Search - Johann Sebastian Bach, Martha Argerich :: Bach: Sonatas for Cello & Piano

THIS IS THE WAY IT'S DONE!!!

Melvyn M. Sobel | Freeport (Long Island), New York | 11/20/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"On the heels of my recent listening to the Ma/Cooper non-performances of these works, I can heartily recommend the Maisky/Argerich coupling--- and especially for those not averse to having piano substituted for harpsichord. Maisky is in top form, his 'cello warm and rich, his emotion just right; Argerich accompanies faithfully, without overshadowing her partner, yet always bringing something new to the music. The recording is rich, true and completely tangible. This is a splendid CD in every way.



[Running time: 44:16]"

Great chamber music recording

Melvyn M. Sobel | 09/16/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The cello sonatas have been sadly neglected in the shadow of the suites, with only the famous Allegro Moderato emerging now and then in arrangements; but it's still excellent music, and this recording is superb. Maisky may not have the following of Yo-Yo Ma or Rostropovich, but I think he's one of today's finest cellists. He produces an absolutely beautiful sound on every note in every piece he plays. Martha Argerich brings out the piano line with the same philosophy of note-for-note beauty; together they are unstoppable. Do yourself a favor and listen to this recording; thereafter you'll want to hear it for years to come."

Not-so-Baroque Bach

Alan Lekan | Boulder, CO | 12/19/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"These three sonatas - composed originally for the viola da gamba and harpsichord - are very musically-appealing compositions. And unlike previous Baroque cahmber-music tradition, the harpsichord is not relegated to mere continuo but projected into the spotlight as co-soloist - perhaps to showcase some of Bach's keyboard virtuosity. There are several fine period recordings of these works on viola da gamba and harpsichord (Savall, Peri, Crum, Wispelwey) or modern cello with harpsichord (Ma, Tortelier). But if your taste favors all modern instuments (cello, piano), then this circa-80's CD by the legendary Martha Argerich and Misha Maisky is the ticket.



What is immediately striking about the recording is Maisky's lush and sensual cello tone and graceful progression through the music. Perhaps to some, it is not "Baroque enough" a sound with more Romantic flavor. Regardless, it is beautiful and emmensely likeable playing. Maisky's partnership here with Miss Argerich is seamless and well judged - both share enthusiastically the contrapuntal voices with equal weight and balance. Argerich's tempos and style are in-synch with both Bach's intent and Maisky's poised playing, so you won't find her sometimes "overdriven" tempos or bravura here as she finds the right center of gravity for Bach's music. Equally attractive is the bright, full and perfectly balanced sound from DG.



Penguin Guide rated this 3/3 stars, noting that those who prefer modern over period instruments will delight in this partnership and fine recording. A treat for Argerich fans. Compositions - 4.5 stars; Performance - 4.5 stars; Sound quality - 4.5 stars. PS: A 2007 recording by Bach-famed pianist Angela Hewitt with cellist Danielle Muller-Schott is also worth hearing in really excellent sound on Orfeo label."