Despite his name, Federigo Fiorillo (1755-1823) was German by birth, the third son of a violinist who had studied in Naples with Francesco Durante and Leonardo Leo. Federigo followed in his father’s footsteps as an instrumental virtuoso, both on violin and mandolin; the 19th-century musicologist Fétis praised him as ‘one of the most remarkable violinists of his time’ in the Biographie universelle des musiciens.
Having toured Europe, Fiorillo moved by 1788 to London, where he played for the impresario Salomon (who went on to bring Haydn to the English capital), notably as the violist in Salomon’s quartet. He is principally remembered now as a composer, and in particular the author of a set of solo Caprices which formed a method of which formed a method of instruction for every advanced violinist. Until now, however, they have never been recorded on Fiorillo’s ‘second’ instrument of the viola; and indeed complete recordings of the set, even on violin, are very few.
With this new recording, Marco Misciagna demonstrates that these 36 pieces have much more than pedagogic interest to them. While they systematically address technical issues in the bow arm and fingering, testing the player’s technique for playing octaves, multiple stopping, passagework, chromatic scales and so on, Fiorillo was a Italianate melodist who naturally wrote and thought in long, cantabile lines which are as grateful to hear as they are to play.
Born in 1984, Marco Misciagna studied in Bari and Rome and then with Salvatore Accardo; he now lives and works in Spain. Among his previous recordings is a Brilliant Classics album of a similar undertaking, the 41 Capricci for viola by Bartolomeo Campagnoli (1751–1827).
‘Like any comprehensive set of studies, there’s a little something in here to terrify everybody... Marco Misciagna has them well in hand... his sound is firm and sturdy.’ (Fanfare)
- This new recording presents the transcription for viola of the Violin Caprices Op. 3 by Federigo Fiorillo.
- The Caprices for Violin Solo by Federigo Fiorillo are a set of 36 virtuosic and challenging pieces that have become an essential part of the violin repertoire. Composed in the late 18th century, Fiorillo's Caprices are a testament to the technical and expressive possibilities of the instrument.
- Each caprice presents a unique musical idea, showcasing the versatility of the violin. From rapid passages requiring flawless fingerwork to melodic lines that demand great control and expression, Fiorillo's compositions push the boundaries of what is achievable on the violin. The caprices explore a wide range of musical styles, including lyrical melodies, flashy passages, and intricate double stops.
- The Caprices are not merely technical exercises but also serve as musical studies. They provide violinists with opportunities to develop and refine their technique, as well as to explore various aspects of musical interpretation. Through the demanding technical challenges and expressive nuances, the Caprices help violinists improve their command over the instrument and enhance their musicality.
- Transcribed for viola and played by Marco Misciagna, one of the leading viola players of our time. He performed in the most famous concert halls of Europe such as the Berliner Philarmonie, Essen Philarmonie, Hamburg Laeiszhalle, Mannheim Rosengarten, Meistersingerhalle Nuremberg, Prinzregententheater Munich, Arriaga Theatre in Bilbao, Musikverein in Wien and in the most prestigious halls of America.
