News

Announcing the release of a new recording of harp and guitar chamber music performed by the eminent UK ensemble Karolos.

Dodgson's later work is long-breathed and convincingly explores material, ending in a poignant and moving epilogue. The earlier work is strikingly avuncular and athletic, with an expressive near-ten-minute hymnal slow movement that includes repeated syncopations. This, and the nonchalant, almost whimsical end of the work makes it a most listenable piece. Dodgson’s control of structural integrity in the Partita for solo cello is powerful and impressive.

The vocal parts are on the atonal scale but accomplished brilliantly by Robyn Allegra Parton. The oboe and piano accompaniments, more atmospheric than atonal in their impact, add a marvellous patina of colour to the pictures painted by the words. The effect in voice and instruments is magical. The Sonata for Oboe and Piano brings invigorating freshness. With fine performances by James Turnbull and Libby Burgess.

It was a joy to get to know Stephen's piece Idyll, during the recent Chamber Players week. The music was delicate, with a continuous gentle pulse like a heartbeat throughout... The solo violin line soared above, with some gorgeous dissonances in the inner parts... The piece was beautiful, and just perfect for the pupils on the course.

These pieces are recorded for the first time, surprisingly, for they are notably rewarding. It’s a handsome collection, very well captured, vivid and immediate, tonally faithful. Very well-played as the group Karolos, Harriet Mackenzie, Sarah-Jane Bradley and Graham Walker also shine individually.

The Second Trio immediately grabs your attention with its innovative textures, the whole work worthy of a place among the finest English chamber music scores... Sarah-Jane Bradley’s viola in Caprice after Puck makes for a gorgeous track... Superb sound quality.

Dodgson's chamber music is often astringent but always interesting. He echoed the baroque in his use of ornamentation, variation and intricate displays of virtuosity... expressively played here by Harriet Mackenzie... its exuberance brilliantly handled by Graham Walker. Sarah-Jane Bradley also impresses... – a virtuosic recital.

We’re delighted to announce the release of a new recording of Stephen Dodgson String Trios nos. 1 and 2 alongside his Violin Sonatina, Caprice after Puck and Cello Partita performed by the eminent UK ensemble Karolos.

In both sonatas, Dodgson’s lyrical genius is fully audible and his knack for vividly scored fast writing is much in evidence in the various scherzinos and toccatas with which each abound... The suite for oboe and harp Countdown is a beautifully euphonious work...

James Turnbull has a wonderfully full tone and lively sense of rhythm. He audibly relishes Dodgson’s music and is sensitive to its often challenging demands. Excellent sound throughout.