Bach Cello Suites – Part I

Experience Bach’s mastery come to life in this intimate performance of his greatest works for cello.

The beauty of Bach is on full display in this performance of the great composer’s suites for solo cello in the Primrose Potter Salon. Featuring three of the total six – No.1 in G, No.4 in E-flat, and No.6 in D – each performed by a different, and highly distinguished cellist, this celebration of Bach’s mastery is the perfect performance for classical aficionados and those seeking a beautifully relaxing night out.

Opening the performance, Principal Cellist of the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, David Berlin, performs one of the most recognisable pieces of classical music ever written: Bach’s Cello Suite No.1 in G. With its famously serene prelude, this Suite’s melodic simplicity and emotional depth craft an environment of reflection and tranquillity, setting the tone for 75 minutes of unforgettable music.

The complex yet incredibly rich structure of Suite No.4 in E-flat follows, with internationally celebrated Richard Narroway. Having recorded all six suites in 2017 to critical acclaim, including being described by Gramophone as ‘riveting… an adventure in expressive possibility,’ Richard returns to Melbourne Recital Centre for arguably the grandest of all six. With its imposing prelude to open, the following movements offer a striking, and introspective, contrast.

Finally, Josephine Vains closes the performance with the longest and most intricate of the Suites, Bach’s Cello Suite No.6 in D. Using the unique 5-string baroque cello, Josephine’s ‘expressive soloist’ (The Age) talents are on full display from the moment she takes to the stage until the final note. This uplifting piece features elegant French dance movements that are lively and joyous, sure to put a smile on anyone’s face.