<<  -- 2 --  Malcolm Miller    STYLES OF OUR TIME

Dodgson's Diversions is an effectively crafted work which stood well alongside this earlier masterpiece. There is a clear thread of cogency running through that culminates in the full appearance of the Elizabethan Air by Robert Jones, with each of the six earlier sections based on some aspect of it. Thus the initial Allegro had vitality and zest, excitingly varied in texture and confidently dissonant, approaching atonality. The slumbering relaxation of the Tranquillo ensues smoothly, organically, with some ravishing colours emanating from the trio, all the more to set into relief the pointed perspicacity of the Allegro Deciso and its complementary fugal section. Dodgson here is equally adept in fast and slow music, the second reflective interlude (liberamente e drammatico) sustaining attention through its contrasts of gesture. The gradual assemblage and appearance of the theme from its constituent elements after the earlier intensity, provides a poignant postmodern perspective and climax to the design. This performance also highlighted many moments of colouristic beauty in the use of the trio medium, and the blend of timbres.

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