The inevitable follow-up to her recording of Bach's first two sonatas and first Partita for solo violin,
Jacqueline Ross' recording of Bach's Third Sonata and second two partitas for solo violin is equally impressive. Armed with a fearless technique, a reckless attack, and a tone that cuts right through you,
Ross can do anything she wants with the music -- and what she wants to do is make the greatest music she can with it. Her C major Sonata's opening Adagio and Fugue is searing in its intensity. Her E major Partita's opening Preludio is blazing in its liberty. Her D minor Partita's closing Ciaccona is excruciating in its existential audacity. While those who prefer the more refined, not to say sweeter, performances of modern violinists like
Mintz or
Perlman may find
Ross' take-no-prisoners performances too much to bear, those who like to be challenged, not to say confronted, by the musicians they listen to will surely find
Ross' bravery bracing. Gaudeamus' 2007 digital sound is clear, deep, warm, and full.