★★★★★Whether you’re familiar with the classical accordion or not, the recent recital at Wigmore Hall featuring James Crabb and Anthony Marwood is a must-listen. Crabb, recognized as one of the top accordion players globally, showcased his exceptional skills alongside the equally talented violinist Marwood, whose artistry complements Crabb’s in both virtuosity and adventurous spirit.

The performance began with the vibrant tangos of Piazzolla and culminated in a rousing Scottish reel, leaving the audience animated by the incredible synergy of these two artists. Their engaging dialogue, the array of sounds produced, and the wide spectrum of emotions—ranging from haunting whispers to intense fervor—captivated everyone present.

Although the Piazzolla tangos were presented with such intense flavor that it felt as though one could envision the lively atmosphere of a Buenos Aires dance hall, the majority of the program honored British music with its roots in folk traditions. At the heart of the concert was Crabb’s unique arrangement of Vaughan Williams’ The Lark Ascending. Marwood’s interpretation of the violin part was both tender and fluid, with his phrasing weaving seamlessly from one note to another.

What stood out was the transformation brought about by the accordion, replacing the typical string accompaniment with its robust and dynamic sound. This shift introduced an underlying tension to the piece, suggesting themes of loss intertwined with beauty. The conclusion was particularly striking, as the accordion created atmospheric breezes while Marwood’s violin ascended to a breathtaking silence.

Equally impressive were the pieces that framed this arrangement. Thomas Adès’s Märchentänze, a series of four imaginative explorations based on English folk motifs, benefited from the accordion’s presence, which injected a new layer of intrigue into the music’s complex arrangements. Conversely, the Lament from Sally Beamish’s Seavaigers featured a haunting violin line that evolved into an explosive crescendo, vividly portraying a sense of tragic emotion. One could easily visualize a full orchestral sound even with just two musicians on stage.

Available on BBC Sounds

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