Walton. Benjamin. Howells.

Released in early 2025 by Evil Penguin Records Classic, this album brings together a collection of British concertante works for viola and orchestra. The recording features soloists Mathis Rochat and Abigel Kralik alongside the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, conducted by Howard Griffiths. The project highlights a significant exploration of 20th-century British repertoire, focusing on the distinct harmonic languages of Sir William Walton, Arthur Benjamin, and Herbert Howells, whose works are celebrated for their technical demand and lyrical depth.

The production represents a modern interpretation of these mid-century compositions, captured with contemporary recording standards to emphasize the textures of the solo viola. Evil Penguin Records, known for its focus on high-fidelity classical releases, aimed to present these pieces as a cohesive narrative of British musical development. The release has been noted for its commitment to chamber-scale orchestral works, showcasing the stylistic versatility required to bridge the gap between Walton’s rhythmic vitality and the more introspective, pastoral qualities found in the works of Howells.