"Cello World" is a captivating journey through the vast and expressive world of the cello, as curated and performed by the renowned British cellist Steven Isserlis. Released in 1998, this album showcases Isserlis' profound musicianship and technical mastery, featuring a diverse collection of original works and arrangements that span from the Baroque era to the 20th century. The album includes beloved pieces such as Schumann's poignant "Intermezzo," Leonard's whimsical "The Donkey and the Driver," and Villa-Lobos' enchanting "Song of the Black Swan," each brought to life with Isserlis' signature warmth and artistry.
Throughout the album, Isserlis demonstrates his versatility and deep understanding of the cello repertoire, performing on a 1726 Stradivarius cello, the Marquis de Corberon, on loan from the Royal Academy of Music. This exquisite instrument, previously owned by cellists Zara Nelsova and Hugo Becker, adds a rich and resonant timbre to the performances, highlighting the beauty and expressiveness of each piece.
"Cello World" is not just a collection of beautiful music; it is a testament to Steven Isserlis' unique ability to connect with audiences through his profound musical insights and technical brilliance. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a delightful and engaging exploration of the cello's vast and expressive range. With a duration of just over an hour, "Cello World" is an excellent introduction to the artistry of Steven Isserlis and the timeless beauty of the cello.
(P)1998, BMG Entertainment
Tracks
Andante con Variazioni, WoO 44bLudwig van Beethoven, Steven Isserlis, Maggie Cole
Violin Sonata No. 3, WoO 2: III. Intermezzo (Arr. for Cello and Piano)Robert Schumann, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
Scherzo for Cello and Piano, L. 26Claude Debussy, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
La Captive for Soprano, Cello and Piano, Op. 12Hector Berlioz, Felicity Lott, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
Morceau de concours for Flute and Piano (Arranged for Cello)Gabriel Fauré, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
The Donkey and the Driver, Op. 61Hubert Leonard, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
The Carnival of the Animals, R. 125: XIII. Le cygne (Arr. for Cello & 2 Pianos)Camille Saint-Saëns, Steven Isserlis, Michael Tilson Thomas, Dudley Moore
Song of the Black Swan, W122Heitor Villa-Lobos, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
Romantic Piece for Violin and Piano, Op. 75, No. 4 (Arranged for Cello)Antonín Dvořák, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
Piece for 2 Cellos, H. 377Bohuslav Martinů, Steven Isserlis
Dance of the Elves, Op. 39David Popper, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
Souvenir russeJulius Isserlis, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
The Child LivedJohn Tavener, Felicity Lott, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
Lied (Romance) in F Minor for Cello and PianoSergei Rachmaninoff, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
Romance for Cello and PianoAlexander Scriabin, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
ChonguriSulkhan Tsintsadze, Steven Isserlis, Thomas Adès
Dance SuiteMátyás Seiber, Steven Isserlis, Maggie Cole
Inner WorldCarl Vine, Steven Isserlis, David Pereira