Bach: Der Kunst der Fuge/Partita in C minor

On this CD:

1. Die Kunst der Fuge (Art of the Fugue), BWV 1080
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Grigory Sokolov

2. Partita for keyboard No. 2 in C minor, BWV 826
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by Grigory Sokolov

Tracks:

The Art Of Fugue, BWV 1080: Fugue in D Minor
Schubler's Book, BWV 645: Choral No.1 'Wake, Arise, The Voices Call Us'
Orchestral Suite No.3 in D, BWV 1068: Aria
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2, BWV 880: Prelude No.11 in F Major
English Suite No.2 in A Minor, BWV 807: Bourree
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2, BWV 871: Fugue No.2 in C Minor
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1, BWV 850: Fugue No.5 in D Major
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2, BWV 878: Prelude No.9
Partita No.2 in C Minor, BWV 826: Sinfonia
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2, BWV 870: Prelude No.1 in C Major
Canon
Two-Part Invention No.1 in C Major: BWV 772
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 2, BWV 874: Fugue No.5 in D Major

Customer Reviews:

Original is the best........2007-04-10

This is the original recording of the '60s Swingle Singers. It focuses on Bach and provides entertaining and intricate renditions of his works. I recently saw the New Swingle Singers, who were very good, but they are diverging into jazz and often sound like Manhattan Transfer. Their newer CDs all begin to sound alike. I prefer the original artistry.

Swinging Bach.......2005-12-30

When the Swingle Singers take on Bach's polyphony at full speed, it's exhilarating. Very cleanly done, very fun, and the jazz drums and bass add nicely to the sound.
Like many people, I have a soft spot for this group because my parents listened to them. (Next time your favorite retro-hipster starts in, pop this disk in, followed by a little Switched-On Bach, and let the love/hate debate begin.)
I could have done without a few of the slow Bach chestnuts featured here (maybe the "Wachet Auf" wasn't overdone in 1963), but the strong numbers, such as the mini-epic "Sinfonia", with a great soprano solo, carry the album to a higher plane. The drummer overplays in a few spots, but overall this record just plain works.
Recommended.

I've been looking for this for a LONG time..........2005-06-19

I loved listening to this with my Dad in the 60's and 70's and had always wanted a "clean" copy of my own. I have the original LP, but the pops and hisses now mar the recording and let's face it, a CD is a lot easier to listen to. This is NOT the title or album cover of the LP issued in the US, but IS the same recording as the "Bach's Greatest Hits" LP released here in 1963 (or 1964) with the white album cover and grey line drawings of Bach et al. It is just as I remebered it. What a nice memory.

Vol.1 Jazz Sebastian Bach.......2001-04-28

Dear Sirs! > I have not intention to buy the CD version of Jazz Sebastian Bach one of the highlights of the Swingle Singers. This is more testimony, but very, very rare, than professional review of one CD. But this text can be may be useful for your buyers. My English is not the best, so you fill free to rewrite this text in the way appropriate for you buyers.

Text of review

Tracks:

Air Pour Les Trompettes
Trumpet Voluntary
Kanon
Fantasie In C
We Hasten With Eager Footsteps
Fantasia And Fugue In D Minor
My Heart Ever Faithful
Toccata And Fugue In D Minor
Fugue In G Minor ('Little')
Trumpet Voluntary
Contrapunctus
Trumpet Tune And Ayre
Galliard Battaglia
Canzon Aechiopican
Sonata In Three Movements For Trumpets
Where'er You Walk
Hallelujah, Amen
Madrigal

Customer Reviews:

Brandon's Review.......2004-02-09

I am a trumpet player who has studied under the tutalage of Bernie Nero principle trumpet of the Austin Symphony and am also a graduate of the Juilliard School of Music,therefore I feel that I am in a unique position to coment on the quality of this recording. Although the music assembled for the recording is an excellent combination of contrasting styles, the musical prhasing is not played charicteristically correct for that time period of music,and stylistically lacks cohesivness. None the less it is still a very good recording, that is why I give it a four rating.

Consistent excellence.......2002-05-20

The Canadian Brass never disappoints. There are some great arrangements of Baroque classics on this album. It may be hard to imagine an organ piece like Bach's Toccata and Fugue in D Minor played by a brass quartet, but it actually works. Overall, this album is consistent in delivering great music.

You can't go wrong with the Canadian Brass.......1999-12-06

You really can't go wrong with any CD by the Canadian Brass; they're such an outstanding group. Because of this, it can oftentimes be difficult to choose which of their CDs to purchase. However, if you are looking for a Canadian Brass CD focused around the more classical aspect of music, "Go For Boroque!" is an excellent choice. Compared to the other CB baroque CD, I feel this one is the better. It has a lot more tracks, and the songs, in my opinion, are better. It has everything from my personal favorite, "We Hasten with Eager Footsteps," to "Trumpet Voluntary," to "Toccata and Fugue in D Minor," which is more closely associated with "Phantom of the Opera." I highly recommend this recording.

