Mathias' Concerti
Brian Mathie | Tucson, AZ United States | 10/09/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Three concerti from William Mathias. The latest piece on this disc, is the Clarinet Concerto from 1975. At almost 18 minutes, it seems to fly-by quickly. Typical middle period Mathias, tonal and thematic with an overall cheery atmosphere. The Harp Concerto (1970), remains the most enjoyable selection on the cd. After not hearing this concerto for some five years, I'm quite amazed at the strength of the composer's writing and orchestration. The Piano Concerto No. 3 dates from 1968. A percussive and dramatic concerto, it might make you think of Bartok. While not a bombastic piece, there are many quiet sections and lots of rhythmic vitality. Excellent sound from 1970's Decca recordings licensed by the Lyrita label."