"...The six Op. 1 trio sonatas are constructed on Corelli’s model, and all but one are in either Dorian or minor mode. Intended for use in church, they postulate an organ as continuo instrument. Robert Howarth here makes use of a small modern chest organ, which blends beautifully with the strings. The sonata movements sometimes display a chromatic daring that suggests a composer of real originality and power. Equally striking is the warm expressiveness of the Andante that starts sonata No 2.If Op 1 was dedicated with due decorum to a local member of parliament who was also an Avison patron, the very different Op. 8 works are essentially harpsichord concertos written for a gifted pupil. She was Mary Eleanor Bowes, heiress to coal estates, who was to become Countess of Strathmore and Kinghorne. Avison considered that her spirited playing as harpsichordist and interest in the finest composers would conduct her ’to a perfect Execution, and true Taste in this Art’. Avison certainly set her many a technical conundrum in the six sonatas.Robert Howarth is here the brilliant protagonist on a modern Parisian copy of a Taskin original..."
Robert Anderson - Music and Vision - July 2012
“The rediscovery of this composer and his music has been long overdue. Played with relish and charm... ideal sound. A most desirable release.”
Piers Burton-Page
International Record Review
“Here is evidence of [Avison’s] mastery of sonata form; a vast array of effects and techniques, all crafted with elegance. The players are steeped in the Tyneside master’s output and deliver with panache"
Classical Music Magazine
“Robert Howarth breezes through the plethora of notes in the harpsichord sonatas as if they were the proverbial piece of cake. Beznosiuk’s playing is...imaginative.. always in the service of the music. Extensive notes on the composer, the music, the performers and the instruments are provide. The recorded sound is just about ideal. Highly recommended.”
Christopher Brodersen
Fanfare
“Another admirable disc [in the Divine Art Avison catalogue]... the outstanding Avison Ensemble. The music is lovely, and the works are performed with insight and conviction.”
Em Marshall
Albion Magazine
“Avison’s Op. 1 are attractive Italianate ‘church’ sonatas. He playing is committed and often impassioned. The recorded sound is excellent.”
George Pratt
BBC Music Magazine
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