Cellist Miriam K. Smith performs Prokofiev’s Cello Sonata in C Major

The 16-year-old, American cellist, Miriam K. Smith performs the first movement of Prokofiev’s Cello Sonata in C Major ahead of her second album Momentum, which will be released on 21 October 2022. 

’When a wave begins, it gathers momentum, so with this collection of music I see a gathering of energy into our modern era,’ Smith explains. ’I perceive this momentum in each of these composers’ works propelling the arts forward in their time… And so, we continue today in the wave of momentum which began long ago.’

The album features Prokofiev’s Cello Sonata in C Major, Stravinsky’s Suite Italienne, and Boulanger’s Trois Pièces pour violoncelle et piano with pianist and Steinway artist Sandra Wright Shen.

As the first work on the album, Smith describes the Prokofiev Cello Sonata as ’showcasing the emotions that were felt after the war and the suspense of the years that will follow… he managed to compose a beautiful sonata filled with joyous and cheerful melodies.’

Smith performs on an Italian cello by an unknown maker from the 18th century, loaned by an anonymous donor.