Carl Dolmetsch (1911-97) not only pioneered the return of the recorder to the London concert scene, but did his utmost to encourage the establishment of contemporary repertoire for the instrument. The present collection has been recorded by the British Music Society specifically to explore this remarkable range of music, all written in response to Dolmetsch’s advocacy, and indeed his artistry. What seens peverse however is that many of these pieces (notably those by Gordon Jacob, Rubbra and John Gardner) were intended to be partnered by a harpsichord, whereas here the whole programme is heard with piano. Nevertheless Ross Winters and Andrew Ball create an understanding partnership, and the use of the piano for the most part is not detrimental.
The ten Jacobs Variations on a charming pastoral melody are most winning, including a siciliana and tarantella and even a canon over a ground bass, but in the languorous piece by Cyril Scott it is the succulent piano harmonies that catch the ear. The three works by Rubbra are the kernel of the recital, and here the harpsichord is certainly missed. The Passacaglia and the regal Meditazioni both use themes by Josquin. The Sonatina with its fine central Adagio mesta followed by divisions on a rollicking Spanish dance is most diverting, as is Hopkins’ neatly varied Suite, and Hand’s succinct Sonata breve. The more wayward harmonic progressions of Reizenstein’s Partita are initially more elusive, yet the central Sarabande proves quite haunting. Excellent recording and very good balance