WRFH/Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM - Classical Context: Cello Concerto No.1 in A minor, C.P.E. Bach

Episode Date: March 26, 2025

A well-known composer during the space between Baroque and Classical periods, C.P.E. Bach shows off the virtuosity of the cello in an intricately orchestrated masterpiece…

Hello, I'm your host, Peter Andrews, and you're listening to Classical Context on Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM. Today, we're jumping back in time to 1750, with Carl Philip Emmanuel Bach's cello concerto in A minor. CPE Box Concerto stands as a remarkable example of the early classical period shift from the Baroque to a more expressive and emotionally dynamic style. Composed in 1750, this concerto embodies the unique style of CPE Bach, the second. son of J.S. Bach, known for his distinctive use of M. Finnsum Kite, or Sensitive style, characterized by emotional depth and contrast. Here's the introduction to CPE Box's cello concerto in A minor. The first movement, Allegro, opens with an energetic orchestral returnello, but immediately

Immediately, the cello emerges with an intensely expressive solo line. This juxtaposition of vigorous orchestral passages, with the intimate, often introspective, solo moment, is a hallmark of CPE box style. The cello's ornamented phrases convey a sense of improvisation, which was a key feature of 18th century performances. The dialogue between the cello and orchestra is dynamic, marked by frequent shifts between tension and release, showing CPE box skill in blending virtuosity with surprising harmonic progressions. Here's an example of that blend.

The second movement, Sicilianna, with tempo marked as Largetto, features a more lyrical and melancholic theme. The delicate, flowing melodic lines in the cello allow the performer to explore a deep emotional palette, with subtle ornamentation that serves as a window into the highly personal expression that C.P.E. Bach favored. The movement's gentle rhythm, combined with the minor tonality, creates an almost melancholic atmosphere. contrasting sharply with the first movement's more dynamic energy. Listen for those minor chords. The final movement, Allegro, is full of energy and rhythmic drive. It showcases CPE Box mastery in creating a virtuosic environment for the soloist.

The cello's rapid runs and intricate passages tests the performer's technical prowess, while still maintaining a sense of playfulness and vigor that aligns with the movement's bright character. The back and forth between the cello and orchestra and this finale demonstrates the work's overall interplay of contrasting textures, intensity, lyricism, and brilliance, all within the framework of a tight-knit, carefully structured concerto. Listen for rapid runs here played by the soloist. I highly recommend you sit down and listen to the entirety of this piece. My personal favorite recording is from the Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra, available wherever you listen to music. I'm your host, Peter Andrews, and I'll see you next time,

right here on Classical Context on Radio Free Hillsdale 101.7 FM.