Johann Sebastian Bach - Cello Suites (René Schiffer)

Information

Composer: Johann Sebastian Bach

• Cello Suite No. 1 In G Major, BWV 1007
• Cello Suite No. 2 In D Minor, BWV 1008
• Cello Suite No. 3 In C Major, BWV 1009
• Cello Suite No. 4 In E Flat Major, BWV 1010
• Cello Suite No. 5 In C Minor, BWV 1011
• Cello Suite No. 6 In D Major, BWV 1012

René Schiffer, cello & violoncello piccolo

Date: 2026

Label: Avie Records

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René Schiffer, the acclaimed principal cellist of the Baroque orchestra Apollo’s Fire, steps into the spotlight for his solo debut recording of J.S. Bach’s seminal Six Suites for Solo Cello. Known for his engaging performance style across dozens of orchestral releases, Schiffer delivers a meticulous and distinctive interpretation of this Baroque pillar. The project showcases historical performance practice through the strategic use of period instruments and varied tunings, employing a 1768 Benoît Fleury cello for the first four suites and an anonymous late 18th-century five-string violoncello piccolo for the final two (including his own arrangement of the fifth). The recording is paired with Schiffer's comprehensive, probing liner notes, providing deep intellectual insight into his artistic choices.

René Schiffer is an internationally acclaimed period-instrument cellist, viola da gamba player, and composer recognized for his creative, imaginative interpretations. A native of Holland, he was a protégé of Anner Bijlsma and completed advanced studies with historical performance masters Jaap ter Linden and Catharina Meints. Schiffer has enjoyed a prolific orchestral and solo career, performing with premier ensembles including La Petite Bande, Les Musiciens du Louvre, Tafelmusik, and Apollo’s Fire. His extensive discography spans more than 60 recordings. Also an accomplished composer, Schiffer has contributed original compositions, completions, and historically informed arrangements to numerous Apollo’s Fire releases, including a Tango concerto, a completion of Mozart's Lacrimosa, and alternative music for Monteverdi's L'Orfeo, alongside solo works written during the pandemic for five-string cello and seven-string viol.