Schwarz-Schilling: Partita, Polonaise & Violin Concerto

The so-called ‘lost generation’ of German composers includes many whose lives were shaped by events after 1933. One such was Reinhard Schwarz-Schilling, a composer of strong spiritual depth whose 1953 Violin Concerto was rooted in his wartime experiences. Ingeniously constructed, it subtly evokes the influence of Bach, without at all embracing neo-classicism. Its moving slow movement is followed by a finale that marries virtuosity with dance-like magnetism. The Partita is much admired for its colour and vitality, whilst the Polonaise is a lighter work, brimming with high spirits.