Album insights
In this CD, three significant pieces by two outstanding and highly individual English composers, born only a year apart—Rubbra in 1901 and Walton in 1902—are brought together. Walton, born into a musical family in Oldham, Lancashire, found immediate success and influential friends like the Sitwell family. At 19, he composed the clever cycle Façade with recitations of Edith Sitwell's poems and was soon featured in new international festivals for contemporary music in the early 1920s. His compositions, such as Portsmouth Point Overture and Belshazzar's Feast, gained popularity. On the other hand, Rubbra, hailing from a humble background in Northampton, was a late bloomer in music but excelled through determination and intellectual prowess. He discovered his musical voice at the age of 30 and composed four symphonies from 1935 to 1941, earning recognition alongside Walton.
Walton's Viola Concerto composed in 1928–1929 stands out as one of his significant early works. The opening melody is captivating and memorable, with intricate passages and a blend of emotions that build throughout the piece. Rubbra's Viola Concerto, part of a triptych of concertos, produced during a tumultuous period in the 1950s, reflects his personal struggles and emotional depth. The intricate composition features notable motifs and connections to his later symphonies, showcasing Rubbra's masterful skill in crafting a musical narrative.
The dreamy opening melody of Walton's Viola Concerto lingers in memory, complemented by intricate musical interplays evoking various emotions. Rubbra, known for his depth and musical intricacies, expertly weaves a tale through his Viola Concerto, showcasing his ability to create a seamless musical journey filled with moments of intensity and reflection. By exploring new depths in his compositions post-1950, Rubbra delved into profound themes and intricate musical structures, connecting various works through recurring motifs and musical innovations.
Both composers, Walton and Rubbra, subtly incorporate influences from great symphonists like Sibelius, enriching their compositions with profound musical depth and complexity. Rubbra, through his compositions such as the Viola Concerto and Symphony No. 6, demonstrates a distinct musical style characterized by intricate melodies and thought-provoking themes. The exploration of musical ideas and motifs in his works showcases Rubbra's remarkable ability to create engaging and dynamic music, drawing listeners into his musical world.
Rubbra's compositional approach, marked by his use of meditative themes and intricate musical structures, shines through in works like his Meditation on a Byzantine Hymn. Through a series of interconnected meditations, Rubbra explores a variety of emotions and musical expressions, crafting a deeply personal and engaging musical journey. The thematic variations and transitions within his compositions highlight Rubbra's skill in creating cohesive and thought-provoking musical narratives, offering listeners a unique and captivating listening experience.