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“…..remarkable duo…. as compelling as it is different…..the closing “Full Moon Rising Red” is the most ambitious, and most demanding for the players to sustain, but they do so with élan, creating considerable tension and excitement. But then the whole programme is splendidly played…..” Ivan March, The Gramophone ...the two instruments reveal previously unimagined expressive qualities, helped in no small measure by the splendid musicianship of Stephens and Scott. Mark Walker, Amazon.co.uk |
| Duo Mandala was formed in 1991 and gave its first concert at St Martin’s-in-the- Fields in London. Alison and Lauren soon realised the potential of such an unusual but successful combination and went about persuading composers to write music for them. The result is a successful and polished duo with a wonderful repertoire mixing favourite composers such as Handel and Sibelius with beautiful accessible contemporary music. Their programmes have been met with great enthusiasm across the country. Their debut CD, Tapestry on the Black Box Label (BBM1088) was released in Dec 2003 and was nominated for "Editor's Choice" in the Gramophone. The project is close to their hearts and features four of the works written for them. For concert dates go to the diary page. You might also be interested to check out our My Space page which has more sound samples on. |
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| "……make their unusual instrumental combination sound utterly natural, in the process exploiting the differing string tones and sonorities of the two instruments to beguiling effect…… How fruitful this long-standing playing relationship is became evident right from the introductory sonata… The unusual nature of the duo attracts its fare share of commissions from contemporary composers and there are some immensely satisfying examples here……" Jim Gilchrist, The Scotsman (4-Star Review) .....a highly attractive disc, for both are masters of their instruments, playing with imaginative flair and technical skill. Christopher Fifield, MusicWeb.uk.net |