Janos Starker began his rise in 1949, when the Metropolitan Orchestra in New York was led by the two exiled Hungarians Fritz Reiner and George Szell. He became first cellist. Of almost unbelievable technical skill, musical perception and fierce intelligence he began, while still at the Met, making solo records and quickly became known internationally. Composers who have been inspired to write concertos for him include David Baker, Antal Dorati, Bernard Heiden, Jean Martinon, Miklos Rozsa, and Robert Starer.

Starker's "interior fire freezes the air about him" (in his own words). His rigorous yet enthralling performances of the great cello works are legendary, beyond this the programme reveals the warmth of the man and his music.