Composer: Andante
Works: Stamitz: Romance (Cello Concerto No. 1); Haydn: Adagio (Cello Concerto No. 2); Rachmaninov: Vocalise; Tchaikovsky: Mélodie for Cello and Orchestra; Rubinstein: Melody in F; Tchaikovsky: Nocturne in C sharp minor; Glazunov: Chant du ménestrel; Tchaikovsky: Andante cantabile (String Quartet No. 1); Rimsky-Korsakov: Flight of the Bumble Bee; Saint-Saëns: The Swan (Carnival of the Animals); Glazunov: Sérénade Espagnole; Dvořák: Adagio ma non troppo (Cello Concerto); Elgar: Adagio (Cello Concerto); Bruch: Kol Nidrei.
Performers: Christian Benda, Ludovit Kanta, Vytautas Sondeckis, Maria Kliegel, Alexander Rudin, with various orchestras and conductors.
Recording: Multiple sessions recorded between 1989 and 2000; dates and locations not specified.
Label: NAXOS
The compilation “Andante Cantabile: Romantic Music for Cello and Orchestra” by Naxos offers a rich tapestry of works that span the late classical to early romantic periods, showcasing the cello’s lyrical and expressive capabilities. This album, featuring a diverse array of cello concertos and charming miniatures, serves both as a celebration of the instrument’s versatility and an exploration of the emotional depth that composers have imbued within their works. The selection draws from a well-curated historical spectrum, allowing listeners to traverse the lush landscapes of the cello repertoire.
Maria Kliegel emerges as the standout performer across the more substantial works, particularly in her interpretation of Elgar’s Adagio from the Cello Concerto. Kliegel’s approach is characterized by a compelling blend of technical prowess and emotional nuance, which elevates the score’s inherent melancholy. Her phrasing is deliberate and sensitive, capturing the work’s tragic essence while navigating the intricate dialogues between the cello and orchestral accompaniment. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, under Michael Halasz, provides a delicate yet robust backdrop that supports Kliegel’s expressive journey, expertly balancing the orchestral texture against the cello’s voice.
In juxtaposition, Vytautas Sondeckis’s interpretation of Rachmaninov’s Vocalise, in his own arrangement for cello and orchestra, is particularly noteworthy. Here, Sondeckis imbues the piece with a lyrical fluidity that captures the essence of Rachmaninov’s melodic language. His technical command allows for seamless transitions between sweeping lines and poignant pauses, effectively evoking the song-like qualities of the original work. The engineering captures the cello’s rich timbre with clarity, ensuring that the subtleties of Sondeckis’s performance resonate throughout the listening experience.
While the compilation includes some less compelling choices, such as Rubinstein’s Melody in F, which may be perceived as overly simplistic compared to the emotional weight of Elgar or Dvořák, the presence of lesser-known gems like Glazunov’s Chant du ménestrel and Tchaikovsky’s Andante Cantabile offers delightful surprises. These works, while short, exemplify the charm and technical demands of the cello, showcasing the performers’ abilities to convey depth in concise forms.
The sound quality is generally commendable, with Naxos ensuring a well-balanced mix that allows each soloist to shine without overshadowing the accompanying orchestra. The archival nature of the recordings might present some variations in sonic fidelity; however, the overall clarity and warmth of the recordings enhance the listening experience, allowing the emotional weight of the music to come through effectively.
This compilation stands as an excellent introduction to the varied repertoire for cello and orchestra, presenting a well-rounded selection that highlights both popular and lesser-known works. For those seeking a comprehensive overview of the cello’s capabilities within the Romantic idiom, this disc is a commendable choice. The combination of Kliegel’s masterful interpretations, the quality of the orchestral support, and the thoughtful selection of repertoire renders this recording a valuable addition to any classical music collection.
