Bacewicz, Enescu, Ysaÿe: Music for Strings

The superb strings of John Wilson’s Sinfonia of London are showcased here in three magnificent yet little-known 20th-century works, all by composers who really knew how to put that family of instruments through their paces. First, a substantial work by the great violinist Yehudi Menuhin’s beloved teacher, George Enescu (1881-1955). His Octet of 1900, though originally scored effectively (in more than one sense) for two string quartets, was conceived as a quasi-orchestral work: and so, as approved by the composer, the Sinfonia of London here uses a full string section with occasional use of soloists, giving this richly textured work a bold and expressive account. Most memorable is the lovely “Lentement” third section, reminiscent of a song by Fauré (Enescu’s teacher) and providing balm after the sometimes fraught “Très fougueux”. The 15-minute Harmonies du soir (1922-24) by the Belgian Eugene Ysaÿe again has a whiff of French sensuality and magic. This is perfectly complemented by Polish composer Grażyna Bacewicz’s 1948 Concerto for String Orchestra, its three succinct movements each lasting less than five minutes—yet its central “Andante” has something of the Ysaÿe’s yearning quality. The Sinfonia match Bacewicz’s crisp style with superb articulation and ensemble.