NORDIC BREATHS

Solemn chords and a spiritual atmosphere set the tone in Finnish composer Einojuhani Rautavaara’s First Sonata for Cello and Piano (1972). The work begins with restraint and depth, before gradually unfolding into broader, more impassioned waves.

Anders Hillborg is one of Sweden’s most celebrated composers and has worked with outstanding performers including Renée Fleming, Pekka Kuusisto, Alexandre Kantorow, and Martin Fröst. His Duo, however, has had a particularly unlucky performance history. At its planned Carnegie Hall premiere, the pianist withdrew. On a second occasion, the cellist failed to appear. Four years later, a third attempt was thwarted when the pianist once again did not show up. So we are counting on Pierre Fontenelle and Ninon Hannecart-Ségal to make it to the stage and to carry us towards vast, virtuosic horizons.

And speaking of new horizons, the programme also features the premiere of a brand-new Sonata for Cello and Piano by Estonian composer Tõnu Kõrvits. Widely acclaimed for the depth and lyricism of his music, Kõrvits brings a distinctively poetic voice to the repertoire.