Performances

Cellist

Videos

Katz: Rhapsodia

  See/hear also the following recordings…

Reviews

Introducing I Cellisti (Orion Records ORS-7037):

“A rare gem: the ‘cello octet, I Cellisti, whose first recording is a winner, not only for novelty but also for sheer musical pleasure. I Cellisti is composed of seasoned West Coast pros; it plays superbly, sounds great and is recorded well on this altogether admirable disc.”

Enos E. Shupp, Jr., The New Records (March, 1971)

“I Cellisti, from Los Angeles, naturally, a fine group of cellists who demonstrate what must be the ultimate string warmth on this recording.”

San Francisco Chronicle (May 9, 1971)

“This is a novel record… and I find it exciting. I Cellisti is a group of eight (maximum) cellists of high rank from Los Angeles directed by Jerome Kessler. The performances are immaculate. Recommended therefore, and not only to cellists.”

Gramophone (July, 1975)

“I enjoyed listening to you, the ensemble is very good and you play very well. Your performance is beautiful!”

Pablo Casals (September 15, 1971)

“Orion Records three latest albums are worthy of note, especially a pressing by I Cellisti under Jerome Kessler.”

Fred Kirby (1971)

SAINT-SAENS: Sonata for Cello and Piano No. 1 in C minor, Op. 32 (Orion Records ORS-73124):

“Jerome Kessler and Beverly Carmen do full justice to a work that turns out to be a major revelation.

“Sonorous, beautifully balanced, and rhythmically dynamic playing of Kessler and Carmen.

“The Saint-Saens makes this recording a necessity.”

R.S.B., High Fidelity (August, 1974)

“An outstanding disc from Orion Records matches cello-piano sonatas by Saint-Saens and Faure.“Cellist Jerome Kessler and pianist Beverly Carmen give a powerful, impassioned account of Saint-Saens’ ‘Sonata in C Minor’ and a likewise forceful interpretation Faure’s ‘Sonata in G Minor’. The strength of Kessler’s dark tone is impressively set off by Miss Carmen’s decisive keyboard style. Here is a first rate recording in every respect.

(ORS-73124)

Milwaukee Sentinel (May 3, 1974)

“Jerome Kessler has a splendid command of his instrument.”

R.F., Stereo Review (October 20, 1974)

“Kessler’s poised, elegant style…”

Enos E. Shupp, Jr., The New Records (1974)

Concerts:

“Bouyancy and sensitivity. Kessler leads the orchestra so knowingly in collaboration with ( the soloist) that a nearly chamber music rapport was achieved.”

Los Angeles Times

“Thank you SO much for sending me this link! What a treat to hear (and see) you play the cello after all these years! What a true virtuoso you are! And the sound you get from your instrument is truly glorious! Your technique is stunning, and you make it look nearly effortless, and with supreme confidence! But most of all, I am dazzled and moved by your wonderful musicianship! Beautiful phrasing, and such sensitive shaping of the melodies! Bravo!

“You really brought me near to tears with your beautiful playing. And you are so fortunate to have such a responsive instrument!

“Congratulations on this wonderful performance, and thank you again for sending me this lovely gift.”

MH-M (OK)

“A fine concert. Joyous music-making… under Mr. Kessler’s expert direction.”

(New York)

“Bravos don’t suffice.”

(Phoenix)

“Thank you for sharing the video of your absolutely wonderful concert! Your playing is warm, beautiful, and majestic! I love it! Listening to your video is a joy!”

LG (NY)

“Thank you for such a marvelous recital!…How I wish your sound production and use of the bow could be shown to today’s young people. So many cellists, famous and otherwise, just can't make it as you do.”

MB (England)

“Your playing is gorgeous in terms of intonation and phrasing.”

JS (TX)

“I loved the recital!!!! You are a fabulous cellist."

NR (NJ)

“A splendid performance”

JC (GA)

“The concert was glorious!”

JG (VA)

“What a beautiful recital! I love your cello with its full yet sweet sound. Marvelously played. I especially love the Bloch & your own piece. Beautiful Beethoven.”

IL (NY)