Symphony of the Vines presents three outstanding local cellists who will each tackle one of Bach’s Suites for Solo Cello. The concert is Sunday, January 27, 4 p.m., in the Barrel Room at Cass Winery and Vineyard, Paso Robles.
Bach Cello Suites features Jeanne Shumway, Barbara Hunter-Spencer, and Hilary Clark. Each performer will bring her special interpretation to these well-known works. Bach composed six suites and they are some of the most iconic classical works for the cello. Symphony of the Vines will present three this season, and the remainder next season.
Each of Bach’s Cello Suites follows a similar structure. They begin – as was common practice in the early 1700s – with a prélude, an introductory movement, which served a dual practical purpose of settling both the unstable gut strings of the cello and the all-too-frequently noisy audience. The prélude is usually the longest movement; its character can be whimsical and improvisatory.
Interestingly, there are no tempo markings for any of the movements given by the composer. Therefore, it is up to the performer to choose the suitable pulse for their interpretation. This can lead to significant differences.
Cello Suites are an integral part of the cello repertoire. Most well-known cellists regard performing and recording the whole set as a milestone in their career.
Symphony of the Vines is a professional orchestra based in north San Luis Obispo County. This non-profit symphony specializes in small orchestra and chamber ensembles playing in various venues including Central Coast wineries.
Visit www.symphonyofthevines.org for more information and to purchase tickets.