Special offer. Shostakovich: Cello Concertos
Alexander Kniazev (cello), Yokohama Sinfonietta, Kazuki Yamada
The microphone placement works better in the Concerto No. 2 where Kniazev's tone is more varied than in the First. Here is a performance that holds the attention more consistently than most,...
Special offer. Shostakovich: Cello Concertos
Alexander Kniazev (cello), Yokohama Sinfonietta, Kazuki Yamada
Purchase product
The microphone placement works better in the Concerto No. 2 where Kniazev's tone is more varied than in the First. Here is a performance that holds the attention more consistently than most,...
About
Explore the power and depth of Shostakovich’s cello concertos with Alexander Kniazev and Kazuki Yamada. Kniazev’s profound understanding of Shostakovich’s music brings out the intricate layers of anguish, irony, and resilience that define the composer’s voice while Yamada’s energetic and insightful conducting adds a vivid dimension to the orchestral textures. Together, they deliver a recording that captures the dark intensity and emotional richness of Shostakovich’s music, offering a compelling listening experience.
Contents and tracklist
Work length30:44
This work is only available as an album download.
- Alexander Kniazev
- Yokohama Sinfonietta
- Kazuki Yamada
II. Moderato
Track length12:24
This track is only available as an album download.
Work length40:04
This work is only available as an album download.
- Alexander Kniazev
- Yokohama Sinfonietta
- Kazuki Yamada
I. Largo
Track length16:52
This track is only available as an album download.
III. Allegro con moto
Track length18:24
This track is only available as an album download.
Awards and reviews
March 2026
The microphone placement works better in the Concerto No. 2 where Kniazev's tone is more varied than in the First. Here is a performance that holds the attention more consistently than most, and the work feels less puzzling, in the harsher moments less rebarbative. Is that a good thing, though?
February 2026
Kniazev finds great intensity in the upper register and an exciting gruffness below but it is his way with desolation (the icy chill of his harmonics against celesta in the slow movement) and the transition from contemplation to fierce defiance in the big cadenza that really hits home.
