In this eminently listenable debut recording, cellist Adam Grabois and pianist John Nauman perform with a refinement of tone and a subtlety of touch that is impressive.

Grabois might be familiar to local audiences, having performed with the Finckel Cello Quartet a few seasons back at the Hyde Collection.

The recording is also the first for Grabois’ record company and reflects his commitment to oversee every aspect of production so the package is stamped with his particular ideals. Judging from this CD, Grabois and Nauman display excellent technique to examine every note and phrase. Not a pitch or nuance is out of place.

They sparkle in Beethoven’s Seven Variations in E-flat Major on “Bei Mannern, welche Liebe fuehlen” from Mozart’s “The Magic Flute”. Their lines are as transparent as glass, yet are fused with a tender warmth. Their articulations are dry and light.

In Debussy’s Cello Sonata (1915), they use a large palette of richly colored tones and subtle dynamics to create ethereal moments.

In Rachmaninoff’s Cello Sonata (1901), Grabois has but to sing his long lines with sonorous tones. Nauman, whose part was as difficult and as continuous as any piano concerto, does a marvelous job in every aspect. Their slower third movement is especially serene and inspired.

The CD is available at www.reflexeditions.com or at www.amazon.com.