Daniel performs the world premiere recording of the Viola Concerto by Sawyers, and, swapping viola for violin, is joined by cellist Maja Bogdanovic in his Double Concerto, with the English Symphony Orchestra conducted by Kenneth Woods
REVIEWS:
GRAMOPHONE: ***** “ The 20th century saw the creation of some magnificent viola concertos: Walton’s, Hindemith’s, Bartók’s and Holmboe’s (7/13) among many. Sawyers’s is worthy of such company, relatively modest in dimensions but punching well above its weight, from the striding theme of the opening Allegro to the breezy scherzando finale. Separating them is a contemplative, grave Andante. Rowland, here on viola, plays it with total belief, his tone exquisite, his understanding with the orchestra absolute. “ “ The Double Concerto for violin and cello is the second work that Philip Sawyers has composed for the prodigiously gifted Maja Bogdanovic… Here is a vibrant, melodic work, beautifully laid out for the instruments from first bar to last, and Bogdanovic´ and violinist Daniel Rowland perform it with infectious enthusiasm. The recording, made at Wyastone in 2021, is a model of clear, warm, precise sound. Strongly recommended” Guy Richards, Gramophone