Grigory Sokolov: Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Brahms [Box Set]

Average customer rating:

Get anything Grigory Sokolov recorded
Grigory Sokolov - The (Almost) Unknown Major Pianist

Grigory Sokolov: Bach, Beethoven, Chopin, Brahms [Box Set]

Manufacturer: Opus 111
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000ALCFZ2
Release Date: 2005-10-18

Customer Reviews:

Get anything Grigory Sokolov recorded .......2006-07-29

Grigory Sokolov is definitely one of the most underrated pianist for the past few decades, and I truly believe he is the best still around.

Currently there are two CD boxes( each contains 5 CDs)and one DVD (Live in Paris) available in the market. This is one of the CD set, including some previously single release. Because of his reclusive personality and unwilling to record (perhaps due to perfectionism) , he never had contract with major labels and therefore lots of people were not aware of him. However, the one single DVD is good enough to do him justice--you have to see it to believe it.

He is one of the best classic pianists ever, along with Gilels, Richter, etc----definitely the best still around. If you have not heard of him, get both CD sets and DVD--that will be the best investment for your classic music collection and years of enjoyment. And if one of us get lucky, we might still be able to see him one stage one day.

Grigory Sokolov - The (Almost) Unknown Major Pianist.......2005-11-09

One of the best-kept secrets in the piano world is the amazing Grigory Sokolov, a man in his fifties who won the Tchaikovsky Prize in 1966 at the age of sixteen. He has been somewhat reclusive. tending to play in Europe only, and has generally not made studio recordings, but among the cognoscenti his recitals are sought after and often sold out. All the music recorded in this five-CD box has been released on single CDs before (and as a box from Opus 111), and is here offered at budget price. I have owned three of the five previously. Earlier this year I also reviewed a marvelous DVD of a recital he gave in the Châtelet and filmed by the redoubtable Bruno Monsaingeon. Since Amazon has not yet included the contents of this box (or even told us how many CDs are included) I will list them now:

CDs 1 & 2: Bach: Art of Fugue; Partita No. 2

CD 3: Beethoven: Rondos in C Major and G Major, Op. 51; Rondo, 'Rage over a lost penny,' Op. 129; Sonata No. 4 in E Flat Major, Op. 7; Sonata No. 28 in A Major, Op. 101

CD 4: Chopin: 24 Préludes, Op. 28

CD 5: Brahms: Ballades, Op. 10; Sonata in F Minor, Op. 5

Possibly the most marvelous thing about Sokolov's playing is his variety of touch. He can play in a tiny whisper, with a lightning fast leggiero, with deep-in-the-keys but never clangy fortissimo. His legato is legendary and he tends to obtain it more by finger technique than with pedaling. One can argue with his interpretive choices but never with his musicianship or sincerity, and certainly not with his almost inhuman virtuosity.

All five CDs were recorded live in recital and in gorgeous sound. There does not appear to be much in the way of editing. There are a very few dropped notes, but on the whole the playing is incredibly accurate as well as being musicianly. His 'Art of Fugue' is rather a combination of some Romantic gestures coupled with a purity of tone that depends more on touch than on pedaling. His Brahms is a bit more Romantic but is not sentimental -- something is that is not easy to avoid in the Ballades particularly. His Beethoven is much the same. 'Rage over a lost penny' is the most exciting performance I've ever heard since I heard Brendel play it live in the 1960s. Sokolov, like Michelangeli (to whom he has been compared), does not play many of the Beethoven sonatas, but the ones he plays are his utterly.

The Chopin is the glory of this set. It sings, whispers and roars as need be. It is ultraromantic and yet is not maudlin or sickly sentimental. This is masculine Chopin.

At this bargain price this set is a must-have, I should think, for those who enjoy masterful playing and are willing to become acquainted with a heretofore unknown pianist sometimes called 'the new Sviatoslav Richter.'

Scott Morrison

32 Short Films About Glenn Gould: Motion Picture Soundtrack (1993 Film)

Average customer rating:

Cult Devotion
One of My Favorite CDs
Brilliant performances from a musical genius
The Whole Range of Gould's Talent
If you aren't amazed by these recordings, check for a pulse.

