Heinrich Schiff was an Austrian cellist and conductor, born on 18 November 1951 and passing away on 23 December 2016, whose career spanned over four decades and was renowned for both his interpretative insight and technical prowess. Schiff made significant contributions to the cello repertoire, not just through his performances and recordings but also by inspiring and premiering contemporary works. His discography reflects a broad musical interest ranging from Baroque to contemporary compositions, with a particularly profound connection to the works of Brahms, Beethoven, Shostakovich, and numerous modern composers such as Otto M. Zykan, whose cello concertos he recorded.

Schiff's career was marked by a deep dedication to pushing the boundaries of cello performance, as evident in his recordings of Brahms: Double Concerto, Op. 102 & Horn Trio, Op. 40, and Beethoven, Brahms & Shostakovich: Cello Sonatas (Live). His versatility was further showcased through his involvement in chamber music, solo performances, and orchestral conducting, with notable recordings like Mozart: Symphonies Nos. 29 & 40 and Eine kleine Nachtmusik highlighting his broad musical talents. Schiff’s influence extended beyond the recording studio and concert hall through his teaching, where he nurtured the next generation of cellists, leaving a lasting legacy in both the cellistic and broader musical community. His artistic contributions have been recognized globally, and his recordings continue to be celebrated for their emotional depth, technical finesse, and interpretative maturity.

Genres

Classical Cello

Latest Release

Brahms: Double Concerto, Op. 102 & Horn Trio, Op. 40

Johannes Brahms•

Frank Peter Zimmermann•

Heinrich Schiff•

Marie Luise Neunecker•

London Philharmonic Orchestra

Album - 7 Tracks - Released September 9, 2022