Yo-Yo Ma, the renowned cellist, invites you into a world of classical elegance and chamber music finesse with his album "Appassionato." Released on January 9, 2007, under Sony Classical, this album is a testament to Ma's virtuosity and his ability to breathe life into a diverse range of compositions. Spanning a little over an hour, the album is a rich tapestry of well-loved pieces and hidden gems, each performed with Yo-Yo Ma's signature warmth and technical brilliance.
From the playful "Carnival of the Animals" by Camille Saint-Saëns to the hauntingly beautiful "Gabriel's Oboe" from Ennio Morricone's "The Mission," the album is a journey through different eras and styles of classical music. Ma's interpretations of Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" and Bach's "Song Without Words" are particularly noteworthy, showcasing his deep understanding and reverence for these timeless works. The album also features lesser-known pieces like "Yanzi (Swallow Song)" and "No. 4 Mikin Pekko from Five Finnish Folk Songs," offering a delightful exploration of global musical traditions.
Throughout "Appassionato," Yo-Yo Ma's mastery of the cello is evident, as he navigates complex passages with ease and imparts a profound emotional depth to each note. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating listening experience that highlights the enduring power and beauty of classical music.
(P) 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1996, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007 SONY BMG MUSIC ENTERTAINMENT
Tracks
Going to SchoolJohn Williams, Yo-Yo Ma
IV. Allegretto poco mosso from Sonata in A Major for Violin and PianoCésar Franck, Yo-Yo Ma, Kathryn Stott
Three Preludes: II. Andante con moto e poco rubato (Arr. for Cello and Piano)George Gershwin, Yo-Yo Ma, Jeffrey Kahane
The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in F Minor, Op. 8 No. 4, RV 297 "Winter": II. LargoAntonio Vivaldi, Yo-Yo Ma, Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, Ton Koopman
Doce de cocoJacob Do Bandolim, Yo-Yo Ma, Romero Lubambo, Paquito D'Rivera
II. Largo from Concerto No. 1 in G minor for Cello and Orchestra, Op. 49Dmitry Kabalevsky, Yo-Yo Ma, Eugene Ormandy, Philadelphia Orchestra
Cinema Paradiso: Looking for You from Giuseppe Tornatore SuiteEnnio Morricone, Yo-Yo Ma, Roma Sinfonietta
Carnival of the Animals, R. 125: XIII. The SwanCamille Saint-Saëns, Yo-Yo Ma, Philippe Entremont, Gaby Casadesus
Yanzi (Swallow Song)Traditional, Yo-Yo Ma
II. Andante from Concerto for Violin, Cello and Orchestra in A minor, Op. 102Johannes Brahms, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Yo-Yo Ma, Isaac Stern, Claudio Abbado