Inventions Sinfonias & Preludes

On this CD:

1. Two part invention for keyboard No. 1 in C major, BWV 772
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

2. Two part invention for keyboard No. 2 in C minor, BWV773
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

3. Two part invention for keyboard No. 3 in D major, BWV774
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

4. Two part invention for keyboard No. 4 in D minor, BWV775
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

5. Two part invention for keyboard No. 5 in E flat major, BWV776
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

6. Two part invention for keyboard No. 6 in E major, BWV777
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

7. Two part invention for keyboard No. 7 in E minor, BWV 778
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

8. Two part invention for keyboard No. 8 in F major, BWV779
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

9. Two part invention for keyboard No. 9 in F minor, BWV780
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

10. Two part invention for keyboard No. 10 in G major, BWV781
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

11. Two part invention for keyboard No. 11 in G minor, BWV782
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

12. Two part invention for keyboard No. 12 in A major, BWV783
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

13. Two part invention for keyboard No. 13 in A minor, BWV 784
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

14. Two part invention for keyboard No. 14 in B flat major, BWV 785
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

15. Two part invention for keyboard No. 15 in B minor, BWV786
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

16. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 1 in C major, BWV 787
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

17. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 2 in C minor, BWV 788
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

18. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 3 in D major, BWV 789
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

19. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 4 in D minor, BWV 790
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

20. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 5 in E flat major, BWV 791
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

21. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 6 in E major, BWV 792
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

22. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 9 in F minor, BWV 795
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

23. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 8 in F major, BWV 794
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

24. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 9 in F minor, BWV 795
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

25. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 10 in G major, BWV 796
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

26. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 11 in G minor, BWV 797
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

27. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 12 in A major, BWV 798
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

28. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 13 in A minor, BWV 799
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

29. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 14 in B flat major, BWV 800
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

30. Three-Part Invention (Sinfonia) for keyboard No. 15 in B minor, BWV 801
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

31. Prelude for keyboard in C major, BWV 933
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

32. Prelude for keyboard in C minor, BWV 934
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

33. Prelude for keyboard in D minor, BWV 935
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

34. Prelude for keyboard in D major, BWV 936
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

35. Prelude for keyboard in E major, BWV 937
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

36. Prelude for keyboard in E minor, BWV 938
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Ton Koopman

Inventions Sinfonias & Preludes, Music, J.S. Bach, Classical, Classical Composers, Classical Music, Orchestral & Symphonic
Inventions & Sinfonias - 70th Anniversary Edition
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • FOR THE FAITHFUL
  • Expect excellence, Get genius
  • Performance versus Technology
  • benchmark for the initiated
  • This is just great music greatly interpreted
 Inventions & Sinfonias - 70th Anniversary Edition
Glenn Gould , and Bach
Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
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  5. Partitas 4 5 & 6 - 70th Anniversary Edition

ASIN: B00006FI9S
Release Date: 2002-09-03

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars FOR THE FAITHFUL.......2006-08-20

To get the terminology clear - the 3-part Bach `Inventions' also go by the name of `Sinfonias'. There are 15 2-part and 15 3-part Inventions, and on this disc they are presented grouped in pairs by key, one of each type per pair.

The liner-note makes rather a song and dance of its own about the piano used for the recordings. It apparently suffered certain vicissitudes in the course of being transported around north America, and the first attempts at using it for recording these works had to be abandoned. With patience and perseverance they all got it back into an acceptable condition, and Gould himself contributes a commentary on the matter. He points out certain shortcomings in the sound of the instrument which have then been acutely perceived by others although not so much by myself even after being told about them. The only objective fault I find is a curious subdued `tick', and I can only say that after a lifetime of putting up with far worse on LP this minor blemish gives me no problem whatsoever. As often there is some background vocalising by the maestro himself. This is quiet, it is only intermittent, it is at least tuneful and I am accustomed to it from Gould, and again I simply could not care less. What I would say is that I like the sound of the instrument in general rather less than on some of Gould's other recordings, and that is a perception of my own and not something I have been told to look for, but once again it bothers me very little indeed.

The playing itself is exactly as one would expect it to be. The touch is non-legato, the precision of the fingerwork is phenomenal, little or no use is made of the pedals, there is comparatively little in the way of dynamic variation but there are enormous contrasts in the speeds adopted. This is Gould as we know him and either love him or do not love him. Myself, I find him a prodigy of the first magnitude, and in Bach he has never done any wrong from my point of view. You will not be amazed to be told that I recommend this disc wholeheartedly despite any minor reservations, and I have done what I can to make it clear what I consider recommendable and why.

5 out of 5 stars Expect excellence, Get genius.......2006-07-04

I have to smile at the constant complaints over Gould's many eccentricities, especially in this recording of Bach. If one puts on their memory cap, it is Bach who was the iconoclast of his day, the one who went to jail rather than conform, the one who established modern music with his advocacy of a "well-tempered" instrument. (One wonders what he would think of the incredible Symphonic organs that transformed composition and performance so drastically.)

I simply choose to ignore (or smile at) the occasional hum. When we deal with people we deal with their falacies. Good art is not sterile but (I prefer to think) important, creative and more than anything, human. I am not sure if Gould was not slyly trying to tick off the critics with some of his antics. After the Goldberg I was expecting big things from this album and I was not disappointed. Gould has an inimitable manner in which he seems to imbue each note with his entire being, with all the artistry that he possesses. He excells at structure and has the ability to rework the architecture of a piece (think of his Brahms), maintaining the form while emphasizing a phrase here, a pause there, bringing out an internal melody not apparent in other hands, pouring his soul into each note. He becomes his music as few artists are able to do.

The Inventions were sheer prefection and the 3-parts were even better. It goes without saying that the tone of the instrument was superb. Even after only a few seconds, one easily detects that Gould "touch" - the purity of tone, the clarity of note, the almost imagined hesitancy in the performance as if the artists were still searching for the best presentation. My grade: A

4 out of 5 stars Performance versus Technology.......2005-06-25

One can tolerate Glen Gould's grunting and groaning throughout, as his interpretation of the Bach inventions is outstanding. However, despite Sony's reputation the recording is flawed. The first track (Invention 1 in C major) has a "tic-tic-tic" for the first few bars that is unacceptable. Amazon very kindly replaced the disc free of all charges, including freight, but the replacement had the same flaw. I noticed that the disc played OK on my computer so I tried burning a copy. Lo, it was fine on my hi-fi gear so that solved the problem. But take care; why should we have to go to the trouble to make allowances to fix a technical fault when we are paying good money for a faultless one?

5 out of 5 stars benchmark for the initiated.......2005-06-05

I first heard the Bach Inventions/Sinfonias in a performance by Andras Schiff, which is a terrific album in its own way, should you happen upon it. But nothing could have prepared me for the shock that the Gould performance is. Yet time and repeated listening has made this my own personal favorite performance, as it is one of the most original musical utterances anyone could find anywhere.

For the uninitiated Gould listener, this album is eyebrow-raising. Some might even find it vulgar and off-putting. There's many obstacles in the way: the piano in this recording has serious malfunction, with a pronounced "hiccup" heard in the low-middle range. You'll also have to contend with Gould's creaking, noisy chair, which sometimes makes it sound as if this album were recorded in front of a large bonfire. Then there's the oft-mentioned Gould vocalise, which is more audible than ever here. The tempos are almost bi-polar in nature; either excruciatingly slow or hyper-fast, with not too much gray area in between. If that proves anything, it's that Gould had an almost superhuman technique which allowed him to play clean at extremely fast tempos, and with a profound emotional depth at slower tempos. No one can play as well at slow tempos as Gould does.

It has gotten to the point where I don't even have to make any attempt to block out these extraneous sounds. It's all part of what is, in summation, one of the most highly original and musical Bach albums ever issued.

5 out of 5 stars This is just great music greatly interpreted.......2005-01-22

I remember what film made me look into classical music and what made my life different. It was the film "A CLockwork Orange". I remember hearing all the Beethoven sections and saying "Hey classical music is cool!!" I found this album in a similar manner. Instead of hearing this music in a film I read about it in Thomas Harris' novel "The Silence of the Lambs". Oh yes the film references the aria from the Goldberg Variations but not only is Glenn Gould's name left out of the film but also another famous piece of work that Dr. Hannibal loved dearly. The two and three part invention by Glenn Gould. Hannibal Lecter asks for this very piece of music specifically while he is hiding away in a fancy hotel. Well I ran out and purchased this recording and all I have to say is that this is probably a better overall set of music that the Goldbergs as far as I'm concerned. There's a playfulness and longing here that Gould absolutely nails. And yes his piano in this recording is indeed defective. Some of the notes "stick" occasionally. I'll honestly tell you that this sticky and awkward piano sound SOMEHOW matches the music and is quite fun to listen to. Don't hesitate to buy this great album.
Bach: Fantasia in C minor; Two-Part Inventions; Three-Part Inventions; Chromatic Fantasia & Fugue
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • The first of Hewitt's monumental Bach cycle
  • Sophisticated, understated Bach
 Bach: Fantasia in C minor; Two-Part Inventions; Three-Part Inventions; Chromatic Fantasia & Fugue

Manufacturer: Hyperion UK
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000002ZUY
Release Date: 1994-08-30

Tracks:

  1. Fantasia In C Minor, BWV906
  2. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 1 In C Major
  3. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 2 In C Minor
  4. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 3 In D Major
  5. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 4 In D Minor
  6. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 5 In E Flat Major
  7. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 6 In E Major
  8. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 7 In E Minor
  9. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 8 In F Major
  10. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 9 In F Minor
  11. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 10 In G Major
  12. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 11 In G Minor
  13. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 12 In A Major
  14. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 13 In A Minor
  15. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 14 In B Flat Major
  16. Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 15 In B Minor
  17. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 1 In C Major
  18. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 2 In C Minor
  19. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 3 In D Major
  20. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 4 In D Minor
  21. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 5 In E Flat Major
  22. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 6 In E Major
  23. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 7 In E Minor
  24. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 8 In F Major
  25. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 9 In F Minor
  26. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 10 In G Major
  27. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 11 In G Minor
  28. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 12 In A Major
  29. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 13 In A Minor
  30. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 14 In B Flat Major
  31. Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 15 In B Minor
  32. Chromatic Fantasia And Fugue In D Minor, BWV903: Fantasia
  33. Chromatic Fantasia And Fugue In D Minor, BWV903: Fugue

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars The first of Hewitt's monumental Bach cycle.......2006-03-25

In 1994 a mostly unknown 'Canadian' pianist signed with Hyperion Records to begin recording the whole of Bach's keyboard works. Eleven years - and some 14 discs later - the dream was complete, but the pianist was now well known and respected as one of the great Bach interpreters of her generation. This CD was the first of these recordings and the logical place to begin.

The program here ranges from the more simple of Bach's compositions (Two-Part Inventions) to some of the more trecherous, virtuostic masterpieces (the two fantasias). Written by Bach for his son and students around 1723, the Two-Part and Three-Part Inventions form the foundational know-how and skills of Bach's countrapuntal keyboard art. For centuries now these works have been essential for any piano student learning the "basics" of figuration, melodic line, smooth legato, clarity of two and three voices and so on. The Three-Part pieces are fairly advanced pieces possessing complex voicing and passagework. As such they are pre-requisite for learning the more complex preludes and fugues of "The Well-Tempered Clavier." Like the pieces in the WTC, both sets of Inventions show Bach as both a master educator and deft lyricist with their range of emotive qualities. There is delicacy, pensiveness, vivacity, virtuosity and sorrow expressed in these miniatures - all while building the foundational skills (like seamless legato w/o use of the pedal) necessary for performing the major piano repertoire. Pianists worldwide owe a world of gratitude for Johann Sebastian Bach for such foundational compositions which have been reverently played by many of the great composers who followed Bach.

I'm not sure if it is more Bach's multi-faceted compositions or Miss Hewitt's varied and expressive playing of them, but these so-called "piano excercises" sound anything but that. Likely, it is both of the above factors. It was in this first recording that Hewitt showed the music world her ever-so delicate, poised and artistic pianistic mannerisms, transforming these student pieces into delightful little concert performances in themselves. Her readings are worthy role models for students focusing on the long, clear, lyrical line that is essential to Bach's music as well as rewarding to admirers of Bach's art. Perhaps what Miss Hewitt most brings to this music is her tasteful, expressive nuances: a subtle rubato, an enticing dynamic shading and an artistic variety of tone summoned forth from her Steinway Grand. Such qualities create more of an unfolding story within each piece than showcasing mere "finger dexterity exercises." Gramophone recognized this more sensitive tunement to the musical aspects too and gave this CD a solid recommendation.

If the Inventions are the "main course" of this set, then the two virtuostic Fantasias which open and close the program are the delectable "appetizer" and "dessert" on the menu. Both show Bach as master of the extemporaneous "Style Fantasticus" that he most likely gleaned in his youth from his visit to hear the great organist, Buxtahude. Even in Bach's day supposedly, the great Chromatic Fanasia in D-minor was among his most popular piece as it is today. Both are exciting, daunting works played to perfection by Hewitt. As noted by Gramophone, "her readings of the fantasias are as eloquent and stimulating as any yet recorded by a harpsichordist." Also in support of the pianist is a fine recording ambiance by Hyperion that is hard to fault. Its rather ironic that this first CD of Hewitt's Bach recordings was the last of her entire discography I acquired. But even after hearing all her glorious performances of Bach's music - from the WTC and Goldbergs to the Toccatas, Suites and Keyboard Concertos - hearing these earliest and more straightforward pieces still brings great refreshment and satisfaction that is so common in Bach's music - and so common too in Angela Hewitt's masterful and colorful playing of them. Compositions - 4.5 stars, Peformance - 5 stars, Sound - 4.5 stars.

5 out of 5 stars Sophisticated, understated Bach.......2002-03-24

I have several recordings of the Inventions and Sinfonias, both on harpsichord (Gilbert, Koopman) and piano-- but this is easily the most satisfying. Less quirky than Gould's, Hewitt's performance is the furthest thing from flashy or idiosyncratic and really allows the clarity and contrapuntal elegance of Bach's keyboard writing to shine through. The result is the furthest thing from didacticism, always a risk with works that have such a central position in every pianist's early training. While eschewing every excess, Hewitt is also unafraid to take some liberaties-- hear, for example, the octave-doubling in the f-minor Sinfonia, easily a highlight of the set and of this performance in particular. Excellent fill-ups as well, the virtuosic c-minor Fantasia (though performed, as is almost always the case, without its fragmentary companion fugue) and the "Chromatic" Fantasie & Fugue. Unhesitatingly recommended.
Bach: Two part Inventions/Three Part Inventions
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • One of the best piano performances of the Inventions
  • Bach:Tow part Inventions/Three part Inventions
  • Average
  • What is all this fuss about Gould being better than Schiff?
  • A Somewhat "Romanticized" Bach Performance
 Bach: Two part Inventions/Three Part Inventions

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000041PL
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

  1. Two-Part Inventions: No. 1 In C Major
  2. Two-Part Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor
  3. Two-Part Inventions: No. 3 In D Major
  4. Two-Part Inventions: No. 4 In D Minor
  5. Two-Part Inventions: No. 5 In E-Flat Major
  6. Two-Part Inventions: No. 6 In E Major
  7. Two-Part Inventions: No. 7 In E Minor
  8. Two-Part Inventions: No. 8 In F Major
  9. Two-Part Inventions: No. 9 In F Minor
  10. Two-Part Inventions: No. 10 In G Major
  11. Two-Part Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor
  12. Two-Part Inventions: No. 12 In A Major
  13. Two-Part Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor
  14. Two-Part Inventions: No. 14 In B-Flat Major
  15. Two-Part Inventions: No. 15 In B Minor
  16. Three-Part Inventions: No. 1 In C Major
  17. Three-Part Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor
  18. Three-Part Inventions: No. 3 In D Major
  19. Three-Part Inventions: No. 4 In D Minor
  20. Three-Part Inventions: No. 5 In E-Flat Major
  21. Three-Part Inventions: No. 6 In E Major
  22. Three-Part Inventions: No.7 In E Minor
  23. Three-Part Inventions: No. 8 In F Major
  24. Three-Part Inventions: No. 9 In F Minor
  25. Three-Part Inventions: No, 10 In G Major
  26. Three-Part Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor
  27. Three-Part Inventions: No. 12 In A Major
  28. Three-Part Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor
  29. Three-Part Inventions: No. 14 In B-Flat Major
  30. Three-Part Inventions: No. 15 In B Minor

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars One of the best piano performances of the Inventions.......2007-04-12

I can't believe the negative reviews about Schiff's performance of this work.

This is a perfect performance, perfect in every respect: tempi, ornaments, dynamics, technique etc. and of course the overall feeling that this performance exhudes.

Highly recommended.

5 out of 5 stars Bach:Tow part Inventions/Three part Inventions.......2007-03-12

The CD arrived the same week I ordered it. I am very pleased witht this recording.

3 out of 5 stars Average .......2005-07-03

Writting reviews about lesser talented pianists who are now building their house in the wake of Gould always seems to be the perfect occasion to say astoundingly stupid things about Gould - the wolf hunted down by dogs scarving to turn him into a dog.
Schiff, as with other Bach works he recorded up to now (2005), offers an average, good, gentle but non remarquable nor memorable performance here, with dubious legatos, superfluous qualm and unjustified sentimentality.
May cause deception and drowsiness.

5 out of 5 stars What is all this fuss about Gould being better than Schiff?.......2001-10-28

Schiff plays Bach extremely well with a beautiful tone. I personally think that Schiff plays better than Gould. An eccentric person, Gould mainly does what he wants. In some pieces, he plays them extroadinarily, but most pieces, they are a mess of complete rushing and absolutely no dynamics. In almost every song he plays, Schiff shows a perfection that no one else could have. I enjoy listening to him and learn a lot.

3 out of 5 stars A Somewhat "Romanticized" Bach Performance.......2000-06-13

The first problem I have with this recording is the performer's extremely free additions of ornaments that are not in Bach's scores. While these may be somewhat justifiable as common practice in Baroque period music, they are rather unlikely considering the pedagogical nature of the composer's original intentions for these works. Schiff's use of outright RUBATO in places absolutely kills the forward-moving rhythms that one longs to hear in these pieces. Schiff's fabulous technique is evident in every piece, but his phrasing is almost as though he were playing Brahms, rather than Bach. Purists who are looking for an accurate performance from a historical perspective will NOT enjoy this CD. But again, the pianist's technical prowess is quite praiseworthy, despite the CD's lack of historical style considerations.
Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Beautifully Played
  • Crisp and Clean Bach
  • Fresh, but fails to move
  • Straightforward playing
 Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  4. Bach: Two part Inventions/Three Part Inventions
  5. Bach: The Keyboard Album

ASIN: B0000013W7
Release Date: 1994-02-15

Tracks:

  1. Inventions: No. 1 In C Major, BWV 772
  2. Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 773
  3. Inventions: No. 3 In D Major, BWV 774
  4. Inventions: No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 775
  5. Inventions: No. 5 In E Flat Major, BWV 776
  6. Inventions: No. 6 In E Major, BWV 777
  7. Inventions: No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 778
  8. Inventions: No. 8 In F Major, BWV 779
  9. Inventions: No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 780
  10. Inventions: No. 10 In G Major, BWV 781
  11. Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 782
  12. Inventions: No. 12 In A Major, BWV 783
  13. Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 784
  14. Inventions: No. 14 In B Flat Major, BWV 785
  15. Inventions: No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 786
  16. Sinfonias: No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 786
  17. Sinfonias: No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 788
  18. Sinfonias: No. 3 In D Major, BWV 789
  19. Sinfonias: No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 791
  20. Sinfonias: No. 5 In E Flat Major, BWV 791
  21. Sinfonias: No. 5 In E Flat Major, BWV 791
  22. Sinfonias: No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 793
  23. Sinfonias: No. 8 In F Major, BWV 794
  24. Sinfonias: No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 795
  25. Sinfonias: No. In G Major, BWV 796
  26. Sinfonias: No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 797
  27. Sinfonias: No. 12 In A Major, BWV 798
  28. Sinfonias: No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 799
  29. Sinfonias: No. 14 In B Flat Major, BWV 800
  30. Sinfonias: No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 801
  31. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In G Major, BWV Anh. 114
  32. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In G Minor, BWV Anh. 115
  33. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In G Major, BWV Anh. 116
  34. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Polonaise In G Minor, BWV Anh. 119
  35. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: March In D Major, BWV Anh. 122
  36. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Polonaise In G Minor, BWV Anh. 125
  37. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Musette In D Major, BWV Anh. 126
  38. Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In D Minor, BWV Anh. 132

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Beautifully Played .......2007-01-18

A Bonus is several pieces from Mary Magdelina's famous Notebook (Bach's Second Wife's book of beginning pieces of which most piano students have played for centuries) which the artist plays with great command. It is rare to hear great pianists play these kind of supposedly simplistic pieces that Bach evidently composed for his several genius sons and other children of which he had 20!

4 out of 5 stars Crisp and Clean Bach.......2006-04-27

Sebestyen's rendering of Bach is very clean and precise, something which is very important in contrapuntal compositions. However, I must level one critique against the performance on this CD. It seems a bit too "laid-back" and carefree at times. In my humble opinion, I wish he would have a bit more passion and nuance in dynamics and punctuation. Nevertheless, his crisp style does do much to show the beauty of Bach's work. A further positive note is the inclusion of Minuet in G Minor, BWV Anh. 115, a simple, yet rich, Minuet that I have had some difficulty finding next to its Major counterpart. Overall, at its low price, I must thoroughly suggest this collection because it is executed well, albeit a bit dispassionate.

3 out of 5 stars Fresh, but fails to move.......1999-11-24

Janos has an effortless way of playing, although he misses out on the more deliacte nuances found in other recordings. More interesting recordings are Glenn Gould (intoxicating) or Andras Schiff (featherlight and bouncy).

5 out of 5 stars Straightforward playing.......1999-04-04

Janos Sebestyen plays these study pieces clearly, crisply, and cleanly. The tempi are nicely set, and his delicate use of rhythms sounds as though he is playing on the harpsichord. Included on this album are a few selections from the notebook Bach made for his second wife Anna Magdalena, including that perennially charming Minuet in G, Anh. 114.
J.S. Bach: Inventions; Sinfonias; Little Preludes
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Stunning - buy it while you can !
  • A delightful listen
  • Solid
  • odd
  • I have already worn the plastic nubs off the jewel case
 J.S. Bach: Inventions; Sinfonias; Little Preludes
Johann Sebastian Bach , and Richard Troeger (performer)
Manufacturer: Lyrichord Discs Inc.
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

MinuetsMinuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music
All Works by J.S. BachAll Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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PreludesPreludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SinfoniaSinfonia | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. J.S. Bach: The Seven Toccatas
  2. Bach: Six Partitas / Richard Troeger
  3. Art of Fugue/Violin Transcriptions/Fantasias (Bach on Clavichord Vol. 4)
  4. Playing Bach on the Keyboard: A Practical Guide
  5. Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)

ASIN: B00004Y6MJ
Release Date: 2000-10-24

Tracks:

  1. Two-Part Invention No.1 in C, BWV772
  2. Two-Part Invention No.2 in c, BWV773
  3. Two-Part Invention No.3 in D, BWV774
  4. Two-Part Invention No.4 in d, BWV775
  5. Two-Part Invention No.5 in E flat, BWV776
  6. Two-Part Invention No.6 in E, BWV777
  7. Two-Part Invention No.7 in e, BWV778
  8. Two-Part Invention No.8 in F, BWV779
  9. Two-Part Invention No.9 in f, BWV780
  10. Two-Part Invention No.10 in G, BWV781
  11. Two-Part Invention No.11 in g, BWV782
  12. Two-Part Invention No.12 in A, BWV783
  13. Two-Part Invention No.13 in a, BWV784
  14. Two-Part Invention No.14 in B flat, BWV785
  15. Two-Part Invention No.15 in b, BWV786
  16. Little Prld No.1 in C, BWV924
  17. Little Prld No.2 in C, BWV939
  18. Little Prld No.3 in c, BWV999
  19. Little Prld No.4 in D, BWV925
  20. Little Prld No.5 in d, BWV926
  21. Little Prld No.6 in D, BWV940
  22. Little Prld No.7 in e, BWV941
  23. Little Prld No.8 in F, BWV927
  24. Little Prld No.9 in F, BWV928
  25. Menuet & Trio (Prld No.10, BWV929)
  26. Little Prld No.11 in g, BWV930
  27. Little Prld No.12 in a, BWV942
  28. Sinf No.1 in C, BWV787
  29. Sinf No.2 in c, BWV788
  30. Sinf No.3 in D, BWV789
  31. Sinf No.4 in d, BWV790
  32. Sinf No.5 in E flat, BWV791
  33. Sinf No.6 in E, BWV792
  34. Sinf No.7 in e, BWV793
  35. Sinf No.8 in F, BWV794
  36. Sinf No.9 in f, BWV795
  37. Sinf No.10 in G, BWV796
  38. Sinf No.11 in g, BWV797
  39. Sinf No.12 in A, BWV798
  40. Sinf No.13 in a, BWV799
  41. Sinf No.14 in B flat, BWV800
  42. Sinf No.15 in b, BWV801
  43. Little Prld No.1 in C, BWV933
  44. Little Prld No.2 in c, BWV934
  45. Little Prld No.3 in d, BWV935
  46. Little Prld No.4 in D, BWV936
  47. Little Prld No.5 in E, BWV937
  48. Little Prld No.6 in e, BWV938

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Stunning - buy it while you can !.......2006-02-13

I don't have much to say. The subtle beauty of this recording (and others by Troeger) is self-evident. Five stars is not enough.

5 out of 5 stars A delightful listen.......2003-03-24

This is the best recording of these works I have ever heard. The sound quality is outstanding, the playing is superb. I was initially reluctant to purchase this cd (not being familiar with Troeger and hesitant about the sound quality of a clavichord recording). I am fortunate that I took a chance and bought it as this is the best recording of the two and three part inventions and preludes. One reviewer reported that the tempo was too fast for his liking, although I disagree. I don't give five stars often, but this recording deserves it.

5 out of 5 stars Solid.......2001-03-26

Troeger has delivered on all three clavichord recordings of Bach thus far. This particular volume contains "less sophisticated" works by Bach, more didactic pieces for his sons (and everyone else today) to learn fingering, composition, and sensitivity. In this last case, Troeger sounds like a master on this quiet instrument, and he gives us an intimate sense of the music (these pieces could very likely have been played by Bach's sons in this manner at home, on the clavichord). A delightful recording in many respects.

3 out of 5 stars odd.......2001-02-12

Poor ole Bach. Sax choirs, Swingle singers. Synths and Bongos.. well at least the clavichord predates the light bulb.

Don't get me wrong this is not a wretched CD. I even play it ... sometimes. It may not be `whatever' but the artiste Maybe he had a hot date or the Celtic Gaol Squad was after him something but he just plays the music too fast for me. The playing sounds rushed [which one doesn't `pick up' on the samples]. I wouldn't want to see a comparison of this and, say, Glen Gould playing Bach on the piano in terms of tempi.

This is a nice `specimen' CD IF you already own a CD of these works.

5 out of 5 stars I have already worn the plastic nubs off the jewel case.......2001-02-03

Like another recent Lyrichord recording (the Trio Sonatas, played on twin gut-stringed lautenwercke), this wonderful package is beautiful and revelatory. The individual lines of each work are clearly audible, and while they are simpler overall than some of Bach's more extended works, these pieces are very, very sweet, melodic and enjoyable. Sorry for all the vague words. The performance is full of energy, occasionally making this listener, anyway, want to jump up and down. I'll be checking out *all* the releases by Richard Troeger: this is the sort of music to listen to when Bach is all you can possibly stand. It will make you feel good about humanity, if you don't already.

Understand, this comes from a lover of Bach's music who has *no* formal training in music theory, history or performance - which could be a caveat or not, depending on your opinions.
Bach: Inventions & Sinfonias
Average customer rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
  • This is a great CD.
  • Gorgeous sound and musicianship
  • I don't think so.
  • Contrary to the previous review
  • Serkin - why would anyone buy this one?
 Bach: Inventions & Sinfonias

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by J.S. BachAll Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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SinfoniaSinfonia | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Peter Serkin: Beethoven Sonatas
  2. Inventions & Sinfonias - 70th Anniversary Edition
  3. Bach: Well-Tempered Clavier
  4. Bach: Fantasia in C minor; Two-Part Inventions; Three-Part Inventions; Chromatic Fantasia & Fugue
  5. French Suites - 70th Anniversary Edition

ASIN: B000003G5E
Release Date: 1997-02-11

Tracks:

  1. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 1In C Major, BWV 772
  2. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 773
  3. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 3 In D Major, BWV 774
  4. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 4 In D minor, BWV 775
  5. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 5 In E-Flat Major, BWV 776
  6. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 6 In E Major, BWV 777
  7. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 778
  8. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 8 In F Major, BWV 779
  9. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 780
  10. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 10 In G Major, BWV 781
  11. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 782
  12. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 12 In A Major, BWV 783
  13. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 784
  14. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 14 In B-Flat Major, BWV 785
  15. 15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 15, In B Minor, BWV 786
  16. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 1In C Major, BWV 787
  17. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 788
  18. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 3 In D Major, BWV 789
  19. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 790
  20. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 5 In E-Flat Major, BWV 791
  21. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 6 In E Major, BWV 792
  22. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 793
  23. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 8 In F Major, BWV 794
  24. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 795
  25. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 10 In G Major, BWV 796
  26. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 797
  27. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 12 In A Major, BWV 798
  28. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 799
  29. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 14 In B-Flat Major, BWV 800
  30. 15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 801
  31. 4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 1 In E Minor, BWV 802
  32. 4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 2 In F Major, BWV 803
  33. 4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 3 In G Major, BWV 804
  34. 4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 4 In A Minor, BWV 805

Amazon.com

If Peter Serkin's four Goldberg Variations recordings reveal a lifelong affinity for Bach on the concert grand, one suspects his approach to the Inventions has similarly been well-tempered and seasoned over the years. Compared to Glenn Gould's rhythmic vigor and Andras Schiff's fleeter, more spontaneously conceived readings, Serkin's eloquent understatement may appear impersonal and even bland. Repeated hearings, however, uncover felicities of voice leading and dynamic terracing, as well pianist's warm, singing legato achieved purely by hand balance and fingering, with no aid from the pedal. While the virtues of Gould and Schiff should not be discounted, Serkin sweetens the ante, adding on the four Duets from the Clavierubung. Sonics are first class. --Jed Distler

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars This is a great CD........2001-07-23

After years of hacking through these pieces on the piano, and then a few more years studying them in college classes...I guess I developed a fondness for them. So, I wanted to get a recording that summed up why I loved them so much. Don't be angry, but the Gould just didn't do it for me. I was very impressed with Serkin's performances of Takemitsu and Messiaen, so I was glad to find this cd. It's great...I'd say perfect (although I'm not a Bach scholar...am I?). The tempos are great. There is this subtlety to it...the notes just kind of "dance" out of the speakers and into your ears. Nice.

5 out of 5 stars Gorgeous sound and musicianship.......2001-07-05

The extreme disparity of the reviews here is probably indication enough that this is a recording worth buying and studying. Serkin is consistently one of the most subtle and insightful musicians active today, and Bach is the perfect showcase for his talents. Listeners seeking a cheap thrill will be disappointed with this disc; the more thoughtful will discover a bottomless well of seamless phrasing, singing tone in the cello register, and voicing of a subtlety that is nearly impossible to achieve.

There is a pervasive calm in Serkin's playing that can be mistaken for apathy; however, it is passionate in the sense that a Palestrina motet, for example, is passionate. Gould's more zippy reading actually feels more emotionally detached. As for Schiff, well, sorry, he's the definition of bland.

To the reviewer who would bash Peter with the spectre of his famous father -- shame on you! Just call him, say, Peter Johnson, and give it another listen. They are very different artists and personalities, but both brilliant.

Kudos to the engineering team on this disc. The recorded sound is mindblowingly gorgeous. This Manhattan studio sounds more like St.John the Divine.

1 out of 5 stars I don't think so........2001-06-07

Comparing Peter Serkin to Glenn Gould is like comparing your high school baseball team to the New York Yankees. They're in completely different leagues.

5 out of 5 stars Contrary to the previous review.......2001-06-01

After seeing this trashed in the previous review I got curious and bought it. Personally I loved the Goldberg Variations Serkin put out a few years ago. I also have several of Gould's Bach recordings and I have the Bach Preludes by Schiff which I like pretty well, although I find Schiff somewhat unremarkable. I can listen to them all - however when I listen to Serkin's I feel like I'm listening to Bach. When I listen to Glenn Gould, hey I am listening to Glenn Gould (with maybe a little Bach thrown in)! His (Gould's) brilliant technique gets in the way of the feeling of the music somehow. I guess it depends on whether you prefer Glenn Gould or Bach. I prefer Bach. I think Serkin gets a raw deal because his father was a famous pianist. Listen to the way he characterizes the lower parts in a different type of "voice" than the higher parts. A subtle technique that is very hard to master, and I don't hear that in Gould. This technique of Serkin's illustrates the use of counterpoint which is the cornerstone of Bach's musical universe. This is a great album if you like Bach on the piano.

1 out of 5 stars Serkin - why would anyone buy this one?.......1999-04-17

Serkin falls short of both vigor and elegance and presents a bland and bloodless Bach. I would advice you to avoid young Peter (papa Rudolf is in another league, sorry), and instead listen to Glenn Gould or Andras Schiff, depending on your preferences. Gould is the master virtuoso (and eccentric), and Schiff the elegant baroquist.

Perhaps there is a sutleness in Peter's playing, but I just can't seem to find it. One star.
J.S. Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)
Average customer rating: 3 out of 5 stars
  • Superb
  • Makes me dizzy
  • Rubsam -- forever!
  • Rübsam
  • Horrifying
 J.S. Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)

Manufacturer: Naxos
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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SinfoniaSinfonia | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. J.S. Bach: Inventions; Sinfonias; Little Preludes

ASIN: B000001419
Release Date: 1995-07-18

Tracks:

  1. No. 1, BWV 772 (1st Version)
  2. No. 1, BWV 772 (2nd Version)
  3. No. 2, BWV 773
  4. No. 3, BWV 774
  5. No. 4, BWV 775
  6. No. 5, BWV 776
  7. No. 6, BWV 777
  8. No. 7, BWV 778
  9. No. 8, BWV 779
  10. No. 9, BWV 780
  11. No. 10, BWV 781
  12. No. 11, BWV 782
  13. No. 12, BWV 783
  14. No. 13, BWV 784
  15. No. 14, BWV 785
  16. No. 15, BWV 786
  17. No. 1, BWV 787
  18. No. 2, BWV 788
  19. No. 3, BWV 788
  20. No. 4, BWV 790
  21. No. 5, BWV 791
  22. No. 6, BWV 792
  23. No. 7, BWV 793
  24. No. 8, BWV 794
  25. No. 9, BWV 795
  26. No. 10, BWV 796
  27. No. 11, BWV 797
  28. No. 12, BWV 798
  29. No. 13, BWV 799
  30. No. 14, BWV 800
  31. No. 15, BWV 801

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Superb.......2007-06-21

So much more alive and interesting than the standard fare we get in many recordings today. Strong intuition drives the performance and moves both performer and listener to look beyond the usual frontiers.

1 out of 5 stars Makes me dizzy.......2006-11-25

Now don't get me wrong, I am not against rubato in Baroque music and am not a purist who wants the Inventions played in a "correct", textbook fashion, but Rubsam really murders these pieces. Ok, use some rubato in the slower ones, but in #8? This is the liveliest of the set and to hear rubato and beats stretched out in every measure makes me seasick. It's not just in #8, but all of them! Rubsam has a nice sound, but also a terrible rubato habit that becomes so predictable that it's a farce. Also, #15 is so slow it's ridiculous.

5 out of 5 stars Rubsam -- forever!.......2005-09-29

All criticists are not true! Rubsam never plays bad (and of course this set of sinfonias). And he never plays boring like mentioned and advertised Gould. This recording and others of Bach's clavier works made by Naxos are probably most interesting and unusual in our days! Especially to my mind it's because of the instrument choice. The recording will be intriguing for everybody, who likes really unique performance art, and sure not for "scientists" and "mathematicians" from music. Rubsam's recordings of each composer are always discovery. They open new ways for understanding of known-for-a-long-time works. And from this point of view Rubsam's play is similar to Koopman's one.

1 out of 5 stars Rübsam.......2004-11-12

I borrowed a copy of this recording from my university's library so that I could listen to an invention (Two-Part, #15) as I analyzed it for my Counterpoint course. I am not a pianist, but as soon as I hit 'play' I could tell that the recording was bad.

Counterpoint literally means 'point against point.' When a pianist displaces points so that they are not against each other, as Rübsam blatantly does in #15, then counterpoint vanishes, or at the very least becomes obscured. Rübsam's ridiculous obsession for rubato, which I won't harp on given that most others have rightfully done so, places no regard on period and style. I found that the displaced beats and constant give and take of the interpretation obscured not only the counterpoint but also the overall form of the invention.

The class period after I listened to this awful recording, my professor played a Glen Gould recording, and suddenly everything about the sections of the inventions made sense. Buy Glen Gould. It won't be a waste of your money.

1 out of 5 stars Horrifying.......2004-06-17

This CD is perhaps the most appalling one I've purchased. By no means should you consider buying this. I bought it because it was the first cheap and complete set of two-part inventions I found. Go for Glenn Gould and you won't go wrong, trust me.

The only fathomable way Rubsam could have some dignity in recording such an atrocious set is if he was sight-reading these pieces. That is what it sounds like. Specifically, he plays No. 13 (A Minor) about one minute too slow, and in a one-minute piece . . .

To say it is a Romantic interpretation would be a disgrace to the Romantic Period, but. Rubsam uses rubato EXCESSIVELY. As in, every measure. Totally unacceptable. I urge you to buy Glenn Gould, not this.
Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions & Sinfonias [SACD]
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • An upgrade from the original stereo
  • I love the line by the prior reviewer
  • Great music, not necessarily a good SACD showcase
  • An astounding reason to buy SACD
 Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions & Sinfonias [SACD]

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by J.S. BachAll Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
InventionsInventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
SinfoniaSinfonia | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music
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  3. Dvorák: The Slavonic Dances [SACD]
  4. Bach: The Four Great Toccatas and Fugues [SACD]
  5. The Chopin Ballades & Scherzos [Hybrid SACD]

ASIN: B00000K4HZ
Release Date: 1999-09-07

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars An upgrade from the original stereo .......2006-04-02

Glenn Gould's legacy is so extensive that no one interested in this music, short of a greenhorn to classical music, should be surprised to hear our hero humming away quite loudly in the first couple tracks. Prestidigitation, clarity, a largely dry acoustic and obligatory humming are the benchmarks of Gould's Bach.

Oh yes, that and the most authoritative playing of the 20th century!

You won't be let down by picking up the Super Audio CD for its small price tag. These little creations don't qualify among Bach's greatest but they befit both a sunny and rainy day as well as a Saturday afternoon lounging with a book, a drink, and/or a cat on your lap. The little 2 and 3 part creations last just a couple minutes each and present a wealth of creativity from the mind of Johann Sebastian, expertly enunciated by the most technically complete Bach pianist of the century.

The SACD playback is stereo only -- no third channel and no surround sound -- so audiophiles will probably want to check out other recordings. You hear the soul of Bach and Bach's brain portrayed as only Gould can do it on this recording.

4 out of 5 stars I love the line by the prior reviewer .......2005-12-30

"I am too young to own a turntable." Think about that one for awhile.

4 out of 5 stars Great music, not necessarily a good SACD showcase.......2002-10-07

First I'll comment on the music. It is superb. I'm a huge fan of Bach (my collection of Bach discs has increased from 10 to about 60 over the past year), and to a lesser extend of Gould. I like the way he plays this very much. This disc may surprise occasional Gould listeners as the inventions and sinfonias are played relatively slowly compared to other contemporary pianists. 3 months ago I started learning piano all over again (I had done about a year when I was 14) and I find that I can already play the first invention faster than Gould on this recording, and with more of the original ornaments that he chose to omit despite the slow tempo. Regardless, this is a beautiful recording.

It is however very unconventional. His tweaked piano has an odd sound that is a little bit tough getting used to at first. Personally, I would call it a defective piano, but I'm sure I will get flamed for saying this :-). I'm not sure if the SACD remastering makes it more noticeable, as I have only ever heard it on SACD and don't have a regular CD version to compare to (or LP version -I am too young to own a turntable).

...

5 out of 5 stars An astounding reason to buy SACD.......2001-12-09

I own regular CDs of both the early and late Gould recordings of the Goldbergs ... and they are heart-tugging in their own ways. But when I played this SACD in my new Sony player, it was as though Gould and his amazing CD318 were in my living room performing just for me. This is beautiful music to begin with, rendered in Gould's inimitable style. Buy an SACD player, buy this SACD and rediscover the beauty of some of the greatest music ever written!
Johann Sebastian Bach: Inventions, BWV 772-786 & Sinfonias, BWV 787-801 - Gustav Leonhardt
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • This performer stilted when compared to Martin Galling
  • Works for my left brain
  • ok.
  • Excellent performance of great Bach
  • Very nice reading of the inventions and sinfonias
 Johann Sebastian Bach: Inventions, BWV 772-786 & Sinfonias, BWV 787-801 - Gustav Leonhardt

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

All Works by J.S. BachAll Works by J.S. Bach | Bach, Johann Sebastian | ( B ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music
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SinfoniaSinfonia | Symphonies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music
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Similar Items:
  1. Well Tempered Clavier 1 (Ger)
  2. J.S. Bach: Das Wohltemperierte Klavier II
  3. Bach: English Suites, Partitas - Gustav Leonhardt (4 CD's)
  4. J.S. Bach: The French Suites - Gustav Leonhardt
  5. J.S. Bach: Goldberg Variations, BWV 988 [Germany]

ASIN: B00000K2V7
Release Date: 1999-08-09

Customer Reviews:

2 out of 5 stars This performer stilted when compared to Martin Galling.......2007-02-09

My opinion is subjective.....However, my introduction to these pieces aside from the notation was Martin Gallings interpretation of them- that's how I hear these pieces- and while Leonhardt may be gifted, No. 4 in dmin. just sounds awkward, like someone running with two left steps. If you can find Galling's harpsichord version grab it up and get me one too.

5 out of 5 stars Works for my left brain.......2007-01-23

When I was a highschool student, I discovered that this harpsichord music helps a lot when I solve math problems. It clears "that part" of my head and seems to keep my left brain working in a good condition. I tried the same thing with different music, but it didn't work. I therefore believe this music is good for logical thinking.

4 out of 5 stars ok........2006-10-24

uh first of all, the reviewer before me is real confused. this is leonhardt performing, not the conductor harnoncourt.
this is an performance that retains high quality throughout the entire disk.. but i tend do shy away from leonhardt's playing. seems like he can't think of any other way to make the music sound more musical except tinkering with tempi.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent performance of great Bach.......2005-09-07

This Harnoncourt performance of the Inventions and Sinfonias is typical Harnoncourt: appropriate tempos, exquisite technique, vigorous performance. The recording is acoustically fine: it doesn't sound as if the microphones are in the harpsichord case, as some do.

