Six Suites for Solo Cello

Product Description This two-CD recording reflects Winona Zelenka's exploration of the Bach six unaccompanied Cello Suites, from the ultra-romanticism of Casals, to the modernist logic of Starker, to a European school that has been more open to historical performance practice. In her search for Bach's intellectual and emotional meaning, Winona presents a powerful and expressive performance that is both true to the composer and uniquely her own. This recording was nominated in Canada for a 2011 Juno Award as Best Classical Album of the Year: Solo or Chamber Ensemble. Review Canadian cellist Winona Zelenka gives Bach's solo cello suites a stylish ease that we don't often hear on modern cello. -- Elissa Poole, Globe & Mail Look no further--the closest thing to a definitive set of these amazing pieces that I have ever heard... I will confess that I am blown away by these recordings--Zelenka's tone is among the warmest and most invigoratingly burnished that I have ever heard in this music. -- Steven Ritter, Audiophile Audition From the Artist The search is always for the voice that Bach intended to convey - orchestral, operatic or choral - and for the true meaning in Bach's compositions, the intellectual and emotional depth of which have always been my passionate goal to express. It is my life's work, as it is for every cellist who knows the Suites. I continue to believe that there is nothing in human experience that can't be said with this amazing music. About the Artist Winona Zelenka is one of Canada's finest cellists, known for her gorgeous, luminous tone and expressive brilliance. She electrifies audiences with her impeccable musicality, superb technique and elegant style. "Some of the most beautiful singing... came from the cello of Winona Zelenka. Her opening solo...was breathtaking - floating with effortless musicality." - National Post The cello used in this recording was made in 1707 by Joseph Guarnerius of Cremona, Italy. The Cremonese instruments of this period are considered the summit of achievement and this Guarneri proves the rule. It is known for its rich magnificent tone.