Naoko Shimizu - Works for Viola and Piano by Brahms, Schubert, Hindemith (2011)

Though severely limited in terms of repertoire composed specifically for their instrument, violists nevertheless manage to pull together programs highlighting prominent composers. In some cases, transcriptions are used to show what might have been had the composer decided to write a work for the viola. On this album, Schubert's "Arpeggione" Sonata is heard transcribed to the slightly brighter key of E minor for a more comfortable fit on the viola. Brahms, on the other hand, included the viola as a possible alternate for his two Op. 120 Clarinet Sonatas, the second of which is heard here. Suggesting multiple instruments certainly made the music more marketable, but for these sonatas, the viola is capable of providing the same warmth and depth of sound as the clarinet. Not until the early 20th century did a young Paul Hindemith start to turn the tide by writing multiple works specifically for his favored instrument. The Sonata in F major, Op. 11/4, opens this program by violist Naoko Shimizu and pianist Ozgur Aydin. Unlike some violists who try to force their larger instruments to sound more like a violin, Shimizu celebrates the natural tone and beauty of her instrument. Her tone, particularly on the A and D strings, is powerful without being overly bright, resonant, and warm. The G and D strings produce a somewhat nasal sound, but this is completely preferably over a stringent, tight sound. Shimizu's technique is stunningly precise; she simultaneously offers insightful, captivating musical insight into the three scores of her program. She and Aydin produce a well-balanced, fluid chamber music collaboration that is certainly worth hearing.