Search - Johann Sebastian Bach, Apollo's Fire :: Bach: Brandenburg Concertos

Fresh, vibrant Brandenburgs

wayne dooley | Plantation, FL United States | 04/07/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I have shared this version of the Brandenburgs with many people, even some Bach-haters, who all rave about it. The works are beautifully played on period instruments with the desired effect - the music just sounds "right", in a way that it strains to on modern instruments. Sorrell is a wonderful director and really makes the sparks fly doing the harpsichord solo in #5. Violinist Cynthia Roberts plays the many solo violin parts with great energy but also sensitivity. This is the way this music was meant to be heard."

If music interpretation is about taste, this one tastes bett

Damir Janigro | Cleveland Hts., OH USA | 04/07/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"When we first moved to Cleveland Heights from the much hippier Seattle (1999) we were unaware of the incredible musical tradition of this small city. And were equally unaware of the historic (yes, this is musical history in the making!) performances by the Sorrell's Apollo's Fire. The first concert (Brandenburg concertos, I remember the n. 3 and 2, maybe they did them all) was 200 yards from where we live. It was Summer or whereabouts, and going to the concert was a way to familiarize ourselves with the surroundings. I did not at all expect to hear one of the best baroque ensembles in the world. And, mind you, I never had or will have a passion for "original" instruments (sometimes consisting of cellos without endpins) or the "Bach sans vibrato" concepts. But when you have Sorrell's talent for art and music all what matters is, well, music and sound. She is the most underrated international talent, but her concerts are always packed and phenomenal. Do not compare to Richter, or anyone else, this is a different world of a musician specifically dwelling in a relatively small repertoire who has created something new from the very old, and with original instruments too...."

Delectable

Rosemarie Manderson | Canada | 04/17/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This rendition of the greatest set of concertos ever written is unmatched. The Cleveland Baroque Orchestra is certainly the tightest period ensemble on the face of the planet and Jeannette Sorrell is a mastermind. the instruments and acoustics are flawless, and the performances are savory and informed. for those who want to experience one of the most sensual, enlightening, transcending artistic demonstrations that can be made available to them, buy this CD."