MAX REGER (1873-1916): Cello Sonatas No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 5, No. 2 in G Minor, Op. 28, No. 3 in F, Op. 78 and No. 4 in A Minor, Op. 116, 3 Suites for Solo Cello, Op. 131c.

Catalogue Number: 03J066
Label: Hyperion
Reference: CDA 67581/2
Format: CD
Price: $39.98
Description: Brahms is the main figure in the young Reger's first cello sonata (1892) an the 1898 Second also sounds fairly Brahmsian though a bit chromatic to us (but it infuriated critics at the time). The 1905 Third with its odd, furtively nocturnal second movement and variation-form third reminds us of the many marvelous variation works Reger wrote between 1903-05 while the Fourth of 1910 brings us much of the thematic density and chromaticism for which he is famous. The solo suites of 1914 contain some of Reger's most intimate and eloquent music, inspired generally by Bach's example and probably leading directly to Hindemith's own series of sonatas for solo instruments which he began in 1918. 2 CDs. Alban Gerhardt (cello), Markus Becker (piano).