Die 12 Cellisten der Berliner Philharmoniker present a captivating journey through a diverse range of musical styles and eras with their album 'Round Midnight. Released on July 1, 2002, under Warner Classics, this classical album spans a concise yet engaging 59 minutes, showcasing the ensemble's virtuosity and versatility.
The album opens with the lively "Caravan" and features a unique arrangement of Bernstein's "America" from West Side Story, expertly adapted for a cello ensemble by Kühn. The ensemble delves into spirituals with "Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen" and "Deep River," demonstrating their ability to convey deep emotion and soulfulness. Gershwin's influence is prominent, with arrangements of "Clap Yo' Hands" and "3 Preludes: No. 2, Andante con moto 'Blue Lullaby'" showcasing the group's dynamic range and technical prowess.
The album also includes iconic themes like "The Pink Panther" and "Moonlight Serenade," as well as contemporary pieces such as "Cardenas: The Flower is a Key (A Rap for Mozart)" and "Amerika 2002, In Memoriam." The ensemble's rendition of "Ragtime" and "Spain" adds a touch of rhythmic complexity, while their interpretation of " 'Round Midnight" provides a fitting conclusion to this eclectic collection.
Die 12 Cellisten der Berliner Philharmoniker's 'Round Midnight is a testament to the ensemble's ability to breathe new life into familiar melodies and introduce lesser-known gems, making it a compelling addition to any classical music lover's collection.
Vinylscout