Classic

Croatian cellist Stjepan Hauser is best known as one half of 2CELLOS. The duo, completed by Luka Šulić, are celebrated for their spectacular and virtuosic performances of pieces from across the musical spectrum. Here, HAUSER, a superb soloist in his own right, branches out alone, bringing his rich, burnished tone to bear on some of classical music’s most beautiful melodies. “I’m a romantic soul,” he tells Apple Music, “and I knew that the cello would be the perfect instrument for the beautiful, touching melodies I’ve chosen for this album. It has the closest sound to the human voice of any instrument, so it’s a great fit.” He’s been supported in this endeavour by the London Symphony Orchestra, bringing characteristic versatility and power to the performances. “The LSO is one of the greatest in the world, and when you play with them, you know it’s going to be as good as it gets.” Let HAUSER guide you through the album, melody by melody. Swan Lake “Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake features some of the most well-known classical melodies ever written—and this one is perhaps its most famous. The music is so romantic, and the LSO has this amazing, big orchestral climax. It’s a wonderful way to start the album.” Rachmaninov 2nd Piano Concerto “Eric Carmen’s 1975 song ‘All By Myself’ was the inspiration for this arrangement of the slow movement from Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto. Once I’d heard this piece’s gorgeous melody sung, I realised that it could also work so well for the cello. It’s one of the most famous piano pieces ever written—and it’s great to finally have a version for my instrument!” Caruso “Everyone, from Pavarotti to pop artists, has sung this most beautiful of Italian songs. It’s almost the perfect melody—the Italian language is so melodic, and its people are so warm. Of course, Mediterranean culture plays into the music, too. So it seems natural for Italian composers to write larger-than-life songs. Remember that Italy is the home of big opera arias! ‘Car