Classical · 2011

Cello Concertos

C.P.E. Bach's Cello Concertos offer a bridge from Baroque to Classical, featuring the cello's expressive voice in dynamic, elegant orchestral settings.

2011 · Virgin Classics

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This album is a journey into the heart of the mid-18th century, showcasing Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach's masterful Cello Concertos. It’s a soundworld where the intricate counterpoint of the Baroque era begins to yield to the more expressive, dramatic sensibilities of the nascent Classical period. The cello, often a supporting instrument, takes center stage here, its rich, resonant voice imbued with both a melancholic introspection and a vibrant, virtuosic energy. The orchestral accompaniment is precise and sensitive, providing a lush yet transparent backdrop that allows the soloist to truly shine.

Moments Worth Listening For

The dramatic, almost improvisatory cadenza in the first movement of the A minor concerto, showcasing the cello's full expressive range.

The poignant, slow movement where the cello's melody floats above a delicate string accompaniment, creating a sense of tender vulnerability.

The energetic, intricate interplay between the soloist and the orchestra in the final allegro, a joyful, virtuosic display.

The subtle, almost conversational passages between the cello and individual orchestral sections, revealing C.P.E. Bach's nuanced orchestration.

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