PRISM

Solo violin repertoire leaves no room for error, laying bare every vulnerability. Yet, in her album “Prism,” Fenella Humphreys demonstrates masterful artistry, bringing a captivating and vibrant performance to lesser-known works. As she reflects, the album was born from a desire to continue performing music she encountered during the spring of 2020—a period marked by global lockdowns. 

Among the plethora of lockdown-inspired releases, “Prism” stands out for its creativity and engagement. Though these pieces might be seen as personal selections rather than crowd-pleasers, they possess a unique charm, with Jessie Montgomery’s Rhapsody No. 1 being a particular highlight that deserves broader recognition. Humphreys’s interpretation of this piece is rich and dynamic, capturing both its technical demands and emotional depth. 

Caroline Shaw’s In manus tuas, which draws loosely from a Tallis motet, is equally entrancing. Humphreys delivers a performance that is both atmospheric and visionary, perfectly capturing the ethereal nature of Shaw’s composition. The piece’s serene and powerful presence is a testament to Humphreys’s ability to convey complex emotions through her instrument. 

Bach’s D minor Toccata and Fugue BWV 565 has seen numerous transcriptions, yet Humphreys’s version stands out. It preserves more of Bach’s original essence than many other renditions, matching the weight and rhetorical grandeur of Bruce Fox-Lefriche’s widely performed arrangement. Humphreys brings a fresh and invigorating perspective to this well-known piece, combining precision with a sense of majesty. 

Humphreys also excels in her transcriptions of works by Satie and Debussy. Her performance of these pieces is idiomatic and pleasing, translating the essence of the original piano compositions to the violin with remarkable fidelity. In particular, her rendition of Satie’s Gymnopédies is delicate and expressive, maintaining their simplicity while infusing them with lyrical beauty unique to the violin. 

“Prism” is a highly accomplished release, performed with fearless vibrancy and captured with superb audio quality. The recording is excellent, showcasing the full range and subtlety of Humphreys’s playing. Each piece is presented with clarity and warmth, allowing listeners to appreciate the nuances of her interpretations fully. 

Even if this repertoire seems unfamiliar, “Prism” is undoubtedly worth exploring. Fenella Humphreys’s performance transcends any reservations, offering a compelling musical journey. The album not only highlights her technical prowess and artistic vision but also her deep connection with the music and her audience.