Lalo & Casals: Cello Concertos

May 2023
Lalo & Casals: Cello Concertos, presented by Sony Classica, is an enchanting exploration of the less-traveled paths within the realm of cello concertos. In a delightful departure from the familiar works of Dvořák, Elgar, Saint-Saëns, and Shostakovich, this album showcases Édouard Lalo’s renowned cello concerto and introduces audiences to an unknown masterpiece by Enrique Casals, the younger brother of the legendary Catalan cellist Pablo Casals.

Jan Vogler, the world-famous cellist, undertakes this musical journey with finesse and emotion, fulfilling the high expectations set by his previous performances. The album commemorates both the two hundredth anniversary of Édouard Lalo’s birth and the fiftieth anniversary of Pablo Casals’ passing, making it an homage to the celebrated composer and the iconic cellist.

The opening piece, Lalo’s cello concerto, unveils the genius of this Catalan composer. Vogler’s artistry masterfully portrays the seamless blending of German Romanticism and lively Spanish folk music in the concerto. The Prélude, with its bold and compelling energy, keeps the listener on the edge of their seat. Vogler skillfully maintains an undertow of foreboding, adding depth to the music’s contemplative nature. In the Intermezzo, the soloist effortlessly navigates between contemplation and dance-like passages, captivating the audience with every note. The Finale, a splendidly composed Rondo, begins with an achingly poignant threnody, later transitioning into a vibrant and colorful Spanish fiesta, brought to life by Vogler’s vivid interpretation.

Though the Lalo cello concerto has seen numerous interpretations over the years, Vogler’s performance stands tall among the greats. Lynn Harrell’s rendition on Decca remains a benchmark of passion and energy, but Vogler’s stylish and ebullient account deserves a place at the summit. His artistic prowess elevates this timeless masterpiece to new heights.

In an extraordinary twist, the album unveils the world premiere recording of Enrique Casals’ cello concerto. Written in F major with a subtitle, ‘In Romantic Serious Style,’ this hidden gem captivates from the outset. As the first movement bursts into life, Vogler takes us on a mesmerizing journey, conjuring images of the picturesque Sant Salvador coastline and the captivating Catalan landscape. The second movement, marked Adagio doloroso, showcases Vogler’s expressive prowess, rendering the lyrical writing with heartfelt emotion reminiscent of Brahms’ finest moments. The Finale: Tempo di sardana, inspired by the Catalan folk dance, brims with warmth and positivity, leaving the audience invigorated and spellbound.

Under the baton of the talented Josep Caballé-Domenech, the Moritzburg Festival Orchestra provides an impressive accompaniment. The Lukaskirche’s renowned acoustics, coupled with Sony’s first-class engineering, deliver a rich and immersive sound experience, further accentuating the brilliance of Vogler’s performance.

Vogler’s cello, the Stradivarius ex-Castelbarco, Fau (1707), lends a captivating and beautiful tone to the entire recording. Vogler’s skillful technique and innate musicality bring out the instrument’s soul, leaving the listener spellbound by his compelling performances.

Lalo & Casals: Cello Concertos is a riveting and captivating journey into the world of forgotten cello concertos. Jan Vogler’s virtuosic and passionate interpretations, supported by the brilliant Moritzburg Festival Orchestra, breathe new life into these neglected works. This album is a testament to the richness of classical music, unearthing hidden treasures that deserve a place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.