Hellawell’s Chamber Works: Gould and Dukes with Vanbrugh Quartet’s Evocative Performance

Composer: Piers Hellawell
Works: Inside Story for violin, viola and orchestra (1999), The Still Dancers for string quartet (1992), Quadruple Elegy (in the time of freedom) for violin and chamber orchestra (1990)
Performers: Clio Gould – violin, Philip Dukes – viola, The Vanbrugh String Quartet, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra – Martyn Brabbins
Recording: Glasgow City Hall, June 2001 (Inside Story and Quadruple Elegy), The Harty Room, Queen’s University of Belfast, June 2001 (The Still Dancers)
Label: Metronome MET CD 1059

Piers Hellawell, a composer whose works have matured significantly since the 1990s, is represented on this recording by three pieces that reveal an evolving artistic voice. Hellawell’s journey from early blues-based harmonies, as exemplified in his earlier compositions, to a more nuanced and adventurous palette is vividly illustrated here. The juxtaposition of the three works—Inside Story, The Still Dancers, and Quadruple Elegy—provides an illuminating perspective on his development as a composer and the influences that have shaped his distinct sound.

The performances are led by an impressive lineup, including violinist Clio Gould and violist Philip Dukes, alongside the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra under Martyn Brabbins. Each musician brings an impressive level of artistry and interpretive insight to the table. Particularly noteworthy is the way Gould and Dukes expertly navigate the intricate interplay between soloists and the orchestra, a hallmark of Hellawell’s compositional style. In Inside Story, the seamless fluidity with which the violin and viola engage in dialogue with the orchestral forces is commendable. The second movement, marked by its harmonic variations, showcases a remarkable ability to sustain tension and build upon thematic material in a manner reminiscent of the great British composers, while also echoing the lyrical qualities found in Walton’s works.

The Still Dancers, with its innovative structural approach, captures the essence of natural phenomena rather than human expression. The Vanbrugh String Quartet executes the work’s fragmented “blocks” with precision, particularly in the second movement, aptly inscribed “brutal” by Hellawell. Here, the performance embodies the rawness and emotional depth intended by the composer, further enhanced by the impressive engineering that allows the nuances of tone and texture to resonate beautifully. The recording captures the subtleties of the quartet’s sound, allowing listeners to appreciate the rich tapestry of harmonic exploration that characterizes this work.

In contrast, Quadruple Elegy offers a more overtly political narrative, with movements titled in homage to historical events and figures. The title “Jan Palac” evokes a profound sense of reflection, and the soloist’s ethereal voice floats above the orchestra, creating a moment of haunting beauty. Unlike many contemporary works that create a stark division between soloist and ensemble, Hellawell’s writing fosters a sense of unity and collaborative spirit. The engineering here is particularly effective, allowing the delicate interplay to shimmer without losing detail or depth.

Sound quality across the disc is exemplary, with a clarity that highlights the intricate orchestration and textural variety that Hellawell employs. The performances are captured with a vibrant presence, allowing the listener to engage fully with the music’s dynamic contrasts and coloristic subtleties. This recording stands as a testament to the artistry of both the performers and the composer, reflecting a sophisticated understanding of contemporary musical language.

The recording of these three works undeniably elevates Hellawell’s status within the pantheon of contemporary British composers. Each piece is distinct yet interconnected, revealing a composer whose voice is both personal and reflective of broader musical dialogues. This disc not only offers a compelling introduction to Hellawell’s oeuvre but also showcases performances that are likely to remain the benchmark for future interpretations. Engaging, thought-provoking, and rich in sonic detail, this collection is a significant contribution to the contemporary classical repertoire and a must-listen for those interested in the evolution of modern composition.

Tom Fasano has been writing reviews of classical music recordings for the past quarter century. He's finally making them public on this blog.