Jean Absil(1893–1974)
1893-10-23∗10/23/1893 in Bonsecours, France
1974-02-02†02/02/1974 in Region Brussels-Capital City, Belgium
maleComposerBE
Konrad Ewald
I'm familiar with only three of Absil's seven works for Viola: The Duo, the 1. String Trio and the Concerto. The Sonatine en duo with Violin is a touchy three-movement piece with attractive sound effects. The 1st String Trio consists of a Allegro con fuoco (written in 7/16 until the last bar nr.139), a rhythmically quite difficult Passacaille and a (of course effervescent) Tarantelle (très vif). The Concerto presents more problems of sound than rhythm; it ought to sound as carefree as Milhaud. In the 3rd movement stamina becomes an issue because of unceasing motion.
Works
• Sonatina en duo, op. 112, for Violin and Viola • Berceuse for Saxophone (Viola) and Piano • 1st Trio, op. 17, for Violin, Viola and Violoncello • 2nd Trio, op. 39, for Violin, Viola and Violoncello • Trio, op. 158, for Violin, Viola and Piano • Concerto, op. 54, for Viola and Orchestra • Concertino, op. 122, for Viola and OrchestraMedia Center
Jean AbsilFoto: J.Absil