Martinu: Chamber Music

2010

“The Quartet for oboe, violin, cello and piano is a highly attractive piece in the busy yet unfussy neo-classical style that Martinu made so much his own. Its opening theme is quite captivating, but all three movements have charm. The other music is hardly less delightful. The Viola Sonata is an eloquent work from the mid-1950s, composed three years after the Rhapsody-Concerto for the same instrument and orchestra. These were vintage years in Martinu's creativity. The String Quintet is the earliest work, dating from his Paris years, and shows the influence of Roussel.
Although the first movement is perhaps not topdrawer Martinu, the slow movement is most imaginative. The performances are often touched with distinction and are never less than eminently serviceable. Adni could perhaps be a little more supple in the Piano Quartet of 1942 though in general he plays with spirit. There's plenty of air round the players and the recording is lifelike and well balanced.”