William Primrose: Viola Treasures

Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of William Primrose, one of the most celebrated violists of the 20th century, with this exquisite collection of remastered recordings. "William Primrose: Viola Treasures" showcases the artist's unparalleled virtuosity and deep musical insight, featuring works that span his illustrious career from 1937 to 1961. The album is a testament to Primrose's enduring legacy, offering a rare opportunity to experience his artistry in stunning, newly remastered sound.

The album opens with Bartók's Viola Concerto, Sz. 120, a work that demands exceptional technical skill and musical sensitivity, both of which Primrose delivers with aplomb. The concerto's three movements—Moderato, Adagio religioso, and Allegro vivace—highlight Primrose's ability to convey a wide range of moods and textures on the viola.

Next, the album presents Mendelssohn's Octet in E-Flat Major, Op. 20, a masterpiece of chamber music that showcases Primrose's ability to blend seamlessly with other musicians. The octet's four movements—Allegro moderato ma con fuoco, Andante, Scherzo, and Presto—are performed with a sense of unity and cohesion that is truly inspiring.

The album also includes two additional viola concertos, each demonstrating Primrose's versatility and mastery of the instrument. The first is a concerto in three movements—Andante comodo, Vivo con molto preciso, and Allegro moderato—and the second is a concerto in three movements—Moderato, Adagio religioso, and Allegro vivace.

In addition to these concertos, the album features two arrangements by the legendary violinist Jascha Heifetz: a rendition of Paganini's Violin Concerto No. 2 in B Minor, Op. 7, and a version of Stephen Foster's "Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair." These arrangements showcase Primrose's ability to adapt and reinterpret works originally written for other instruments, further cementing his status as a true master of the viola.

"William Primrose: Viola Treasures" is a must-listen for anyone interested in the viola or classical music more broadly. The album's remastered sound brings out the full richness and depth of Primrose's playing, making it a joy to listen to from start to finish. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to captivate and inspire.

William Primrose, born in Glasgow in 1904, was a pioneering Scottish violist whose virtuosity and innovative techniques revolutionized the world of classical music. Primrose began his career as a violinist, making his debut in 1923, but it was his switch to the viola that would cement his legacy. He performed with the esteemed London String Quartet from 1930 to 1935 before joining the NBC Symphony Orchestra and forming the Primrose Quartet. Throughout his career, Primrose toured extensively as a soloist, captivating audiences worldwide with his exceptional skill and musicality.

Primrose's influence extended beyond his performances. He was a dedicated educator, teaching at various universities and institutions, and authored several seminal books on viola technique. His contributions to the repertoire are immense, with composers like Béla Bartók and Benjamin Britten writing pieces specifically for him. Primrose's recordings, particularly those from the 1939-1947 period, are considered some of the finest in the genre, showcasing his unparalleled mastery of the instrument. Primrose passed away in Provo, Utah, in 1982, leaving behind a rich musical heritage that continues to inspire violists and classical music enthusiasts alike.