Works for Cello & Piano

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Much like Beethoven, Felix Mendelssohn composed works for the cello throughout his career, regrettably short as it was. Before the composer was even 20, he had completed his Op. 17 Variations concertantes for cello and piano, his first published work for the combination that already shows mastery and understanding of the cello's technical and musical abilities. Almost a decade later, he returned once again to write the First Cello Sonata, and finally the Second Sonata in 1843, only three years before his death. On a smaller scale, Mendelssohn's final work for cello with the Op. 109 Song Without Words from 1845. In all cases, Mendelssohn combines his trademark strengths of nimble effervescence and soulful, memorable melodies. In his second recording of these works, cellist Simca Heled takes a more tempered, mature approach to Mendelssohn's music while maintaining the verve and excitement that is responsible for keeping them as such a valuable part of the repertoire. Heled's technique is as dexterous and crisp as the score itself; pianist Simone Dinnerstein's touch is equally light and energized, making for a duo that works well as a team and produces animated music that does not run away. While both technique and interpretation are to be admired on this disc, recorded sound quality falls a bit short. Heled's tone is somewhat one-dimensional and nasal as if the microphone were placed far too close to the instrument. Dinnerstein's sound is slightly more developed and rounded, but listeners may find Heled's close, present sound undesirable.
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