Yasunori Imamura presents the second instalment of Bach’s Cello Suites arranged for theorbo (Volume 1 is available on 8574617). The theorbo is the most important plucked instrument in the lute family, with a range very similar to the cello. Certain technical elements, such as the playing of arpeggios are, in fact, easier on the theorbo whose unique timbres bring a new sonic quality to the performances heard here. These elements are most evident in Suite no.6, composed for a cello with five strings, but which sounds totally idiomatic when played on the theorbo.

Yasunori Imamura has recorded Bach’s Complete Works for Lute on 857393637: ‘Magnificent interpretation of Yasunori Imamura,’ wrote Ritmo, while Record Geijutsu wrote that it was ‘A new era’s masterpiece album!’.

Imamura is recognised as one of the prominent figures of the lute, both as a soloist and as a continuo player. His solo recordings have been awarded numerous accolades, including a Diapason d’Or for Weiss: Lute Sonatas Vol.1 on the Claves label. He received the Cultural Achievement Award from the Canton of Solothurn (Switzerland) in 2010. Imamura has collaborated as a continuo player with artists including Cecilia Bartoli, Teresa Berganza, Marc Minkowski, and many others.