Description
Released on a DigiSleeve CD (limited edition) and on all digital platforms: 1 March 2024
Alexander Baillie cello
Nigel Yandell piano
Gabriel FAURÉ (1845–1924)
Sonata for Cello and Piano No. 1 in D minor, Op. 109 (1917)
1. I. Allegro
2. II. Andante
3. III. Finale: Allegro commodo
Gordon CROSSE (1937–2021)
Wavesongs (1983; revised performing edition 2020–22 )
(written for Alexander Baillie)
4. Introduction: Deep Sea, Stillness
5. Sea Shanty; a memory surfacing
6. Troubled waves
7. Storm
8. Cruel Sea
9. Aria
10. Tempest
11. Lost at Sea
12. Homeward Bound
13. Peace and Enlightenment
Maurice RAVEL (1875–1937)
14. Violin Sonata No. 1 in A minor, Op. Posth. (1897) (arr. for cello and piano by Christian Proske )
Recorded at Alpheton New Maltings, Alpheton, Suffolk, UK, 12-14 November 2022
Recorded, edited and produced by Oscar Torres
24bit, 192kHz high resolution recording, editing and mastering
Press Quotes
‘Baillie and Yandell are accomplished advocates’ (٭٭٭٭ BBC Music Magazine)
‘Nigel Yandell is superb in his handling of the piano, Alexander Baillie the epitome of confidence…’ (Classical Explorer)
‘The disc opens with a lovely performance of Fauré’s Cello Sonata No.1… It’s a striking work [Crosse] and a notable addition to the contemporary cello repertoire, more than justifying the description as “a modern masterpiece” in the press release.’ (The Wholenote)
‘Baillie has a new edition of the Sonate Posthume for cello, published by Kunzelmann, and he and Yandell make a terrific case for it.’ (American Record Guide)
‘This enjoyable program consists of French music from the end and beginnings of two great careers, surrounding an intriguing late-20th century work from a relatively obscure British composer… Performances and recorded sound from this University of Cambridge production are excellent.’ (Fanfare Magazine)