Fauré: Cello Sonatas Nos. 1 & 2; Elegy; Sicilienne etc.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Gabriel Fauré's cello sonatas and solo pieces with this exquisite album, featuring the renowned cellist Alban Gerhardt and pianist Cecile Licad. Released on December 30, 2011, by Hyperion, this collection showcases Fauré's mastery of the romantic style, blending depth, elegance, and technical brilliance.

The album opens with Fauré's Cello Sonata No. 1 in D Minor, Op. 109, a work that exemplifies the composer's ability to create intricate and expressive music. The sonata's three movements—Allegro deciso, Andante, and Allegro commodo—are performed with remarkable sensitivity and virtuosity. The album also includes the Cello Sonata No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 117, another stunning example of Fauré's compositional genius.

In addition to the sonatas, the album features a selection of Fauré's solo cello pieces, including the hauntingly beautiful Élégie, Op. 24, the lyrical Romance, Op. 69, and the playful Papillon, Op. 77. Each piece is performed with a deep understanding of Fauré's unique style, bringing out the subtleties and nuances of his music.

The album concludes with a unique bonus track: a faster-tempo version of the Allegro commodo from the Cello Sonata No. 1, offering a fresh perspective on this beloved work. With a total duration of 1 hour and 4 minutes, this album is a treasure trove of Fauré's cello repertoire, beautifully captured and performed by Gerhardt and Licad.

Gabriel Fauré, born in Pamiers, France, in 1845, was a titan of French music, renowned for his compositions, organ and piano performances, and influential teaching. As one of the leading composers of his generation, Fauré's unique harmonic and melodic style paved the way for many 20th-century composers. His works, such as the evocative "Pavane," the serene "Requiem," and the enchanting "Clair de lune," showcase his refined and gentle musical language, blending sensuality with reserve. Fauré's innovative approach to harmony and melody earned him a place among the most influential figures in late 19th and early 20th-century music. A founding member of the Société Nationale de Musique, he collaborated with and influenced notable figures like Saint-Saëns, Bizet, and his student Maurice Ravel. Throughout his career, Fauré's compositions evolved, with his later works demonstrating a more complex and sophisticated style. His enduring legacy lies in his ability to create music that is both accessible and deeply expressive, resonating with audiences and inspiring generations of musicians.