The prospect of an addition to the cello and piano repertoire can indeed be quite exciting. Sadly, Hayden Wayne's composition 5 Dances for Cello and Piano, as well as the recording of it, fall quite short of their potential. With the possible exception of the fourth movement, the dances are extremely repetitive in melody, rhythm, color, and dynamics. Cellist Jan Skrdlik and pianist Petra Besa-Pospisilova fail to enhance the shortcomings of the piece with their own playing. Skrdlik has frequent intonation problems that, because of the highly repetitive nature of the piece, are repeated over and over again. Skrdlik's sound is rather angular and his tone shows limited variation on this particular album. There are also significant ensemble problems; Skrdlik frequently rushes and is forced to momentarily halt to allow the piano to catch up. Definitely not a shining example of chamber music. The Piano Quintet is definitely a more varied piece of music. Still, ensemble problems and intonation difficulties detract heavily from the enjoyment of this work as well. These two compositions may fare better in the hands of stronger ensembles, but as they are presented in this recording, they fail to garner more than a passing interest.
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