Customer Reviews

Rachmaninov: Complete Works for Cello and Piano

5 star:		(6)
4 star:		(1)
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Russian composers from the late 19th and early 20th centuries have always been some of my favorites. Rachmaninov, Tchaikovsky, and Prokofiev all wrote music with a similar sort of fiery, overwhelming, and tragic passion. These pieces for cello and piano are quintessential works of this genre; the cello is an instrument particularly suited to this type of music. The musicians, Janet Guggenheim and Michael Grebanier, use near-perfect technical ability to supplement sensitive interpretations of the pieces. I highly recommend the G minor sonata.

This beautifully performed CD is filled with Rachmaninov's hauntingly beautiful melodies, including one of the most famous in the classical repertoire, "Vocalise," peformed with warmth and sensitivity by two highly talented musicians.

The CD is so reasonably priced that it would be worthwhile to purchase it even if the only selection on it were the 34 minute "Sonata in G minor," one of the most beautiful sonatas ever composed for cello and piano, with its enrapturing Andante third section. I geatly enjoyed every selection on this CD, especially the final selection, Danse Orientale, composed in 1892, when Rachmaninov was only 19 years old. This last selection has a timeless quality and an ethereal hypnotic beauty and intensity that I found very moving.

In addition to the outstanding music on this CD, the insert has two different essays that are both well-written and informative, one in English and a second essay in French, with the second essay providing background information about the musical influences and historical circumstances behind the compositions that is not in the English essay. There is also biographical information on both of these highly talented musicians.

The selections herein are pure Rachmaninoff. The G minor Sonata, Op.19 is one of the most passionate romantic pieces in the repertoire.
The performances are commendable. I read in a biography of Rachmaninoff that he advised balance in his works for cello and piano --that they are not written for piano with cello accompaniment. Grebanier and Guggenheim achieve that balance in the Op. 19. I don't think any Rachmaninoff devotee will be disappointed.

Rachmaninov is known for his piano works. This set of pieces continues in his great piano style, but adds a cello! His sweeping style comes through strongly in these works, with slightly less of his often raucous moments. The liner notes are informative, and the artists perform with a very nice balance between the two instruments. Overall an excellent cd.

The CD is priceless, considering its wonderfully low price. The sonata alone is worth buying the disc for, though the other pieces are also first-rate.

One of Rach's hidden gems. Stunning. Any Rachmaninoff fan must add this to his/her collection. I won't waffle, just buy it.

I liked this recording. The sound is clear and brilliant. The interpreters are ok, and ¿what can I say about the music? It's Rachmaninov! The sonata is full of passion and the price makes this CD a real to consider!