Itzhak Perlman plays Bach's Partita No. 2 in D Minor

Itzhak Perlman in the Bach Partita No. 2: another gem in Christopher Nupen's archive material.

It is often said that the recordings of the Bach Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin by Itzhak Perlman are an absolute, or at least undeniable reference. A classic for every violinist, these works are said to be the best opportunity for the soloist to show all his skills – on a technical and interpretation level.

These performances of the Partitas No. 2 and 3 (view also Itzhak Perlman plays Bach: Partita in E Major) were shot during one of the BBC 3 lunchtime concerts. Those shows, recorded from all over the UK, still exist.

When we watch Itzhak Perlman, 33 years old, playing these works with all the calm and devotion which make the greatest artists, with his eyes closed and a smile on his face, we can only be grateful there was a video camera on the stage, on that day. The gorgeous and final "Chaconne," lasting for almost fifteen minutes, sounds here like a true milestone..