Both composers on this album, Johann Benjamin Gross and Julius Rietz, were cellists themselves, bringing a special understanding of the instrument to their cello concertos.
Composition History
The works on this recording, composed in the 1830s, aim to bridge the historical gap between Beethoven's Triple Concerto and Robert Schumann's Cello Concerto in A minor.
Composer's Artistic Vision
The rise of the violoncello as a popular instrument in the 19th century was due to the Romantic era's preference for nuanced, lyrical colors and its ability to convey melancholic melodies.
Historical Context
The violoncello gained popularity in pre-revolutionary France and London society, leading to numerous compositions for the instrument by Italian composers.
Historical Context
The violoncello was introduced to the Prussian court in Berlin by the brothers Jean-Pierre and Jean-Louis Duport, where even King Frederick William II played it.
Recording & Production
This recording features the only one of Gross's four cello concertos preserved in manuscript form, which was scored specifically for this album.
Historical Context
The violoncello, the largest member of the violin family, gradually transitioned from an accompanying instrument to a solo instrument during the 18th century.
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