Trailblazers
Acis, 2024
9/10
Molly Gebrian and Danny Holt come together for these pieces by Henriëtte Bosmans, Ethel Mary Smyth and Dora Pejačević that include strong attention to detail and meticulous, captivating interaction.
Bosmans’ “Sonata In A Minor” opens the listen with firms keys and graceful strings from Gebrian’s stunning viola, where much beauty and emotion is poured out via the duo’s dynamic energy and warmth.
Smyth’s “Sonata In A Minor, Op. 5” occupies the middle spot, and showcases Holt’s mesmerizing finger acrobatics, as the fluid keys align with the violin for a distinct and memorable beauty.
Pejačević’s “Sonata In E Minor, Op. 35” exits the listen, and presents an alluring intimacy that has Gebrian’s viola tugging on the heartstrings amid the thoughtful progressions on piano.
All 3 sonatas here were originally written for cello, and the duo interpret all the movements with agility, maturity and a very timeless nature thanks to their stunning performances.
Travels well with: Trinity Boston Church/Colin Lynch- The Great Glad Tidings Tell: Carols From Copley Square; Ian Pomerantz/Byron Schenkman- Art Songs Of The Jewish Diaspora