This CD presents three significant compositions by two outstanding British composers, born just a year apart: Rubbra (1901) and Walton (1902). Their lives took vastly different paths. Walton experienced immediate success, came from a musical family, and had influential connections. He composed his ingenious work Façade at the age of 19 and was soon featured at international festivals of contemporary music. In contrast, Rubbra came from humble beginnings and developed musically later. He only found his true compositional identity at the age of 30 and subsequently composed four symphonies. Both composers were later honored with awards.
One of Walton's most important works was his Viola Concerto from the late 1920s. Initially recommended by a rising artist, it was met with enthusiasm after some initial rejection. Rubbra's Viola Concerto, on the other hand, was composed in the 1950s and reflects a pivotal period in his life, marked by intense emotions. The viola concertos of both masters offer fascinating insights into their distinct compositional styles.
Walton's concerto captivates with a dreamy opening melody and a brilliant scherzo that revisits earlier themes. The final section unveils a complex tapestry of motifs and moods, culminating in a breathtaking finale. Rubbra's work, in contrast, is characterized by a detailed structure that interweaves various variations and contemplative passages. It reveals his refined sensitivity to tone color and emotional depth.
In their viola concertos, both composers have created a rich musical legacy that continues to fascinate today. The various recordings with different instrumentations and interpretations highlight the multifaceted nature of these masterpieces. These recordings allow the musical treasures of Walton and Rubbra to be experienced in all their splendor.