Schubert: Sonate Arpeggione - Grieg: Sonate pour violoncelle et piano, Op. 36

Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of classical chamber music with Paul Tortelier's 1959 masterpiece, "Schubert: Sonate Arpeggione - Grieg: Sonate pour violoncelle et piano, Op. 36." This exquisite album, released under the BNF Collection label, showcases Tortelier's virtuosity and deep connection with the compositions of Schubert and Grieg.

The album opens with Franz Schubert's "Sonate Arpeggione in A Minor, D. 821," a work originally composed for the arpeggione, a now-rare string instrument. Tortelier's rendition, adapted for the cello, is a testament to his ability to bring out the rich, melancholic beauty of Schubert's music. The three movements—Allegro moderato, Adagio, and Allegretto—flow seamlessly, each revealing Tortelier's nuanced interpretation and technical brilliance.

The second half of the album features Edvard Grieg's "Sonate pour violoncelle et piano in A Minor, Op. 36." This sonata, a staple in the cello repertoire, is brought to life with Tortelier's signature warmth and precision. The three movements—Allegro agitato, Andante molto tranquillo, and Allegro molto e marcato—exhibit a range of emotions, from restless agitation to serene tranquility, culminating in a powerful and marked finale.

With a total duration of 50 minutes, this album is a captivating journey through the depths of Schubert and Grieg's compositions, as interpreted by one of the most celebrated cellists of the 20th century. Paul Tortelier's masterful playing and profound musical insight make this a recording that stands the test of time, offering both connoisseurs and newcomers to classical music a rich and rewarding listening experience.