Ori and Omri Epstein, best known for performing as part of the Busch Trio, make their Linn debut as a duo with a recording of Beethoven’s complete works for piano and cello. Considered cornerstones of the repertory, the cello sonatas illustrate all the creative periods of the composer’s working life. The two Sonatas Op.5 are bursting with exhilarating effects. Written when Beethoven was focused on showcasing his own virtuosity as a pianist, they are nonetheless eloquent showpieces for the ‘accompanying’ cello which is used in a remarkable variety of ways. Pianist and cellist are treated as equal partners in the Sonata in A major, which is the most lyrical and improvisational of Beethoven’s sonatas. The cello’s versatility across rapid changes of register and function is especially well demonstrated here. The two Sonatas Op.102 herald the concentration of Beethoven’s late style and are particularly technically demanding. Beethoven scholar Barry Cooper describes them as having “a transcendent quality that, even after countless performances, makes them always seem innovative and challenging.”

Brothers Ori and Omri Epstein are almost inseparable, both personally and musically, and explored the duo repertoire from a young age. As members of their esteemed piano trio, the Busch Trio, they have recorded the complete works of Dvořák for piano and strings together with violinist Mathieu van Bellen. As the Busch Trio, they have established themselves as one of the leading young piano trios in Europe. Ori plays on one of the best-preserved cellos made by Giovanni Battista Ceruti; made in Cremona in 1815, it is the last cello made by the master craftsman.

“Beethoven has the musicians at full stretch…This was an admirable interpretation, very exciting and full of rhythmic life. Omri Epstein produced some wonderful virtuosity.” – Classical Source

“…the group already play as though musically joined at the hip – something to be expected with Epstein and his older brother Omri, the group’s marvellously sensitive pianist.” – The Times

“Omri Epstein’s exquisite cello tone and deeply musical phrasing beguiles throughout; Ori Epstein breezes through the busy passagework with a feathery touch and his piano sings as eloquently as his brother’s cello.” – MusicWeb International