Vasks, P.: Gramata Cellam / Partita / Episodi E Canto Perpetuo

Featuring

David Geringas
Kalle Randalu
Dmitry Sitkovetsky
Pēteris Vasks

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Performer Biography

Several contemporary composers, including Pēteris Vasks, Sofia Gubaidulina, and Erkki-Sven Tüür, have dedicated new compositions to the cellist David Geringas.

Recording & Production

This recording was made across three separate sessions in 2005, 2006, and 2007 at the Kammermusikstudio in Stuttgart, Germany.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Pēteris Vasks sees his work as a composer as similar to his father's role as a pastor, both aiming to express something about humanity's spiritual dimension.

Performer Biography

David Geringas, the Lithuanian cellist on this recording, won the first prize and gold medal at the prestigious Tchaikovsky competition in 1970.

Historical Context

As the son of a pastor in Soviet-occupied Latvia, Pēteris Vasks was initially denied entry to the Latvian Music Academy due to not being 'loyal to convictions'.

Composer Biography

Pēteris Vasks, born in Latvia in 1946, grew up without a television or record player; his first musical impressions were a harmonium and a church choir.

Composer's Artistic Vision

Pēteris Vasks's compositions often explore universal themes such as the fragile relationship between humans and nature, the danger of self-destruction, and the pursuit of stability and harmony.