32 Short Films About Glenn Gould: Motion Picture Soundtrack (1993 Film)

Manufacturer: Sony
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Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B0000027C4
Release Date: 1994-03-22

Tracks:

Goldgerg Variations BWV 988: Aria
Tristan Und Isolde: Prelude
Invention No. 13 in A minor, BWV 784
English suite No. 5 in E minor, BWV 810: Prelude
Sonata No 13. in E-flat Major Op. 27, No. 1: Allegro Molto
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Sonata No 17 in D minor, Op 31, No. 2: Allegretto
The Well Tempered Clavier Book 1: Prelude No. 2 in C Minor
English suite No. 2 in A minor BWV 807: Gigue
Sonata in B Minor, Op. 5: Adagio
Sonatine for Piano in E Major, Op 67, No. 2: Andantino
English Suite No. 2 in A Major, BWV 807: Prelude
Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 19
Minor from The Well Tempered Clavier, Book I: Fugue No. 14 in F-sharp
Sonata No. 7 in B-flat Major, Op. 83: Precipitato
2 Pieces, Op. 57: Desir
Piano Sonata No. 3: Sehr Lebhaft
Suite for Piano, Op. 25: Gigue
Six Little Pieces for Piano, Op. 19: Leicht, Zart
French Suite No. 1 in D Minor, BWV 812: Sarabande
Nine Little Preludes: Prelude in D minor, BWV 926
The Well Tempered Clavier Book I: Prelude No. 1 in C Major
The Art of the Fugue, BWV: Contrapunctus 9 1080

Customer Reviews:

Cult Devotion.......2007-02-14

The movie for which these extractions provided the soundtrack was indeed quite interesting. Sadly, it's now unavailable. Gould has achieved a cult status unlike that of any classical musician since Caruso or Paganini. Unfortunately, he devoted his considerable talents to the performance of music for which he was particularly unsuited psychologically, on an instrument equally unsuited to the music.
Thomas Bernhard, an Austrian, has written an insightful novel, titled The Loser, which probes Gould's obsessive/depressive personality. I strongly recommend it to devotees of the Gould cult.

One of My Favorite CDs.......2002-11-24

Glenn Gould artistry inspires nothing but admiration. Each piece on this cd is so entertaining and delightful! For example, Bach's Prelude English Suite for keyboard No. 5 in E minor & the Prelude and Gigue from the English Suite for keyboard No. 2 in A minor. Bach's Little prelude in D Minor tramples its identity and morphs into adolescents. The Beethoven on this cd is also remarkable and the effects he creates for some of those pieces is undeniably unique and certainly sets an interpretive standard.

And lastly, to think Gould could no longer suprise me he introduces us to some great compositions and what would become my favorite tracks on the CD: Piano Sonata in B minor, Op. 5 Adagio cantabile composed by Richard Strauss and 11. Sonatina No. 2, for piano in E major, Op. 67/2 Andantino composed by Jean Sibelius. These two recordings belong to that set of moments whose ambiance of silence and withheld passion yearns the soul.

Incredible music making.

Brilliant performances from a musical genius.......2000-08-11

This is a brilliant album! It would be nice if everything were recorded in DDD. Other than this, I cannot recommend a change that would make this CD more enjoyable than it already is. Gould is a recognized master, but seldom is an album published that provides a listener the opportunity to see the range and power of such a performer in action. If you enjoyed the movie, this CD will be a welcome addition to your collection. And even if you haven't seen the movie, you'll enjoy this musical glimpse into Gould's life.

The Whole Range of Gould's Talent.......2000-05-09

This is an outstanding soundtrack to an outstanding movie. For the listener who is new to Gould, this CD presents Gould's talents as a Bach performer, as well as his less well-known, but equally impressive talents as a performer of late 19th and 20th century music, with some stringent, thrilling Beethoven to boot. For the experienced Gould listener,it provides a chance to compare and contrast Gould's approach to various forms of music. One of the most noteworthy pieces on this CD is the interpretation of the Adagio from Richard Strauss's youthful Piano Sonata in B minor. Recorded close to the time of his death, it reveals the rare pianist who can play Romantic music with incredible clarity and emotional depth. Gould's approach to this piece is tender and wistful, distant in a way that affords it a sense of isolation and profound sadness. The reprise of Bach's music at the end of the CD is chilling and bursting with Gould's uniquely emotional approach to this music. Listening to this CD is an experience in and of itself. Don't miss out on it.

If you aren't amazed by these recordings, check for a pulse........1998-11-25

If you have studied music all your life and grown weary of the state of the performing arts and are trying to remember why you fell in love with it initially (like me) OR if you have never appreciated classical pianio music and are wondering what all the fuss is about BUY THIS RECORDING AND LISTEN TO IT! As a pianist who gave up the trade in favor of my mental health this stuff made me break out in a cold sweat. It's the real thing.

Average customer rating:

Who's afraid of Johann Sebastian Bach?
Silly
Intense Bach
As it was meant to be played...
Roll Over ...Glenn Gould

Bach: Die Kunst der Fuge

Manufacturer: Opus 111
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B00005RCZ5
Release Date: 2002-06-11

Customer Reviews:

Who's afraid of Johann Sebastian Bach?.......2007-02-09

After being stunned by a live recording of Sokolov's Rach III on the radio, I searched the Amazon library for his recordings. While initially hesitant due to the distance between Rachmaninov's and Bach's musical universes fellow reviewers' statements like "best sense of musical counterpoint since Gould" finally convinced me. Since then I have enjoyed this recording for three years and realized after a recent Youtube viewing of "Gould's Russian Journey" that a previous attempt at reviewing this recording did not find the approval of the Amazon sensors. Thus this second attempt at a full endorsement of this magnificent recording.

