Customer Reviews

Lalo, Saint-Saëns, Bruch, Bloch / Fournier, Martinon

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This DG Originals coupling of the Lalo and Saint-Saens Cello Concertos is a great disc. I am a big fan of Yo-Yo Ma, but a friend recommended this over the Ma/Maazel version. And he was right, Pierre Fournier is an incredible cellist and these performances are magical. Another added bonus to this recording is the inclusion of Bruch's "Kol Nidrei for Cello and Orchestra" and Bloch's "Schelomo" (although I do prefer Ma's recording on "The New York Album"). The four compositions make this disc more than 70 minutes long, and that's a lot of music for the money.

My other reason for writing this is the erroneous review below. They have mistakenly posted one praising Starker -- an amazing cellist for sure -- but this is not a Starker disc!

I had the privilege to watch Pierre Fournier in Caracas (at the late seventies) playing the Lalo's cello Concerto. Needless to say this was the most effervescent, exciting and vibrant livig performance I have ever heard until these days.

I must add this concerto is not among my favorite ones, but Fournier is the only cellist who motivates me to listen it. That's why I recommend you. Because somehow, this Op. seems to have been composed for this memorable artist.

Adittionally, the Saint Saens and the Schelomo are extremely rewarding too. If I had to make my bag to a desert island, this would be my choice for Fournier.

Don't miss it.

Mr. Fournier's version of Lalo and Saint Saens concertos have to be the most HEDIOUS things to ever come out on the cello. He plays almost everything on this album with such noble technicality-- little or no variation of the tempo or dynamics. He plays the Lalo as if it were a Dvorak concerto. The Saint Saens cadenzas are almost rhythmic with little or no tempo alterations, and here again on a more romantic approach. I've heard much better cellists play Saint Saens. Leave this album alone!

I'm 44 years of age,and from the very first time I heard MR Starker play the cello I was hooked!His grace and flawless sense of style, coupled with intense desire to make music work without all of theatrics that has made the art of cello play so sloppy and tasteless,is gone!These performances leave no doubt,that at his peak Mr Starker was indeed the greatest cellist that ever lived.The precise pitch,the rhythmic vitality and the musical sense is unmatched by anyone;even in my estimatation, the great Mistiaslav Rostropovich,Yo Yo MA,Lyn Harrel etc.,All great cellist in own right!But if you would like to hear how the music is written without all of the fanfair,this is ticket!Janos Starker, all of rest for entertainment.