Sir Granville Ransome Bantock (Aug. 7, 1868 - Oct. 16, 1946) was a British composer and conductor, born in London. His parents hoped he would enter the Indian Civil Service, but poor health would prevent him from that. He turned to chemical engineering, but around 20 years old, he started looking at musical manuscripts. His first teacher was at Trinity College of Music, and in 1888 he entered the Royal Academy of Music, studying with Frederick Corder.

Bantock's conducting took him around the world, and he was known at times for devoting an entire concert to one composer. He was professor at the University of Birmingham (succeeding Sir Edward Elgar) from 1908 - 1934, and elected Chairman of the Corporation of Trinity College of Music in London. He was knighted in 1930.

Bantock had a sizeable output of works, including one Viola Sonata. Subtitled "Colleen", it was written in 1919, when Bantock was staying in his summer home. The first movement of this post-Romantic work is very lyrical, with soaring melodies. A good amount of time is spent in the rich lower register of the instrument in this movement, showcasing one of the many beautiful facets of the instrument.

The middle movement almost has a subdued, hesitant quality to it, with a more free-flowing form when it comes to tempos.

The final movement is vibrant, and has a wonderful Irish flavor. The violist is kept very busy with some continual eighth notes, giving the piece a great sense of motion and energy. There are more contemplative sections throughout the work, but each time it returns to that great, vivacious Irish mood.

Here's a recording of this work for you to enjoy!

Rupert Marshall-Luck