Recorded live in 1982 in sonics that are somewhat outdated this double cd couples Sokolov's interpretation of Bach's "Art of the Fugue" (Atf) with that of the same composer's Second Partita; two interpretations that are significantly different.

To me Atf represents the greatest musical creation. This is pure music for music's sake. In the counterpoints and cannons highly challenging musical problems are chosen as lenses and prisms to focus the creative process of "music's greatest craftsman". The resulting compositions use a timeless harmonic language and unmatched sense of architecture both within and between the pieces. Since it was the penultimate work that Bach wrote and the final quadruple fugue was printed in an incomplete version -two Dutch musicologists have argued convincingly that Bach finished the work, but that pages got lost on their way to the printer- auras of mysticism and "ashes to ashes, dust to dust" still burden this vital work.

In previous reviews I have on occasion unburdened the many traumas that were caused by growing up in the Netherlands in the era that "authentic interpretation" erected its own bonfire of the vanities for the likes of Walcha, Karl Richter, Pierre Fournier, etc. etc. While some authentic masters have gone through a 30 year evolution that has allowed them to play both on the beat and in tune, I still see little convincing reasoning, why 21st century citizens should be limited by 18th century restrictions in enjoying the best possible interpretation of surviving masterpieces. Nowhere this is more true than for Atf.

While the piano does not provide the richness of timbre and articulation that organ or other instrumental approaches offer, it lends Atf an unsurpassed focus. Especially thanks to Glenn Gould's championing of this piece at many occasions throughout his career, many pianists now have at least some of the counterpoints on their repertoire. Since Gould never completed this cycle in its entirety, Sokolov's is an easy first choice for the complete Atf.

According to Strawinsky music does not express anything but itself. Many disagree; fortunately, Sokolov is not included among the many. Using everything that the piano and his stunning virtuosity offer, he digs deep and offers a recording of both variety and unity that is equally vital and cerebral. While his approach is often very different from Gould's he brings great clarity to the at times very demanding counterpoint and succeeds in maintaining unity while offering plenty of variety. To some this approach amounts to iconoclasm of the Gould variety. I think this is just plain silly. While I won't argue with those who claim that the 10 introductions of the ground theme in "Counterpoint 1" signify the Ten Commandments, it may be worthwhile to point out that Bach wrote this piece to satisfy the requirements for admission to a musical society.

For those who are willing to go beyond such hang ups, a comparison of Gould's and Sokolov's performances can yield some interesting observations regarding the piece and the art of interpreting it. Whereas Gould liked to refer to Atf's endless shades of grey and made a number of piano recordings of some of the Counterpoints that could be considered as the equivalent of M.C. Escher's labyrinths, Sokolov's more colorful and expressionistic approach suggest the work of a musical Kandinsky. In both cases the individual visions are fully in line with different aspects of the work and reflect the "attitude" of its creator.

In addition to Atf the listener gets a bonus of Bach's Second Keyboard Partita. Here Sokolov comes with a very teutonic approach, to those who were lucky enough to snag the blind organist's harpsichord recordings from the Japanese sources one could say "Walcha on Steroids". To me this interpretation underplays the work's lyrical and dramatic aspects quite a bit. Yet the closing Capriccio which is played like a Pokofiev Toccata does provide the edge of the seat drive and excitement that few pianists can match.

Silly.......2004-07-25

I do not doubt Sokolov's technical mastery, but I find this recording simply too idiosyncratic. For the same reason, I am definitely not a Glenn Gould fan. If you enjoy listening to Sokolov, get this album. If you want to listen to Bach wiithout having the persona and eccentricity of the pianist intrude on what you're listening to, look elsewhere. The staccato style of his playing is not in the least bit interesting -- it's simply distracting and annoying. At times I'm not sure if I'm listening to Bach or to Count Basie. This is a wondrously deep and profound piece of music. Sokolov makes it sound silly. A waste of an obviously great talent and a very good quality recording. (I love Count Basie by the way, but not as interpreter of Bach!)

Intense Bach.......2004-04-23

After many years of Glenn Gould and Bach, I am saturated and cannot hear a note of Gould nor of Bach, and my least favorite CD is Sokolov's Bach, although this pianist is my favorite.

One fine day, in my car, in tropical Florida, in the breeze, watching the pelicans fly above the blue sea, in the sunset, I listened to my Russian pianist Grigory Sokolov playing Bach, and suddenly my meaningless life was beautiful again.

