Cello Concerto In A Minor, Op.129
Composed By – Robert Schumann
Conductor – Hans Graf
Orchestra – London Symphony Orchestra
I. Nicht Zu Schnell 12:14
II. Langsam 4:13
III. Sehr Lebhaft 8:04
3 Romances, Op.22
Arranged By – Hiroaki Yamaguchi (3)
Composed By – Clara Schumann
Piano – Emmanuel Strosser
No.1, Andante Molto 3:30
No.2, Allegretto 3:17
No.3, Leidenschaftlich Schnell 4:08
Clarinet Trio In A Minor, Op.114
Clarinet – Han Kim
Composed By – Johannes Brahms
Piano – Emmanuel Strosser
I. Allegro 8:13
II. Adagio 8:02
III. Andantino Grazioso 4:27
IV. Allegro
Interwoven Inspirations
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A Musical Tribute
In the luminous tapestry of 19th-century music, the interplay of creative minds often gave rise to profound and enduring masterpieces. Such is the case with the repertoire featured on this album, where the intertwined lives and artistic exchanges of Robert Schumann, Clara Schumann, and Johannes Brahms form the backdrop for a captivating musical journey.
At the heart of this collection lies Robert Schumann’s Cello Concerto, a work of unparalleled beauty and depth. Written during a period of intense artistic collaboration between Robert and Clara, this concerto reflects not only Robert’s great creativity as a composer but also Clara’s unwavering support and artistic insight. Their shared devotion to the art of music, coupled with their profound emotional bond, imbues this concerto with a rare sense of intimacy and expression.
Complementing Robert’s concerto are Clara Schumann’s Three Romances, originally written for violin and piano but transcribed here for cello by my friend Yamaguchi Hiroaki. Clara’s profound musicality and sensitivity shine through in these lyrical pieces, offering a glimpse into her unique perspective as both a composer and a muse. Her close relationship with Robert and her admiration for Brahms undoubtedly influenced her compositions, resulting in works that are both tender and captivating, in the unmistakable style of both giants of the Romantic era.
Completing this trio of masterpieces is Brahms’ Clarinet Trio, a testament to the enduring friendship and artistic camaraderie between the Schumanns and Brahms. Brahms’ deep reverence for Robert and Clara is palpable in every movement of this work, which brims with melodic richness and harmonic innovation. Through their mutual admiration and creative exchanges, these great composers forged a bond that transcended mere friendship, inspiring one another to new heights of musical expression.
Dedicated to my teacher and lifelong mentor, the great János Starker, this album is a testament to the transformative power of artistic collaboration and the enduring legacy of those who came before us. Through the music of Robert Schumann, Clara Schumann, and Johannes Brahms, we bear witness to the timeless beauty of human connection and the profound influence of kindred spirits in the creative process.