Americana
Just in time for the November 2000 presidential elections, violinist Leila Josefowicz delivers her platform based entirely on violin virtuosity andAmericana. Josefowicz seems to excel on short showpieces, and this 21-track CD is full of them--lively American-themed miniatures that don't stretch over five minutes. Accompanied by pianist John Novacek, Josefowicz is in fine form, fiddling through Gershwin'sThree Preludes,Porgy and Bess Suite, and "Short Story." On Charlie Chaplin's "Smile," she gets to show off her glorious tone (obscured on most of these tunes by her energetic bow attack). And, though the "Yankee Doodle" variations by Henri Vieuxtemps may test the mettle of all but the most patriotic listener, there's no denying that Josefowicz can play these pieces with the best of them. It may be lightweight fun, but it's fun nonetheless.--Jason Verlinde