CPE Bach • Kraft
Kraft: Cello Concerto in C major; CPE Bach: Cello Concerto in B flat major
Jean-Guihen Queyras (cello); Ensemble Resonanz/Riccardo Minasi
Harmonia Mundi HMM902392 45:19 mins
Clip: Kraft: Cello Concerto in C Major, Op. 4 - I. Allegro aperto
As in his previous recording of the CPE Bach Cello Concertos, Jean-Guihen Queyras performs here with Riccardo Minasi and Ensemble Resonanz.
The partnership proves to be exceptional, Minasi eliciting both honed and dynamically varied timbre from the ensemble, compelling us through the opening tuttis of each of the three movements with phrase characterisation that leaps off the page and delivering an informed period performance style that ideally serves the distinctive contour of CPE Bach’s vital, bold and intoxicating melodic lines.
Queyras is equally compelling, adopting a beautifully sculpted melodic line adorned with light elegant bowing that feathers the phrase.
When thematic material returns for a second or third time, he judiciously ornaments the melodies as if improvising and setting himself new technical challenges with élan.
Often the virtuosity in CPE Bach’s Concertos is not designed to be spectacular for its own sake, but rather results from the musical invention.
Kraft on the other hand, as a renowned virtuoso cellist, positively relishes acrobatic display.
It is, in this regard, a perfect vehicle for advanced students wishing to enhance their technique without resorting to performing dull studies.
Queyras embraces the full-steam bravura and delivers the music with refinement.
Operatic singing style graces the Romanza, whereas the playful Rondo with swift dazzling string crossings is pulsating with verve. Jo Talbot