Though they were long misunderstood as mere technical hurdles, Bach's six suites for unaccompanied cello are among those rare works of music that offer inexhaustible rewards for performer and listener alike. Yo-Yo Ma gave a pathbreaking account of the suites back in the '80s (Suites for Unaccompanied Cello ) but returns to them here impelled by a unique and interdisciplinary approach. For this project, Ma engaged the talents of artists in different fields--ranging from a landscape artist to a Kabuki actor and figure skaters--to produce six short films as a visual correlative for the highly distinctive character of each suite. While the success of the films in illuminating Bach's creativity is decidedly uneven, Ma brings the music itself to life with a searing, quasi-vocal eloquence. His interpretations are probing, characterized by imaginative bowing and attention to the spacious architecture of Bach's score. This is especially clear in Ma's preference for broad, expansive tempos and patient spinning of filigreed detail. True, the generally Romantic cast of his conception can seem overdone and exaggerated in statement, as if Ma is more intent on overlaying his own personality on the discipline of the music. But the prayerful, meditative concentration he brings to the Sarabandes--listen to the single-lined, anguished tone painting in Suite 5--is utterly convincing. There is a sense of profound introspection here, while in the Sarabande of Suite 6 Ma's phrasing suggests we are in the same spiritual terrain as Beethoven's late quartets. Yet there is no lack of blistering energy and extroverted high spirits in some of the more overtly dance-oriented movements. While purists may complain of distortion in these accounts, Ma once again proves he has something vital to say with this music. --Thomas May
Product details
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer
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No
Language
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English
Product Dimensions
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5.75 x 5 x 1 inches; 7.2 Ounces
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I've been listening to this CD for years on YouTube and Amazon prime. I finally took the plunge and bought the CD for the vehicles. I'm one of those boring people who will listen to the radio until a weak song comes on or it's apparent people are talking just to hear their own voice...and then I'll turn on the CD player and listen to a wonderfully classic CD. For months I go without changing the CD selection.
This is a beautiful performance of the Suites, certainly one of my favorites. Ma tunes his strings down a half step, giving his cello a warmer, richer tone than his 80s recording (pink cover). All in all, the differences between the two recordings are startling, and it is very interesting to compare the two. I especially like the more dancelike movements (examples: Suite 1 - Courante, Suite 2 - Minuets), and don't believe that anyone else plays them with as much elegance, which I think is the greatest attribute of Yo-Yo Ma's recordings. Ma has certainly put a lot of thought into these recordings and has produced one of the finest performances of the Bach Suites to date.
Yo Yo Ma is one of my all time favorites to listen to. He has a true gift that I can listen to for hours on end. His Unaccompanied Cello Suite #1 in G Major literally knocks me off my feet. It is probably one of my top favorites in all of classical music.
I've just recently begun getting into classical music so I can't really speak to the technical aspects but I do know I love this. For me this is not something for just casual listening, I just got a used pair of KEF LS-50 speakers and I love to just sit and immerse myself in the music. I have heard a few other recordings of "The Cello Suites" and I prefer Yo-Yo Ma's version.
Mr. Ma's concert in my city was sold out; so I ordered this 2-Cd set, and now he's in my living room playing ONLY for me...and whoever else I invite...really a lovely musical evening can be had with these Back Suites and Ma's solo cello. Good meditation music potential, seems to me...
I admit I am partial to the Cello. In my opinion, it is the greatest emotional instrument ever produced, and Yo-YO Ma is on of the best to ever wield it. This cd brings together 2 greats, Yo-Yo Ma and Bach. It truly does not get any better than that. The best way to enjoy this album is to cut the lights off, close your eyes, increase the bass, and feel the music belt out it's power. Bach was a genius, and Yo-Yo Ma is your amazing translator on this tour into the mind that defined Baroque music. A great addition to a classical collection, and a must have for Cello lovers.
There is a video with Yo-Yo in streets, dance studios, etc., that is absolutely wonderful. That got me on to this recording. I've bought this three times to give away.
Had heard of Yo-Yo Ma before but heard him on the radio and thought he was good. So I bought this cd, when I got it put it on and played while at home doing housework. Had to stop and listen. Really Really thought this was beautiful and the mix of tunes where good.
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