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American Record Guide (May/June 2002): "Mr. Kreger brings to all three works a broad, rich, singing yet focused tone that embodies just about everything you could ask for in this repertoire. He knows where the music should go, and he transports us there in a most enjoyable ride on the swells of his glorious tone. He's not in a hurry, but he doesn't let the solo line meander or become disjointed either. With so much beautiful solo work to savor, haste is hardly an attractive prospect. He gives the Dvorak a broad, lyrical, long-lined performance, but bravura passages sizzle off his bow with assurance and panache." Fanfare (March/April 2002): "Recording this Dvorak Concerto, which has been recorded by virtually all the great cellists of the 20th century--Feuermann, Casals, Cassado, Rose, Tortelier, Fournier, Rostropovich, Du Pre, Schiff, and Ma, among others, come to mind--is quite a challenge. The veteran American cellist James Kreger meets it handsomely. His highly disciplined cello playing is uniformly rich in sound, pure in intonation, and convincing in phrasing." "Kreger's playing is indeed that of a fine musician, commanding a warm, vibrant tone, and generous in his response to the music's promptings. There are many beautiful things in these performances." International Record Review (April 2002): "The American virtuoso James Kreger---like (Yo-Yo) Ma, a Leonard Rose pupil---plays as beautifully as his more famous counterpart...Comparison with Ma is by no means to Kreger's disadvantage. (He) draws a lithe sound from his instrument, rejoicing in a long, sinewy, singing line. His bowing is creamy smooth, his intonation squarely on target, and his phrasing unfailingly lyrical and intelligent---superb and musically satisfying." Gramophone (April 2002): "Kreger is a fine cellist; his tone clear, unforced and well projected, the singing melodies played with lovely legato phrasing, the brilliant passages clear and incisive. There are many magically beautiful moments, especially in the slow movements of both concertos." Newhouse News Service (June 2002): "The songful, expressive quality of the Kreger sound and musicianship are heard instantly in the opening measures of the Dvorak "Silent Woods," and they continue to shine - balanced by brilliant virtuosity - in both of the grand concerti." Washington Post (January 13, 2002): "...a fine, soulful performance...uncommon elegance..." Compact Disc Classics (Italy, December 2001/January 2002): "Although the discographic catalogue scarcely suffers any dearth of superbly authoritative alternatives in this repertory, the interpretation of James Kreger, an American cellist with a distinct personality, ranks at the very top, revealing an artist on whom we must keep a close eye...extraordinary musical feeling, a spontaneous quality that justifies daring comparison with the most illustrious soloists...magical sound...truly great performance." Record Geijutsu (Japan, March 2002): [The Herbert] is "a treasurable recording...ravishing instrumental coloration. The sound of the cello in cantabile [portions] is as beautiful as a dream," and one can almost hear the instrument 'weeping.' In the finale, the crescendo toward the climax 'is truly wonderful.'" Répertoire (France, May 2002): ...elegance, tact, and bravura... Fono Forum (Germany, June 2002): This rendition of Dvorak's Cello Concerto and the miniature "Waldesruhe" is a praiseworthy addition to an already impressive list of identical recorded couplings. ...arresting beauty...subtle gradation of phrases and delicately executed ritardandi. Kreger's tone is powerful and warm, with a palette of dark colors exceptionally well suited to the introverted spirit of the Dvorak pieces. |
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© 2002 James Kreger. All rights reserved.
