Mozart: Violin Concerto No. 2 [Maxim Vengerov]

Accompanied by the Verbier Festival Chamber Orchestra, Maxim Vengerov performs Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 2 in D major K. 211. The Verbier Festival Chamber Orchestra is conducted by Maxim Vengerov, the soloist himself. Recorded during the BBC Proms 2006.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 2

Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 2 in D Major, K. 211, composed in 1775, is an exquisite example of Classical-era style, marked by clarity, elegance, and melodic richness. This concerto is known for its balance between technical virtuosity and lyrical expression, making it appealing to violinists of all skill levels and a staple in concert halls worldwide. While less famous than his later violin concertos, it possesses an irresistible charm and a lightness that brings out Mozart’s youthful brilliance. The concerto’s fast-slow-fast structure is reminiscent of the serenades of the same period, blending Baroque influences with Mozart’s classical lyricism.

This work’s style evokes a late-Baroque quality, resembling composers like Giuseppe Tartini, with a mixture of bravura passages and thematic development. The “ritornello” form, popular in the Baroque era, features throughout the first movement, where the orchestra and solo violin engage in a lively dialogue, with the soloist showcasing expressive trills and flourishes. While not probing deeply into emotional themes like some of his piano concertos, Violin Concerto No. 2 is charmingly delicate, offering a pleasing balance between soloistic display and orchestral support. Each movement is filled with memorable melodies, embodying Mozart’s gift for accessibility and beauty.

Movements

The concerto has the usual fast-slow-fast structure. The movements of the work have the tempo headings:

1. Allegro moderato: The first movement of Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 2 opens with an upbeat, cheerful orchestral introduction, followed by the solo violin’s bright and graceful entrance. The movement’s melodic themes are playful yet refined, with a lightness that feels effortless. Mozart’s use of trills and elegant ornamentation enhances the joyful mood. The soloist’s role is prominent, as they carry the thematic material forward in a lively dialogue with the orchestra. Mozart varies the recurring themes of the ritornello with inventive flourishes, adding excitement and unpredictability to the piece. The orchestration supports the violin without overpowering it, allowing the soloist to shine in this spirited, graceful introduction.
2. Andante: In the second movement of the Violin Concerto No. 2, Mozart offers a lyrical contrast, with the violin presenting a sweet, aria-like melody over a subdued orchestral backdrop. The absence of a development section simplifies the form, allowing the beauty of the melody to stand out. This movement showcases Mozart’s ability to craft expressive and memorable lines, creating a serene atmosphere. The violin’s phrases are delicate and fluid, conveying a sense of intimacy and grace. The simplicity of the structure complements the movement’s gentle character, turning it into an introspective piece that reveals Mozart’s sensitivity to subtle emotions.
3. Rondeau: Allegro: The finale of Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 2, set in a lively rondo form, is a dance-like piece with a catchy, rhythmic main theme that the soloist and orchestra explore in varied ways. Though the shortest of the three movements, it carries a refined energy that contrasts with the simplicity of the Andante. Its triple-meter theme brings a touch of elegance, with elements that recall Baroque styles, even echoing Bach in certain passages. The violin’s technically demanding passages are joyful rather than overly dramatic, creating a refreshing, spirited finish that leaves listeners with a sense of delight. This movement closes the concerto on a high note, encapsulating Mozart’s trademark wit and charm.

Sources

• Violin Concerto No. 2 (Mozart) on Wikipedia
• “Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 2 In D Major: The Greatest Of The Four” on the Mozart Project website
• Violin Concerto No. 2 in D major, K. 211 (Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus) on the International Music Score Library Project website
• “Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Violin Concerto No. 2 in D major, K. 211” on the All Music website
• “Mozart Violin Concerto No. 2 in D, K. 211” on the Fugue for Thought website