Yo-Yo Ma - Kreisler, Paganini (1982)

This is vintage Yo-Yo Ma. He not only does miracles with transcribing difficult work to the cello, but also brings his own musical language, to his performances. The aspiring violinist (or any musician, for that matter) will do well to study the nuance of Yo-Yo's phrasing and shaping of notes. Patricia Zander is an ideal partner in the playing of Kreisler - pianists will do well to note her ability to bring out notes where they should shine, and to whisper when only gentle support is needed. This CD is the fruit of some of their work together while Yo-Yo and Patricia were both at Harvard in the early '70's. They spread much musical joy in Cambridge during those magical years. Try listening to this gem with high-quality headphones. You'll be amazed how much there is to hear!