Cellists and fans of baroque cello music would do well to investigate these virtually unknown sonatas by Dutch cellist/composer and Bach-contemporary Jacob Klein (1688-1748). While not on the level of sensational, undiscovered masterpieces, these excellent works are more than worthy of inclusion in the standard recital and recording repertoire. In some instances–the Adagio cantabile of Sonata No. 2 in A, the whole of Sonata No. 1 in B-flat and of Sonata No. 3 in G–the idiomatic character, melodic invention, overall tonal richness, and pure listener-entertainment value qualifies for inclusion alongside the period’s finest works in the genre. Klein’s spirited allegros and alluring, improvisatory-like slow movements are a pure pleasure to hear, and it’s surprising that these pieces have remained in obscurity for so long (indeed, biographical information on Klein is scant-to-nonexistent).
The performers are outstanding, especially cellist Kristin von der Goltz (a member of the famed Freiburg Baroque Orchestra), who demonstrates an almost ferocious command of the more hyperactive movements–with their rambunctious string crossings and rapid runs–as well as profound sensitivity to the opulently meandering lines and ornamental flourishes in the slow movements. The sound is a bit bright and the perspective slightly too close, giving von der Goltz’s baroque instrument a kind of glassy quality in the upper registers. The closeness also tends to obscure textural detail among the three instruments, making some passages seem overly dense and muddy. But these technical concerns are overshadowed in the light of the music’s importance and substantial interest–and quickly disappear in the midst of such engaging and expert music-making. Highly recommended.
