Bach: Six Suites Unaccompanied For Cello

I like the Starker recording. Not on your list, but I also like the Rostropovich recording (from EMI). Rostropovich's performance strikes me as a touch less precise than Starker's. This can be a good or a bad thing, depending on your preferences.

You should also listen to the Martin Zeller recording (from MA Recordings). The performance and SQ are extraordinary. Unfortunately, it is only a small selections from the Suites. But Zeller's performance is fascinating, as it sounds the most baroque of the three (at least to my untrained ear). Have fun.

Bryon

I prefer Rostropovich's more "emotional" presentation.

Samhar - I initially wrote the same thing in my post - i.e. that the Starker performance feels more intellectual, while Rostropovich feels more emotional - but then I rephrased it because I didn't want to anger any Starker fans. ;-) But I agree with you about this impression.

I also agree with the folks who suggest getting multiple versions of the Suites. I have three versions and I listen to them all, depending on my mood.

Bryon

At Ymh's recommendation on this thread, I bought Steven Isserlis' recording of the Cello Suites, and I'm enjoying it very much. To my ears, it has a more spontaneous and improvisational feel than some of the other notable performances. At times it is almost playful, which some may object to, but I find an interesting approach.

Worth a listen.

Bryon