Hartmut Höll - Shostakovich: Viola Sonata, Op. 147 - Britten: Lachrymae, Op. 48 - Stravinsky: Élégie (LP)

Dive into the captivating world of chamber music with Hartmut Höll's 1991 album, a masterful collection of works that showcase the depth and versatility of the viola. The album opens with Shostakovich's Viola Sonata in C Major, Op. 147, a poignant and introspective piece that spans three movements, each revealing a different facet of Höll's virtuosity. The Moderato sets a reflective tone, the Allegretto brings a touch of lightness, and the Adagio concludes with a profound and moving finale.

Britten's Lachrymae, Op. 48, follows, a suite of variations on a theme from John Dowland's "Flow My Tears." This piece is a testament to Höll's ability to convey a wide range of emotions, from melancholy to hope, through his expressive playing. The album concludes with Stravinsky's Elegy for Solo Viola, a brief but powerful piece that highlights Höll's technical skill and musical sensitivity.

Recorded in 1990 and released on Warner Classics, this album is a must-listen for any fan of chamber music. Hartmut Höll's performances are nothing short of breathtaking, making this a truly memorable and enriching listening experience.