Czech Viola Sonatas / esk violov sonty – Martin, Husa, Kalabis, Feld – CD

This classical music CD presents Czech viola sonatas by Bohuslav Martin, Karel Husa, Viktor Kalabis and Jindich Feld, performed by violist Kristina Fialov and pianist Igor Ardaev. Martins Sonata for Viola and Piano, composed in 1955, reflects the composers longing for his native Vysoina region. Karel Husa wrote his Suite for Viola and Piano in 1945, before emigrating; he later received the Pulitzer Prize and became one of the most frequently performed contemporary Czech composers internationally. The works by Husa, Kalabis and Feld are largely unknown, with two recorded here for the first time. Felds 1955 Sonata shares Martins year of composition and wistful mood, while Kalabiss work dates from 1997. Fialovs developing career includes prizes in international competitions, a debut at Tonhalle Zrich and appearances at major international festivals. She is joined by the experienced pianist Igor Ardaev, a laureate of the Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow and the Queen Elisabeth Competition in Brussels. The recording offers an exploratory view of Czech modernism through the warm, dark tones of the viola.