Inspiration

Album Description

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.

January 26, 2018

℗ 2018 Decca Music Group Limited

About Sheku Kanneh-Mason

Sheku Kanneh-Mason is a trailblazing British cellist who has captivated audiences worldwide with his extraordinary talent and charismatic stage presence. At just 25, he has already made a significant mark on the classical music scene, winning the prestigious BBC Young Musician award in 2016 and becoming the first black musician to claim the title. Kanneh-Mason's breakthrough moment came when he performed at the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018, sharing the stage with the Kingdom Choir and the traditional choir of St. George's Chapel.

Born into a musical family, Kanneh-Mason is one of seven siblings, all of whom are accomplished classical musicians. His journey began with a cello, and he has since performed in some of the world's most renowned venues, from intimate school halls to underground clubs and prestigious concert stages. Kanneh-Mason's mission is to make music accessible to all, inspiring countless young people to pick up an instrument and follow in his footsteps.

His discography includes several critically acclaimed albums, with his 2020 release "Elgar" reaching an impressive No. 8 in the Official UK Album Chart, making him the first cellist to achieve this feat. Kanneh-Mason's repertoire spans a wide range of classical works, and his performances are known for their emotional depth and technical brilliance. With a growing global following, Sheku Kanneh-Mason continues to push boundaries and redefine what it means to be a classical musician in the 21st century.