"Diyang Mei, 1st principal viola of the Berliner Philharmoniker, now presents his view of the concertos for viola by York Bowen and William Walton. Following the recent release of an album by the orchestra’s other first principal violist, Amihai Grosz, on the orchestra’s own label, Mei now offers his interpretations of the concertos with his former colleague in the viola part, Brett Dean, as conductor. The orchestra is the Deutsche Radio Philharmonie, which has its home in Saarbrücken and Kaiserslautern.
The combination of the two pieces is obvious, as they both date from the first third of the last century and were written by English composers who receive little attention today. There are also recognizable differences between the works.
Bowen’s work offers a well-arranged solo part for the solo instrument, which preserves the playability and takes the character of the viola into account. In addition, he serves up orchestral colorfulness so that musical exuberance develops.
Walton wrote his viola concerto in a more modern style and created a work in his own tone that goes with the avant-garde. Since he was not so familiar with the instrument, the demands on performers to transform the texture into resounding music are great.
Diyang Mei presents both compositions with eloquent assurance and a musically mature vision. He chooses an agitated approach with clear contours. At the same time, he can handle his instrument with confidence and without restrictions, no matter what difficulties await him. With a skillful hand, he shapes the solo parts of his performance into expressive interpretations.
The orchestra under the direction of Brett Dean supports the soloist in his performance with an equally lively approach. In this way, they create an hour of music with a classical approach and a contemporary perspective that emphasizes the soloistic qualities of the viola."
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