Villa-Lobos’ Bachianas Brasileiras No. 1
With his new double album “20th Century Classics,” Mischa Maisky invites listeners on an impressive musical exploration of the 20th century. Dedicated to his son Mateo, the recording was made in collaboration with his daughter Lily on piano. Together they interpret emotionally resonant pieces such as Shostakovich’s Adagio, Bloch’s “Prayer,” and Bartók’s Romanian Folk Dances. Maisky presents an original selection of works and arrangements, showcasing his exceptional virtuosity and impressively highlighting the lyrical and rhythmic nuances of this vibrant era. In the second part of the album, he delivers a compelling performance of Villa-Lobos’ Bachianas Brasileiras No. 1, playing all eight cello parts himself. The album also includes the world premiere of Benjamin Yusupov’s Cello Concerto, recorded with the Lucerne Symphony Orchestra under the composer’s direction. The Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation (Bayerischer Rundfunk) commented on Maisky's playing: "When Mischa Maisky plays the cello, he does so with his whole soul and his whole heart."