Antonio Meneses, a celebrated cellist renowned for his technical prowess and expressive depth, presents a captivating album featuring works by two distinguished composers, Gaspar Cassadó and Zoltán Kodály. Released on November 6, 2015, under AVIE Records, this album offers a rich and immersive exploration of solo and duo performances that showcase Meneses' virtuosity and artistry.
The album opens with Cassadó's Suite for Solo Cello, a three-movement work that blends Spanish folk influences with classical elegance. Meneses' rendition of the Prelude-Fantasia, Sardana – Danza, and Intermezzo e danza finale is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant, highlighting the composer's unique fusion of styles.
The second half of the album is dedicated to Kodály's works, including the Sonata for Solo Cello, Op. 8, and the Duo for Violin and Cello, Op. 7. Meneses' performance of the sonata is marked by its dynamic range and emotional depth, with each movement—Allegro maestoso ma appassionato, Adagio (con grand' espressione) – Con moto, and Allegro molto vivace—revealing the composer's intricate craftsmanship. The duo performances, featuring violinist Tamsin Waley-Cohen, are equally compelling, showcasing the duo's impeccable synchronicity and expressive nuance.
With a total duration of 1 hour and 13 minutes, this album is a testament to Meneses' dedication to his craft and his ability to bring out the best in these timeless compositions. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Vinylscout