David Popper: Complete Transcriptions for Violoncello & Piano

The selection of works presented on this album shows the curiosity with which David Popper must have absorbed music of all periods, whether in concert, in domestic music-making, or by reading scores. Here we find orchestral works, songs, oratorio and opera arias, piano music, and chamber works, and the chronological classification ranges from the early Baroque to Popper’s contemporaries Wagner and Tchaikovsky. Popper’s modesty and knowledge of his strengths, especially about his own instrument, induced him to compose almost entirely for the cello. Besides reflecting the taste of the day, his music is noteworthy for its innate sensitivity, a dexterous command of orchestration, and a savory sense of humor.