Johannes Moser - Saint-Saens: Complete Works for Cello and Orchestra (2008)

Of all of the works written by Camille Saint-Saëns for cello and orchestra, the ones most frequently heard are those undertaken primarily by students: the First Concerto and the Op. 43 Allegro Appassionato. Though many professional artists have also recorded these somewhat rudimentary pieces, it really takes something special to make them sell with listeners. On the other end of the spectrum are the Second Concerto and the D minor Suite. Far from student works, these two compositions not only demand intense technical prowess, but also keen musical insights capable of guiding listeners through their much more abstract musings. Enter cellist Johannes Moser. His performance of the First Concerto with the Stuttgart Radio Symphony Orchestra is exceptionally dynamic, employing almost unheard of vitality and brisk tempos, free use of rubato, and sense of purpose. Equally impressive is his execution of the much more difficult Second Concerto and D minor Suite, in which Moser takes listeners by the hand and guides them every step of the way through these two sometimes under-appreciated works. His technique and intonation are rock solid, and his control of timing, pacing, and dynamics yield a wholly satisfying musical experience. Moser's tone is pure and penetrating in the higher registers and deep and throaty on his G and C strings. The Stuttgart RSO provides a brilliantly effervescent backdrop, never getting in the way of soloist.