Isserlis plays Shostakovich

Shostakovich’s First Cello Concerto has assumed a place as one of the most popular and often-performed works for cello. With its rousing themes and emotional melodies, at times witty, at other times passionate, and virtuosic writing for the soloist, it is a most amazing accomplishment from its march-like opening to furious conclusion. His final symphony, No.104 was one of twelve Haydn composed for a series of London concerts in 1795.

Showing a lightness of touch and classical grace at its finest, it is the crowning work of a master. Prokofiev wrote the Sinfonietta at a time when he was turning away from the full orchestral sound and becoming increasingly interested in a pared-down Mozartian scale. Full of sudden key shifts and capricious energy it is a delightful study of orchestral colour and typical inspired touches.