Performer: Pierre Fournier
Orchestra: Berliner Philharmoniker
Conductor: George Szell, Alfred Wallenstein
Audio CD
Number of Discs: 1
Format: FLAC (tracks)
Label: Deutsche Grammophon
Release: 2017
Size: 2.47 GB
Recovery: +3%
Scan: yes
Antonín Dvořák: Cello Concerto
01. Cello Concerto In B Minor, Op.104, B.191 : 1. Allegro
02. Cello Concerto In B Minor, Op.104, B.191 : 2. Adagio ma non troppo
03. Cello Concerto In B Minor, Op.104, B.191 : 3. Finale (Allegro moderato)
Edward Elgar: Cello Concerto
04. Cello Concerto in E minor, Op.85 : 1. Adagio – Moderato
05. Cello Concerto in E minor, Op.85 : 2. Lento – Allegro molto
06. Cello Concerto in E minor, Op.85 : 3. Adagio
07. Cello Concerto in E minor, Op.85 : 4. Allegro
There are quite a few amazing performances out there regarding the Dvorak concerto. However, my first experience with Fournier`s really captivated me. It ranks right up there with DuPre/Chicago on EMI (mid 1970`s) and Casals/Czech on EMI (late 1930`s).
The first movement is brilliant, with a beautifully mournful trumpet solo about two minutes in. Very nice sound in this Galleria mid-priced cd, with an attractive cover as well. This performance easily ranks in the top five concerning the Dvorak piece.
Although not as impressive as the Dvorak, Fournier does a commendable job with the Elgar. It is not my first choice – yes, yes, I know all about the famous DuPre/Barbirolli tandem- but this recording does offer a generous coupling without giving up any quality.