Cello Suites - In den Winden im Nichts

Composer: Bach, Johann Sebastian

Ballet Company: Zurich Opera House Ballet

Choreographer: Spoerli, Heinz

Corps de Ballet: Zurich Opera House Ballet

Soloist: Herrmann, Claudius

Television Director: Sommer, Andy

Lighting Designer: Gebhardt, Martin

Set Designer: Cavero, Sergio

Costumer Designer: Spoerli, Heinz

Date of Production: June 2004

Venue: Opernhaus Zurich

Playing Time: 01:26:08

Catalogue Number: BAC015

UPC: 3760115300156

Following on the success of his adaptation of the Goldberg Variations, Spoerli turned to that other Bach masterpiece, the Suites for Solo Cello, offering his abstract vision in three stunningly beautiful dance episodes.

The choreography mixes solos, pas de deux, trios and ensemble work. Beginning and ending with a near-identical solo, the cycle is dominated by circularity. The duets are virtuoso gems, athleticism made dance.

Its subtle play on balance and the relationship between bodies and light, the symmetry and asymmetry of the ensemble parts, its purity of movement and its sheer energy make this a ballet of remarkable density, depth and theatrical beauty.

The Bach Suites are played here by Claudius Herrmann, solo cellist with the Zurich Opera Orchestra, in a rendition that does full justice to their choreographic potential.