Customer Reviews

The Elegant Viola: Yizhak Schotten, Viola

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I bought this CD for the M. Colgrass and R. Vaughn Williams works, which are hard to find recordings. I agree with reviewer Gene from Texas that the Colgrass is a piece you want to hear "just one more time"--especially if you are learning it yourself! Schotten's playing is truly elegant--refined sound, technically as close to perfection as is gets (!), and yet daringly exciting as the music requires. And his musical interpretation of the diverse styles is very satisfying. The performances of the orchestra, harpsichordist, and percussionist all contribute to the excellence of the music-making on this CD.

Mr. Schotten, violist, shows his strong talent from playing the lush Vaughan Williams to the lashing and spectacular Colgrass. The Vaughan Williams should please everyone because it is simply beautiful music played with understanding and emotion. The two Bach pieces show his expertise with the instrument, and then we get to the Colgrass Variations for Four Drums & Viola. There are times when the violist plays as percussive as the drummer and times when the soaring lines are beautifully rendered. The piece shows a great talent and musicality that not many violists have. It took a second listening to really appreciate this piece, but then I was hooked and listened to it more than the rest. As one learns the rhythms and melodies, it becomes very addictive and I wanted to hear it "just one more time". This CD covers a very wide range of musical types and therefore gives the listener a nice variety of styles. The percussionist, Frank Epstein, must be mentioned because he plays such intricate rhythms and different percussive sounds with total control and crispness that one has to be amazed at his great talent also. The Elegant Viola is a very nice addition to my collection.

As a newcomer to the viola, I really appreciate this cd. The Elegant Viola realy showcases the viola's range, versatility, and rich beauty. If you like the viola, this cd is definitely worth getting.

It is hard to find the Vaughan Williams Viola Suite. I am glad I can find it at amazon.com