Robert Schumann; Ignaz Moscheles - 1851 Cello Sonatas (Steven Isserlis; Connie Shih)

Information

• Robert Schumann - Violin Sonata No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 121 (arr. Isserlis)
• Ferdinand David - 5 Salonstücke, Op. 28: No. 4, Romanze (arr. Isserlis)
• Ignaz Moscheles - Cello Sonata in E Major, Op. 121
• Robert Schumann - 5 Lieder und Gesänge, Op. 127: No. 1, Sängers Trost (arr. Isserlis)
• Charles Gounod - Ave Maria, CG 89a (after Prelude in C Major, BWV 846) [for Cello, Piano & Voices]
• Charles Gounod - Ave Maria, CG 89a (after Prelude in C Major, BWV 846) [for Cello & Piano]

Steven Isserlis, cello

Connie Shih, piano

The Gesualdo Six

Date: 2026

Label: Hyperion

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Steven Isserlis’ latest album is inspired by the creative ferment of 1851, a year marked by innovation and artistic achievement. It features sonatas by Ignaz Moscheles and Robert Schumann, both composed in that year, with Schumann’s Violin Sonata No. 2 specially arranged for cello by Isserlis. The program also includes four short pieces, among them a Schumann song transcription and Bach/Gounod’s Ave Maria. Central to the recording is an 1851 Érard grand piano, played by Connie Shih, possibly exhibited at the Great Exhibition in London.

British cellist Steven Isserlis (born 1958) is internationally acclaimed for his wide-ranging career as a soloist, chamber musician, educator, author, and broadcaster. He performs with leading orchestras worldwide, curates major chamber music series, and uniquely directs chamber orchestras from the cello. Deeply committed to both historical and contemporary performance, he collaborates with period-instrument ensembles and has premiered significant new works. His award-winning discography spans Bach, Beethoven, Elgar, and beyond. Artistic Director of the Prussia Cove International Musicians Seminar since 1997, Isserlis is also an influential writer and broadcaster, honored with numerous international awards including a CBE.

Canadian pianist Connie Shih is widely admired for her refined musicianship and exceptional ensemble skills, making her a highly sought-after chamber music partner. Born in Vancouver, she made her orchestral debut at the age of nine and studied with distinguished teachers including György Sebok, Claude Frank, and Fou Ts’ong. An active international soloist and chamber musician, she has performed and recorded extensively with leading artists, notably cellist Steven Isserlis. Her performances are frequently broadcast worldwide, and she is currently Professor of Piano and Piano Chamber Music at the Salzburg Mozarteum.