There was an intensity never heard before, a sadness so profound it made me weep, waves of forgotten emotions overwhelming me. I understood Sokolov played Bach the way I wanted Bach to be, moving, complex, subtle, passionate, deep, unpredictable.

I will buy any CD played by Sokolov, he is truly my pianist, the one who can express what I want to hear. He has those magic fingers that are so fine and powerful, graceful and passionate, forever changing, just like life, with its joys and sorrows.

As it was meant to be played..........2004-01-12

Scholars have disputed the intended instrumentation of Bach's Der Kunst der Fuge for years. Many performers have cast this work for string quartet or organ, even woodwind instruments or orchestra. In my opinion, no recording has made as great a stance for the performance of these fugues on piano as this one by Grigory Sokolov. His playing has great energy and control, with enlivening dynamics that highlight the uniqueness of each fugue. In the mirror fugues, for example, he contrasts each "side of the mirror" by varying the volume and mood. What I especially enjoy about Sokolov's performance is his ability to seperate out the four different voices in the fugues. Usually this would be the chief problem with playing such a dense work as the Art of Fugue on piano, but Sokolov manages to highlight every single entrance of the theme or themes, meaning you won't be listening awestruck to just a mesh of unmelodious sound. Sokolov reveals the secrets of fugue with the clarity one would typically expect only from a performance played on multiple instruments. In the final unfinished fugue especially, the three different presented themes stand out in wonderful counterpoint without requiring any deliberate attentive listening. Also, the addition of Bach's Partita No.2 on disc 2 provides a great way to unwind after having listened to the entirety this german master's last great masterpiece.

Those of you who would normally prefer The Art of Fugue performed by an ensemble should consider this stunning performance on piano!

Roll Over ...Glenn Gould.......2003-09-02

If you are captivated by J.S. Bach, and you have been infatuated by Glenn Gould's piano performances, especially of Bach, then you are truly in for a treat with this CD. Grigory Sokolov's performance here is frighteningly beautiful. It's true, he doesn't hum-m-m, nor sing along with his playing, and he also doesn't mystify you with a "catch-you-off-guard" rubato like Glenn often does (and this does have it's place, ...I think!?). And, this is not to say that I have fallen out with Glenn's performances, which I haven't, ...however, the power and the way Sokolov pushes the music with such emotional force, adding in the sparkling, clean brillance of his stacatto of the upper register of his piano, simply shakes the entire CNS (central nervous system). Two of the best examples of this are both on the second CD; Track #5: Canon 17 alla Duodecima in Contrapunto alla Quinta, and Track #10 Rondeau in Partita Nr. 2 in C-minor. Put these on "Rep 1" (repeat) on your CD player, turn down/off all bass and extra-bass supplements, turn up the tenor control, crank up the volume and ...sail away! If only for these two tracks the whole CD would be worth purchasing, ...however, the entire Art of Fugue and, yes, the Partita (Nr. 2) are truly worth having.

Average customer rating:

Masterpiece
Equally as beautiful as the book
"Two Treasures of Pure Pleasure"
Compulsory reading
Truly Equal!

Vikram Seth: An Equal Music

Manufacturer: Decca
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Partita No. 3 in E major, BWV 1006: Preludio
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String Quintet in C minor, op.104: Andante cantabile con variazioni
String Quintet in C minor, op.104: Menuetto: Quasi allegro
String Quintet in C minor, op.104: Finale: Prestissimo
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Quartet in A major, op.20 no.6, Hob.III-36: Adagio: Cantabile
Quartet in A major, op.20 no.6, Hob.III-36: Menuetto: Allegreto
Quartet in A major, op.20 no.6, Hob.III-36: Fuga a 3 soggetti: Allegro
The Art of Fugue, BWV 1080: Contrapunctus 1
Sonata for piano and violin in E minor, K304-300c: Allegro
Sonata for piano and violin in E minor, K304-300c: Tempo di Menuetto
Quartettsatz in C minor, D703: Allegro assai

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Piano Quintet In A Major, D667 'The Trout': Allegro vivace
Piano Quintet In A Major, D667 'The Trout': Andante
Piano Quintet In A Major, D667 'The Trout': Scherzo: Presto
Piano Quintet In A Major, D667 'The Trout': Theme & Variations: Andantino
Piano Quintet In A Major, D667 'The Trout': Finale: Allegro giusto
String Quintet in C major, D956: Scherzo: Presto - Trio: Andante sostenuto
'Manchester Sonata' No. 1 for violin and piano in C major, RV 3: Largo
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Amazon.com

Vikram Seth's novel An Equal Music is as evocative a portrait of the world of chamber music as you could wish for, but Seth is the first to say that words "can only attempt to describe what cannot truly be described." This two-CD set adds the inevitably missing dimension to a great book, with performances of works featured in the story. They include the world-premiere recording of Beethoven's String Quintet in C minor, an obscure work that is central to the plot.

