Unsurpassed, still
C. Toma | Montreal, Canada | 03/28/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"That Kremer is the greatest violinist of our time is no question. These 1980 recordings demonstrate an understanding of Bach's aesthetic reaching far beyond that of most of his virtuoso colleagues (Milstein, Shumsky, Perlman, Martzy & Szeryng included). Kremer hits exactly at the intersection between skill, passion, intellect and soul--the essence of Bach. His interpretation of the ubiquitous Ciaccona in particular is a miracle of music-making; I cannot tire of its overwhelming incandescence.
In short, this is the set to get. I hear Mr. Kremer has recently recorded these pieces anew, and they are still pending release, but until then, this one's damn well near definitive."