Alisa Weilerstein, a rising star in the classical music world, makes her debut with "Works for Cello and Piano," a captivating album released in 2000 under Warner Classics. This collection showcases Weilerstein's extraordinary talent and versatility, featuring a diverse range of compositions that highlight the depth and beauty of the cello and piano duo.
The album opens with Paganini's virtuosic "Sonata a preghiera," followed by Dvořák's serene "Silent Woods" from "From the Bohemian Forest." Weilerstein's rendition of Ginastera's "Pampeana No. 2" is a standout, showcasing her technical prowess and expressive depth. The album also includes Mendelssohn's lyrical "Song Without Words," Tchaikovsky's evocative "Pezzo capriccioso," and Fauré's enchanting "Après un rêve."
A highlight of the album is the inclusion of Janáček's "Pohádka," a fairy tale-like piece that Weilerstein performs with sensitivity and nuance. The album concludes with Saint-Saëns' iconic "Le cygne" from "Le carnaval des animaux" and a selection of Spanish folk songs arranged by Kochanski, adding a vibrant and colorful finale to the collection.
Throughout the album, Weilerstein is accompanied by pianist Vivian Hornik Weilerstein, with whom she shares a remarkable musical chemistry. Their performances are marked by a deep understanding of the repertoire and a commitment to bringing out the full expressive potential of each piece.
"Works for Cello and Piano" is a testament to Alisa Weilerstein's artistry and a compelling introduction to her remarkable talent. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.
Paganini: Sonata a preghiera, MS 23 "Mosè Fantasia" (Version for Cello and Piano)Niccolò Paganini, Alisa Weilerstein, Vivian Hornik Weilerstein
Dvořák: From the Bohemian Forest, Op. 68, B. 173: No 5, Silent Woods (Version for Cello and Piano)Antonín Dvořák, Alisa Weilerstein, Vivian Hornik Weilerstein
Ginastera: Pampeana No. 2, for Cello and Piano, Op. 21Alberto Ginastera, Alisa Weilerstein, Vivian Hornik Weilerstein
Mendelssohn: Song Without Words in D Major, Op. 109, MWV Q34Felix Mendelssohn, Alisa Weilerstein, Vivian Hornik Weilerstein