This piece, like the other selections, is beautifully played and recorded, for this is not a collection of second-rate recordings cobbled together to suit the theme. Vikram Seth himself has chosen the performances, and with performers of the stature of Iona Brown and Andras Schiff, the playing is as good as it gets. Included in the selection is Schubert's celebrated Trout Quintet. If the book gives a taste for the music, and vice versa, these CDs will also get us delving further into this delightful and infectious repertoire. --Keith Clarke

Customer Reviews:

Masterpiece.......2006-11-11

The book is a masterpiece of literature on music, and the music itself are masterpieces

Equally as beautiful as the book.......2006-03-17

A beautiful collection of music ideal for lovers of Seth's stunning novel - a perfect introduction to classical music .

"Two Treasures of Pure Pleasure".......2004-09-21

I purchased the book "An Equal Music" by Vikram Seth, not knowing that there existed a CD that was meant to accompany it. I was about a third of the way through the book, and Vikrams story was so captivating, that I longed to hear the musical pieces that his characters where so passionate about. So I set forth on a quest of my own trying to track down and put together each piece of his repertoire. During my search, I discovered this CD, purchased it, and stopped all reading until its arrival. I slipped it into the disc player, settled in with liner notes in hand, closed my eyes, and found a new appreciation and passion for the classical genre. Exceptional was track 8 of disc 2, "The Lark Ascending" composed by Ralph Vaughan Williams, an absolutely enchanting piece! Not to say that the other tracks are not of equal caliber, they are, just of a different mood.

This compilation is a brilliant companion to the book, yet alone, it stands proudly on its own merits. Bach, Beethoven, Hayden, Schubert, Vivaldi, and of course Williams are all featured on this CD, names all renowned in the world of classical music. The difference between this CD, and say another classical compilation, is that through the inspiration and support of the book, what once one could not identify nor differentiate between in the works of the above, begins to unfold with a keen grasp of each. This assemblage will definitely help you to recognize and feel each composer's unique style.

In the book, the Maggiore Quartet members expose to you, through beautifully interpreted prose, their driving passion behind performing each piece as they become consumed in each note. This caused me to listen intensely not only to each composition, but also to the individual score of each instruments harmonious part. Bringing a deeper connection with not only the characters in this book along with the featured musical selections, but also with the professional musicians themselves whose lives are music.

Mr. Seth should be commended for this creative marriage of fervent fodder. A brilliantly moving novel enhanced and brought to life through this CD. My next stop, an evening out savoring a live performance!

Compulsory reading.......2004-03-30

This amazing book MUST be read by any person who is even slightly interested in music. if you have ever been in a string quartet, you will love the way that this book perfectly captures the delicate balance of emotions within such a close kint group. the love story is alternated with lyrical and descriptive passages, often about something of little significance. The book is a rich and heartwrenching story of love, music and loss. absolutely fabulous!

Truly Equal!.......2004-02-03

Vikram Seth casts a melacholic spell with his novel. This is the first time I am reading a work of fiction woven around chamber musicians, which leads one to explore the inner workings of their thoughts.
The accompamying CD is truly marvellous. Listen to Iona Brown soar away in Vaughan Williams 'Lark Ascending'. The others are also truly 'equal'.

The Gould Variations: The Best of Glenn Gould's Bach

Average customer rating:

Gould selections for music newcomers!
A Great CD...
An odd assortment of Gould's "best" Bach
a gould sampling

The Gould Variations: The Best of Glenn Gould's Bach

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Improvisation | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

Brahms: 10 Intermezzi for Piano; 4 Ballades
Glenn Gould Edition: Schumann & Brahms
Gould Meets Menuhin
French Suites - 70th Anniversary Edition
Art of the Fugue - 70th Anniversary Edition

ASIN: B00004WK47
Release Date: 2000-08-29

Tracks:

Aria
Invention No.1 In C Major, BWV 772
Invention No.3 In D Major, BWV 774
Invention No.8 In F Major, BWV 779
I. Praeambulum
II. Allemande
III. Courante
IV. Sarabande
V. Tempo Di Minuetto
VI. Passepied
VII. Gigue
'Aria Variata Alla Maniera Italiana' In A Minor, BWV 989
Prelude
Fugue
Prelude
Fugue
Praeambulum In C Major, BWV 924
Praeambulum In F Major, BWV 927
Praeludium In D Minor, BWV 926
Praeludium In D Major, BWV 925
Praeludium In F Major, BWV 928
Praeambulum In G Minor, BWV 930
First Movement
I. Allemande
IV. Gavotte
VII. Gigue
Praeludium In C Major, BWV 933 From 6 Little Preludes, BWV 933-938
Chromatic Fantasy In D Minor, BWV 903a
I. Sinfonia
X. Gigue
I. ( )
II. Adagio
III. Presto
Variation 5 A 1 Ovvero 2 Clav.
Variation 30 A 1 Clav. Quodlibet
Aria Da Capo

