Outstanding Mendelssohn Recital

These outstanding performances get right to the heart of Mendelssohn.

Composer: Mendelssohn

Repertoire: Cello Sonatas Nos 1 and 2, Variations Concertantes, Song without Words
Artists: Paul Watkins (vlc), Huw Watkins (pf)
Rating: 5/5

Genre: Chamber

Label: Chandos Chan10701



The Music: Mendelssohn’s cello sonatas have really come into their own in recent years, and little wonder with their rare combination of glowing lyricism and infectious brilliance.
 

The Performances: The Watkins brothers play Mendelssohn’s life-enhancing Second Cello Sonata with an infectious vitality and lyrical radiance that is unforgettable. Throughout this wonderful recital they not only embrace his uncontainable forward momentum with alacrity, but also shape and colour his more reflective writing with an affectionate warmth that fully captures the music’s sense of child-like wonder. The Variations concertantes receives a desert island performance that brims over with infectious bonhomie.


The Verdict: Enhanced by state-of-the-art engineering, this outstanding recital captures the essence of Mendelssohn’s genius with compelling authority and insight.
 

Want More? Try the Watkins’ outstanding companion disc of Martinů sonatas (Chandos, CHAN 10602).