Composers: Bach
Compositions: Six Solo Cello Suites
Performers: Alban Gerhardt vc
Catalogue Number: Hyperion CDA682612 (2CD)

The German cellist Alban Gerhardt’s contribution to the liner notes of his Bach Cello Suites rather humbly mentions his disillusionment with excessive regard for “authenticity” in this type of music – making it all the more apparent that freedom and spontaneity here are the twin touchstones of his approach to what I’ve always found somewhat intimidatingly cerebral repertoire. I’m reminded of what Schnabel wrote about Beethoven’s piano sonatas: that they would always be greater than anyone who plays them.

No sign of claustrophobic affectation or...