Rubinstein: Cello Sonatas

Dive into the romantic era with Anton Rubinstein's "Cello Sonatas," a captivating collection of his two sonatas for cello and piano, recorded by the talented Czech cellist Jirí Bárta and Romantic specialist Hamish Milne. Released on April 1, 2009, under the Hyperion label, this album offers a delightful journey through Rubinstein's compositions, showcasing his fluency and ease in creating enchanting music.

Rubinstein, renowned as one of the greatest nineteenth-century piano virtuosos, was also a prolific composer. His two Cello Sonatas, Op. 18 in D Major and Op. 39 in G Major, are presented here in their entirety, offering a rich and varied listening experience. The album spans a total of 71 minutes, providing a comprehensive exploration of Rubinstein's musical genius.

The sonatas are performed with precision and passion, bringing to life Rubinstein's harmonies and melodies that echo Mendelssohn's idiom through the lens of Russian late Romanticism. The opening theme of the first sonata is notably long-spanned and Brahmsian, while the second sonata's Andante features particularly attractive themes. Although Rubinstein's works may not be as widely recognized today, this album serves as a testament to their enduring charm and beauty.

Recorded in January 2008 at Potton Hall in Dunwich, Suffolk, United Kingdom, the album benefits from the expertise of producer Andrew Keener and engineer Simon Eadon. The studio recording captures the nuances and subtleties of the performances, offering listeners an immersive and enjoyable experience.

Whether you are a fan of classical music, a connoisseur of the Romantic era, or simply looking to explore new musical territories, Anton Rubinstein's "Cello Sonatas" promises a thoroughly engaging and satisfying listen.