Description

Yo-Yo Ma and Emanuel Ax: Brahms's Complete Sonatas for Cello and Piano CD

Product Details

UPC: 5099704819129
Product Type: Music CD
Brand: Sony Classical
MPN (Catalog Number): SK 48191
Solo Artists: Yo-Yo Ma (Cello), Emanuel Ax (Piano)
Composer: Johannes Brahms (1833–1897)
Genre: Classical
Style: Romantic, Chamber Music, Sonata
Release Year: 1992 (Copyright Year)
Recording Type: Digital Recording (DDD)

Overview

This definitive Sony Classical recording brings together two titans of contemporary chamber music, cellist Yo-Yo Ma and pianist Emanuel Ax, in a collaboration that explores the profound emotional and structural landscape of Johannes Brahms's complete sonatas for cello and piano. The album features the three essential works: the early, dark, and turbulent Sonata for Cello and Piano in E minor, Op. 38; the lyrical and spacious Sonata for Cello and Piano in F major, Op. 99; and the intensely dramatic Sonata for Violin (Cello) and Piano in D major, Op. 108 (performed here in its cello transcription).

Recorded with high definition 20-bit technology, this album captures the intimate dialogue and rich textures that define the musical partnership between Ma and Ax. Their interpretations are renowned for their passion, insight, and impeccable balance, making this a cornerstone recording for any Romantic chamber music collection.

Product Features

Format: Audio CD, Digital Recording (DDD)
Soloists: Yo-Yo Ma (Cello), Emanuel Ax (Piano)
Total Runtime: 75 minutes 18 seconds
Recording Technology: Recorded using 20-bit technology for "high definition sound."
Recording Location: Jordan Hall at New England Conservatory, Boston, Massachusetts.
Recording Date: June 17, 1991.
Packaging: Standard Jewel Case.

Interesting Facts

A Signature Partnership: Yo-Yo Ma and Emanuel Ax have one of the longest and most celebrated partnerships in chamber music history, spanning decades. Their mutual understanding and commitment to the deep structural integrity of the music make them ideal interpreters of Brahms's dense, conversational sonatas.
The E minor Sonata, Op. 38: This was the first of Brahms's two published cello sonatas, although he considered writing a third. It is noted for its powerful, melancholy character and its debt to Bach in the use of complex counterpoint, particularly in the finale.
The D major Sonata, Op. 108: Brahms originally wrote the D major Sonata for Violin and Piano. However, because its character and range are so well-suited to the cello, it is frequently and successfully performed in transcription by cellists, completing the set of three sonatas often grouped together.
High Definition Sound: The use of 20-bit technology in this 1991 recording was considered cutting-edge at the time, providing a wide dynamic range and subtle detail that enhances the intimacy of the chamber setting.

Track Listing JOHANNES BRAHMS (1833–1897)

Sonata for Cello and Piano in E minor, Op. 38