Yo-Yo Ma's "Impressions" is a captivating journey through the world of classical and chamber music, released on January 10, 2011, under the Sony Classical label. This album spans a duration of 1 hour and 42 minutes, featuring a diverse collection of tracks that showcase Yo-Yo Ma's exceptional talent and versatility as a cellist.
The album begins with a lively rendition of Cello Concerto No. 2 in D Major by Joseph Haydn, followed by the serene Unaccompanied Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major by Johann Sebastian Bach. The tracklist also includes enchanting pieces such as "Liebesleid" from 3 Old Viennese Dances, the iconic "Air" from Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major, and the hauntingly beautiful "Ave Maria."
Yo-Yo Ma's interpretation of Astor Piazzolla's "Libertango" adds a touch of modern flair to the classical repertoire, while his rendition of "The Swan" from Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saëns is a testament to his mastery of the cello. The album also features compositions from film scores, including "Ecstasy of Gold" from "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" and "Gabriel's Oboe" from "The Mission," showcasing the versatility of classical music in various artistic contexts.
"Impressions" is a celebration of Yo-Yo Ma's illustrious career, encapsulating his ability to breathe new life into both timeless classics and contemporary pieces. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to classical music, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
(P) 2011 Sony Music Entertainment
Tracks
Cello Concerto No. 2 in D Major, Hob. VIIb:2: III. Rondo. AllegroJoseph Haydn, Yo-Yo Ma, English Chamber Orchestra, José-Luis Garcia
Unaccompanied Cello Suite No. 1 in G Major, BWV 1007: I. PréludeJohann Sebastian Bach, Yo-Yo Ma
3 Old Viennese Dances: II. LiebesleidFritz Kreisler, Yo-Yo Ma, Patricia Zander
Orchestral Suite No. 3 in D Major, BWV 1068: II. AirJohann Sebastian Bach, Yo-Yo Ma, Ton Koopman, Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra
Arpeggione Sonata in A Minor, D. 821: I. Allegro moderatoFranz Schubert, Yo-Yo Ma, Emanuel Ax
Cantata, BWV 147: Jesus bleibet meine FreudeJohann Sebastian Bach, Yo-Yo Ma, Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, Ton Koopman
The Four Seasons, Violin Concerto in F Minor, Op. 8 No. 4, RV 297 "Winter": II. LargoAntonio Vivaldi, Yo-Yo Ma, Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, Ton Koopman
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 99: IV. Allegro moltoJohannes Brahms, Yo-Yo Ma, Emanuel Ax
Carnival of the Animals, R. 125: The SwanCamille Saint-Saëns, Philippe Entremont, Gaby Casadesus, Yo-Yo Ma, Michel Cerruti, Michel Cals, Régis Pasquier, Yan Pascal Tortelier, Gabin Lauridon, Gerard Causse, Alain Marion, Michel Arrignon
Piano Quintet in A Major, D. 667, Op. 114 "Trout": IV. Tema con variazioniFranz Schubert, Yo-Yo Ma, Emanuel Ax, Pamela Frank, Edgar Meyer, Rebecca Young
Cello Concerto in A Minor, Op. 129: III. Sehr lebhaftRobert Schumann, Yo-Yo Ma, Sir Colin Davis, Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra