American violinist Rachel Barton Pine is not an Australian household name – surprising, considering the fantastic array of awards and accolades under her belt, and even more surprising once you hear her formidable playing. Born in 1974, Pine debuted with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra aged only 10, and in 1992 was the first American violinist to win the International Johann Sebastian Bach Competition in Germany. At 21 she was involved in a grisly train accident, and after two years of rehabilitation she resumed her career to become a celebrated concert violinist. Pine’s story is an inspiring one.

This latest recording of J.S. Bach’s music for solo violin is a testament to Pine’s exceptional reputation. Her technical ability alone is impressive: the precision of her intonation and her rhythmic accuracy allow you to forget the complexity of the music and simply enjoy the pleasure of it. Pine imbues each movement of the sonatas and partitas with sensitivity and humour as the score dictates, exemplified in Partita no. 3 in E major. First, marvel at Pine’s virtuosity, then, lose yourself in the beauty of the music. Finally, be thankful that you discovered this underrated musician and purchased her brilliant Bach recording for your library.

Alexandra Mathew