Bringing the Walt Disney Concert Hall to life with his undeniable artistry, the young cellist demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the finest classical musicians of his generation.
By John Lavitt
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 11-25-2025
Sheku Kanneh-Mason, a young British cellist who won the 2016 BBC Young Musician award, commanded the stage at Walt Disney Concert Hall for a November evening that will not soon be forgotten. This concert featured the world premiere of a new Edmund Finnis Cello Concerto.
Known for its dedication to new music, the Los Angeles Philharmonic commissioned this work with generous support from M. David and Diane Paul. The night was a remarkable occasion for genuine artistry by showcasing a generational musical talent.
Sheku Kanneh-Mason stood center stage, a visionary artist whose reputation precedes him. The Courier and Evening Telegraph calls him “a cellist so talented it is simply outrageous.” Indeed, he not only understands his instrument completely. Beyond understanding, there is an undeniable bond, a deep love of the creative act.
For this performance, his partnership with composer Finnis began earlier, notably on the 2022 album Song. The cellist confirmed the composer’s work is “perfectly written for the cello.” Subsequently, such a close collaboration set high expectations for the new, large-scale work.
The new concerto immediately called for technical mastery and deep emotional expression. Kanneh-Mason faced this challenge with compelling sincerity. He brought forth the complexity of his cello tone with a lovely simplicity.
Indeed, the tones richly fill the hall’s perfect acoustics. His dedication to every note was evident. This focus maximizes the instrument’s singing quality. As a direct result, the cellist allows the audience to experience the music entirely.
Finnis’s lyrical language opened the door for Kanneh-Mason to explore the music’s natural complexity. The cellist moved through shimmering harmonics and sections with urgent, extroverted energy. He demonstrated skilled control of dynamic contrasts. Thus, his powerful tone remained intense even at a nearly inaudible pianissimo.
Kanneh-Mason didn’t just play the score; he embodied its structure. He crafted a compelling narrative for the audience. His passionate performance revealed the score’s more profound meaning.
Maestro Roberto González-Monjas made his highly anticipated Los Angeles Philharmonic debut conducting the program. He created a truly cohesive orchestral sound for the new work, and one can’t help but wonder if this was an audition for the role of LA Phil’s Lead Conductor after Gustavo Dudamel departs for the New York Philharmonic.
González-Monjas performed with flair and charisma, bringing sharp focus and clear communication to the entire ensemble. The orchestra’s attentive support allowed the cello’s voice to stand out, providing a shimmering backdrop rather than competing for attention. The cello shone without overshadowing the LA Phil’s remarkable contribution.
The concert offered more than just the new commission. The program effectively provided historical context and lively contrast. It began with Erich Wolfgang Korngold’s Theme and Variations, Opus 42. This piece was full of golden, rich harmonies and a warm, folk-like character. Indeed, the conductor skillfully highlighted a luminous warmth in the strings.
The second half concluded with Edward Elgar’s beloved piece, the Enigma Variations. Elgar’s orchestral work is full of tender portraits and lively, playful energy. González-Monjas skillfully navigated the piece’s changing moods. For example, the famous “Nimrod” variation was played with gentle, dignified solemnity. The performance emphasized the timeless mystery and emotional strength of great British orchestral music.
This concert served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing vitality of classical music. Sheku Kanneh-Mason is a true force of nature on his instrument. He breathed life into the Finnis concerto. The commission adds a meaningful new work to the cello repertoire. Roberto González-Monjas proved himself a remarkable partner for the LA Phil. The entire evening was a brilliant exploration of complex technique and musical collaboration. Indeed, this magnificent night celebrated music, vision, passion, and performance.
