Experience the legendary artistry of Gregor Piatigorsky in this captivating collection of concertos and encores, meticulously curated from recordings spanning 1934 to 1950. This album showcases Piatigorsky's unparalleled virtuosity and charismatic stage presence, solidifying his status as one of the 20th century's most celebrated cellists. Born in Ukraine in 1903, Piatigorsky's journey to musical greatness is as inspiring as his performances are mesmerizing.
The album opens with Robert Schumann's Cello Concerto in A Minor, Op. 129, a work that highlights Piatigorsky's technical prowess and expressive depth. The concerto is followed by a delightful array of encores, including arrangements of works by Tchaikovsky, Rachmaninoff, and Saint-Saëns, among others. These pieces offer a glimpse into Piatigorsky's versatility and his ability to captivate audiences with his unique blend of power and finesse.
Piatigorsky's collaborations with renowned conductors such as Sir John Barbirolli and Fritz Reiner are also featured, providing a rich tapestry of musical interpretations. The album concludes with Camille Saint-Saëns' Cello Concerto No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 33, a work that showcases Piatigorsky's mastery of the instrument and his deep understanding of the composer's intentions.
This album is a testament to Gregor Piatigorsky's enduring legacy and his significant contributions to the world of classical music. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this collection offers a timeless and enriching listening experience.
2005 Naxos2005 Naxos
Tracks
Cello Concerto in A Minor, Op. 129: I. Nicht zu schnellRobert Schumann, Gregor Piatigorsky, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli
Cello Concerto in A Minor, Op. 129: II. LangsamRobert Schumann, Gregor Piatigorsky, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli
Cello Concerto in A Minor, Op. 129: III. Sehr lebhaftRobert Schumann, Gregor Piatigorsky, London Philharmonic Orchestra, Sir John Barbirolli
2 Melodies, Op. 3: No. 1 in F Major (arr. D. Popper): Melody in F Major, Op.3, No. 1 (arr. D. Popper)David Popper, Anton Rubinstein, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
14 Songs, Op. 34: Vocalise, Op. 34, No. 14Sergei Rachmaninoff, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
Sadko (arr. for cello and piano): Sadko: Song of the Indian Guest (Chant hindou)Anonymous, Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
Kaleidoscope, Op. 50: No. 9, OrientaleCésar Cui, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
12 Morceaux de difficulté moyenne, Op. 40 (Arr. for violin and piano): Chanson triste in G Minor, Op. 40, No. 2Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
6 Romances, Op. 6 (arr. for cello and piano): None but the lonely heart, Op. 6, No. 6Anonymous, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
Carnival of the Animals: XIII. Le Cygne (The Swan)Camille Saint-Saëns, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
6 Moments musicaux, Op. 94, D. 780 (arr. for cello and piano): Moment Musical in F Minor, D. 780, Op. 94/3Franz Schubert, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
12 Morceaux, Op. 40 (arr. for cello and piano): Valse sentimentale in F Minor, Op. 51, No. 6Anonymous, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
Sonata No. 3 in D Minor for Piano with Violin Obbligato, J. 101: RondoCarl Maria von Weber, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
6 Soirees a Saint-Petersbourg, Op. 44: No. 1, Romance in E flatAnton Rubinstein, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
Goyescas: IntermezzoGaspar Cassadó, Enrique Granados, Gregor Piatigorsky, Ralph Berkowitz
Cello Concerto No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 33: I. Allegro non troppoCamille Saint-Saëns, Gregor Piatigorsky, RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra, Fritz Reiner
Cello Concerto No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 33: II. Allegretto con motoCamille Saint-Saëns, Gregor Piatigorsky, RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra, Fritz Reiner
Cello Concerto No. 1 in A Minor, Op. 33: III. Molto allegroCamille Saint-Saëns, Gregor Piatigorsky, RCA Victor Symphony Orchestra, Fritz Reiner
Gregor Piatigorsky, the Russian-born American cellist, stands as one of the most influential and charismatic figures in 20th-century classical music. Born in Ekaterinoslav (now Dnipro, Ukraine) in 1903, Piatigorsky's journey began with humble origins, playing in cafés and silent movie houses to support his family. His prodigious talent quickly propelled him to the Moscow Conservatory and later to international stardom. Piatigorsky's career spanned over four decades, during which he was renowned for his virtuosic solo performances, collaborations with legendary musicians like Jascha Heifetz and Arthur Rubinstein, and his inspiring teaching. His recordings, from Walton and Shostakovich concerti to chamber music masterpieces, remain essential listening for any classical enthusiast. Piatigorsky's legacy endures through his extensive archives at The Colburn School, which chronicle his remarkable life and contributions to the world of music.
Vinylscout
Gregor Piatigorsky
