"Watkins and Bax's playing seems to come from a shared impulse, unflaggingly eloquent without ever seeming to strive for effect, creating a seamless musical experience."
"The earliest two sonatas find Beethoven breaking new ground in the way he writes for cello and keyboard as equal duet partners, showcasing their virtuosity."
"The expansive third sonata, Op 69, centres on a perky middle movement akin to a symphonic scherzo, with nicely weighted momentum through all changes in texture."
"The final pair of sonatas harness Watkins's full powers of expression, particularly No 5, which begins in a hymn-like style and blooms into something deeply felt."
Paul Watkins, cellist of the Nash Ensemble and Emerson Quartet, records Beethoven's cello sonatas with pianist Alessio Bax. Their collaboration reflects a shared musical impulse, resulting in eloquent performances. The sonatas span Beethoven's career, with early works showcasing innovative cello and piano partnerships. The third sonata, Op 69, features a lively middle movement, while the final sonatas highlight Watkins's expressive capabilities, particularly in No 5, which includes a profound slow movement. The recording captures the nuanced interplay and emotional depth of the compositions.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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