The Cello Suites were likely completed around 1720, a year marked by the death of Bach's first wife, Maria Barbara, and his unsuccessful application for an organist post in Hamburg.
Recording & Production
The recording of Bach's Cello Suites by Bruno Philippe was initiated during the first COVID-19 lockdown in March 2020, when his concert calendar was empty.
Interpretation
Bruno Philippe chose a specific recording order for the suites (5, 6, 4, 3, 2, 1) based on personal affinity, likening the key scheme of the suites to a human's journey through life.
Interpretation
Bruno Philippe explored different manuscripts of the Cello Suites, including the Kellner MS, to find answers regarding tempi and articulations, moving beyond the Anna Magdalena Bach manuscript he previously studied.
Compositional Technique
The Cello Suites set new standards in both playing and compositional technique, recognized for their exceptional quality even in the 18th century.
Recording & Production
The recording sessions for this album took place in July 2020 and August 2021 at La Courroie, Entraigues-sur-la-Sorgue, France.
Interpretation
For this recording, Bruno Philippe switched from metal strings to gut strings, influenced by his experience with the Baroque ensemble Jupiter.
