Mac'nClassicalCheese - Nov 12, 2024

Today's show focuses on Dvorǎk's cello concerto, performed by the zinger of a player János Starker. I find Starker to be a very open player in that he attacks the music, but does so with a staggering emotional depth that leaves me in awe. Ironically, early in his career Dvorǎk said he would never write a cello concerto. In his opinion, the instrument didn't have the musical 'chops' to pull off a solo with an orchestral accompaniment. However, that opinion changed decades later when he heard his friend, cellist & composer Victor Herbert, perform his own cello concerto. Completely moved by the piece, Dvorǎk went on to produce what became one of the most famous & recognizable cello concertos of all time..which is what we'll hear today. We'll also hear a movement from Herbert's concerto before listening to the Dvorǎk to see exactly what inspired this masterpiece. Enjoy!