REVIVING RÓZSA: A STUDY ON RECEPTION HISTORY AND PERFORMATIVE INTERPRETATION OF THE VIOLIN CONCERTO, OP. 24.

Abstract

This research initiates a historical discussion regarding the reception history and the evolving interpretations of MiklÛs RÛzsaís Concerto for Violin and Orchestra, Op. 24 (1953), written for virtuoso violinist Jascha Heifetz. The concerto displays a fusion of artistic virtuosity and lyrical nuances ñ qualities that later captured the attention of Hollywood film director Billy Wilder, who adapted Themes from the concerto for his 1970 film The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes.

A key focus on how individual performers have shaped its artistic legacy and how perceptions of the work have shifted over time presents an opportunity to understand the evident potential of this work to stand alongside more frequently performed works. Data were collected from concert reviews, critical writing, and recorded interpretations spanning over half a decade, tracing the concertoís journey from its successful premiere to its current status within the violin repertoire.

This research examines the interplay of factors ñ ranging from stylistic interpretation to performance challenges and historical context ñ that may have influenced its more limited presence in mainstream programming. Despite its evident potential to stand alongside more frequently performed works, the concerto has not achieved the widespread recognition seen in some contemporary works. Rather than characterizing this as an underrated work, the research highlights the concertoís artistic value and its potential for renewed interest among performers and scholars alike.