Robert Max - Johann Sebastian Bach: Six Suites for Solo Cello

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685-1750) probably wrote the Six Suites for Solo Cello while he was Kapellmeister in C�then between 1717 and 1723. His manuscript is lost and cellists turn to his second wife Anna Magdalena�s copy for guidance, together with others made at around the same time, especially that copied by Johann Peter Kellner (1705-1772). Anna Magdalena�s manuscript is written in a bold, clear hand and is remarkably accurate. However, the placing of the slurs against the notes seems to be less meticulous than the writing of the notes and rhythms. As the bowings breathe life into the music and add shape and character to each phrase, cellists can only play with confidence once they have thought carefully about this issue, as the Six Suites are undoubtedly considered some of Bach's greatest musical achievements.