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Viola's Rich Tones Shine in Parisian Masterpieces
23 Apr
Summary
- Violist Timothy Ridout and pianist Jonathan Ware present a curated program.
- The album features works by Franck, Fauré, and lesser-known Parisian composers.
- Ridout's skillful transcriptions and Ware's acute musicianship are highlighted.
Violist Timothy Ridout and pianist Jonathan Ware have released an attractive and smartly curated program featuring music from fin-de-siecle Paris. This collection explores connective tissue between friends and colleagues of the era.
The program opens with Léon Honnoré's "Morceau de concert," a zesty showpiece premiered in 1904, which demonstrates remarkable melodic heart. It is paired with Henri Büsser's moody "Appassionato" in C-sharp minor, performed with stormy passion by Ridout.
The centerpiece is César Franck's Violin Sonata, expertly arranged for viola in 1919. Pianist Jonathan Ware provides rhythmically acute accompaniment, essential for this work where the piano is often a primary voice. Ridout's glowing tone and consummate technique vividly bring Franck's richly layered composition to life.
Completing the selection are Ridout's skillful transcriptions of Fauré songs. Pieces like "Mai" and "Le Papillon et la Fleur" are presented as salon pieces, while "Les Berceaux" and "Après un rêve" delve into deeper emotional territories, highlighting the viola's expressive versatility.
