Trailblazing Women Composers Celebrated in Viola-Piano Recital

The collection by viola player Rose Wollman and pianist Dror Baitel is a powerful tribute to pioneering women composers who defied societal barriers and left an indelible mark on classical music. Featuring works by Amy Beach, Florence Price, Libby Larsen, and Rebecca Clarke, the album celebrates the remarkable achievements of these groundbreaking artists who paved the way for future generations.

Honoring the Unsung Heroes of Classical Music

Celebrating the Firsts: Amy Beach, Florence Price, and Libby Larsen

The album's lineup is a testament to the resilience and creativity of women composers who overcame immense challenges to have their voices heard. Amy Beach was the first American woman to compose and publish a symphony, while Florence Price became the first African American woman to have one of her works performed by a major American orchestra. Libby Larsen, the only living composer featured, was the first woman to hold a residency with a U.S. band, further expanding the boundaries of what was considered possible for female musicians.These trailblazers faced significant obstacles, from societal prejudices to limited opportunities, yet they persevered, leaving an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. Their stories of determination and artistic excellence serve as a powerful inspiration, reminding us of the importance of championing diverse voices and celebrating the contributions of underrepresented artists.

The Enigmatic Rebecca Clarke: A Transatlantic Journey

The album also includes the work of British-born composer Rebecca Clarke, who studied with Charles Stanford at the Royal College of Music and was a viola pupil of Lionel Tertis. Clarke spent much of her life in the United States, eventually settling there permanently from the outbreak of World War II until her death in 1979 at the age of 93.Clarke's viola sonata, first performed in 1919, is widely regarded as the highlight of the album, showcasing her remarkable talent and originality. The work's "big-boned, three-movement" structure and "confidence and originality in every bar" underscore the immense loss to the musical world that Clarke's limited output represents.Wollman and Baitel's performances of Clarke's sonata, as well as the other works on the album, are praised for their efficiency and character, though some critics have noted a lack of intensity in the larger-scale compositions. A comparison to the recording by Tabea Zimmermann and Kirill Gerstein on the Myrios label suggests that the duo's interpretation could benefit from an even deeper emotional engagement with the material.

Miniatures and Masterpieces: Exploring the Diverse Repertoire

Alongside the substantial viola sonatas, the album also features miniatures by Amy Beach and Florence Price, providing a glimpse into the breadth of the composers' creative output. Beach's three-piece Op. 40 and Price's Elfentanz offer a captivating contrast to the larger-scale works, showcasing the composers' mastery of concise, yet impactful musical forms.Libby Larsen's viola sonata, described as a "curious piece," begins in a manner reminiscent of a Hindemith sonata before veering into unexpected territory, incorporating elements of mambo, jazz, and a Bartók-inspired "moto perpetuo" finale. This eclectic and innovative approach underscores Larsen's unique artistic vision and her ability to blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and compelling work.The album's diverse repertoire not only highlights the remarkable achievements of these women composers but also showcases the breadth and depth of their creative output. From the timeless elegance of Beach and Price's miniatures to the bold experimentation of Larsen's sonata and the emotional depth of Clarke's masterpiece, this collection offers a captivating and enlightening journey through the rich tapestry of women's contributions to classical music.