Antonio Vivaldi - The Four Seasons (Manoug Parikian)

Information

Composer: Carlo Maria Giulini

• The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in E Major, Op. 8 No. 1, RV 269 "Spring"
• The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in G Minor, Op. 8 No. 2, RV 315 "Summer"
• The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in F Major, Op. 8 No. 3, RV 293 "Autumn"
• The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in F Minor, Op. 8 No. 4, RV 297 "Winter"

Manoug Parikian, violin

Philharmonia Orchestra

Carlo Maria Giulini, conductor

Date: 1956 / 2026

Label: Warner Classics

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1955 marked a turning point in the career of Carlo Maria Giulini. Recently appointed to La Scala, he had already gained recognition as one of opera’s leading young conductors, while increasingly turning his attention toward orchestral and symphonic music. This transition led to a successful collaboration with the Philharmonia Orchestra, helping him establish himself in the symphonic and concertante repertoire. Among his early recordings with the ensemble was a landmark interpretation of Antonio Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons, featuring concertmaster Manoug Parikian. The recording is now available online in high resolution, alongside previously unreleased stereo test sessions included in the physical box set.

Manoug Parikian (1920–1987) was a Turkish-born English violinist and respected teacher of Armenian heritage. Educated at Trinity College of Music, he established an international reputation as both a soloist and concertmaster, serving with ensembles including the Philharmonia Orchestra and the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra. Renowned for his refined technique and pure tone, he championed contemporary composers such as Benjamin Britten, Thea Musgrave, and Alexander Goehr, many of whom wrote works specifically for him. Parikian also enjoyed a distinguished teaching career at the Royal Academy of Music, influencing generations of violinists while maintaining an active international performing and recording career.