Experience the breathtaking debut of Sheku Kanneh-Mason, a young cellist who has already made waves in the classical music world. "Inspiration," released in 2018, is a testament to Kanneh-Mason's extraordinary talent and versatility, featuring a diverse range of pieces that showcase his mastery of the cello.
The album opens with a beautiful arrangement of "Evening of Roses," setting the tone for a journey through both classical staples and contemporary pieces. Kanneh-Mason's rendition of Saint-Saëns' "The Swan" is a highlight, showcasing his delicate touch and expressive playing. The album also includes a live performance of Shostakovich's Cello Concerto No. 1, the piece that launched Kanneh-Mason to fame as the first black winner of the BBC Young Musician competition.
In addition to these classical works, Kanneh-Mason demonstrates his ability to connect with modern audiences through arrangements of popular songs like "No Woman, No Cry" and "Hallelujah." The album also features original compositions, such as "Sardana," which highlight Kanneh-Mason's unique voice as a composer.
Recorded in Birmingham and Kanneh-Mason's hometown of Nottingham, "Inspiration" captures the energy and excitement of live performances conducted by the talented Gražinytė-Tyla. The album's diverse tracklist and Kanneh-Mason's virtuoso playing make it a standout debut in the classical music world. Whether you're a seasoned classical music fan or new to the genre, "Inspiration" is sure to captivate and inspire.
Evening of Roses (Arr. Hodge for Cello, Clarinet and Ensemble)Josef Hadar, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Oliver Janes, CBSO Cellos
Le carnaval des animaux, R. 125: XIII. The Swan (Arr. Hodge for Cello, Harp and Ensemble)Camille Saint-Saëns, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Katherine Thomas, CBSO Cellos
Song of the Birds (Arr. Casals)Anonymous, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, CBSO Cellos
The Gadfly Suite, Op. 97a: X. Nocturne - LiveDmitri Shostakovich, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla
Cello Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, Op. 107: I. Allegretto - LiveDmitri Shostakovich, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla
Cello Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, Op. 107: II. Moderato - LiveDmitri Shostakovich, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla
Cello Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, Op. 107: III. Cadenza - LiveDmitri Shostakovich, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla
Cello Concerto No. 1 in E-Flat Major, Op. 107: IV. Allegro con moto - LiveDmitri Shostakovich, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla
Harmonies des bois, Op. 76: II. Jacqueline’s Tears (Arr. Cello and Orchestra) - LiveJacques Offenbach, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, City Of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, Mirga Gražinytė-Tyla
SardanaPablo Casals, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Guy Johnston, CBSO Cellos
No Woman, No Cry (Arr. Kanneh-Mason)Bob Marley & The Wailers, Sheku Kanneh-Mason
Hallelujah (Arr. Hodgefor Cello and Strings)Leonard Cohen, Sheku Kanneh-Mason, Didier Osindero, Alinka Rowe, Yong Jun Lee