This integral recording of Arnold Bax’s works for viola and piano is a splendid achievement. There’s just one minor concern: Such flawlessly sheened tone and rock-solid bow control sometimes makes this often unsettling music seem too relaxed. This effect is most evident in the Viola Sonata. Compare Ivo-Jan van der Werff’s account with the seminal Lionel Tertis recording (with Bax at the piano): the gritty struggle and urgency of the playing registers powerfully, and the piece actually sounds devilishly difficult, too. Another alternative, the 1937 remake by William Primrose and Harriet Cohen (available on Pearl) sounds more polished, but the old Revolution LP version by Herbert Downs and Leonard Cassini (prized by Bax enthusiasts) isn’t available on CD; so if you’re seeking a fine modern recording, van der Werff’s is the main contender.
In the Fantasy-Sonata, harpist Hugh Webb doesn’t arpeggiate the chords that open movement III as you hear in most other renditions, but this interesting alteration isn’t likely to affect your enjoyment of this attractively understated performance. Nor does the fact that the 1929 Legend already has been recorded five times prevent van der Werff from offering a fully worthy alternative rendition. Lastly, Bax’s 1904 Concert Piece gets an overdue premiere recording here, and Lewis Foreman’s informative essay completes the deal. Sonics are pleasingly balanced and immediate, with the piano never overshadowing the viola, even in its lower registers. [2/22/2002]
