Earth, Sea & Air

"Earth, Sea & Air" is a captivating journey through the world of British cello concertos, featuring the extraordinary talent of Laura van der Heijden. This album, released under the prestigious Chandos label, showcases Van der Heijden's artistry alongside the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Ryan Wigglesworth.

The album opens with the world-renowned "Oration, H. 180 'Concerto elegiaco'" by Howard Ferguson, a piece that spans eight movements, each offering a unique blend of tempos and moods. Following this is the titular work, "Cello Concerto 'Earth, Sea & Air'" by Cheryl Frances-Hoad, a piece that Van der Heijden premiered in 2023 and brings to this recording with the same orchestra. The concerto is a vivid exploration of the natural world, divided into three movements that evoke the earth, sea, and air. The album concludes with the "Cello Concerto, C. 65" by Benjamin Britten, a work that showcases Van der Heijden's technical prowess and musical sensitivity.

With a total duration of 1 hour and 22 minutes, "Earth, Sea & Air" is a testament to Van der Heijden's versatility and depth as a cellist. Born in the Netherlands but raised in the UK, Van der Heijden brings a unique perspective to these British works, infusing them with her distinctive style and interpretation. This album is a celebration of her artistry and a delight for any classical music enthusiast. The album is set for release on May 31, 2024, with a special performance of "Earth, Sea & Air" at the BBC Proms on July 26th.