GREAT RECORDINGS phase 13

BACH: CELLO SUITES
Paul Tortelier

5 62878 2
(Angel: 5 62879 2) (2CDs)

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'In this excellent recording, Tortelier is on splendid form, drawing ravishing sounds from his instrument with sure intonation. This is a fine achievement by Tortelier, who here reaches a new high in his playing.' (Gramophone)

Awards: Diapason d'Or, Prix de l'Académie Charles Cros & Prix de l'Académie du disque français, France

Born in Paris in 1914, Paul Tortelier studied at the Conservatory before embarking on a career initially as an orchestral cellist (with Koussevitzky's Boston Symphony Orchestra and with the Paris Conservatoire Orchestra). His international solo career was launched after the Second World War.

Not only was Tortelier one of the leading cellists of his generation, he was also an exceptional teacher with a larger-than-life and compelling personality. He recorded widely and his discography includes memorable readings of the major works for cello and orchestra, chamber music (often with members of his own very musical family) and two recordings of Bach's solo cello suites.

This CD reissue features Tortelier's second recording of the Bach, made in the Temple Church in London in the early days of digital recording. In his late 60s, he was able to bring not only his superb technique and musicianship but also a lifetime's experience to his interpretation of these indelible masterpieces.