Paul Galbraith - Bach, J S: Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin, BWV1001-1006 (1998)

“British guitarist Paul Galbraith has made something of a sensation in the guitar world… extraordinarily skillful, cohesive and passionate performances… sensational guitar music with a remarkable depth of feeling.” Stereo Review

“[He has brought] revolutionary change to playing the guitar… an amazing clarity and a huge dynamic range I have never before heard from any guitarist.” The Times of London

“Magnificently played, thoughtful and majestic performances… a landmark in the history of guitar recordings.” Gramophone

“I’ve never heard anyone play like this.” Classical Guitar

“Paul’s Bach,” as we at Delos call the first two albums by this remarkable musician and innovator, is a landmark. Paul began his series for Delos with the Bach Sonatas and Partitas, and continued with the Bach Lute Suites. This first album, complete with Grammy Nomination and Billboard Chart Top 10 status, catapulted Paul to popularity with critics, audiences and the worldwide guitar community.

Paul first won public acclaim in Great Britain when at the age of 17 his performance at the Segovia International Guitar Competition won him the Silver Medal. Segovia, who was present for the competition, called his playing “magnificent.”

Paul’s unique playing position was first revealed in Edinburgh in 1989. His guitar, designed in collaboration with the late David Rubio, features two extra strings — one high, one low — in addition to the usual six. The instrument is supported by a metal endpin that rests on a wooden resonance box. The eight strings and distinctive design of this guitar effectively increase the instrument’s range and possibilities to an extent never before possible. Its unique sound and its innovations have enabled Paul to achieve a new musical dimension in his guitar transcriptions.