RICHARD STÖHR (1874-1967): Fantasiestücke for Cello and Piano, Op. 17, Cello Sonata, Op. 49.

Description: This Austrian composer was another of the Jews driven into exile, emigrating to the U.S. at the very late date of early 1939 (his original last name was Stern). A particularly beloved teacher, Stöhr also found time to write seven symphonies, fifteen violin sonatas and more, but only these two works for cello and piano. Here is another remarkable melodist; every one of the four Fantasy Pieces (1907) and each of the three movements of the 35-minute sonata (1915) have memorable melodies, supported in the sonata by a lively rhythmic impetus. Impossible not to want to play again as soon as you've heard it the first time. Stefan Koch (cello), Robert Conway (piano).