Dodgson - String Trios 1 & 2 [CD]

In his writing for strings, Stephen Dodgson revealed an abiding love of early music through his perceptive use of ornamentation, virtuoso displays and enthusiasm for variation form. Both String Trios reflect these elements and their slow movements- hymnal in the earlier work, valedictory in the later- are especially beautiful. The Sonatina in B minor for solo violin is simultaneously a tribute to Bach and a statement of Dodgson's own musical identity, while the very different 'Caprice after Puck' offers a complex exploration of the hobgoblin's sinister pranks. Exciting, innovative and passionate, Karolos comprises some of the UK's most eminent soloists and chamber musicians, including Craig Ogden (guitar), Graham Walker (cello), Harriet Mackenzie (violin), Juliette Bausor (flute), Maximiliano Martin (clarinet), Philippa Mo (violin), Sarah-Jane Bradley (viola) and Tanya Houghton (harp). Tailoring their programmes to suit each individual audience, Karolos is proud to offer concerts which range from core classics to premieres and performances of works by prominent and emerging composers.