Boston Baroque and Martin Pearlman - Bach: The Complete Orchestral Suites (2004)

Following up a well-received set of Bach's Brandenburg Concerti, Martin Pearlman and the Boston Baroque have recorded his Orchestral Suites. Pearlman presents them in what is believed to be their original order of composition: starting with the less familiar No. 4 and No. 1, then No. 3 with its "Air on the G string," and, finally, No. 2. The suites are all played with the usual skill expected from this group, and they are lively performances. The ensemble is small enough for you to hear all the different parts, whether leading or supporting, but not to the detriment of the overall musical picture. With smaller forces than a modern orchestra, the suites are much less weighty, with less of the seriousness and reverence usually given to the works of the great master Bach. These suites feel more dance-like and entertaining, as they should. The disc is a treat from one of North America's best period performance ensembles. ~ Patsy Morita