Matt Haimovitz's cello piccolo is strung with gut strings from the Toro brothers in Italy, known for their richly warm overtones, and he uses a baroque replica bow designed by David Hawthorne.
Recording & Production
This album was recorded over four days in June 2024 at Skywalker Sound in Marin County, California, by Christopher O'Riley and Matt Haimovitz.
Instruments
The clavichord used for this recording is a 2010 remodel by Andrew Lagerquist, based on a powerful 1806 Swedish clavichord, and is almost seven feet long.
Instruments
The cello piccolo used by Matt Haimovitz was originally a ¾ size cello from Leipzig, around 1710, that belonged to conductor Eugene Ormandy's brother, and was later converted into a five-string baroque setup by luthier Andrew Dipper.
Instruments
The clavichord, played by Christopher O'Riley, was the only keyboard instrument of Bach's time capable of dynamic shading, unlike the harpsichord or organ.
Recording & Production
Due to the quiet nature of the clavichord, the recording required advanced technology: the clavichord was isolated in a 'spaceship-like structure' so close mics could pick up its sound without being overpowered by the cello piccolo.
Interpretation
The performers, Matt Haimovitz and Christopher O'Riley, interpret Bach's articulation marks, particularly slurs, not just as legato but as having a beginning with impetus and an end with release, often implying a decrescendo.
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Bach: Sonate à Cembalo è Viola da Gamba
Sonatas for Viola da Gamba and Harpsicord, Bwv 1027 - 1029
