Album

Like its larger brethren the double bass, the viola is often viewed as one of the awkward cousins of the string family when it comes to solo or chamber compositions. Instead, the viola is often relegated to the inner voices and focused on supporting rolls. While it's true that there have been plenty of sub-par compositions for the instrument, and there have been a number of viola soloists whose sound is not completely flattering, neither is the case on this album. Composer Arnold Bax, who is usually more well known for his orchestral compositions, is highly gifted at writing to the strengths of the viola and suppressing the instrument's shortcomings. Likewise, violist Martin Outram produces an extremely satisfying sound. His playing on the G and C strings is robust and throaty without ever being muddy. Passages on the A string remain clear but never nasal, as can often be the case.

Put these two components together and the result is very enjoyable chamber music CD. The two works on the album featuring violin are actually far less successful than the pieces for viola and piano. The Sonata for viola and piano rightly receives top billing; the writing for both instruments is highly idiomatic and plays to the strengths of the viola. The interplay between the musicians is seamless and balance is well adjusted (another problem area for the viola). For the sonata alone, this CD is definitely worthwhile.

© Mike D. Brownell, All Music Guide

CD 1
Sir Arnold Bax Composer Viola Sonata Work 22:38 Martin Outram Viola, Julian Rolton Piano
1	1.Molto moderato. Allegro	9:12			$1.49
2	2.Allegro energico e non troppo presto	6:12			$0.99
3	3.Molto lento	7:14			$1.49
Sir Arnold Bax Composer Concert Piece for Violin (or Viola) and Piano Work Martin Outram Viola, Julian Rolton Piano
4	Concert Piece for Violin (or Viola) and Piano	12:30			$1.99
Sir Arnold Bax Composer Legend for Viola and Piano Work Martin Outram Viola, Julian Rolton Piano
5	Legend for Viola and Piano	9:26			$1.49
Sir Arnold Bax Composer Trio in One Movement for Piano, Violin, and Viola (or Clarinet), Op.4 Work Martin Outram Viola, Laurence Jackson Violin, Julian Rolton Piano
6	Trio in One Movement for Piano, Violin, and Viola (or Clarinet), Op.4	16:29			$2.99