factors that catapulted him to fame as the world's finest cellist, it had a dramatic effect on the rediscovery of Bach as a composer. Until Casals proved otherwise, few believed that these unaccompanied solos could actually be performed as written; many composers and editors tried their hand at adding piano or harpsichord accompaniments, with ludicrous results to modern ears. By proving that Bach meant what he wrote, and by playing the music with such conviction and assurance, Casals really might be said to have ignited the process that led to the "authentic instrument" movement of today, the fundamental principle of which is respect for the composer's original text. Of course, it's another sign of his greatness that these performances have held their own against all comers since the 1930s. If you like Bach, the cello, or both, you must hear them. --David Hurwitz
factors that catapulted him to fame as the world's finest cellist, it had a dramatic effect on the rediscovery of Bach as a composer. Until Casals proved otherwise, few believed that these unaccompanied solos could actually be performed as written; many composers and editors tried their hand at adding piano or harpsichord accompaniments, with ludicrous results to modern ears. By proving that Bach meant what he wrote, and by playing the music with such conviction and assurance, Casals really might be said to have ignited the process that led to the "authentic instrument" movement of today, the fundamental principle of which is respect for the composer's original text. Of course, it's another sign of his greatness that these performances have held their own against all comers since the 1930s. If you like Bach, the cello, or both, you must hear them. --David Hurwitz
Advantages: to add great music in to your collection Disadvantages: None
...Steven Isserlis is an outstanding cellist. When you listen his playing alive, which I did, you can see how he captures you with his playing. I am a professional viola player for twenty years. I have listened many recordings of Bachcellosuites from Rostropovich to Peter Bruns. Isserlis plays the suits in a way that you can find something different in his interpretation. Specially the 6th suit. That suit is very difficult to play actually. You should listen and hear it yourself how it flows. I have to also add the price is actually not that expensive. Because you are going to have the six suits which are usually come in two cds and plus interesting piece again by Bach , Cant del Ocells, ( Song of the Birds'). I highly recommend the cd who are interested in solo cello music, Bach or classical music....
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Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful
Advantages: Wonderful transcriptions of JS Bach's majestic music; sensitive, tender, vivacious, effortless and fluid playing. Disadvantages: Nil.
...Balsom has already had her US debut, performing just this January 2006 with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (Milwaukee? Not New York City and Carnegie Hall? How did they get to be so lucky in Wisconsin! Methinks Ms Balsom needs a better agent/promoter, no?!).
FINAL VERDICT: I give this disc an unqualified, insanely enthusiastic recommendation with all thumbs and great toes up, for all lovers of Bach and/or the trumpet. Total, absolute must-have recording.
[For more complete background info on Alison Balsom, please scroll down the page to the BBC Radio 3 article.]
CD DETAILS:
BACH: WORKS FOR TRUMPET
Alison Balsom
EMI Classics
5 58047 2 (CD) / 5 58047 5
Concerto in D Major (after Vivaldi) BWV 972:
1 Allegro
2 Adagio
3 Allegro Assai
4 Sarabande (from CelloSuite No.2 BWV 1008)
5 Gigue (from CelloSuite No.2 BWV 1008)
6 Aria...
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Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful
Advantages: Brilliant, stirring, excitingly unpredictable, fresh performance; "genius" is not hyperbole in Argerich's case. Disadvantages: Reflecting its LP origins, the CD lasts only 50' 16"!
![Rostropovich: Bach Cello Suites [1991] (Region 1) (NTSC)](http://picnic.ciao.com/uk/65059481.jpg)
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