Imslp Kabalevsky Cello Concerto |verified| Jun 2026

Composed in 1948–1949, the First Cello Concerto arrived during the infamous Zhdanov Decree, a time when Soviet composers were being censured for "formalism" (music deemed too complex or western). While his peers were writing tragic, dense works to express their suffering, Kabalevsky wrote a concerto that is surprisingly sunny, agile, and vocal. It is a testament to his belief that music should communicate, not obfuscate.

The three movements are played attacca (without breaks) and follow an unusual "slow-fast-slow" pattern: Molto sostenuto – Allegro molto e energico . Presto marcato . Andante con moto – Allegro agitato – Molto tranquillo . imslp kabalevsky cello concerto

You can find the full score, parts, and various arrangements for this work on the Cello Concerto No. 1 (Kabalevsky) page on IMSLP. Cello Concerto No. 2 in C major, Op. 77 Composed in 1948–1949, the First Cello Concerto arrived