New MusicWeb International review for the English Works for Viola and Orchestra recording from Hong-Mei Xiao, Budapest Symphony Orchestra MÁV, and János Kovács:
“Now, I am not familiar with all of these, but it seems to me that this version [of William Walton’s Viola Concerto] does not put a foot wrong and is recorded and presented in a glowing and persuasive manner. I start with this piece because the other two concertos on the disc are much less well known. Indeed, I had never heard the Bax before. … Two things surprised me about [Bax’s Phantasy for viola and orchestra]: its Vaughan-Williams-type pentatonic melodies in the opening cadenza and in the atmospheric slow middle section; and the blatant use of Irish melodies including a march tune used by Sinn Féin which slots effortless into the finale. This work for me was the real gem of this collection. … This disc then offers three fine works, well contrasted, recorded and on the whole played with aplomb and clarity by all concerned. … I have found it all very enjoyable and I am sure you will too.”
You must be logged in to post a comment.