Reine Flachot. Bach Cello Suites. 2LP Saphir records 25 785-7 SX/1-2 Recorded 1972 originally released on Intercord label.
No information supplied as to venue of recording or cello played.
The Cellist.
This is an intriguing recording for a number of reasons. Even as late as 1972 Flachot appears to have been only the third woman to record the complete suites. It is easy to underestimate the gender inequality that existed at that time. This even during a period when Jacqueline du Pre had made her initial impact.
In addition, this is a recording available solely on vinyl and on only 2 LPs whereas most recordings cover 3 LPs. In order to achieve this, the recording has in effect been abridged with most repeats in Allemandes, Courantes Sarabandes and Gigues being omitted. It would be pure speculation on my behalf to suggest that this may have been related to the petrol crises of the 1970s. This resulted in some shortages of vinyl. In which case it would be interesting to know how much pressure was brought upon the performer to omit repeats.
The Recording.
The recording itself is of reasonable quality, having a dry tonality without excessive echo. The timbre of the cello sounds accurate in that it is not harsh in the upper registers and not overly full in the lower registers.
The recording starts as it means to carry on with an explosive start off the blocks. Flachot’s first Prelude competes with Annlies Schmidt if not overtakes her in the speed stakes. Less than 95 minutes later its all over (in a Flash if you will pardon the pun!). I would hope the speed of the playing is interpretation as opposed to stricture imposed by the two-disc format. As you will know if you have read my review of Ms Schmidt’s recording I am not against rapid tempos but in this case they do seem rather rushed. Phrases seem snatched at times to get onto the next passage.
In general, there is a certain swagger and jauntiness to the style of playing which is rather attractive. Tempos are very regular, with little rubato but subtle rallentandos and accelerandos in places. I did enjoy listening to this performance but did just feel that a little more reflection in slower movements and less frantic playing in faster movements would still have fitted onto the two discs.
Conclusion.
So, in summary a curiosity, but not an expensive one to explore as copies are available at reasonable prices.
Charles.