Encircling
Acis, 2024
9/10
The violist Daphne Gerling and pianist Tomoko Kashiwagi come together for these 4 involved pieces that showcase their distinct and inimitable talents.
Rebecca Clarke’s “Passacaglia on an Old English Tune” begins the listen with the emotive strings and mature keys that interact with a heartfelt mood of beauty.
“Viola Sonata, Op. 7,” by Kalitha Dorothy Fox, then follows with the firm piano and fluid viola complementing each other with cautiousness, while Marcelle Soulage’s “Viola Sonata, Op. 25” emits much melody via the mesmerizing keys and intimate strings that make this the album’s best.
Hélène Fleury-Roy’s “Fantaisie, Op. 18” finishes the record, and it’s a particularly stirring track of strong tonality and rich interaction that few others could replicate.
A collaboration of elegance and technical prowess, the duo turn in interpretations that are flowing, timeless and a must for those with an ear for piano and viola.
Travels well with: Richard Kolb- Michelangelo Galilei, Suites For Lute; Michele Kennedy- Agave: In Her Hands