Description

Britten: Cello Sonata / Suite No. 1 - Alexander Baillie, Ian Brown / Etcetera Audio CD 1987

KTC 2006-1

Label: Etcetera – KTC 2006-1
Format: CD
Country: Netherlands
Released: 1987
Genre: Classical
Style: Modern

Product Features

Renowned Performers: Featuring the celebrated cellist Alexander Baillie and the accomplished pianist Ian Brown, this album presents an exceptional interpretation of Benjamin Britten's works for cello.
Britten's Masterpieces: The CD includes two of Britten’s significant compositions for cello, the Sonata in C for Cello and Piano, Op. 65 and the Suite for Cello, Op. 72, both of which are central to the modern cello repertoire.
High-Quality Recording: Produced by Roy Emerson, this album offers a clear and vibrant sound, capturing the nuances of Britten's compositions and the performers' expressive interpretations.
Collector's Item: Released by Etcetera in 1987, this CD is a must-have for classical music enthusiasts and collectors of Britten's works.

Overview

This album features two of Benjamin Britten's most important works for cello: the Sonata in C for Cello and Piano, Op. 65, and the Suite for Cello, Op. 72. Written in the 1960s, these compositions reflect Britten’s deep understanding of the cello’s expressive capabilities and his ability to blend modernity with tradition.

Alexander Baillie, one of the most distinguished British cellists of his generation, delivers a powerful performance, bringing out the emotional depth and technical brilliance of Britten’s music. Ian Brown, an acclaimed pianist and chamber musician, provides sensitive and precise accompaniment in the sonata, creating a perfect partnership that enhances the overall impact of the work.

The Sonata in C, composed in 1961, is a dynamic and complex piece that challenges both performers with its intricate structure and varied moods. The Suite for Cello, composed in 1964, is a more introspective work, exploring a wide range of emotions through its six movements. Both pieces showcase Britten’s unique voice in the 20th-century classical music landscape.

Interesting Facts

Commissioned by Mstislav Rostropovich: Both the Sonata in C and Suite for Cello were composed for the legendary Russian cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, who premiered these works and played a significant role in their popularization.
Britten’s Personal Style: These compositions highlight Britten’s ability to convey complex emotions through music, blending traditional forms with modern harmonic language.
Alexander Baillie’s Legacy: Alexander Baillie is known for his interpretations of contemporary cello repertoire, and his recordings of Britten's works are highly regarded for their clarity and emotional intensity.
Rare Recording: This CD, released in 1987 by the Dutch label Etcetera, is a valuable addition to any classical music collection, particularly for fans of Britten and modern cello music.

Track Listing

Sonata in C for Cello and Piano, Op. 65 (21:53)
Cello: Alexander Baillie
Piano: Ian Brown

I. Dialogo
II. Scherzo - Pizzicato (Allegretto)
III. Elegia (Lento)
IV. Marcia (Energico)
V. Moto Perpetuo (Presto)

Suite for Cello, Op. 72 (26:20)
Cello: Alexander Baillie

6.1 Canto Primo (Sostenuto E Largamente)
6.2 I. Fuga (Andante Moderato)
6.3 II. Lamento (Lento Rubato)
6.4 Canto Secondo (Sostenuto)
6.5 III. Serenata (Allegretto : Pizzicato)
6.6 IV. Marcia (Alla Marcia Moderato)
6.7 V. Bordone (Moderato Quasi Recitativo)
6.8 VI. Moto Perpetuo E Canto Quatro (Presto)