Tchaikovsky: Rococo Variations, Andante cantabile, Pezzo capriccioso & Nocturne - Cello Works by Glazunov, Cui, Rimsky-Korsakov

Dive into the rich world of classical chamber music with Steven Isserlis' captivating album, featuring a stunning collection of cello works by Tchaikovsky, Glazunov, Cui, and Rimsky-Korsakov. This exquisite release, recorded with the Chamber Orchestra of Europe under the baton of Sir John Eliot Gardiner, showcases Isserlis' virtuosity and deep musical insight.

The centerpiece of the album is Tchaikovsky's Variations on a Rococo Theme, a work that highlights the composer's lyrical genius and Isserlis' technical brilliance. The album also includes Tchaikovsky's Andante cantabile, Pezzo capriccioso, and Nocturne, each piece offering a unique glimpse into the composer's emotional landscape.

Beyond Tchaikovsky, the album explores the lesser-known but equally captivating works of Glazunov, Cui, and Rimsky-Korsakov. Glazunov's Mélodie and Sérénade espagnole, Cui's Scherzando and Cantabile, and Rimsky-Korsakov's Serenade for Cello and Orchestra are all performed with the same level of artistry and sensitivity that Isserlis brings to the better-known works.

The album's 19 tracks, spanning over an hour, provide a comprehensive journey through the romantic and post-romantic eras of Russian music. Isserlis' expressive playing and the Chamber Orchestra of Europe's nuanced accompaniment bring these works to life, making this album a treasure trove for both casual listeners and classical music enthusiasts alike. The album was released on Warner Classics on February 10, 2023.