Helen Callus, the acclaimed violist, presents a captivating collection of British music for viola and orchestra in her album "British Music for Viola Concertos." Released on Naxos in 2018, this album is a testament to the rich heritage of British classical music, featuring works by renowned composers such as Ralph Vaughan Williams and Herbert Howells. Accompanied by the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Marc Taddei, Callus delivers a performance that is both technically impressive and deeply expressive.
The album spans a diverse range of compositions, from the evocative "Suite for Viola & Small Orchestra" by Vaughan Williams to the poignant "Elegy" by Howells. Each piece showcases the versatility and depth of the viola, highlighting Callus's mastery of the instrument. The concertos, recorded in their original versions, offer a unique insight into the evolution of the viola concerto form.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes, the album is a comprehensive exploration of British viola concertos. The meticulous attention to detail in the performances, coupled with the high-quality recording, makes this album a standout in the classical music genre. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Helen Callus's "British Music for Viola Concertos" promises an enriching and enjoyable listening experience.
2018 Naxos2018 Naxos
Tracks
Suite for Viola & Small Orchestra: I. PreludeRalph Vaughan Williams, Helen Callus, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Marc Decio Taddei
Suite for Viola & Small Orchestra: II. CarolRalph Vaughan Williams, Helen Callus, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Marc Decio Taddei
Suite for Viola & Small Orchestra: III. Christmas DanceRalph Vaughan Williams, Helen Callus, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Marc Decio Taddei
Elegy, Op. 15Herbert Howells, Helen Callus, Vesa-Matti Leppänen, David Gilling, Vyvyan Yendoll, David Chickering, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Marc Decio Taddei
Viola Concerto (1962 Version): I. Andante comodoWilliam Walton, Helen Callus, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Marc Decio Taddei
Viola Concerto, C. 22 (1961 Version): II. Vivo, con molto precisoWilliam Walton, Helen Callus, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Marc Decio Taddei
Viola Concerto (1962 Version): III. Allegro moderatoWilliam Walton, Helen Callus, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Marc Decio Taddei
Viola Concerto in C Minor, Op. 25: I. Allegro assaiYork Bowen, Helen Callus, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Marc Decio Taddei
Viola Concerto in C Minor, Op. 25: II. Andante cantabileYork Bowen, Helen Callus, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Marc Decio Taddei
Viola Concerto in C Minor, Op. 25: III. Allegro scherzandoYork Bowen, Helen Callus, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, Marc Decio Taddei