Hans Gál: Concertino for Cello & Strings, Solo Cello Sonata, Solo Cello Suite
Hans Gál: Concertino for Cello & Strings, Solo Cello Sonata, Solo Cello Suite
Matthew Sharp (cello), English Symphony Orchestra & Kenneth Woods (conductor)
Concertino for Cello and String Orchestra, op.87
Sonata for Solo Cello op.109a
Suite for Solo Cello Op.109b
Avie AV2380
2018
Where to buy or listen
Hans Gál: Concertino for Cello & Strings; Solo Cello Sonata; Solo Cello Suite
Hans Gál • Matthew Sharp (cello); English Symphony Orchestra; Kenneth Woods (conductor)
About this release
Premiered here for the first time, Hans Gál’s 1965 Concertino for Cello and Strings reveals the composer’s late style at its most radiant. Cast in three movements, it balances virtuosic writing for the soloist with gracious dialogue between cello and string orchestra. The two complementary solo pieces were composed when Gál was ninety‑two: a warmly lyrical sonata and a suite of character pieces for unaccompanied cello. Cellist Matthew Sharp brings these scores to life with the English Symphony Orchestra under Kenneth Woods.
Where to buy or listen
- Presto Music product page (CD/download)
- English Symphony Orchestra shop (CD)
- Avie Records release page (CD)
- Online streaming & download (various platforms)
What critics said
“Although modestly labelled a ‘concertino’, Gál’s work is substantial and passion‑filled. Its opening movement ranges from serious formality to glorious passion, the lyrical central Adagio yearns with impassioned low‑register writing and the Finale exudes whimsical charm. Matthew Sharp plays outstandingly throughout, producing vivid colours and a glorious tone, while Kenneth Woods and the English Chamber Orchestra provide vibrant, idiomatic support. The sound is vividly clear with excellent balance – this world‑premiere recording is a valuable discovery.”
— MusicWeb International review Read the full review
Further context
Gál wrote relatively few concertante works, and this late concertino stands alongside his earlier concertos as a testament to his lifelong devotion to lyrical line and contrapuntal craft. The solo sonata and suite were written as musical gifts for friends, demonstrating that even in his tenth decade he continued to explore new forms and expressive colours. This recording pairs these late pieces with sensitive orchestral accompaniment, bringing a welcome spotlight to rarely heard gems.
