Matthew Taylor: Symphony No. 2, Viola Concerto
Matthew Taylor's sense of musical architecture extends the symphonic tradition of Sibelius and Nielsen into the modern age, also acknowledging the symphonism of Robert Simpson, an important influence on Taylor's style. The Second Symphony, first drafted when Taylor was only 27, responds to the challenge with a mighty explosion of energy, in a work his fellow-composer Robin Holloway described as 'exceedingly powerful — tough, cogent, persuasive, compelling'. The more inward, reflective Viola Concerto pays homage in spirit, though not in style, to Sibelius' Humoresker for violin and orchestra and Schumann's Humoreske for piano.
Sarah-Jane Bradley, viola
BBC Symphony Orchestra, orchestra
Garry Walker, conductor
Listen To This Recording:
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Viola Concerto, Humoreskes, Op. 41 (2010)
- I Andante comodo
- II Presto
- III Larghetto
- IV Molto Adagio –
- V Finale: Allegro riotoso
- I Moderato e maestoso
- II Vivacissimo – poco e poco stringendo – Presto
- III Lento sereno
- IV Allegro fluente
Symphony No. 2, Op. 10 (1991, rev. 1997, 2008)
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5 reviews for Matthew Taylor: Symphony No. 2, Viola Concerto
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Andrew Achenbach :
“…the Second of Matthew Taylor’s three symphonies to date proves a strikingly powerful and enviably cogent utterance in the mould of Nielsen, Tippett, Simpson and John McCabe – yes, honestly, the music is that good! … Viola Concerto (2010) represents another mightily impressive achievement, durably rewarding in its combination of soaring lyricism, expressive clout and sly wit, and always evincing a consummate craftsmanship and richly stocked imagination. … Performances, production-values and presentation are all one could desire. Investigate without delay!” —Andrew Achenbach, Classical Ear
Bob McQuiston :
“Back in May we introduced you to one of Britain’s most up-and-coming composers, Matthew Taylor (b. 1964), who’s music is currently being championed by Toccata Classics. …Accordingly Taylor’s music is in the English late romantic mold, but like that of [Robert] Simpson there are Scandinavian touches recalling Nielsen (1865-1931), Sibelius (1865-1957) and Holmboe (1909-1996).”—Bob McQuiston, CLOFO
Phillip Scott :
“…the performance is excellent and well recorded. The orchestra displays tight ensemble throughout. If you’ve responded to previous releases of Taylor’s music, you won’t need further convincing from me. His colorful, expertly scored music draws you in and always maintains a sense of propulsion and direction, even in its quieter moments. This release is strongly recommended.” —Fanfare
Carlos María Solare :
“Bradley has made the piece very much her own and negotiates with great aplomb its frequent excursions into the viola’s upper register, as well as its idiomatically written double-stops. Both Taylor’s Concerto and his Second Symphony – an even more impressively constructed composition – receive here definitive readings that have been most faithfully recorded.” The Strad
Johan Doumont :
I had heard snippets of Taylor’s symphony on the site, but I was completely bowled over by the work in its entirety. It still amazes me how much there is still to be had from tonality in music. And Taylor manages to find a unique voice. I hope you will record his other two symphonies in the near future! Keep up the good work! My sincere congratulations on what must be the most interesting record label of the last few decades!