Yo-Yo Ma & Kathryn Stott – Songs from the Arc of Life

Album Info

Artist: Yo-Yo Ma & Kathryn Stott

Title: Songs from the Arc of Life

Year: 2015

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Tracklist

1. Ave Maria (2:43)
2. Wiegenlied, Op. 49, No. 4 (Arr. for Cello and Piano) [Brahms Lullaby] (1:49)
3. Songs My Mother Taught Me (from Gypsy Songs, Op. 55, No. 4) (1:56)
4. Papillon, Op. 77 (2:48)
5. Tango Jalousie (3:42)
6. I. Vanitas vanitatum (from Five Pieces in the Popular Style, Op. 102) (3:03)
7. Was it a Dream?, Op. 37, No. 4 (2:16)
8. Après un rêve, Op. 7, No. 1 (2:40)
9. Salut d'Amour, Op. 12 (2:44)
10. Prelude No. 1 (From Three Preludes) (1:51)
11. Romance for Cello and Piano (6:25)
12. La Gitana (3:32)
13. Il bell'Antonio, Tema III (7:34)
14. The Carnival of the Animals, R. 125: XIII. The Swan (Arr. for Cello and Piano) (2:54)
15. The Wounded Heart, Op. 34, No. 1 (From Elegiac Melodies) (2:29)
16. Valse Sentimentale, Op. 51, No. 6 (Arr. for Cello and Piano) (2:17)
17. Louange à l'Éternité de Jésus (From Quartet for the End of Time) (10:17)
18. Beau Soir, L. 6 (2:31)
19. Ave Maria, D. 839, Op. 52, No. 6 (Ellens Gesang III from Ein Fräulein vom See) [Arr. for Cello and Piano] (4:14)

Review

Yo-Yo Ma and Kathryn Stott's 'Songs from the Arc of Life' is a captivating journey through classical music that mirrors the stages of human existence. Released in 2015, this album showcases the duo's exceptional musical synergy, cultivated through years of collaboration and friendship. The carefully curated selection spans from the joyous Bach/Gounod 'Ave Maria' to the contemplative Schubert rendition, bookending a rich tapestry of melodies that resonate with life's pivotal moments.

The album's repertoire is a vibrant mix of beloved classical pieces and unexpected pairings. Listeners are treated to familiar favorites like Brahms' 'Lullaby' and Dvořák's 'Songs My Mother Taught Me', alongside less conventional choices such as Messiaen's 'Louange à l'Éternité de Jésus'. This thoughtful arrangement creates a musical narrative that is both comforting and intriguing, inviting audiences to rediscover these timeless compositions through the lens of life's journey.

What truly sets 'Songs from the Arc of Life' apart is the palpable chemistry between Ma's cello and Stott's piano. Their performances are infused with deep emotional resonance and technical brilliance, transforming each piece into an intimate yet grand experience. This album serves as a testament to the enduring power of classical music to evoke profound emotions and forge lasting connections, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own musical milestones along life's path. - Fiona

Listening Guide

• Vibe: Reflective Sunday Morning

• Insight: This album’s soothing blend of classical masterpieces and gentle piano-cello duets creates the perfect ambiance for a peaceful, introspective morning. The rich emotional layers of each piece invite quiet contemplation, making it an ideal soundtrack for easing into the day while reflecting on life’s journey. Its calming yet profound melodies offer a serene space for relaxation and thought.