Considered one of the greatest cellists of the 20th century, Mstislav Rostropovich (1927-2007) was celebrated, in addition to his interpretations and technique, for both inspiring and commissioning new works, which enlarged the cello repertoire more than any cellist before or since. This release presents one of the best recordings he made in 1953 in the old Soviet Union, originally issued on the Melodia label (78429 ZK), and showcasing his interpretations of the wonderful cello concerto by Robert Schumann, plus Camille Saint-Saëns’ first cello concerto. This release has bonus bonus tracks - short pieces by Glazunov, Popper, Chopin and, again, Schumann, recorded by Rostropovich the following year.