The ancient origins of the modern cello came from India and the Far East, arriving in Europe through Arab trade routes. By the time of the instrument’s advanced construction in the mid-18th century, the greater volume of sound and versatility that could be achieved contributed to its development both as a solo and an ensemble instrument. People often cite the cello as their favorite string instrument on account of its similarity to the human voice, the warmth of tone, the dramatic quality of the upper register and the instrument’s directness of communication. All of these unique qualities are represented by the works in this essential collection.

Artists

Csaba Onczay (cello), Gabriel Schwabe (cello), Keith Hurvey (cello), Raphael Wallfisch (cello), Maria Kliegel (cello), Kristin Merscher (piano), Nina Tichman (piano), Nicholas Rimmer (piano), Ina-Esther Joost Ben-Sasson (cello), Allan Sternfield (piano), Michael Grebanier (cello), Janet Guggenheim (piano), Franz Bartolomey (cello), Madoka Inui (piano), Alexander Rudin (cello), Raimund Havenith (piano), Tatjana Vassiljeva (cello), Yumiko Urabe (piano), Julian Lloyd Webber (cello), Malmö Symphony Orchestra, City of London Sinfonia, Kölner Kammerorchester, Moscow Philharmonic Orchestra, English Chamber Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Marc Soustrot, Nicholas Kraemer, Helmut Müller-Brühl, Igor Golovschin, Michael Halász