Variations on the Last Rose of Summer by Heinrich Wilhelm Ernst is potentially one of the hardest pieces of music for solo violin out there- reserved for only elite professional violinists. Ernst took a simple melody and wrote several variations that showcase virtuosic violin playing, but also keeps the idea of the piece.
Midori Goto, violin prodigy performed this piece of music at Carnegie Hall when she was only 19 years old. For me, this performance is not only a great showcase of virtuosic violin playing but also a really nice interpretation. My favorite variation is the one where the melody is played as left hand pizzicato while arpeggios are softly bowed. Here the violin is the accompaniment and melody at the same. I am always in awe of the coordination it must take to do this and the sound that Midori manages to produce.
So- Here is Midori Goto's Variations of the Last Rose of Summer by Heinrich Ernst. Please let me know your thoughts, opinions- and of course- your favorite interpretation of the melody! :)
