VIOLA BY CHOICE does everything a classical music group should be doing in the 21st century. And what is that? Offering smart and alluring programs that feed the brain and the soul - and do so with polished, enthusiastic musicianship.
The concert epitomizes the kind of eclectic, inclusive, lively programming that Pétillot promotes. Dialogue with other musicians, collaboration with other art forms, supporting the emerging composers of his own generation, digging through archives to find the forgotten gems of the viola repertoire— these are things that ignite Pétillot
Aurélien Pétillot is an ensemble leader in a tribe of adventurous musicians who are impressively pushing the boundaries of what classical music can be and how it can be presented in the 21st century.
There is no question as to Pétillot's passion. His mission is not only to bring attention to the viola's rightful place in musical history but also to draw focus through performance to its central role in the established works of chamber music.
In his introduction to the second sextet, Pétillot had the rest of his ensemble play the opening bars without the first viola part. It was a good choice, as the moodiness of the movement is established entirely through the viola's wavy undulation, and sounded incomplete without it. The gesture summed up Viola by Choice nicely:
The viola is essential! In the end, what leaves a lasting impression is this message coupled with inspiring performance.
The sextet concluded with an exciting viola flourish, handled by Pétillot with confidence and zeal.