Paul Hindemith:
A Frog He Went A-Courting (1941) / Sonata for Solo Cello op. 25 no. 3 (1922) / Three Pieces for Cello & Piano op. 8 (1917) / Sonata for Cello & Piano op. 11 no. 3 (1919)
Judith Ermert (cello), Daan Vandewalle (piano)
Fuga Libera FUG713 (2013)
With the selection of these cello compositions, the interpreters offer an illuminating glimpse into different creative phases of Hindemith. The early, late-romantic Cello Pieces, Op. 8 offer the artists an opportunity to present themselves with a full tone and gripping passion. The fullness of expression with which Judith Ermert interprets the Phantasiestück, and hints at the alternating moods, is captivating indeed. Daan Vanderwalle also reveals himself to be an accompanist of nuances, whether at times providing a "rumbling" accompaniment in the Scherzo or taking over the melody, molto cantabile. The Cello Sonata is a key work in Hindemith's production; when he entered it in his catalogue of works, his comment was "Hier wird gemausert!" (Things have blossomed out here!). The first movement is characterised by baroque models and strong rhythmic impulses; Ermert und Vanderwalle interpret it with great intensity and variety. In particular, they shed light on the sharp stylistic contrasts, celebrating the slow part of the second movement as an intimate song of mourning. The interpreters supply the appropriate joy in parody when playing the individual variations on an old English children's song with a multi-facetted yet overall cheerful tone. The highlight of this recording is the solo Cello Sonata, whose apparently unemotional content Judith Ermert develops with a clear and direct tone.
Heinz-Jürgen Winkler