Benjamin Britten: Cello Suite No. 3, Op. 87 | Ben Swartz, cello

Borne from the collaboration between English composer Benjamin Britten and Soviet cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, the three Britten Cello Suites stand as a towering megalith in the solo cello literature. Written between 1964-71, the Suites are among the most conceptually varied and technically demanding works written in the 20th century; and, in their extreme use of extended techniques, have come to redefine the cello’s potential as a solo instrument. Moments of ineffable poignancy, subtle humor, breathtaking showmanship, and an almost vocal lyricism define their performance. Paying homage to a half-century since their initial conception, cellist Ben Swartz breathes new life and a uniquely virtuosic spirit into the Suites.

Cello Suite No. 3, Op. 87
I. Introduzione: Lento
II. Marcia: Allegro
III. Canto: Con Moto
IV. Barcarolla: Lento
V. Dialogo: Allegretto
VI. Fuga: Andante espressivo
VII. Recitativo: Fantastico
VIII. Moto perpetuo: Presto
IX. Passacaglia: Lento solenne

Videographer: Scott Quade