Alisa Weilerstein, Czech Philharmonic & Tomáš Netopil - The Recovery of Paradise: Blackford Cello Concerto (2025)

PENTATONE presents Richard Blackford’s powerful new Cello Concerto, commissioned by Czech Philharmonic for the acclaimed virtuoso cellist Alisa Weilerstein. Orchestra and soloist perform this piece under the baton of Tomáš Netopil. Structured in four vivid movements, the concerto transforms the raw forces of nature—Earth, Air, Water, and Fire—into a deeply personal and emotionally charged musical journey. From the violent winds of California wildfires to the quiet resilience of a town reborn from ashes, the work reflects on climate catastrophe and human perseverance with striking immediacy. Weilerstein’s commanding performance and the Czech Philharmonic’s evocative textures bring this timely and transformative work to life in a recording as urgent as it is unforgettable.

“While writing my cello concerto I read many articles and news bulletins about climate anomalies around the world. Extreme manifestations of the four elements of Nature (Earth, Air/Wind, Water, Fire) became the narratives for the first three movements. The final movement, inspired by the recovery of the town of Paradise, California, which was destroyed by wildfires in 2018, celebrates the resilience of the human spirit in the face of tragedy” (Richard Blackford)

Alisa Weilerstein, cello
Czech Philharmonic
Tomáš Netopil, conductor

TRACKLIST

1. Alisa Weilerstein, Czech Philharmonic & Tomáš Netopil - Blackford: Concerto for Cello and Orchestra "The Recovery of Paradise": I. Devil Winds of Santa Ana
2. Alisa Weilerstein, Czech Philharmonic & Tomáš Netopil - Blackford: Concerto for Cello and Orchestra "The Recovery of Paradise": II. Cry The Scorched Earth
3. Alisa Weilerstein, Czech Philharmonic & Tomáš Netopil - Blackford: Concerto for Cello and Orchestra "The Recovery of Paradise": III. Rhyme and Rhythm of The Rain
4. Alisa Weilerstein, Czech Philharmonic & Tomáš Netopil - Blackford: Concerto for Cello and Orchestra "The Recovery of Paradise": IV. The Recovery of Paradise