CD Recording & Review
Composer - ARNOLD BAX ~ Fantasy Sonata
Pianist - Charles Matthews
Section from 1st Movement
France 2010
... valuable enterprise for Richard Crabtree and Charles Matthews to provide and perform the work in their arrangement for viola and piano - its initial reception created sufficient interest for the Arnold Bax Trust to support this recording. The transcription is striking and satisfying enough, and Crabtree and Matthews give a polished, sensitive and well integrated performance.
Ian Lace
The hypnotic qualities of Bax's music are fully in evidence. There is a busyness in the piano part of the Fantasy Sonata which keeps the violist constantly on his toes.The Legend, written two years later - an original work, previously intended as part of a Second Viola and Piano Sonata - is altogether more convincing, and a fine piece. There is something of the majesty of Sibelius in this music, with its unquenchable thirst for melodic fulfilment. I still cherish recordings by Lionel Tertis and Herbert Downes, but here, also, the balanced pairing brings a serene and noble commitment from both players.... fine performances, and undoubtedly a significant release.
Bill Newman
HI FI NEWS
