J.S. Bach: Six Suites for Viola Solo

J.S. Bach’s six Cello Suites have been interpreted by many different instrumentalists besides cellists. Kim Kashkashian’s performances on the viola are very convincing: She has played Bach’s work for a long time and digs deep into this endlessly fascinating and richly rewarding music here. The viola seems to unleash a solemnity in the pieces that eludes the cello, and the slightly brighter sound works well. The dance movements have a lovely spring to them, while the slower Sarabandes have a stately weight and power. The recorded sound is beautifully handled—warm and immediate with a pleasing halo around the soloist.