Yo-Yo Ma is not only one of the great cellists of our time but has also become one of the most important figures on the American cultural scene.
His recent Proms, in 2004 and 2009, have followed connections to his innovative cross-cultural Silk Road Ensemble projects.
Now, in the first of two appearances this season, he resumes his recital partnership with Kathryn Stott. Graham Fitkin's L was composed in 2005 for Yo-Yo Ma's 50th birthday and he will unveil Fitkin's new Cello Concerto later in the week (see Prom 61).
Rachmaninov's Cello Sonata is a lyrically expressive work which is nevertheless one of the repertoire's great challenges, for cellist and pianist alike.
There will be no interval