This episode explores the creation of cellist Anja Lechner's first solo album, "Bach Abel Hume," after years of collaborations. Anja discusses her repertoire selection, choosing Bach as a foundational element alongside the works of Abel and Hume, composers whose music she discovered through viola da gamba player Johnny Zavall. Against this backdrop, the conversation delves into the technical differences between the cello and viola da gamba, highlighting the adaptations required to translate pieces originally written for the latter instrument to the cello. More significantly, Anja reflects on the freedom found in both Bach's compositions and her own improvisational experiences, contrasting her earlier rigid approach to music with her current openness and flexibility. As the discussion pivots to her long-standing relationship with ECM Records and Manfred Eicher, she emphasizes the mutual respect and trust that have shaped her collaborations over three decades, citing numerous artists and projects that have enriched her musical journey. In conclusion, the recording of "Bach Abel Hume" represents a homecoming for Anja, a return to her German roots after extensive explorations of diverse musical styles and cultures, showcasing the evolution of her artistic expression.
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