Artistic Quality 9      Sound Quality 9

“Here’s a lovely disc that deserves a spot in your collection of Romantic chamber music. Georges Onslow’s Sonata in F major, Op. 16 No. 1 was originally written for cello, and it appears here in a well made transcription for viola and piano. The music, as you might expect, is tuneful and appealing—just good quality stuff for leisurely domestic consumption. It’s the lightest and least distinctive piece here, but the high level of craftsmanship isn’t in doubt.”

“…Togawa, a young Japanese-Australian violist based in Berlin, plays these works with all the character and affect that they deserve. In terms of technique, she knows her way around her instrument, and she has an excellent understanding of what these works are about, stylistically. Pianist Grigoryan is no less fine, particularly in Onslow’s sonata, where the music’s technical demands are managed with aplomb.”

“…[Togawa] plays with authoritative technical command and control, and demonstrates no lapses in intonation or bowing.”

“This is a terrific disc. I hope this review provides readers with the necessary encouragement to acquire it. It showcases another deeply impressive young violist doing her bit for the instrument. She also has the benefit of a sympathetic and generous accompanist and a warm, if close recording. While the Mendelssohn work is a standout, its companions here are far from makeweights.”

“Two young soloists, Australian-Japanese viola player Hiyoli Togawa and Armenian pianist Lilit Grigoryan, play three romantic pieces for viola and piano. Onslow’s Sonata, originally for cello and piano as well as Kalliwodas Six Nocturnes together with the Mendelssohn Sonata form an attractive program with sensitive and at the same time virtuoso performances.” *****