Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Jacqueline du Pré's "Delius Cello Concerto, etc," a masterful collection of classical chamber music released on January 1, 1995, under Warner Classics. This album showcases the extraordinary talent of Jacqueline du Pré, one of the most celebrated cellists of the 20th century, accompanied by the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and conducted by Sir Malcolm Sargent.
Spanning a rich and diverse repertoire, the album opens with the enchanting "Paradis: Sicilienne," followed by Schumann's "Fantasiestücke, Op. 73" in its version for cello and piano. The piece is a showcase of du Pré's technical prowess and emotional depth, as she navigates the intricate and expressive compositions with grace and precision. Mendelssohn's "Song Without Words in D Major, Op. 109" adds a touch of lyrical beauty, while Fauré's "Élégie, Op. 24" brings a poignant and reflective mood.
The album also features Bach's "Toccata, Adagio and Fugue in C Major, BWV 564" in an arrangement by Siloti for cello and organ, highlighting du Pré's versatility and the richness of her tone. Saint-Saëns' "Le carnaval des animaux: XIII. Le cygne" is beautifully rendered in a version for cello and harp, showcasing the delicate and ethereal qualities of du Pré's playing. Falla's "7 Canciones populares españolas: No. 4, Jota" and Bruch's "Kol Nidrei, Op. 47" further demonstrate her ability to bring out the unique character and spirit of each piece.
The centerpiece of the album is Frederick Delius' "Cello Concerto," performed with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and conducted by Sir Malcolm Sargent. This remastered version of the concerto is a testament to du Pré's extraordinary artistry and the deep connection she had with this piece. The concerto's four movements—"Lento," "Con moto tranquillo," "Lento," and "Allegramente"—are performed with a level of technical brilliance and emotional depth that has made this recording a classic.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 12 minutes, "Delius Cello Concerto, etc" is a captivating journey through some of the most beloved and enduring works in the classical repertoire. Jacqueline du Pré's playing is marked by her distinctive sound, her ability to convey deep emotion, and her technical mastery. This album is a testament to her enduring legacy and her profound impact on the world of classical music.
Vinylscout