Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of Baroque chamber music with Steven Isserlis' captivating album, "Bach, Handel & D. Scarlatti: Gamba Sonatas." This exquisite collection, released on Hyperion in 2015, showcases Isserlis' masterful cello performances, accompanied by the delicate nuances of the harpsichord. The album spans a concise yet impactful 59 minutes, featuring a meticulously curated selection of sonatas and a transcendent transcription of Bach's chorale prelude.
Isserlis, a renowned cellist celebrated for his expressive interpretations and deep musical insight, breathes new life into these classical masterpieces. The album opens with Bach's Sonata in G Major, BWV 1027, a work that exemplifies the composer's intricate contrapuntal style. Isserlis' rendition is both technically impeccable and emotionally resonant, drawing the audience into the heart of each movement.
The program continues with a transcription for cello of Domenico Scarlatti's Sonata in D Minor, Kk. 90, originally composed for harpsichord. Isserlis' adaptation reveals the work's profound depth and versatility, demonstrating his ability to transcend the boundaries of traditional instrumentation. The album also includes Handel's Sonata for Viola da gamba in G Minor, HWV 364b, performed with a sensitivity that highlights the composer's lyrical genius.
Throughout the album, Isserlis' playing is characterized by a rich, warm tone and a keen sense of phrasing. His collaboration with the harpsichord creates a dialogue that is both harmonious and dynamic, showcasing the interplay between the instruments with remarkable clarity. The final track, a transcription of Bach's chorale prelude "Ich ruf' zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ," BWV 639, serves as a serene and contemplative conclusion to the album.
"Bach, Handel & D. Scarlatti: Gamba Sonatas" is a testament to Steven Isserlis' artistry and his deep connection to the Baroque repertoire. Whether you are a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album offers a rewarding and enriching listening experience.
Tracks
Sonata in G Major, BWV 1027: I. AdagioJohann Sebastian Bach, Richard Egarr, Steven Isserlis
Sonata in G Major, BWV 1027: II. Allegro ma non tantoJohann Sebastian Bach, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata in G Major, BWV 1027: III. AndanteJohann Sebastian Bach, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata in G Major, BWV 1027: IV. Allegro moderatoJohann Sebastian Bach, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata in D Minor, Kk. 90 (Transcr. Isserlis for Cello): I. GraveDomenico Scarlatti, Richard Egarr, Robin Michael, Steven Isserlis
Sonata in D Minor, Kk. 90 (Transcr. Isserlis for Cello): II. AllegroDomenico Scarlatti, Robin Michael, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata in D Minor, Kk. 90 (Transcr. Isserlis for Cello): III. Largo – AllegroDomenico Scarlatti, Robin Michael, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata in G Minor, BWV 1029: I. VivaceJohann Sebastian Bach, Richard Egarr, Steven Isserlis
Sonata in G Minor, BWV 1029: II. AdagioJohann Sebastian Bach, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata in G Minor, BWV 1029: III. AllegroJohann Sebastian Bach, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata for Viola da gamba in G Minor, HWV 364b: I. Andante larghettoGeorge Frideric Handel, Robin Michael, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata for Viola da gamba in G Minor, HWV 364b: II. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Richard Egarr, Steven Isserlis, Robin Michael
Sonata for Viola da gamba in G Minor, HWV 364b: III. AdagioGeorge Frideric Handel, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr, Robin Michael
Sonata for Viola da gamba in G Minor, HWV 364b: IV. AllegroGeorge Frideric Handel, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr, Robin Michael
Sonata in D Major, BWV 1028: I. AdagioJohann Sebastian Bach, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata in D Major, BWV 1028: II. AllegroJohann Sebastian Bach, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata in D Major, BWV 1028: III. AndanteJohann Sebastian Bach, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
Sonata in D Major, BWV 1028: IV. AllegroJohann Sebastian Bach, Richard Egarr, Steven Isserlis
Ich ruf' zu dir, Herr Jesu Christ, BWV 639 (Transcr. Isserlis/Egarr for Cello and Harpsichord)Johann Sebastian Bach, Steven Isserlis, Richard Egarr
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