Gabriel Martins, a cellist, is set to make his Carnegie Hall recital debut as a 2025 recipient of the American Recital Debut Award. In an interview, he discusses his musical journey, influences, and the significance of Bach's Cello Suites. Martins, who started playing the cello at age five, was inspired by the vibrant music scene in Bloomington, Indiana, where he was surrounded by renowned performers. He attributes his choice of the cello to his mother's decision, who chose it for him due to her love for the instrument. Martins' program at Carnegie Hall showcases a diverse range of compositions, including Bach's Second Cello Suite, which he considers a 'sacred text' due to its exploration of complex human emotions. He also performs his transcription of Mozart's Violin Sonata in E minor, Ginastera's Pampeana No. 2, Fauré's Papillon, and Brahms's First Cello Sonata, a piece that shaped his musical identity. Martins' approach to historically informed performance is evident in his use of a composite cello built before the Bach Suites and a bow from the early 1880s. He tunes the cello to Baroque pitch and holds the bow farther up from the frog, blending modern and historical styles. Martins' interpretations of the Cello Suites are influenced by his extensive listening to various performers, including János Starker and Daniil Shafran. He also shares his transcription of Mozart's Violin Sonata, which presents a new perspective on the original piece. Additionally, Martins advocates for Ginastera's music, showcasing the cello's versatility in Pampeana No. 2. His collaboration with pianist Victor Santiago Asunción has been a natural fit, and they will tour Asia before their Carnegie Hall recital. Martins' future plans include composing for solo cello and exploring projects like playing the 24 Paganini Caprices. He invites readers to explore his Bach recordings, violin Sonatas and Partitas, and his compositions, which are available on his website and YouTube channel.
