Paul Tortelier. Bach Cello Suiites. HMV Classics 2 vols HMV 5 86665 2 & 5 86664 2 released 2005,
Recorded in 1961 re mastered 1987.
Venue of recording not specified.
General comments of the recording.
Considering the year of the original recording, this is a very good quality recording. It has not only a full range of frequency and dynamics but good detail of the tonality of the instrument. The cello is not as far forward in the soundstage as modern recordings tend to be. This means there is little in way of added noises such as breathing.
However, possibly as a result of re mastering, the cello is not well defined in position between the speakers. Instead, the cello appears to be emanating from each speaker.
Currently we may overlook Tortelier now. Firstly, he was a very flamboyant expressive character who perhaps played to the gallery. Then there was his markedly French accent and frequent television appearances. I remember as a teenager, sitting right under his nose in the front seat of the stalls at a concert he gave. This was at the Brighton Dome in the late 70s when he stood in for the indisposed Jacqueline du Pre. I struggled to suppress giggles due his fascinating facial expressions. I was impressed by his passion and technical capability in a performance of Elgar’s Cello concerto.
The music.
Through these performances, Tortelier demonstrates the substance of his reputation.
The first of two recordings, they are hugely engaging with wide dynamics.
Slower dances and minor keyed preludes, are sensitively portrayed. There are exciting and pacey renditions of gigues and courantes.
What makes these recordings indispensable for me is the conversational way in which Tortelier phrases and expresses the music. Like a brilliant presenter or public speaker, he holds the attention with variation of volume, slight changes in timing and sometimes an apparent sense of rapid change of direction. Overall however the sense of rhythm and coherence is all impeccably sustained. The last two suites particularly build to a climax at the end with all guns blazing!
Conclusion.
In summary, I would recommend this recording to anyone. No matter whether they are looking for a cheap introduction to the Suites or a significant staging post in the history of recordings of the Suites. I judge this to be a definitive version.
Charles.