Clare Hammond, a renowned name in the classical piano realm, presents her eagerly awaited album "Tippett – Britten – Walton" on the BIS label, set to release on October 10, 2025. This captivating collection showcases Hammond's exceptional prowess and versatility, featuring works by three prominent British composers of the 20th century: Michael Tippett, Benjamin Britten, and William Walton.
The album opens with Walton's Sinfonia Concertante, a piece that highlights Hammond's dynamic range and technical brilliance. The three-movement work is followed by Britten's Diversions, Op. 21, a theme and variations that offer a journey through a variety of moods and styles, from the playful Badinerie to the introspective Nocturne. Hammond's interpretation brings out the nuances and intricacies of each variation, making this a standout piece on the album.
The album concludes with Walton's Piano Concerto, a work that demands both technical skill and emotional depth. Hammond's performance is nothing short of breathtaking, capturing the concerto's vivacious energy and tender lyricism.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 20 minutes, "Tippett – Britten – Walton" is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. Clare Hammond's masterful playing and insightful interpretations make this album a testament to her artistry and a celebration of these remarkable British composers.
2025 BIS2025 BIS
Tracks
Sinfonia Concertante: I. MaestosoWilliam Walton, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Sinfonia Concertante: II. Andante comodoWilliam Walton, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Sinfonia Concertante: III. Allegro vivo, sempre scherzandoWilliam Walton, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: ThemeBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation I. RecitativeBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation II. RomanceBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation III. MarchBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation IV. ArabesqueBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation V. ChantBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation VI. NocturneBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation VII. BadinerieBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation VIII. BurlesqueBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation IXa. Toccata IBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation IXb. Toccata IIBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Variation X. AdagioBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Diversions, Op. 21: Finale (Variation XI). TarantellaBenjamin Britten, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Piano Concerto: I. Allegro non troppoMichael Tippett, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Piano Concerto: II. Molto lento e tranquilloMichael Tippett, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass
Piano Concerto: III. VivaceMichael Tippett, Clare Hammond, BBC Symphony Orchestra, George Vass