Tracks:

Contrapunctus I
Contrapunctus II
Contrapunctus III
Contrapunctus IV
Contrapunctus V
Contrapunctus VI (A 4, Im Stile Francese)
Contrapunctus VII (A 4, Per Augmentationem Et Diminutionem)
Contrapunctus VIII (A 3)
Contrapunctus IX (A 4, Alla Duodecima)

Customer Reviews:

Gould selections for music newcomers!.......2006-02-21

As you know the excel passion of Gould for Bach 's music accompanied him along his lifetime. He not only rediscovered a new approach around Bach 's playing but besides he notably contributed to spread the taste for the Academic music all over the world. He represented the irreverent musician per excellence but his absolute domain of the musical socre, his absolute control and senes of every little bar made of him a must reference at the moment to establish fundamental parameters. He broke paradigms and gave back the music a renovated splendor.

Since his awful vanishing in 1982, a whole generation of new listeners, his name has become as cult pattern. So that is the mainreason to acquire this album, becuase it contains the minimum facets in the intrepretative art of the musician of musicians: Johann Sebastian Bach.

A Great CD..........2004-06-10

If you like Bach and Gould, this is a great CD to start out on, it covers a large variety of recordings by Glenn Gould, and is a great introduction to Bach. Overall this CD is a wonderful sampler, it'll make you want to go out and buy all of his Bach CD's. You wont regret buying this CD, it's something to cherish for years.

An odd assortment of Gould's "best" Bach.......2001-08-07

The "best of Glenn Gould's Bach" is a strange subtitle for a strange sampler. Coming several years after the Sony re-issues of remastered Gould recordings, this collection seems either belated or superfluous. Arguably, the selections don't even represent highlights from the corpi Gould tackled over the years. A disproportionate amount of space is given to relative obscurities, e.g. Aria Variata for keyboard ("in the Italian style"). Surely a legitimate "best of" would include a few more preludes/fugues from the Well-Tempered Clavier? Also, the pace of the music over the length of the first disc is almost relentlessly brisk, like a treasury of vintage Dixieland piano rolls. The second disc is interesting as it includes 1 entire LP - Gould's performance on organ of 9 fugues from The Art of Fugue - plus videos of Gould performing fugues on piano. Consequently, while this set is not truly a "best of," it's a valuable collection of oddities and rarities and a worthwhile investment.

a gould sampling.......2000-12-03

this collection is a sampling of glenn gould's bach recordings, relying heavily on his 1955 edition of the goldberg variations and keeping in total the art of the fugue which gould recorded on organ. i would recommend the complete editions of each recording sampled here, but for an introduction to mr. gould and for a nice selection of bach piano, this album suffices.

Bach for Barbecue: Grillin' and Chillin' with Johann Sebastian

Average customer rating:

Recommended, With a Couple of Reservations
Invite Bach To Your Next Barbecue
Barbeque Chilling

Bach for Barbecue: Grillin' and Chillin' with Johann Sebastian

Manufacturer: Philips
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Improvisation | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

Bach for Breakfast
Beethoven For Your Beloved
Rachmaninoff for a Rainy Day
Mozart for the Morning Commute: A Lively Bit of Traveling Music
Tchaikovsky At Tea Time: A Refreshing Blend For Body And Spirit

ASIN: B00005BJMK
Release Date: 2001-05-08

Tracks:

Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 In F Major, 3Rd Movement, BWV 1047: Allegro - I Musici
3Rd Cello Suite In C Major: Bouree I & II - Pepe Romero
Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 In G Major, 3Rd Movement, BWV 1048: Allegro - Johann Sebastian Bach
Two Part Invention No. 1 In C Major, BWV 772 - Johann Sebastian Bach
Two Part Invention No. 8 In F Major - Andras Schiff
Two Part Invention No. 4 In D Minor - Andras Schiff
Brandenburg Concerto No. 4 In G Major, 1St Movement, BWV 1049: Allegro - I Musici
Well Tempered Clavier I, BWV 846: Prelude In C Major - Marisa Robles
Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 1St Movement, BWV 1050: Allegro - I Musici
Partita No. 1 For Solo Violin BWV 1002, B Minor: Bouree - Gidon Kremer
Partita No. 3 For Solo Violin BWV 1006, E Major: Preludio - Gidon Kremer
Italian Concerto In F Major BWV 97: 1St Movement - Jean Louis Steuerman
Art Of The Fugue: Contrapunctus No. 9 - ASMF
Fugue In G Minor 'The Great Fugue' BWV 542 - Stuttgart Chamber Orchestra
Violin Concerto In E Major BWV 1042: Allegro - Arthur Grumiaux
Fugue In G Minor 'The Little Fugue' BWV 578 - Helmut Walcha
Concerto No. 1 For Harpsichord And Strings In D Minor, 3Rd Movement BWM 1052: Allegro - English Chamber Orchestra

Customer Reviews:

Recommended, With a Couple of Reservations.......2005-11-18

This is the fourth Bach CD I've gotten in this series and the first one that I would rate as having less than a perfect score of five. The other three Bach CDs I have in this series are "Bach for Book Lovers," "Bach for Bedtime," and "Bach for Breakfast." The first two are intended to be for quiet times and relaxation and are similar to the "Bach for Relaxation" and "Bach for Meditation" CDs I have, to which I would also give a score of 5.

