Johannes Moser, the acclaimed cellist often hailed as a "rock star cellist" by the Observer, delivers a captivating performance in his album "Elgar: Cello Concerto - Tchaikovsky: Rococo Variations." Released on February 1, 2017, under the Pentatone label, this album is a masterful blend of classical and chamber music, spanning a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes.
The album opens with Edward Elgar's profound and deeply moving Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85. Moser's interpretation is both musically gripping and recorded at a close range, allowing listeners to fully immerse themselves in the elegiac lyricism that Elgar is renowned for. This concerto is a testament to Moser's technical prowess and emotional depth, making it a standout piece in his repertoire.
Following the Elgar concerto, the album transitions into Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, presented in its original version. Inspired by Tchaikovsky's admiration for Mozart, these variations are filled with wistful charm and brilliance. Moser's performance is both elegant and dynamic, showcasing his ability to navigate the intricate variations with finesse and precision.
The album also includes additional works such as "6 Morceaux, Op. 19, TH 133: No. 4, Nocturne" in a version for cello and orchestra, and "String Quartet No. 1 in D Major, Op. 11, TH 111: II. Andante Cantabile" in a version for cello and string orchestra. These pieces further highlight Moser's versatility and his deep connection with the cello.
Accompanied by the Orchestre de la Suisse Romande under the direction of Andrew Manze, Moser's performance is nothing short of extraordinary. The collaboration between Moser, the orchestra, and Manze results in a recording that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant.
For fans of classical and chamber music, this album is a must-listen. Johannes Moser's exceptional talent and the exquisite performances make this a standout release in the world of classical music.
2017 Pentatone Music B.V.2017 Pentatone Music B.V.
Tracks
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: I. Adagio - ModeratoEdward Elgar, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: II. Lento - Allegro moltoEdward Elgar, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: III. AdagioEdward Elgar, Johannes Moser, Andrew Manze, Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Oregon Symphony
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: IV. Allegro, man non troppoEdward Elgar, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, TH 57 (Original Version): Thema. Moderato assai quasi AndantePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, TH 57 (Original Version): Thema. Moderato simplicePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, TH 57 (Original Version): Var. 1, Tempo della ThemaPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, TH 57 (Original Version): Var. 2, Tempo della ThemaPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, TH 57 (Original Version): Var. 3, AndantePyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, TH 57 (Original Version): Var. 4, Allegro vivoPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, TH 57 (Original Version): Var. 5, Andante graziosoPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, TH 57 (Original Version): Var. 6, Allegro moderatoPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, TH 57 (Original Version): Var. 7, Andante sostenutoPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33, TH 57 (Original Version): Var. 8 & Coda, Allegro moderato con animaPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
6 Morceaux, Op. 19, TH 133: No. 4, Nocturne (Version for Cello & Orchestra)Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
String Quartet No. 1 in D Major, Op. 11, TH 111: II. Andante Cantabile (Version for Cello & String Orchestra)Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze
Pezzo Capriccioso in B Minor, Op. 62, TH 62Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Moser, Orchestre de la Suisse Romande, Andrew Manze