Yo-Yo Ma has an album called "Solo," which features only works for unaccompanied cello. However, the selections include composers like Kodaly and Sheng, which might not be what you are looking for. Nonetheless, it's an option, and you might find some new composers that you like...
I would also second the above recommendations of the Dvorak and Elgar concertos, as well as the Brahms sonatas. I would add to that the Barber cello concerto and sonata, the Lalo concerto, and the Schumann concerto. The Schumann, in particular, is an unabashadly romantic, beautiful piece.
On the less lush, romantic side, Tchaikovsky's Rococco Variations are beautiful, as are Haydn's two cello concertos (the D major has a melancholy tinge to it). Beethoven's five cello sonatas are wonderful, and he also composed a set of three variations for cello and piano that are charming.
As far as cellists go, here are a few names to look for: Yo-Yo Ma (obviously), Paul Tortelier (relatively unknown, but terrific), Jacqueline du Pre (especially for the Elgar), Mstislav Rostropovich (Dvorak and Tchaikovsky), Pierre Fournier (along with Tortelier, my two favorites for the Bach Suites), and Ralph Kirschbaum (excellent Elgar and Barber).
These are just a few suggestions... there are so many options! I hope you enjoy the process of discovering more of what's out there for this wonderful instrument.
Happy Listening,
Eric
I would also second the above recommendations of the Dvorak and Elgar concertos, as well as the Brahms sonatas. I would add to that the Barber cello concerto and sonata, the Lalo concerto, and the Schumann concerto. The Schumann, in particular, is an unabashadly romantic, beautiful piece.
On the less lush, romantic side, Tchaikovsky's Rococco Variations are beautiful, as are Haydn's two cello concertos (the D major has a melancholy tinge to it). Beethoven's five cello sonatas are wonderful, and he also composed a set of three variations for cello and piano that are charming.
As far as cellists go, here are a few names to look for: Yo-Yo Ma (obviously), Paul Tortelier (relatively unknown, but terrific), Jacqueline du Pre (especially for the Elgar), Mstislav Rostropovich (Dvorak and Tchaikovsky), Pierre Fournier (along with Tortelier, my two favorites for the Bach Suites), and Ralph Kirschbaum (excellent Elgar and Barber).
These are just a few suggestions... there are so many options! I hope you enjoy the process of discovering more of what's out there for this wonderful instrument.
Happy Listening,
Eric