For this recording, Ophélie Gaillard plays a cello made by Francesco Goffriller in 1737, loaned to her by the CIC, and an anonymous Flemish violoncello piccolo.
Interpretation
Ophélie Gaillard interprets Bach's Sixth Suite on a five-string cello, as specified in the manuscript copied by Bach's second wife, Anna Magdalena.
Composition History
The composition of Bach's six Cello Suites dates back to 1718-1720, when Bach was the Capellmeister and Director musices at the court of Anhalt-Coethen.
Historical Context
At the time Bach wrote the Cello Suites, the cello was a relatively new instrument, and its construction, size, and playing techniques were not yet standardized.
Performer Biography
Ophélie Gaillard, the cellist on this recording, was voted 'Revelation: Solo Instrumentalist of the Year' at the French Victoires de la Musique Classique in 2003.
Recording & Production
This album of Bach's Cello Suites was recorded in September and October 2010 at IRCAM, a French institute for research into music and acoustics.
Critical Reception
Bach's Cello Suites were not published until 1825, a century after their composition, and were initially regarded as mere studies.
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