Benjamin Britten’s Cello Symphony

Benjamin Britten was one of the most prominent British composers of the 20^th century. Some of Britten’s esteemed compositions include the operas, “Billy Budd,” “Peter Grimes” and “Albert Herring.” Britten also has several works in other genres with a secure place in the performed repertoire such as “The Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra.” Britten’s less-known Cello Symphony was written for the great Russian cello soloist, Mstislav Rostropovich. The first movement is halting, upset and questioning. The second is hurried yet plaintive. The third feels introspective of personal feelings, intent on understanding, and familiar with the frustration of that process…but undaunted. The concluding movement is purposive and steady.

Recordings

Primephonic:

North Carolina Symphony Orchestra, Grant Llewellyn, Zuill Bailey, Telarc

Spotify:

North Carolina Symphony Orchestra, Grant Llewellyn, Zuill Bailey, Telarc

YouTube:

Raphael Boden with the Oberlin Orchestra, Raphael Jiménez, YouTube channel “Raffi Boden Cello”