Mstislav Leopoldovich Rostropovich has undoubtedly left his mark on the fate of every living cellist, whether they know it or not, not least through the expansion of the cello repertoire and the proliferation of his teachings through his students around the globe.
Prokofiev, Shostakovich, and many others composed new works for the cello thanks to Mstislav Leopoldovich's encouragement, solidifying the cello's reputation as a solo instrument. Rostropovich's philosophy towards new music was simple: he would play anything written for him at least once.
His sound is instantly identifiable: expressive, silvery, warm, and all-enveloping. He once said, "I dream of an endless bow, like a hula-hoop," and I certainly subscribe to this idea of legato.
If Shafran is a king amongst cellists, then Rostropovich is certainly the benevolent Emperor or the Patron Saint.
Recommended listening:
Everyone knows Rostropovich's Dvořák Concerto (it was his most performed piece, after all); however, I think that the following four recordings show a different side of his playing.
Myaskovsky Cello Concerto:
Bach Suite No.2, Sarabande:
Tchaikovsky Andante Cantabile:
Strauss Death of Don Quixote:
Further Reading:
Elizabeth Wilson – Rostropovich: The Musical Life of the Great Cellist, Teacher, and Legend
ISBN-10: 9781566637763 ISBN-13: 978-1566637763
Further Listening: