By the time this disc was released in late 2007, German cellist
Maria Kliegel had recorded most of the standard cello repertoire. This disc fills out her discography with some of the standard repertoire's more extravagant chamber works, or, as the disc's title describes them: "Virtuoso Cello Showpieces."
Kliegel had already proved herself a masterful player in more serious repertoire -- her Brahms sonatas were warmly beautiful and her Bach sonatas inwardly intense -- and in these dazzling works she proves she has a more bravura gear. Her technique is first-rate, and her rich, full tone adds depth and subtlety to everything she plays. Most importantly,
Kliegel turns on the charisma for these most extroverted works. Supported and encouraged by Tichman,
Kliegel does whatever she wants with these excruciatingly difficult pieces, and does it with a daredevil combination of abandon and control. Concluded with a trio of light, lyrical works by Dvorák, this disc was a welcome addition to
Kliegel's discography. Naxos' 2004 digital recording made in Clara Wieck Auditorium in Sandhausen Germany is bright, clear, and detailed.