Immerse yourself in the captivating world of George Enescu with his album "Enescu: Sonatas for Cello and Piano / Nocturne and Saltarello." This exquisite collection, released on November 30, 2015, under the Etcetera label, showcases Enescu's mastery of the cello and piano duo. The album spans a total of 1 hour and 9 minutes, featuring a total of 10 tracks that include two complete sonatas and a pair of contrasting pieces, the Nocturne and Saltarello.
Enescu, born on August 19, 1881, was a Romanian composer whose works span various genres, including Baroque Music, Concerto, and Romanticism. His compositions for cello and piano are particularly notable, and this album highlights two of his most significant works: the Sonata No. 1 in F minor, Op. 26, composed in 1898, and the Sonata No. 2 in C major, Op. 26, completed in 1935. These sonatas are performed with exquisite skill by Viviane Spanoghe on cello and Andre de Groote on piano, capturing the essence of Enescu's musical genius.
The album opens with the Sonata No. 2, featuring four movements that range from the gentle "Allegro moderato ed amabile" to the lively "Final à la roumaine: allegro sciolto." The Nocturne & Saltarello for Cello and Piano follows, with its contrasting moods of "Andante" and "Vivace." The Sonata No. 1 concludes the album, offering a journey through its four movements, from the "Allegro molto moderato" to the "Presto."
This album is a testament to Enescu's enduring legacy and his ability to create timeless pieces that resonate with listeners. Whether you are a long-time fan of Enescu's work or a newcomer to his music, this collection offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.