Bloch's Suite in A minor is an evocation of the Far East, with the composer originally attaching the names of four oriental countries to its movements.
Composition History
Paul Hindemith's Viola Sonata in F, Op. 11 No. 4, was his first masterpiece for the viola, an instrument he was just beginning to make his own.
Performer Biography
William Primrose initially studied violin from age four and made his Queen's Hall debut at 19, playing Lalo's Symphonie espagnole and Elgar's Concerto.
Performer Biography
William Primrose, the violist on this album, was a characterful Scots pioneer who advanced viola virtuosity, drawing a 'rainbow of colours' from the instrument.
Interpretation
William Primrose's recording of the Bax Sonata with Harriet Cohen (piano) is a highly romantic interpretation, differing from an earlier recording by Lionel Tertis with the composer at the piano.
Performer Biography
The Belgian master Eugène Ysaÿe suggested to William Primrose that he might turn to the viola, a crucial event in Primrose's career.
Composition History
Ernest Bloch's Suite in A minor was a product of a competition held in the United States by Elizabeth Sprague Coolidge, a wealthy music patron.
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