Search - Igor Gruppman, Paul Silverthorne, Newzealand Symphony Orchestra :: Rozsa: Sinfonia Concertante, Op.29/Concerto for Viola, Op.37

The Finest Viola Concerto Ever

05/16/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Of course there are fine viola concertos in 20th century, such as those of Bartok, Walton, Schnittke, Kancheli, and etc. But I think Miklos Rozsa's viola concerto is the finest work in the genre. It has a perfect-balanced structure, pure tonal beauty, lyrical song-like melody, and dramatic intensity. The keyword to explain the work is nostalgia or solitude perhaps. So the yearning melody of the work is often ringing one's heart deeply. Paul Silverthorne plays his viola very excellently with warm tone. Sinfonia Concertante is another masterpiece, truly fine doule concerto. Its vibrant energy and beauty of counter-balance is very impressive. The duel-like duo performances of two soloists are very radiant. A disc not to be missed."

Finally a piece that exhibits the power of the viola

07/17/1999

(5 out of 5 stars)

"although this piece is not very well known yet(not even by violists)i believe that it soon will become a staple work in every violist's repertoire. it is the first piece that clearly displays the power and the depth of the viola as a solo instrument. this recording of paul silverthorne with the new zealand symphony orchesrta (under the direction of sedares), gives the piece the respect it deserves. the intensity and the emotion of the performance and the piece sends chills and goose-bumps throughout me."