soviet Music Competition in 1934, the second prize at the Vinavsky International Competition in 1935, and the first prize at the Ysaÿe Competition in 1937. After World War II, he came into the international limelight, not only as a soloist but also as a chamber musician, conductor, and educator, earning great respect as a comprehensive musician. This 2-CD set contains stereo recordings made in 1955 and 1959 for two major American labels by Oistrakh, who caused a sensation when he emerged from the "Soviet" West like a comet during the Cold War in the 1950s. The large scale music-making and rich tone produced by his magnificent physique, strong technique, and the famous 1705 Stradivarius Marsic, allow the audience to fully appreciate the charm of the violin instrument. The orchestra features Isaac Stern, Eugene Ormanday/Philadelphia Orchestra, and Charles Munch/Boston Symphony Orchestra. (C)RS