Bach interpreted by the greatest master
Monique Lachance | Kanata, Ontario Canada | 10/19/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Rostropovich was only 29 years old when this recording was made in 1956, but at such an early age in his career, he already had the technique, the maturity and the soul required to perform some of Bach's greatest works. Suites No. 2 and 5 are the highlights of this CD, and none of the subtilities of Rostropovich's mastering of these unaccompanied cello suites are lost in the conversion of this older recording. There are such intense moments in Rostropovich's cello playing that the listener is transported into another world, by the melodic lines of Bach's genius as well as the masterful interpretation of the cellist. The Air from Suite No. 3 in D for Orchestra is a jewel, and the final track, an Adagio performed with pianist Vladimir Yampolsky, which is also a favorite among cellists, is exceptionally touching, a piece that promotes the genius of Bach and Rostropovich."