Cello concerti no. 1 & no. 2 (Yo-Yo Ma) (1981)

'Yo-Yo Ma and the English Chamber Orchestra, under the baton of José Luis Garcia, have produced what must be the most beautiful recording ever made of Franz Joseph Haydn's well-known Cello Concerto Number 1 in C Major (H 7b no 1). I've heard this work performed many times by many soloists and ensembles, often beautifully, but never better than on this recording. Every note that flows from Ma's bow is exquisitely formed. His phrasing is sensitive and deeply expressive, and he certainly is not afraid to take risks. The interpretation is fresh, dramatic, and daringly original. The orchestra's contribution is perfectly complementary. Yo-Yo Ma and the English Chamber Orchestra have breathed new life into this sometimes tired old chestnut'. (Bob Conway).