About the creation

The violin concerto was composed during the period when Israel's War of Independence was being waged (1947-1949). A certain influence of that period can be felt, especially in the dramatic and agitated first movement. This is followed by the second movement, Adagio Come Una Elegia, which has an atmosphere of mourning. The Finale, Rondo, starts with a short recitative and is a gay movement based on an oriental theme, as well as on typical Sephardic dance rhythms. The main cadenza appears towards the end and brings the whole work to a jubilant conclusion.

The first performance of the Concerto was given in February 1954 in Tel Aviv. The solo part was played by the composer himself, with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by Walter Susskind.