Immerse yourself in the rich, resonant world of Hélène Clément's latest album, "Bridge & Britten: Works for Viola," released on August 12, 2022, under the prestigious Chandos label. This captivating collection showcases Clément's virtuosity and versatility as she navigates a program of works by two British masters: Frank Bridge and Benjamin Britten.
The album opens with Bridge's Cello Sonata in D Minor, H 125, masterfully arranged for viola by Hélène Clément herself. The sonata's two movements, "Allegro ben moderato" and "Adagio ma non troppo," reveal Clément's technical prowess and emotional depth. Following this, Clément presents Britten's arrangement of Bridge's song "There Is a Willow Grows aslant a Brook, H 173," demonstrating the composer's ability to transform a vocal piece into a compelling instrumental work.
The heart of the album lies in Bridge's Three Songs, H 76. Clément breathes life into each of the three movements, "Far, far from each other," "Where is it that our soul doth go?," and "Music, when soft voices die," with her expressive playing and nuanced phrasing. The album concludes with Britten's Lachrymae, Reflections on a Song of Dowland, Op. 48, a hauntingly beautiful work that showcases Clément's ability to convey a wide range of emotions through her instrument.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 1 minute, "Bridge & Britten: Works for Viola" is a testament to Hélène Clément's artistry and her deep connection with the music of Bridge and Britten. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
