Seven new works for violin duo written expressly for János Négyesy and Päivikki Nykter. The music on this disc describes the current state of the art of violin virtuosity and comtemporary compositional technique. In the dozen or so years that they have been playing together, Janos Négyesy and Päivikki Nykter have built a reputation for performances of uncommon musicality, warmth, and insight. Their skill, their curiosity, and their deep mutual understanding have made them ideal interpreters of the new music that they have advocated so persuasively and with such commitment. The compositions on this disc, as on Janos' earlier recording of solo Dedications, demonstrate an extraordinary diversity - from the contemplative (Otte) to the raucous (Vérin), from the extended techniques of Burkhardt and Korneitchouk to the seamless textures of Thompson, from Carrick's playfulness to Greene's somber introspection. In each case Janos and Päivikki vividly project the characters of these works and communicate the joy and conversational freedom of their collaboration. - Erik Ulman