Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Henri Vieuxtemps' cello concertos with Josep Caballé-Domenech's exquisite interpretation, released on Hyperion in 2015. This album, titled "Vieuxtemps: Cello Concertos Nos. 1 & 2 etc.", is a testament to the virtuosity and expressive depth of both the composer and the performer. Spanning a duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes, the album features two complete cello concertos, along with two additional works: the Méditation in B Minor "Poème", Op. 16, and the Sérénade in A Major, Op. 22.
Caballé-Domenech's masterful playing is accompanied by the Royal Flemish Philharmonic, conducted by Alban Gerhardt, delivering a performance that is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. The album is part of Hyperion's "Romantic Cello Concerto" series, which highlights the rich heritage of cello concertos from the Romantic era.
The first concerto, in A Minor, Op. 46, opens with an Allegro moderato that sets the stage for a journey through a range of emotions, from the introspective Andante to the lively Allegro. The second concerto, in B Minor, Op. 50, follows a similar structure, with its Adagio offering a moment of profound reflection before culminating in an Allegretto con moto.
Complementing the concertos are the Méditation and Sérénade, both showcasing Vieuxtemps' lyrical genius and Caballé-Domenech's ability to bring out the nuances of these beautiful pieces. Whether you're a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience.