Ottorino Respighi: Quartetto Dorico - Violin Sonata - Six Pieces for Violin and Piano

Album review

Though they are certainly magnificent works in their own right, Respighi's so-called "Roman Trilogy' has greatly overshadowed the remainder of the composer's output. Respighi was highly prolific throughout his career and wrote for virtually every instrumental configuration popular at the time. Chamber music is one area where Respighi's writing is woefully underrepresented. This 2011 Concerto album seeks to partially remedy that situation with their presentation of the Op. 144 "Doric" String Quartet, the B minor Violin Sonata, and the Six Pieces for Violin and Piano. The quartet is a prime example of how Respighi was so greatly influenced by music of the past as it explores the use of eight different modes throughout its single-movement structure. Performing is the Quartetto della Scala, an ensemble that regrettably does little justice to Respighi's intriguing work. Intonation difficulties are the foremost concern throughout their performance, particularly as the members enter the higher registers of their instruments. Sound production is too often forced and shrill. The same issues plague the quartet's first violinist, Francesco Manara, as he joins pianist Claudio Voghera for the sonata and Six Pieces. There seems to be little connection between the duo, certainly not the symbiotic relationship that characterizes more deeply invested and enjoyable chamber music performances. Rather, it sounds like two musicians each playing their own parts in isolation. While Respighi's works are certainly worthy of attention, this particular recording may not be the ideal choice for listeners seeking to expand their familiarity with the Italian great.
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