Even today it’s seen as a totem of the cello’s ability as a solo instrument: singular, daring, dramatic. When he submitted it to his publishers, he demanded that no changes be made, not even minor ones by the intended soloist - and it served the piece well over the years. The Czech legend was staunch when it came to his cello concerto. The religious connotations of one of Bruch’s most enduring works only add more depth - and with a sensitive cellist at the helm his Kol Nidrei can reach elemental levels of connection. The changes in character are perfectly suited to Rostropovich’s elastic playing style in particular, but cellists have long since found much to sink their teeth into. A master melodist at the worst of times, here Brahms is absolutely on fire.ĭedicated to the one and only Mstislav Rostropovich, Britten’s first cello suite is a stark and demanding work that seamlessly locks together nine movements. It only takes a few minutes of listening to the opening movement of Brahms’ first attempt at a Cello sonata to know that he’s cracked it.

Vivaldi double cello concerto