Bringing to light another of Hans Gal’s gorgeously melodic and finely crafted scores, AVIE presents the world premiere recording of the Austrian émigré’s Concertino for Cello and String Orchestra with Matthew Sharp supported by Gal aficionado Kenneth Woods conducting the English Symphony Orchestra. Gal’s compositional output was vast, varied and consistent, from his early success in 1920s Germany, through internment during World War II, to his days in Edinburgh where he settled, became a respected academic and lived out his long life. His vivacious Cello Concertino was written in 1965, when he was 75 years old. The two spirited solo cello works were among his last, written at the age of 92. “hats off to conductor Kenneth Woods for making a case for Gal’s elegantly built orchestral pieces… Here’s hoping this is the beginning of a substantial Gal revival.” (National Public Radio’s All Things Considered)

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REVIEW:

Cello soloist Matthew Sharp plays outstandingly throughout, with deep concentration and a telling blend of artistry and control. Striking are the vivid colors and glorious tone he produces on his cello. In the Cello Concertino one senses the calm assurance of Kenneth Woods conducting the English Chamber Orchestra who play with vibrancy and a convincing feel for the idiom.

– MusicWeb International