Eugène d'Albert Cello Concerto in C major, Op. 20

#d'Albert #cello #romanticism #concert #rare_music
cellist Alban Gerhart
In the world of classical music, there are names that shine with unfailing power, and shadows that conceal true treasures. Among the latter, the Cello Concerto in C major, Op. 20, by Eugène d'Albert, a composer whose fame as a virtuoso pianist has unfairly overshadowed his compositional talent, can rightfully be considered.

Eugène d'Albert (1864-1932), a student of Franz Liszt himself, was one of the most prominent figures in European musical life at the turn of the 20th century. However, he is remembered primarily as a brilliant performer, while his extensive compositional legacy, including numerous operas and instrumental works, long remained in oblivion.

The Cello Concerto, composed in 1899, is a typical example of late Romanticism. It is a monumental single-movement work, although within it one can easily recognize the traditional three movements (fast – slow – fast), performed without a break. This approach demonstrates the composer's desire for integrity and dramatic continuity, characteristic of the era after Liszt and Wagner.

The music of the concerto captivates with its emotional intensity and virtuosic scope. The solo cello is not simply the main voice, but a true dramatic hero. Its role covers the entire spectrum of emotions: from the lyrical, almost song-like themes in the middle movement to the powerful, passionate, and technically challenging passages in the outer sections. The orchestra acts as an equal partner, creating a rich, multifaceted background – sometimes tender and transparent, sometimes powerful and dramatic.

Despite all its merits, the concerto was long a rarity on concert bills. Its rebirth is largely due to the recording by the outstanding cellist Alban Gerhart, whose soulful and brilliant performance opened this music to a wider audience.

D'Albert's Cello Concerto is a wonderful opportunity to discover a forgotten gem. This work combines romantic melody with virtuosic brilliance, and depth of feeling with impeccable compositional technique, worthy of a student of the great Liszt.

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