Sonatas and Partitas for Solo Violin Main Performer or Conductor: Scott Slapin Instrumentation: Viola Individual Works: Disc 1: Sonata No. 1 BWV 1001 Sonata No. 2 BWV 1003 Sonata No. 3 BWV 1005 Disc 2: Partita No. 1 BWV 1002 Partita No. 2 BWV 1004 Partita No. 3 BWV 1006 Partita BWV 1013 Format: Compact Disc Record Label: Eroica Catalog Number: SSRS 42773-2 Year Released/Recorded: 1998 Total Playing Time: cd 1: 65:31 cd 2: 70:31 Related Web Site: http://www.eroica.com/ss-music.html Comments: Jan Hanford: This cd reaffirms my belief that many of the best treasures come from independent record labels. I found this performance on viola to be more enjoyable than many recordings on violin I've heard. The pleasant, warm sound is perhaps also due to the works being necessarily lowered a fifth to accommodate the range of the viola. But Scott Slapin's sensitive interpretations are the reason for the success of this recording. His tempos are sensibly moderate and his phrasing is very thoughtful. The famous Chaconne from Partita No. 2 is extraordinary. It evokes emotion in a way that is not common for me; a truly remarkable interpretation. The articulation of the fast movements is excellent, his intonation is perfect and his use of dynamic variation on repeated phrases is a nice interpretive touch. The inclusion of the Partita for Solo Flute, BWV 1013 is exciting. I have never heard this performed on other than flute, and this interpretation on viola is lovely and perfectly suited to the instrument. This is a highly recommended recording that I hope many will discover and treasure, as I have. You can buy this cd directly from the Erocia Records Web Site or the other usual sources like amazon. Acknowledgements: From the collection of Jan Hanford. Date First Submitted: 12/05/2002 Purchasing: Suggested Purchasing Sources Note: Inclusion in this database does not guarantee the availability of any recording. Some recordings may be out-of-print or no longer available.