János Starker, a name synonymous with virtuosity and elegance in the world of classical music, presents a captivating collection of Italian cello sonatas in this 1994 release. The album, titled "Italian Cello Sonatas," is a testament to Starker's unparalleled mastery of the cello, showcasing his technical prowess and profound musicality.
This album is a journey through the rich tapestry of Italian Baroque and Classical music, featuring works by composers such as Boccherini, Vivaldi, Corelli, and Locatelli. Starker's interpretations are both sensitive and dynamic, bringing out the intricate details and emotional depth of each piece. The album spans a variety of moods and tempos, from the serene and contemplative to the lively and spirited, offering a comprehensive exploration of the cello's expressive range.
The tracklist includes sonatas in A Major and E Minor, as well as arrangements for cello and piano of works originally composed for other instruments. Notable pieces include the Cello Sonata in A Major by Boccherini and the Sonata in D Minor by Corelli, both of which highlight Starker's ability to convey the essence of each composer's style with remarkable clarity and precision.
Recorded with the meticulous attention to detail for which Decca Music Group Ltd. is renowned, this album captures the warmth and richness of Starker's playing in stunning clarity. The accompanying piano parts are performed with equal finesse, creating a harmonious balance that enhances the overall listening experience.
With a duration of just over an hour, this album is a perfect choice for those seeking a refined and engaging exploration of Italian classical music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, János Starker's "Italian Cello Sonatas" is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Cello Sonata in A Major, G. 4: I. AdagioLuigi Boccherini, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Cello Sonata in A Major, G. 4: II. Allegro moderatoLuigi Boccherini, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Cello Sonata in E Minor, RV 40: I. LargoAntonio Vivaldi, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Cello Sonata in E Minor, RV 40: II. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Cello Sonata in E Minor, RV 40: III. LargoAntonio Vivaldi, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Cello Sonata in E Minor, RV 40: IV. AllegroAntonio Vivaldi, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Sonata in D Minor, Op. 5 No. 7 (Arr. Lindner for Cello and Piano): I. PreludioArcangelo Corelli, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Sonata in D Minor, Op. 5 No. 7 (Arr. Lindner for Cello and Piano): II. AllemandaArcangelo Corelli, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Sonata in D Minor, Op. 5 No. 7 (Arr. Lindner for Cello and Piano): III. SarabandaArcangelo Corelli, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Sonata in D Minor, Op. 5 No. 7 (Arr. Lindner for Cello and Piano): IV. GigaArcangelo Corelli, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Sonata in D Major (Arr. Piatti for Cello and Piano): I. AllegroPietro Locatelli, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Sonata in D Major (Arr. Piatti for Cello and Piano): II. AdagioPietro Locatelli, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Sonata in D Major (Arr. Piatti for Cello and Piano): III. MinuettoPietro Locatelli, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Allettamento in E Major, Op. 8 No. 10 (Arr. Piatti for Cello and Piano): I. GraveGiuseppe Valentini, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Allettamento in E Major, Op. 8 No. 10 (Arr. Piatti for Cello and Piano): II. AllegroGiuseppe Valentini, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Allettamento in E Major, Op. 8 No. 10 (Arr. Piatti for Cello and Piano): III. Allegro. Tempo di gavottaGiuseppe Valentini, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Allettamento in E Major, Op. 8 No. 10 (Arr. Piatti for Cello and Piano): IV. LargoGiuseppe Valentini, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Allettamento in E Major, Op. 8 No. 10 (Arr. Piatti for Cello and Piano): V. AllegroGiuseppe Valentini, János Starker, Stephen Swedish
Viola da Gamba Sonata No. 3 in G Minor, BWV 1029 (Arr. for Cello & Piano): I. VivaceJohann Sebastian Bach, János Starker, György Sebök
Viola da Gamba Sonata No. 3 in G Minor, BWV 1029 (Arr. for Cello & Piano): II. AdagioJohann Sebastian Bach, János Starker, György Sebök
Viola da Gamba Sonata No. 3 in G Minor, BWV 1029 (Arr. for Cello & Piano): III. AllegroJohann Sebastian Bach, János Starker, György Sebök