Customer Reviews

Britten: Cello Suites Nos. 1 & 2

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If you are a fan of the cello repetoire, this CD is a must. Britten's cello suites are definitely influenced by Bach's cello suites, especially with regard to the structure of the works. His cello muse (Rostropovich) has encouraged Britten to explore the dark and textured sounds of the modern cello. This recording gives permanence to some of the best cello playing I have ever heard. The Sonata with Britten at the piano is magnificent as well.

This music demonstates the what the cello is capable of doing when pushed to the limits. Britten's compositions call for emotion, expressiveness, but also a wide range of colors. The cello is often plucked, making it sound almost lute-ish. As always with Britten, this music is curiously modern AND romantic at the same time. There is also a certain intimacy about the solo suites where Rostropovich just seems to know the composer's refined English mind so well and express it in his own sad Russian soulful style. It is real meloncholy beauty.

It just goes to show how much can be done with the cello when in teh hands like a master such as Mstislav Rostropovich (and Ben Britten).

Beautiful music played heavenly...
Britten's cello works come often in my hands on different CD-s. Either one of the 3 suites as part of a compilation, mostly all three as they belong together. Does anybody know the reason why Rostopowich plays only two suites? (I at least could not find any recording with him performing all at once...)

These pieces of music remind me of the Bach cello works. The playing is vital.