Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Camille Saint-Saëns with this captivating album, released on October 1, 1999, under the prestigious Hyperion label. This classical masterpiece spans a total of 1 hour and 3 minutes, offering a rich and diverse listening experience.
The album showcases Saint-Saëns' Cello Sonatas Nos. 1 and 2, performed with exquisite skill and sensitivity. The first sonata, in C Minor, Op. 32, opens with a powerful Allegro, followed by a serene Andante tranquillo sostenuto, and concludes with a spirited Allegro moderato. The second sonata, in F Major, Op. 123, begins with a majestic Maestoso, largamente, and includes a delightful Scherzo con variazioni with eight intricate variations, showcasing the performer's technical prowess. The sonata concludes with a graceful Romanza and a lively Allegro non troppo, grazioso.
In addition to the sonatas, the album features two performances of "Le cygne" (The Swan) from Saint-Saëns' famous "Le carnaval des animaux," including a unique arrangement by Leopold Godowsky. This added touch provides a delightful contrast and highlights the versatility of the cello.
Saint-Saëns' compositions are known for their lyrical beauty, technical brilliance, and emotional depth. This album is a testament to his enduring legacy and offers a comprehensive exploration of his works for cello. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album promises a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
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