Cello: time for a break

Under the baton of the young and brilliant German-Italian conductor Nicolò Umberto Foron, the Orchestre de chambre de Nouvelle-Aquitaine puts the cello in the spotlight, magnified here by a choice ambassador of the instrument, Anne Gastinel.

Noted for his energetic conducting, Nicolò Umberto Foron is currently Assistant Conductor of the Ensemble Intercontemporain in Paris and the London Symphony Orchestra. Anne Gastinel is undoubtedly the leading figure of the French school of cello. His rigorous and lilting playing now opens the doors of the greatest concert halls and his recordings are crowned with the highest distinctions, in addition to his three Victoires de la musique.

The first work on the program, the Cello Concerto in A minor, op. 129 is the only cello concerto that Robert Schumann wrote in 1850. The work mixes romantic expressiveness and lyricism. Published in 1860, after the composer's death, this concerto dedicated to the violinist Joseph Joachim is often described as deeply personal.

Born in 1944, Alain Gaussin is a contemporary French composer, famous for his works that explore the notions of time and space. His music is often described as highly expressive, blending modern harmony with emotional sensitivity. Instants d'éternité is a contemplative piece, creating a sense of suspension of time.

The Symphony No. 1 in C major, op. 21 by Ludwig van Beethoven is a pivotal work in the history of music, heralding Romanticism. Created in 1800, it gives a glimpse of the young composer's incipient subversion in the respected classicism. In this colourful orchestration in four movements, the work summons a more adventurous rhythmic harmony and energy, marking the beginning of the cycle of his nine symphonies.

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