Welsh Clarinet Music: Peryn Clement-Evans’s Captivating Journey with Harvey Davies

CELEBRATION: Welsh Clarinet Music
Peryn Clement-Evans (clarinet), Harvey Davies (piano)
Recorded: St Mary’s Church, Cilcain, North Wales, June 1999
Label: CYFOS CYFC01 CD
Duration: 56:19
Available from: [email protected]

In the realm of classical music, the clarinet often serves as a bridge between the ethereal and the earthy, a role splendidly realized in this anthology of Welsh clarinet music. Titled Celebration, this disc features a selection of works that span the late 20th century, showcasing both established and emerging Welsh composers. The performances by clarinetist Peryn Clement-Evans and pianist Harvey Davies reveal not just technical prowess but a palpable affection for the music they interpret.

William Mathias’s Clarinet Sonatina Op.3, composed during his formative years at the Royal Academy of Music, opens the recording with vibrant energy. Its rhythmic agility and lyrical expansiveness are immediately apparent, particularly in the lively outer movements. The slow movement, marked Lento, showcases a songlike quality, characterized by Mathias’s signature melodic grace. The performers navigate the intricate interplay between the clarinet and piano with assurance, the clarinet’s rich tonal palette beautifully complemented by the piano’s harmonic support. Here, one senses a rare synergy that transcends mere execution—a testament to both the music’s inherent charm and the performers’ interpretative depth.

Alun Hoddinott’s Clarinet Sonata No.2, composed for these very artists in 1997, stands in stark contrast to Mathias’s work. It embodies a more introspective character, exploring a broader emotional landscape. The intricate counterpoint and textural complexity of Hoddinott’s writing demand a nuanced approach, which Clement-Evans and Davies deliver with aplomb. Notably, the Allegro con brio movement is marked by a vigorous dialogue between the instruments, where Hoddinott’s penchant for rhythmic vitality shines through. This sonata, while more serious, retains a tunefulness that makes it highly accessible, showcasing Hoddinott as a composer who melds sophistication with approachability.

Mervyn Burtch’s Prelude, Arioso and Dance is another highlight of the disc. The Prelude’s rhythmic insistence, juxtaposed with the clarinet’s lyrical line, creates a captivating contrast. The Arioso is particularly evocative, imbued with an elegiac quality that resonates deeply. The concluding Dance invigorates the listener, its spirited rhythms serving as a joyous resolution. One cannot help but feel that Burtch, often overshadowed by his contemporaries, deserves a more prominent place in the concert repertoire.

Christopher Painter’s Clarinet Sonata (1999) and John Metcalf’s Airstream (1997) round out the program with their own unique voices. Painter’s three-movement sonata is a study in economy and clarity, with each movement offering distinct character without overstaying its welcome. The Lento cantabile stands out for its lyrical beauty, artfully engaging the listener. Metcalf’s Airstream, with its playful buoyancy and colorful textures, serves as a delightful conclusion to the disc, encapsulating the spirit of celebration that permeates this collection.

From a technical standpoint, the recording quality is commendable, with a clear and balanced sound that captures the nuances of both instruments. The acoustic of St Mary’s Church enhances the warmth of the clarinet, allowing its rich tonal colors to emerge fully. The engineering choices favor the intimacy of the performance, ensuring that the dynamic range of both performers is rendered with fidelity.

Historically, this collection serves as a vital testament to the vibrant landscape of Welsh chamber music. Each work reflects not only the individual composer’s voice but also the broader cultural milieu of Wales during the late 20th century. It is a celebration of not just the clarinet repertoire but also of the rich musical heritage that Wales has to offer.

In conclusion, Celebration is more than just a compilation; it is a heartfelt homage to the clarinet’s expressive capabilities and the creative spirit of Welsh composers. Peryn Clement-Evans and Harvey Davies have crafted a compelling narrative through their performances, one that invites listeners to explore the depths of these richly textured works. This release marks an auspicious beginning to a series that promises to illuminate the often-overlooked gems of Welsh chamber music. Highly recommended for both the casual listener and the discerning aficionado alike, it beckons us to engage deeply with the music of our time.

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