Rostropovich Encores: A Cello Tribute to Mstislav Rostropovich

Album Description

"Rostropovich Encores: A Cello Tribute to Mstislav Rostropovich" is a captivating album by the renowned cellist Alban Gerhardt, released on December 30, 2016, under the Hyperion label. This album is a heartfelt homage to Mstislav Rostropovich, a cellist who significantly influenced Gerhardt's passion for the instrument. The album features a diverse collection of shorter works, including pieces arranged or composed by Rostropovich himself, showcasing Gerhardt's technical prowess and deep musicality.

Spanning 19 tracks and just over an hour in duration, the album includes works by composers such as Rachmaninoff, Stravinsky, and Debussy, all masterfully arranged for cello and piano. Highlights include the delicate "Vocalise" by Rachmaninoff, the enchanting "Clair de lune" from Debussy's "Suite bergamasque," and the lively "Humoresque" by Rostropovich. Gerhardt's performance is accompanied by the skilled pianist Markus Becker, creating a rich and nuanced sound that honors the legacy of Rostropovich.

This album is a testament to Gerhardt's versatility and his commitment to exploring new repertoire, making it a standout addition to any classical music collection. Whether you are a longtime fan of Gerhardt or new to his work, "Rostropovich Encores" offers a compelling journey through some of the most beautiful and technically demanding pieces in the cello repertoire.

30 december 2016

℗ 2017 Hyperion Records Limited

About Alban Gerhardt

Alban Gerhardt is a renowned German cellist celebrated for his remarkable versatility and profound musicality. Since his debut with the Berlin Philharmonic in 1991, Gerhardt has captivated audiences worldwide with his technical mastery and insatiable artistic curiosity. He has collaborated with some of the world's leading orchestras, including the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra, Berliner Philharmoniker, and Orchestre National de France, among many others. Gerhardt's repertoire spans from solo Bach to contemporary works, and he is known for his fresh interpretations and compelling stage presence. His extensive discography, recorded for labels like Hyperion and Deutsche Grammophon, has earned him numerous awards. Gerhardt is also a frequent guest at major music festivals and is sought after for both his historical and contemporary repertoire.