My only problem was that the first disc came broken and getting a replacement cost me an extra fee for shipping.

5 out of 5 stars Very nice reading of the inventions and sinfonias.......2004-04-28

This is a very beautiful and balanced rendition of Bach's pedagogicial keyboard works, the 2 and 3 part inventions (sinfonias). (Make no mistake -- these are masterpieces. For Bach, "exercises" and "lessons" were a pretext for create works of high art). Leonhardt's harpsichord playing manages to be at once controlled and emotional. His playing of the E-flat major, F-Minor, and G-minor sinfonias are particularly beautiful and heartfelt. At a budget price, this is a sure winner.
Legendary Performers: Landowska
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Fasten your seatbelt!
  • Grand, Yet Slightly Quaint, Romantic Bach
  • Fasten Your Seat-Belt.
  • This is a CD you will never tire of
 Legendary Performers: Landowska

Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Bach: The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book ll, BWV 870-93
  2. The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I
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  5. Bach: The Landowska Recordings

ASIN: B000003F7J
Release Date: 1992-03-24

Tracks:

  1. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Aria
  2. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation I
  3. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation II
  4. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation III
  5. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation IV
  6. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation V
  7. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation VI
  8. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation VII
  9. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation VIII
  10. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation IX
  11. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation X
  12. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XI
  13. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XII
  14. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XIII
  15. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XIV
  16. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XV
  17. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XVI
  18. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XVII
  19. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XVIII
  20. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XIX
  21. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XX
  22. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XXI
  23. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XXII
  24. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XXIII
  25. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XXIV
  26. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XXV
  27. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XXVI
  28. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XXVII
  29. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XXVIII
  30. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XXIX
  31. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation XXX
  32. Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Aria
  33. Concerto In D Major: Allegro
  34. Concerto In D Major: Larghetto
  35. Concerto In D Major: Allegro
  36. Fantasia
  37. Prelude, Fugue and Allegro
  38. Prelude, Fugue and Allegro
  39. Prelude, Fugue and Allegro

Tracks:

  1. Two Part Inventions: No. 1 In C Major
  2. Two Part Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor
  3. Two Part Inventions: No. 3 In D Major
  4. Two Part Inventions: No. 4 In D Minor
  5. Two Part Inventions: No. 5 In E Flat Major
  6. Two Part Inventions: No. 6 In E Major
  7. Two Part Inventions: No. 7 In E Minor
  8. Two Part Inventions: No. 8 In F Major
  9. Two Part Inventions: No. 9 In F Minor
  10. Two Part Inventions: No. 10 In G Major
  11. Two Part Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor
  12. Two Part Inventions: No. 12 In A Major
  13. Two Part Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor
  14. Two Part Inventions: No. 14 In B Flat
  15. Two Part Inventions: No. 15 in B Minor
  16. Fantasia, BWV 919 In C Minor: Fantasia, BWV 919 In C Minor
  17. Three Part Inventions: No. 1 In C Major
  18. Three Part Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor
  19. Three Part Inventions: No. 5 In E Flat
  20. Three Part Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor
  21. Three Part Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor
  22. Three Part Inventions: No. 14 In B Flat
  23. Three Part Inventions: No. 15 In B Minor
  24. Capriccio On The Departure Of His Beloved Brother: Arioso
  25. Capriccio On The Departure Of His Beloved Brother: Andante (fugato)
  26. Capriccio On The Departure Of His Beloved Brother: Adagissimo
  27. Capriccio On The Departure Of His Beloved Brother: Aria Introduction
  28. Capriccio On The Departure Of His Beloved Brother: Aria di Postiglione: Adagio poco
  29. Capriccio On The Departure Of His Beloved Brother: Fuga all'imitazione della Cornetta di postiglione
  30. Partita No. 2 In C Minor: Sinfonia
  31. Partita No. 2 In C Minor: Allemande
  32. Partita No. 2 In C Minor: Courante
  33. Partita No. 2 In C Minor: Sarabande
  34. Partita No. 2 In C Minor: Rondeau
  35. Partita No. 2 In C Minor: Capriccio

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Fasten your seatbelt!.......2003-04-15

RCA have reissued all the Bach recordings made by Landowska in the USA, except for her complete recording of Bach's 48, on this splendid 2 CD set. Most of the items on the first CD were recorded in New York in 1945-6 and include her second (and much better) recording of the Goldberg Variations. All these items receive majestic treatment; indeed, the Prelude, Fugue and Allegro, originally for lute, is overpowering in its grandeur. The items on the second CD were recorded later, in her Connecticut home, and include an unfinished recording of the Three-Part Inventions on which she was working at the time of her death at the age of 80. The fingers may not have been quite as responsive at this time, but this is still playing like no other. If you are becoming bored with some of the present-day "automatic pilot" performances of Bach's keyboard works, you should fasten your seat-belt before listening to these.

5 out of 5 stars Grand, Yet Slightly Quaint, Romantic Bach.......2001-12-22

These CD's represent Landowska's late work with her inauthentic, but marvelous Pleyel harpsichord, which was built to project the harpsichord sound into larger, modern auditoriums.

The star of the set is the 'Goldberg Variations' which, dare I say it, is a surprizingly butch, yet slightly quaint, grandly romantic reading of the work, which is still a pleasure after all these years. The second disc is a little less grand and energetic than the first, but still worth hearing.

5 out of 5 stars Fasten Your Seat-Belt........2000-08-21

RCA have reissued all the Bach recordings made by Landowska in the
USA, except for her complete recording of Bach's 48, on this
splendid 2 CD set. Most of the items on the first CD were recorded in
New York in 1945-6 and include her second (and much better) recording
of the Goldberg Variations. All these items receive majestic
treatment; indeed, the Prelude, Fugue and Allegro, originally for
lute, is overpowering in its grandeur. The items on the second CD
were recorded later, in her Connecticut home, and include an
unfinished recording of the Three-Part Inventions on which she was
working at the time of her death at the age of 80. The fingers may
not have been quite as responsive at this time, but this is still
playing like no other. If you are becoming bored with some of the
present-day "automatic pilot" performances of Bach's
keyboard works, you should fasten your seat-belt before listening to
these.

5 out of 5 stars This is a CD you will never tire of.......1999-06-22

Wanda Landowska had as her goal to recreate the sound of the harpsichord from the time of Bach, and to listen to the Goldberg Variations on this CD is to image that Bach is playing for you.

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