The recognition of the viola as an independent solo instrument at the beginning of the 20th century cannot be attributed solely to Lionel Tertis, although his influence was significant. Even before him, there were gifted viola players in London, such as Émile Férir, who had already appeared as a soloist in Cecil Forsyth's concerto. As professor of viola at the Royal Academy of Music in London, Tertis played a crucial role in developing a new repertoire for the viola. He encouraged young composers to create works such as sonatas and concertos for this instrument. One of the first to heed this suggestion was York Bowen. Both Bowen and another composer featured on this CD began their careers as violists in the Queen's Hall Orchestra in London under Sir Henry Wood, where they each held the position of principal viola.
