Search - Ernest Bloch, Lory Wallfisch :: Ernest Bloch: Works for Viola & Piano - Suite for Viola & Piano (1919) / Meditation & Processional / Suite Hébraique / Suite for Solo Viola

Solid performance of solid music

klavierspiel | TX, USA | 04/27/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"In the limited repertory for viola the name of Ernest Bloch looms large. The present recording brings together most of his important works for the instrument, both with and without piano. Perhaps the best music is to be found in the 1919 Suite, though the Suite for unaccompanied viola is a surprise with its concise lyricism. The other works are within the technical reach of good students, and one use for this record might be as a model recording for those undertaking study of the pieces.



It must be admitted that, despite the eloquence and solid craftsmanship of Bloch's music a certain sameness of rhythm and texture, as well as a pervasive tendency toward exotically inflected scales and melancholy arabesques, results in a somewhat monotonous total impression when this CD is heard from beginning to end. This is in no way the fault of Ernest Wallfisch whose viola playing is solid in tone and technique, with even the highest, loudest passages square on the pitch and with focused sound. Lory Wallfisch is a sympathetic partner, though occasionally she confuses heaviness with eloquence. Together they make a strong case for this somewhat specialized repertory."