O'Kane/Mchale - FAURE & SAINT-SAENS:WORKS FOR CELLO & PIANO

Cellist Brian O�Kane and pianist Michael McHale explore the contrast and similarities between the works of Faur� and Saint-Sa�ns � two composers who met in a student�teacher relationship that would grow to become an enduring friendship. O�Kane writes in the introduction to this disc: Gabriel Faur� is a composer who seemingly divides opinion. For me, his writing is fascinating and timeless and I unashamedly adore it. His two cello sonatas in particular display Faur�s unique and intriguing voice, and their divine unending melodies celebrate the cello�s best registers. The making of this disc was primarily inspired by those works, as well as some of Faur�s own influences and inspirations, which came in no small part from his mentor and teacher Camille Saint-Sa�ns. The evident connections in style, structure, phrasing and melody make for a fascinating comparison. Irish cellist Brian O�Kane enjoys a busy career as both soloist and chamber musician. Since winning first prize at the Windsor International String Competition in 2008, he has made his debuts with the RT� National Symphony Orchestra, the Philharmonia Orchestra under Ashkenazy and in recital at the Wigmore Hall. Brian is a former �Rising Star� of Ireland�s National Concert Hall and has performed at Seoul�s Performing Arts Centre and with a cello ensemble at the BBC Proms.