Music for cello

Jeno Jando (piano), Maria Kliegel (cello)

Kodály:
 3 Chorale Preludes
 Sonata for Cello and Piano, Op. 4
 Sonata for Solo Cello, Op. 8

"Maria Kliegel's explosive musical imagination and phenomenal technique generate an enthralling realization of the Kodály solo sonata.....Another winner from Naxos, and further confirmation, as if it were needed, of Maria Kliegel's high distinction among today's master cellists."
Fanfare

"Maria Kliegel rises to the challenge of Kodály's Solo Sonata with considerable gusto: harmonics, glissandos, sul ponticello, fiery arpeggios – all are expertly employed and delivered via a nicely rounded tone. Kliegel's lustrous account of the Adagio underlines harmonic similarities with late Liszt and the folky, one-man-band finale has ample panache. The appreciative booklet-note relates Bartók's enthusiasm for the Solo Sonata's 'unusual and original style…[and] surprising vocal effects'. In fact, no other work by Kodály is so profoundly Bartókian in spirit. The Sonata, Op 4, is a far milder piece, though forthright expressive declamation sits at the centre of the first movement and the second is infused with the spirit of folk music. Kliegel and Jenö Jandó are in musical accord, and the recording is very good – although if you listen to the 'Bach-Kodály' tracks and wait for the Solo Sonata to start, you'll note a huge expansion in the cello's recorded profile. The three Chorale Preludes that open the programme are 'attributed Bach' and enjoy the rich trimmings of a thunderous piano part (Busonicum- Liszt, with a snatch of Bartók for good measure) and a warm flood of tone from Kliegel."
Gramophone - Classical Music Guide 2010