Prokofiev Sonatas: Andreas Brantelid and Julien Quentin

The evening

Prokofiev’s autumnal spirit alongside a fiery piece by Shostakovich: two thrilling works for cello and piano.

Prokofiev’s Cello Sonata is one of his gentler works, with less of his usual jagged edges. It was written for the blazing talent of a young Mstislav Rostropovich, who premiered it in 1950. It opens with a melancholy grace, then builds to a warm, celebratory conclusion. It was described by fellow composer Miaskovsky as ‘a miraculous piece of music’.

Shostakovich’s work emerged from one of the composer’s many periods of turmoil: both political and emotional. It carries itself with great dignity, and with a heartfelt lyricism in its elegiac slow movements.

Andreas Brantelid is renowned for his instinctive and colourful performances of 20th century music. He is joined by the brilliantly versatile chamber pianist Julien Quentin for this immersive and deeply emotional programme.

Recorded for future broadcast on BBC Radio 3.