At the time of recording the Bach Suites, William Primrose was playing a Japanese instrument of lesser quality, having sold his magnificent Andreas Guarnerius viola.
Performer Biography
William Primrose, the violist on this album, began his recording career as a violinist before making his first records as a violist in the mid-1930s.
Recording & Production
The Bach Suites for Solo Viola on this album were recorded in August 1978 at Brigham Young University, just days before William Primrose's 75th birthday.
Performer Biography
William Primrose experienced gradual hearing loss over two decades, which made playing in tune a challenging task for him.
Critical Reception
When William Primrose performed Paganini's Fifth Caprice, the famous violinist Mischa Elman, who doubted Paganini could be played on viola, remarked: 'It must be easier on the viola!'
Interpretation
William Primrose considered Bach's Sixth Suite in D major unsuitable for the viola due to the demands it places on the instrument's upper register.
Interpretation
William Primrose believed the Bach Suites should be played with more articulated bowing and generally brisker tempi on the viola, rather than imitating cello performances.
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