Credits:

Nicolas Altstaedt

Description:

Salonens Cello Concerto, Performed by the Rapidly Rising Star AltschedtSalonens Cello Concerto, written for Yo-Yo Ma and premiered in Chicago in 2017 with him as soloist, was performed in the composers native Finland for the first time, with Salonen himself conducting and having invited Altstedt to perform. The piece opens with a mysterious introduction where the cellos sound emerges from the opening sounds evoking chaos; a dialogue between the cello and the rhythmic mantras of the conga and bongos; and effects resembling birdsong created by looping the cellos motifs through electronics. While employing modern techniques, including the 12-tone system, the piece also possesses an ethnic flavor, making it a thoroughly engaging listen. Altschedts skill in shaping this work with his unique sensibility is truly remarkable. The B-side features Ravels Sonata, performed in collaboration with the F