Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Camille Saint-Saëns with the album "Saint-Saëns: Cello Sonatas Nos. 1 & 2 etc." Released on October 1, 1999, under the Hyperion label, this classical masterpiece spans a duration of 1 hour and 3 minutes, offering a rich and diverse listening experience. The album features the renowned compositions of Saint-Saëns, a French composer celebrated for his orchestral works, including the iconic "The Carnival of the Animals."
This collection showcases two of Saint-Saëns' most celebrated cello sonatas: the Cello Sonata No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 32, and the Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123. Each sonata is meticulously performed, revealing the depth and complexity of Saint-Saëns' musical genius. The album also includes the beloved "Le cygne" (The Swan) from "The Carnival of the Animals," arranged by Leopold Godowsky, adding a touch of elegance and familiarity to the collection.
The performances are brought to life by the talented duo of Mats Lidström on cello and Bengt Forsberg on piano. Their collaboration breathes new life into these timeless pieces, highlighting the intricate interplay between the cello and piano. The album's tracklist is a journey through various moods and tempos, from the lively "Allegro" to the serene "Andante tranquillo sostenuto," and the playful variations of the "Scherzo con variazioni."
Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a captivating exploration of Saint-Saëns' musical legacy. The blend of technical brilliance and emotional depth makes it a standout addition to any classical music collection.
Cello Sonata No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 32: I. AllegroCamille Saint-Saëns, Bengt Forsberg, Mats Lidström
Cello Sonata No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 32: II. Andante tranquillo sostenutoCamille Saint-Saëns, Bengt Forsberg, Mats Lidström
Cello Sonata No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 32: III. Allegro moderatoCamille Saint-Saëns, Bengt Forsberg, Mats Lidström
Le carnaval des animaux, R. 125: XIII. Le cygneCamille Saint-Saëns, Bengt Forsberg, Mats Lidström
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: I. Maestoso, largamenteCamille Saint-Saëns, Bengt Forsberg, Mats Lidström
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: II. Scherzo con variazioni. a. Allegro animatoCamille Saint-Saëns, Mats Lidström, Bengt Forsberg
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: II. Scherzo con variazioni: b. Var. 1. Poco meno allegroCamille Saint-Saëns, Mats Lidström, Bengt Forsberg
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: II. Scherzo con variazioni: c. Var. 2Camille Saint-Saëns, Mats Lidström, Bengt Forsberg
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: II. Scherzo con variazioni: d. Var. 3. Tranquille, sans lenteurCamille Saint-Saëns, Mats Lidström, Bengt Forsberg
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: II. Scherzo con variazioni: e. Var. 4. Molto allegroCamille Saint-Saëns, Mats Lidström, Bengt Forsberg
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: II. Scherzo con variazioni: f. Var. 5. Sempre allegroCamille Saint-Saëns, Bengt Forsberg, Mats Lidström
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: II. Scherzo con variazioni: g. Var. 6. Molto moderato e marcatoCamille Saint-Saëns, Bengt Forsberg, Mats Lidström
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: II. Scherzo con variazioni: h. Var. 7. Poco allegretto, tranquilloCamille Saint-Saëns, Mats Lidström, Bengt Forsberg
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: II. Scherzo con variazioni: i. Var. 8. PrestoCamille Saint-Saëns, Bengt Forsberg, Mats Lidström
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: III. Romanza. Poco adagioCamille Saint-Saëns, Mats Lidström, Bengt Forsberg
Cello Sonata No. 2 in F Major, Op. 123: IV. Allegro non troppo, graziosoCamille Saint-Saëns, Bengt Forsberg, Mats Lidström
Le carnaval des animaux, R. 125: XIII. Le cygne (Arr. Godowsky)Camille Saint-Saëns, Mats Lidström, Bengt Forsberg