De Cellosuites: J.S. Bach, Pablo Casals En De Speurtocht Naar Een Meesterwerk (2011) - Plot & Excerpts
This book is part musical detective story, part biography of Bach and Casals, and part personal journey of a man captivated by the suites after hearing them in a chance encounter. The narrative, told through the form of the cello suites, in 6 sections, is engaging. For me, this was one of those books I didn't want to put down. Of course, I supplemented my reading by listening to parts of the suites after finishing a period of reading. I was listening to a recording of one of the Bach Cello Suites on the radio today and I thought, "This is definitely NOT Pablo Casals." Was reminded that I had read this book a couple of years ago and thought it was wonderful. The book is a bit gimmicky and it might drive anyone who is a musicologist crazy, but for someone who just enjoyed listening to music it is a good read. The story of Bach, the story of Casals, and the story of how Casals found a copy of this musical masterpiece and spent years practicing it before he dared to perform it in public. Casals was not only a great musician but a man of great personal integrity and courage. I was unaware of his political stances. Because of his opposition to Franco he refused to return to Spain until democracy was restored and, with one exception, refused to perform in countries that recognized Franco's regime.
What do You think about De Cellosuites: J.S. Bach, Pablo Casals En De Speurtocht Naar Een Meesterwerk (2011)?
A lovely book. Beautifully reflects the tone, depth, intimacy, and mystery of Bach's Cello Suites.
—freebooks
I really enjoyed this book - learned lots about Bach, Cassals, and the cello!
—crys03
