Unique Techniques
This is not your conventional solo violin collection. That’s because it comes from a completely unconventional artist: Aleksey Igudesman. Equal parts violinist, composer, and provocateur, Aleksey is known for virtuosic playing and unbridled creativity. A favorite of top-tier film composers, he has composed and played for Sherlock Holmes, Madagascar 3, Inferno, and other soundtracks. This collection gives you fast access to his unique, highly creative articulations and contemporary musical voice.
Experimental by design
Built to spark creative ideas, Igudesman Solo Violin features unique articulations and distinctive playing techniques that coax new sounds out of a traditional instrument. Draw from an unconventional palette of tones and textures for sound design, experimental scores, and contemporary compositions. Easy-to-use tempo-synced patches enable you to quickly add rhythmic patterns. Multiple mic positions—from close to surround—allow you to dial in the right sound for each project.
Fiery, distorted-sounding tones that replicate harmonic feedback were produced by applying strong bow pressure close to the bridge. With a range of long and short articulations plus brief licks, these expressive articulations conjure the raucous sound of a fuzz-soaked electric guitar or raging lead synth.
Though mostly created with traditional playing techniques, the standard articulations include patches with enthusiastic vibratos, pitch-shifting pizzicatos, reversed-sounding Klezmer tones, and pulsating drill-like sounds produced with an electric milk frother.
Sampled patterns—recorded with a variety of tempos, octaves, and dynamics—provide a fast way to add motion to a composition. Select patches that place accents on octaves and choose from three distinct atonal playing techniques.
Build tension or create unique percussive parts with atonal effects, including scratches, chops, and glissandi—all recorded at several tempos. Emphasize dramatic on-screen moments or evoke the natural sounds of ducks or seagulls.
Renegade virtuoso
Who is Aleksey Igudesman? He’s a renegade virtuoso and mischievous innovator who pushes boundaries and upends the conventions of classical music. Whether playing violin, composing, or conducting, Aleksey always offers a unique blend of talent, creativity, and charisma. As a violinist and composer, he has frequently collaborated with renowned film composer Hans Zimmer, including on the Academy Award–nominated Sherlock Holmes soundtrack. Aleksey has toured with Zimmer as well as with an array of other talented musicians, often alongside legends in classical music and pop. This collection lets you channel Aleksey’s energetic artistic style and his palette of unique articulations for your own creative pursuits.
Modern styles, rare instrument
Aleksey brings his unorthodox ideas to life with an exquisite early 18th century violin from Italian luthier Santo Serafin. Recorded at the legendary Teldex Studio in Berlin, this collection captures the convergence of contemporary sounds played on an exquisite instrument.
