In popularity the viola has to concede to the all powerful violin. But the deep rich sound of the instrument seduced more and more composers to write for the solo viola. In contemporary music there are a number of jewels for the viola. The upper tones and rich harmonic sound spectrum of the viola can be used. The spacious and generous sound of the viola is exploited. Tip: at the end of November 2018 in Rotterdam the International Viola Congress is taking place.
On 24th October we’re broadcasting a theme-related programme about the viola. In the programme viola da solo lovely pieces for the viola are played. From a modern classic such as the ‘Sonata for viola solo’ by György Ligeti to a meditative upper scale spectacle by James Tenney and Eliane Radigue. The impressive viola exercises by the Swiss violinist Walter Fähndrich run through the broadcast as thread.
When?
Viola da Solo: Wednesday 24th October from 20.00 to 22.00.
