This very youtube of Antonio Meneses and Maria João Pires playing Beethoven's Cello concerto is what I listen to every night to go to sleep by. I am so saddened by the news that this wonderful cellist is no longer with us! What a wonderful cellist he was. Many condolences to his family and all the musicians who had the honor of playing with him!! He will not be forgotten!!
Truly miraculous how the whole gamut of feelings is unmistakeably present in Beethoven's greatest works. A musical transcription of our inner life. And when the moments of repose (alas always too brief!) arrive they feel like deliverance.
The biggest difference between amateurs and professionals is the "adagio" part of the three movements. It all depends on how beautiful and delicate the sound can be played with the bow.