Hilary Hahn plays Bach: Violin Sonatas Nos. 1 & 2; Partita No. 1

The music of J.S. Bach has long sat at the centre of Hilary Hahn’s repertoire. As for many musicians, it exerts a fascination, both intellectual and emotional, that inspires playing of very appealing elegance and insight. The vibrato is tighter than before, and the lines are drawn with a sharper focus—pencil rather than watercolour perhaps. This is music of inexhaustible depth and ambition, and Hahn makes a wonderful guide. At times it feels as if she’s playing just for you, so enjoy the best seat in the house for three masterpieces for the solo violin.