Antonín Kraft, Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach: Cello Concertos

Featuring

Jean-Guihen Queyras
Riccardo Minasi
Ensemble Resonanz
Anton Kraft
Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach

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Compositional Technique

In his cello concertos, C.P.E. Bach developed a style where the orchestra and solo instrument engage in an equal dialogue, moving beyond mere virtuosity.

Composer Biography

Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach, second son of the great Thomaskantor (J.S. Bach), was considered the foremost musical figure of his era, known for his 'sensitive' and 'original' style.

Historical Context

The two concertos on this album, composed in 1751 and 1804, span the 'Age of Enlightenment and Revolution,' a period of complete social transformation in Europe.

Composition History

C.P.E. Bach's cello concertos were possibly intended for a 'friend in Cádiz,' a Spanish cellist who found them 'too difficult,' suggesting a lively interest in Central European music in Cádiz.

Composer Biography

Antonín Kraft, a brilliant cellist, worked under Joseph Haydn as principal cellist in Prince Esterházy's court orchestra and took composition lessons from Haydn.

Composition History

Antonín Kraft's exceptional virtuosity inspired composers like Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven, who wrote works or specific parts for him, including Haydn's Cello Concerto in D major and the cello part in Beethoven's Triple Concerto.

Compositional Technique

Antonín Kraft's Cello Concerto in C major features an extraordinarily demanding solo part with expressive cantilenas, sweeping runs, arpeggios, and bariolage effects, showcasing his flawless technique.