Composer: Ludwig van Beethoven, Johannes Brahms
Works: Cello Sonata No. 1 in F major, Op.5, No.1; Cello Sonata No. 2 in G minor, Op. 5, No.2; Cello Sonata No.3 in A major, Op.69; Cello Sonata No. 4 in C major, Op.102, No.1; Cello Sonata No. 5 in D major, Op. 102, No.2; Minuet in G major; Cello Sonata No. 2 in F major, Op.99
Performers: Pablo Casals (cello), Mieczyslaw Horszowski (piano – Brahms, Beethoven Cello Sonatas 1, 2, 4 & 5), Otto Schulhof (piano – Beethoven Cello Sonata No.3, Minuet)
Recording: Recorded in Paris, June 1939 (Beethoven Nos.1, 2 & 5), EMI Abbey Road Studio No.3, London, November 1936 (Beethoven No.4, Brahms), Queen’s Hall Small Studio C, London, March 1930 (Beethoven No. 3, Minuet)
Label: NAXOS HISTORICAL 8.110949-50 [2 discs, 67.39, 67.14] Mono ADD
Pablo Casals, often hailed as the father of modern cello playing, brings an indelible force to Beethoven’s and Brahms’ cello sonatas in this reissue of historic recordings from the late 1930s. These performances capture not only the technical prowess of Casals but also the emotional depth that characterizes his unique artistry. The sonatas included here are significant touchstones in the cello repertoire, with Beethoven’s early works showcasing the instrument’s capabilities in a chamber setting, while Brahms’ later compositions reflect a mature dialogue between cello and piano—a true partnership in sound and interpretation.
The interpretative choices made by Casals are nothing short of revelatory. In the F major Sonata, Op.5 No.1, his reading of the opening Allegro is imbued with youthful vigor and a sense of adventure, underlining the work’s inherent optimism. The exposition repeat adds a necessary breadth, allowing the listener to revel in the rich harmonic language that Beethoven employs. In stark contrast, the G minor Sonata, Op.5 No.2, reveals a more introspective side of Casals, particularly in the Adagio sostenuto, where the cello line flows with a poignant lyricism that is both haunting and compelling. Here, Mieczyslaw Horszowski’s piano accompaniments provide a delicate yet firm grounding, illustrating a collaborative dynamic that is essential for navigating the intricate interplay of these works.
The Brahms Sonata No.2, Op.99, stands out as a pinnacle of this collection. The opening movement’s heroic character is articulated with an impressive swagger that is both confident and commanding. Casals’ interpretation of the Allegro passionato truly exploits Brahms’ harmonic daring, with a thrilling intensity that showcases the duo’s synergy. Their robust engagement with the work’s thematic material and rhythmic complexity brings a fresh vitality to what is often considered one of the great cello recordings. The recording captures this balance beautifully, with the cello’s voice emerging distinctly against the piano, a testament to the thoughtful engineering by Mark Obert-Thorn, which minimizes surface noise while favoring the cello’s full-bodied sound.
Comparatively, the earlier recording of the A major Sonata, Op.69, reveals a different sensibility, with Otto Schulhof at the piano. The phrasing is notably less incisive, leaning towards a more lyrical interpretation, which, while less dynamic than the later performances with Horszowski, offers an alternative view that is equally rewarding. The Minuet in G, often seen as a charming encore piece, is executed with a delightful lightness that encapsulates the playful spirit of the work, providing a fitting conclusion to this collection.
This reissue not only preserves the essence of Casals’ artistry but also enriches our understanding of these monumental works. The historical context of the recordings, paired with the exceptional interpretative depth presented by Casals and his collaborators, elevates this release beyond mere nostalgia. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of great music-making, making it an indispensable addition for both aficionados and newcomers alike. The technical excellence, combined with the emotional richness of the performances, ensures that these recordings resonate with authenticity and passion.
