On May 31 Atma Classique released a brand-new recording of Haydn’s two cello concertos. The disc also features music of iconic Canadian composer Jaques Hetu; his Rondeau for Cello and Orchestra
This recording features the outstanding Canadian Cellist Cameron Crozman and Le Violins du Roy led by Nicolas Ellis.
Called a musical force to be reckoned with, Cellist Cameron Crozman is no stranger to Winnipeg audiences. He has performed with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra a couple of times and has performed as part of the Virtuosi Concert series. He has shared the stage with the likes of Gerard Causse, members of the Ebene Quartet, and violinists James Ehnes and Augustin Hadelich, to name just a few.
The recording has taken the better part of a year to come out. It was recorded in June of 2023 and Crozman is thrilled to have it released. He also heaps high praise on the musicians of Les Violins Du Roy. “I am really pleased with the result...it was so inspiring to be surrounded by the musicians of Les Violins Du Roy. They are one of the real treasures of our country...such an amazing group! Nicolas [Ellis] being one of the great young conductors...so I was fortunate to make this CD.”
Haydn’s Cello concertos are works that all cellists become familiar with at some point in their career, but for Crozman the recording and specifically the cello he is performing on carry an incredibly special meaning. As he explains, “I was very lucky, my teacher Paul Pullford has a beautiful 19th century [Auguste Sebastien Phillippe] Bernardel cello, and he lent it to me for a good chunk of last year...and I realized during the recording that there is something really special about that...because I learned the concertos with Paul primarily, and so I remember having the lessons... facing that cello...hearing the concertos for the first time...being taught them with that cello that I was now playing on for this recording, which was really special.”
The Haydn Concertos on this CD are wonderfully performed and recorded and need to be heard.
One of the extra special bonuses for listeners is that Crozman has also recorded Canadian composer Jacques Hétu’s Rondeau for cello and orchestra. This is a universally accessible piece, that is full of fun, driving rhythms. Written for string orchestra accompaniment, the piece shows the influence of Bartok and highlights the cello as a partner to the orchestra. The cello dancing over top of the string accompaniment. At a little over five minutes long, this is a fantastic character piece for both soloist and orchestra.
Cameron Crozman’s recording of the Haydn Celo concertos on the Atma Classique record label is a very welcome addition to any music library. His playing shows he is a technical master of the instrument while spotlighting his huge dynamic range and deeply thoughtful and expressive playing.
Finally, a Canadian recording of the Haydn Concertos that can be held up with the finest recordings of these two masterworks!