Classic FM Magazine September 2006
Unexpected Songs review
Unexpected Songs CDIt’s always interesting to see cellists push out the walls of their comfort zone. On Unexpected Songs – the title a hint towards the sheer breadth of music therein – Britain’s leading cellist ventures into ethnic territory Arrangements of pieces by Nitin Sawhney (the wistful Songbird), and a traditional African lullaby sit alongside classical pieces by Chopin, Schubert, Elgar and Orff, as well as folk, soundtrack excerpts (‘Hushabye Mountain’ from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is spine-tingling) and show tunes, including brother Andrew’s title track, taken from the musical Song And Dance and featuring Michael Ball. The spectral harp of guest star Catrin Finch enchants throughout.
Anna Britten
