Isang Enders. Bach Cello Suites. Berlin Classics 0300609BC. Released 2014.
Recorded at Teldex Studios Berlin. Nov 2012 and Nov 2013.
“Violoncello used for recording was labelled Joseph Gagliano , filius fecit 1720”
Other details including strings and bows used given in very comprehensive notes.
Reviewed in vinyl version available as 3LP gatefold set of 180G discs.
Introduction.
Isang Enders is perhaps not as well known as many of the cellists recording the Bach Cello Suites. In fact this recording is currently one of only two releases he has made to date. Notably he was only 24 when he started the project which must make him one of the youngest to record the Suites.
These facts aside, it has to be said that Enders deserves in my opinion, great credit for the results. He has produced a version that I feel would be a worthy inclusion in anyone’s music collection. I make this assertion on the basis that more than most, he has strived to perform these pieces in a lively spirited style with great attention particularly to making repeats varied and interesting. He does this by changing speed, dynamics, bowing and ornamentation in repeated passages. This seems particularly noticeable in the first four Suites and is less marked in the fifth and sixth.
Rejection.
In his notes Enders references the fact that he recorded the Suites and then “rejected” them, starting again. He talks in terms of having conviction that he can add something new to the previous renditions of the Suites. (Bear in mind we have a list about 200 long of previous recordings). He then talks of experiencing a crisis of confidence. I am pleased to relate that to my ears the angst has all been worthwhile.
General Remarks
In vinyl form the recording is of the highest quality as one would expect from a modern edition, with very little surface noise and high quality pressing. The order is rather strange and this is done to divide the Suites into light and dark colours. This relates to their keys primarily, but I am not sure I fully understand the thinking of this decision. For the purposes of the review I listened in the order from 1-6!
The Music.
I would describe the style of playing as being a comfortable compromise between authentic and modern with judicious vibrato, plenty of separately bowed notes to emphasise articulation but lots of expression and dynamics.
There are significant variations in speed in many places and this may raise eyebrows in some. This is particularly so in the Preludes. Typically, these start at a brisk pace, then halfway through seem to slow down and meander around and then towards the end pick up pace even faster than at the beginning. The image that kept coming into my mind was of going for a walk in the woods. Firstly, starting with good intentions at a brisk pace. Secondly, finding oneself lost and not quite sure if on the right path. Finally, recognising the home straight, going hell for leather to get back to base before it rains!
The fourth Suite prelude is perhaps one to audition on the streaming services before committing to purchase. The other movements in the Suites are performed in more conventional manner but with the varied repeats and with much refinement and shape to the phrasing.
The famous fifth Suite Sarabande is very atmospheric and emotive. The gigues particularly the fifth are rhythmic and exciting with added double stopping enhancing the attack of repeated motifs.
Conclusion.
In summary one to audition and proof that the new generation of cellists are definitely bringing added value to the growing arena of Bach Cello Suite recordings.
Charles.