Bantock: Cello Sonatas

Album Description

Immerse yourself in the rich, expressive world of Granville Bantock's cello sonatas with this captivating album, released on Dutton Epoch. Comprising a collection of Bantock's most profound works for the cello, this recording showcases the composer's mastery of the instrument and his unique voice in the classical music canon.

The album features three complete sonatas: the Cello Sonata in B Minor, the Cello Sonata in F Sharp Minor, and the Sonata in G Minor for Solo Cello. Each piece is a testament to Bantock's compositional prowess, offering a blend of technical virtuosity and deep emotional resonance. The sonatas are complemented by additional works, including "Hamabdil" and "Pibroch" for Cello and Harp, as well as the evocative "Elegiac Poem" for Cello and Piano.

Performances are brought to life by an ensemble of distinguished musicians, including cellist Andrew Fuller, pianist Michael Dussek, and harpist Lucy Wakeford. Recorded at the acoustically splendid All Saints Church in East Finchley, London, the album captures the nuanced performances with clarity and warmth, providing an intimate listening experience.

Granville Bantock, a prominent figure in British music, is celebrated for his richly romantic and evocative compositions. This album offers a comprehensive exploration of his contributions to the cello repertoire, making it an essential addition to any classical music enthusiast's collection. With a total duration of 1 hour and 14 minutes, this album is a rewarding journey through the musical landscape of one of Britain's most distinguished composers.

12 december 2000

(P) 2000 Dutton Epoch

About Granville Bantock

Sir Granville Bantock (1868-1946) was a prominent British composer and academic whose influence on the musical landscape of Birmingham was profound. Born into a comfortable Victorian family as the son of a distinguished surgeon, Bantock's musical journey began at the Royal Academy of Music in London. His compositions, deeply influenced by folk song and the grandeur of Wagner, often explored Asian and Celtic themes, creating a unique and captivating sound.

Bantock's career was marked by significant milestones, including his appointment as the first full-time principal of the Birmingham and Midland Institute School of Music (now Birmingham Conservatoire) in 1900, and later as professor of music at Birmingham University, succeeding the renowned Edward Elgar. His works, such as "Atalanta in Calydon," "Omar Khayyam," and "Dante and Beatrice," are testament to his enduring legacy in the world of classical music. Despite the waning popularity of his music in his later years, Bantock's contributions to music education and his extensive body of work continue to inspire and influence.