Hyperion Records

This tauntly constructed single-movement work, dating from 1914, was known by the composer’s friends as the ‘War Sonata’, and certainly in its turbulent drama and general atmosphere of menace it may be said to have mirrored the times in which it was created. The music’s surprising ferocity, jagged rhythms and astringent harmonies are only briefly assuaged by the gently wistful second subject. The work is crowned by one of Medtner’s most compelling and headlong codas, at the end of which, once again, with the struggle won, bells ring out in celebration.

from notes by Barrie Martyn © 1998