NPR's Book of the Day Kate Kennedy's 'Cello' is part memoir, part musical detective story
Jan 15, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Kate Kennedy, a writer, BBC broadcaster, and cellist, delves into her book exploring the lives of four cellists. She reveals the inspiring journey of Lise Cristiani, the first female professional cello soloist, who challenged gender biases. Kennedy also shares the poignant story of Pál Hermann, a Jewish cellist whose legacy was nearly lost amid war. Discover the emotional bonds musicians have with their instruments and the vibrant spirit found in youthful compositions, all woven into a tapestry of resilience and passion.
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Themes of Absence and Resilience
- The cellists in Kennedy's book are tied together by themes of absence, resilience, and silence.
- Kennedy explores the intense and complicated relationship between musicians and their cellos.
Lise Cristiani's Musical Journey
- Kate Kennedy discusses Lise Cristiani, the first professional female cello soloist.
- Cristiani toured Europe and Russia, even taking her Stradivarius cello on a sled through Siberia.
Pál Hermann's Story and Kennedy's Tribute
- Pál Hermann, a Jewish-Hungarian cellist, was captured by the Gestapo during WWII.
- Kennedy visited Hermann's likely prison cell in Lithuania and played Bach's mournful second suite.
