Finally the viola gets to shine! BBC interviewed Brett Dean, former member of the Berlin Philharmonic’s viola section, about why he likes the viola and how it has taken a prominent role on-stage in orchestras around the world. As more of a promo for his Viola Concerto performance at the Barbican on April 13, Brett distills the essence of the viola in five concrete facts:

  1. Size does matter
  2. Repertoire is expanding rapidly
  3. Its somber sounds stands alone on stage
  4. It’s the “Engine Room” of the orchestra (referring to the importance of rhythm and harmonies often lost in the melodies)
  5. It can’t just be played like a violin

To read more of Brett’s interview, read the article on BBC below:

Viola: Neglected no longer   |   BBC

 

Brett Performing His Viola Concerto