Alexander Baillie: Spring Fire

The Strad Issue: August 2025

Description: Finesse aplenty marks out this album from a distinguished duo

Musicians: Alexander Baillie (cello) John Thwaites (piano)

Works: Bax: Folk Tale; Cello Sonata; Cello Sonatina; Legend-Sonata

Catalogue number: SOMM RECORDINGS SOMMCD0704

The premieres of Bax’s cello works read like an overview of British cellists in the early 20th century. At Wigmore Hall between 1918 and 1943, Felix Salmond, Beatrice Harrison, Thelma Reiss and Florence Hooton each introduced this music to the public. The pianist for each of the sonatas however was always the same – Harriet Cohen, Bax’s muse with whom he had an affair lasting more than 40 years.

The professional partnership between Baillie and Thwaites has lasted a similar number of years. The two approach Bax’s work with intelligence and a belief in its quality which results in overwhelmingly natural and engaging interpretations. Their years may be more advanced – this is the first recording I have encountered that credits an osteopath! – but their music-making remains fresh and spontaneous, enhanced by a realistic and intimate recorded sound.

The pieces appear chronologically. The first two are more full-bodied, Romantic works, the latter pair more restrained. The Sonatina, dedicated to Casals and referencing Bax’s teacher Debussy, is played with refined grace and accuracy.

The second movement of the Cello Sonata starts with the theme that opens Bax’s Symphony Spring Fire (which gives the album its name) – ‘In the Forest before Dawn’. The duo caresses its irregular rhythms with a relaxed flow in which you can almost hear the dew falling.

JANET BANKS