Pno Trios/Meditazioni/Phantasy

The Endymion Ensemble, which specializes in British 20th century music, has delivered an outstanding assortment of Edmund Rubbra's chamber music with this disc. The seven pieces they've programmed are very appealing, especially the mysterious, swirling op. 16 Phantasy with its inventive, repeated motif that never seems to end (and you never want to end). Beautiful too, are the two oboe duos expertly performed by Melinda Maxwell (oboe) and Michael Dussek (piano): first, a short "Meditation"; then the Sonata for oboe and piano, which is a first rate work. The beefier works include a Piano Trio in one movement, which opens the disc, and Piano Trio No. 2, which is intelligently placed later in the program. The first trio suggests thematic connections with some of Rubbra's symphonic work; the second trio is throughly engaging, with sprightly melodies contrasting with a moody undercurrent. The other shorter pieces on this generously filled recital (77 minutes) include the Buddha Suite, which reflects Rubbra's early interest in eastern spirituality, and the gorgeous Duo for Cor Angelis and Piano, which is a fitting conclusion to the disc.

It's hard to imagine why this music, which is so intrinsically attractive, appears to have been consigned to relative obscurity. I would include it in a desert island collection of British chamber music and suggest others do the same.

As the liner notes state, this recording bookends Rubbra's composition career, 1927-1980.

It consists of seven pieces, leading off is an exquisite piano trio with cello and violin. The longest piece on the recording being of twenty minutes, is blessed by a lovely, somber middle section (Cantabile e molto expressivo) which builds to a bell like ending. A delightful work with tempered and lilting interchange between the three.

The Oboe Sonata was written for the famous oboist Evelyn Rothwell and is popular for soloists. The harmonic shifts are evident finished off with a swirling rondo like piece with piano and oboe flurry.

The closing Duo for Piano and Cor Anglais is contemplative, well suited to the cor anglais' deep tonality. One of the last compositions done by Rubbra and this for Dutch oboist Peter Bree is fascinating as the piano continues in a chordal mode of dissonance. The darkness of the piece is similar to watching out a window on a dark night in a lonely state. It seems to always have one on edge, but with dignified playing by the oboist.

The Endymion Ensemble performs crisply and passionately here on this very fine recording. All chamber lovers will enjoy this pastoral and fine contribution.

Melinda Maxwell shines on the double reeds as well accompanied by fine piano work of Michael Dussek.