Mon rêve familier

Janina Ruh's "Mon rêve familier" is a captivating journey through the world of chamber music and classical piano, released on November 13, 2020, under the SWR Classic label. This album is a testament to Ruh's exceptional artistry and her ability to breathe new life into both well-known and lesser-explored pieces.

The album opens with a suite of Italian-inspired pieces, "Suite italienne," arranged for cello and piano, showcasing Ruh's virtuosic cello playing and her sensitive collaboration with pianist. The suite's five movements, from the introductory "Introduzione" to the lively "Tarantella" and concluding with the "Minuetto e finale," offer a delightful exploration of Italian musical themes.

Ruh then turns her attention to the poetic works of Paul Verlaine, with a selection of songs and mélodies that highlight her expressive and nuanced approach to musical storytelling. The pieces, including "Crépuscule du soir mystique," "En sourdine," "Colombine," and "Mon rêve familier," are beautifully interpreted, capturing the essence of Verlaine's evocative poetry.

The album concludes with Johannes Brahms' Cello Sonata No. 2 in A Minor, Op. 81, a substantial and deeply moving work that demonstrates Ruh's technical prowess and emotional depth. The sonata's three movements, from the introspective "Allegro moderato" to the lively "Allegro con spirito," are performed with a sense of urgency and passion that is truly captivating.

Throughout the album, Janina Ruh's playing is characterized by her rich, resonant tone, impeccable phrasing, and a deep understanding of the music's historical and cultural contexts. "Mon rêve familier" is a remarkable addition to any classical music lover's collection, offering a unique and engaging exploration of some of the most beautiful and evocative works in the cello and piano repertoire.