The nineteenth century ushered in a golden era for the cello, during which it was no longer consigned to a supportive continuo role. Composers from Beethoven to Brahms shone a spotlight on the unique voice of this instrument, its timbre and versatility. In this program, Li-Wei Qin and Konstantin Shamray – longtime friends of UKARIA and formidable soloists and chamber musicians – showcase the work of three composers who loved the cello and wrote for it in various formats throughout their careers: Schumann, Brahms and Rachmaninov.