Tchaikovsky: Rococo Variations, Andante cantabile, Pezzo capriccioso & Nocturne - Cello Works by Glazunov, Cui, Rimsky-Korsakov

Steven Isserlis, the renowned British cellist, presents a captivating exploration of Russian romanticism with his latest album, a collection of enchanting cello works by Tchaikovsky, Glazunov, Cui, and Rimsky-Korsakov. Recorded with the Chamber Orchestra of Europe under the baton of John Eliot Gardiner, this album is a testament to Isserlis' profound musicality and his deep affinity for the romantic repertoire.

The centerpiece of the album is Tchaikovsky's Variations on a Rococo Theme, a work that showcases the composer's lyrical genius and Isserlis' technical virtuosity. The album also features Tchaikovsky's Andante cantabile, a poignant arrangement of the slow movement from his String Quartet No. 1, and the Pezzo capriccioso, a brilliant display of the composer's melodic invention and Isserlis' interpretive prowess. In addition to Tchaikovsky's works, the album includes a selection of pieces by Glazunov, Cui, and Rimsky-Korsakov, each one a gem of Russian romanticism, beautifully performed by Isserlis and the Chamber Orchestra of Europe.

With a duration of over an hour, this album offers a rich and rewarding listening experience, from the lyrical elegance of Glazunov's Mélodie to the fiery passion of Cui's Scherzando. Isserlis' playing is characterized by its warmth, expressiveness, and technical brilliance, making this album a delight for both seasoned classical music enthusiasts and those new to the genre. The album was released on February 10, 2023, by Warner Classics, and is a testament to Steven Isserlis' enduring appeal as one of the world's leading cellists.