Gál: Music for Viola, Vol. 1

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of Hans Gál's viola music with the release of "Gál: Music for Viola, Vol. 1" on Toccata Classics. This captivating album, released on September 6, 2019, showcases the composer's mastery of the viola, offering a diverse collection of works that highlight the instrument's expressive range and versatility.

The album opens with the Suite concertante, Op. 102a, a four-movement work that demonstrates Gál's ability to craft engaging, melodically rich pieces. The suite's movements, titled Cantabile, Furioso, Con grazia, and Burla, offer a journey through a variety of moods and tempos, from the lyrical and introspective to the energetic and playful.

Following the suite, the Divertimento, Op. 90 No. 3 provides a lighter, more whimsical contrast. This four-movement work, with its titles Meditazione, Folletti, Figurina, and Burletta, invites listeners to explore a world of imagination and charm.

The Viola Sonata in A Major, Op. 101, is a substantial three-movement work that showcases the viola's lyrical and dramatic capabilities. The sonata's movements, Adagio, Quasi menuetto tranquillo, and Allegro risoluto e vivace, offer a compelling exploration of the instrument's expressive potential.

The album concludes with the Trio, Op. 94, a four-movement work that features the viola in a chamber music setting. The trio's movements, Pastorale, Intermezzo grazioso, Intermezzo agitato, and Meditation on a Scottish Tune, provide a satisfying and varied conclusion to this engaging collection of viola music.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 21 minutes, "Gál: Music for Viola, Vol. 1" is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of Hans Gál's music or a newcomer to his work, this album offers a compelling introduction to the composer's unique voice and his deep understanding of the viola.