Felix Mendelssohn; Franz Schubert - Dialogue (Benedict Kloeckner; Yo Kosuge)

Information

Composer: Felix Mendelssohn; Franz Schubert

• Mendelssohn - Cello Sonata No. 2, Op. 58
• Mendelssohn - Lied Ohne Worte, Op. 109
• Mendelssohn - 6 Gesänge, Op. 34: No. 2, Auf Flügeln Des Gesanges (arr. David Popper)
• Schubert - Arpeggione Sonata, D. 821
• Schubert - Nacht Und Träume, D. 827 (arr. Benedict Kloeckner)
• Schubert - Wiegenlied, D. 498 (arr. Benedict Kloeckner)

Benedict Kloeckner, cello

Yo Kosuge, piano

Date: 2026

Label: Berlin Classics

_____________________

This extraordinary recording by cellist Benedict Kloeckner and pianist Yu Kosuge explores the profound emotional spectrum of Romanticism through the works of Felix Mendelssohn and Franz Schubert. Blending virtuosic energy with delicate tonal poetry, the album navigates a richly faceted musical cosmos of contrasts, ranging from the driving force of full cello sonatas to the intimate sensitivity of delicate song arrangements. Throughout the performance, Kloeckner’s distinctive tone allows the cello to emulate the immediate, moving qualities of the human voice. Accompanied by Kosuge's nuanced playing, this partnership delivers a powerful, multi-layered interpretation that captures the timeless beauty and intense expressive power of the era.

Benedict Kloeckner is an internationally acclaimed cellist of his generation, recognized for his expressive artistry and competitive triumphs, including an OPUS Klassik Award. A professor at the École Normale de Musique de Paris, Kloeckner regularly performs as a soloist with world-class orchestras under the baton of prestigious conductors like Sir Simon Rattle and Daniel Barenboim. His vast discography features celebrated recordings for major labels like Sony and Berlin Classics, including an acclaimed Dvořák album and highly anticipated collaborations with conductor Cristian Măcelaru. Additionally, he is a dedicated champion of contemporary music, a regular performer on premier global stages, and the founding artistic director of the International Music Festival Koblenz.

Concert pianist Yu Kosuge has established a distinguished international career defined by her superlative technique, sensitive touch, and profound musicality. After making her orchestral debut at age nine, she relocated to Europe for advanced studies under the mentorship of András Schiff. Kosuge regularly performs at leading global venues and major European festivals, collaborating with elite ensembles such as the NDR Elbphilharmonie Orchester and the BBC Symphony Orchestra under world-renowned conductors. Her extensive discography for Sony and Orchid Classics includes the complete Beethoven sonatas and her acclaimed Four Elements cycle. In recognition of her artistic contributions, she was awarded the prestigious Suntory Music Award.