You might be surprised to learn that Eastman School of Music Professor of Music Theory David Temperley's third book is "The Musical Language of Rock." In an article in City Paper, Mona Seghatoleslami describes Temperley's compositional style as "tuneful, well-constructed classical chamber music with elements of pop and rock interwoven throughout." As with his cello sonata that showed up earlier this month in Performance Rochester, you can hear all of those influences in his Sonata for Viola and Piano.
You may also be surprised by the cello-like sound of the viola. This is because soloist Rudolf Haken plays a custom five string viola, which adds more depth to its voice. This was recorded in Hatch Recital Hall on October 11, 2018. David Temperley is the pianist. And after you listen to this delightful, elegant work, you can listen to his insightful interview with Mona from January, 2020.