This CD gets a score of 4 instead of 5 because of 3 of the 17 selections, especially 2 of them. Track 8 is the famous Prelude in C major from the Well-Tempered Clavier, transcribed for harp and performed by Marisa Robles. Part of the beauty of individual performances of music is the unique quality of each performer's interpretation of that music; that can certainly include tempo, especially with Bach's music, where it is not completely certain exactly at what tempo he would have performed it himself. However, I have heard this particular composition performed by several different musicians, including F. Gulda on the "Bach for Book Lovers" CD and Sviatoslav Richter on his multi-CD set of the complete WTC. Moreover, I have heard it performed on piano and guitar and would normally welcome a performance on the harp. But Robles' performance is at a faster tempo than these others and sounds a bit rushed, not leaving one with the leisure to enjoy the beauty of the melody.

Two other less-than-satisfying tracks are the back-to-back extracts from Bach's Sonatas and Partitas for solo violin. I have the complete 2-CD set of these Sonatas and Partitas recorded by Henryk Szeryng and, aside from preferring Szeryng's performance to Gidon Kremer's, I find these two selections out of place on this CD. This compilation is supposedly for persons having a few friends over for a barbecue. While that may seem like an over-literal interpretation of the CD title, even the CD booklet includes three barbecue recipes: (1) Sebastian's Special Sauce; (2) Tender & Tangy Baby Bach Ribs; (3) Branden-Burger.

The partitas and sonatas for solo violin have a great and timeless beauty, but one that is generally stark and intense. Not that this CD should only have "Bach-lite" on it. In fact, track #13, Contrapunctus No. 9, from Art of the Fugue, and track #14, Fugue in G minor "The Great Fugue" BWV 542, are masterpieces of Baroque depth and complexity. At the same time, these performances by Neville Marriner and the ASMF and by the Suttgart Chamber Orchestra are engaging as well as complex, and draw the listener in. Such is not the case for the two solo violin tracks performed by Kremer, which ask for more intense concentration from the listener.

At least the Bouree from Partita No.1 has an upbeat, optimistic tone that is consistent with the other tracks on the CD; one might conceivably hear and enjoy it at a barbecue. But the next track, the Preludio from Partita No.3 for Solo Violin, seems more appropriate for a barbecue cut short by gathering storm clouds. This is a beautiful but somber piece that doesn't fit in well with the other 16 selections on this CD. Its mood is heavy, deep, and intense, and its beauty is dark and melancholy. One can only imagine what the people at Philips were thinking when they decided to put a selection like this on a CD entitled "Bach for Barbecue."

The peformances of the other selections by I musici, Pepe Romero, Andras Schiff, and the great Belgian violinist, Arthur Grumiaux, are wonderful. Recommended, with a couple of reservations.

Invite Bach To Your Next Barbecue.......2005-09-27

Johann Sebastian Bach may be dead and one may present the debate that his music is also dead (1600-1760) but this doesn't stop Bach from being the musical DJ at a first-rate barbecue. This title from the Set Your Life to Classical Music series is perfect background music for a most interesting and colorful summer barbecue, 4th of July barbecue or Labor Day barbecue. The music is so brilliantly played, vivid, lively and entertaining that it will pose no problem to anyone who appreciates good music. The celebrated ensemble I Musici, as well as guitarist Pepe Romero and violinist ARthur Grumiaux contribute to the overall beauty of this recording. Bach's individual style, which indeed does not compare to Handel or Vivaldi's, is strong in these musical pieces which include the danceable, festive Allegro from the Brandenburg Concerto No. 2, the Suite for Solo Cello, the Brandenburg Concerto 3's lively Allegro, Two Part Invention for Keyboard No. 1, Brandenburg Concerto 4 and 5's allegro movements, Partitas for Solo Violin, Fantasia and Fugue For Organ in G Minor, Violin Concerto No. 2 in E Major allegro and the CD closes with the Harpsichord Concerto No. 1 in D.

Particularly good are the Brandenburg Concerti, Keyboard and Violin pieces and the excellent interpretation of the Allegro movement of the Violin Concerto No. 2, which I've never heard sound better anywhere else. This is a fun, lively recording and a fine way to hook yourself or your friends into classical music. The dour-looking, highly religious Protestant Bach may not have himself attended barbecues, but surely he would be most pleased to know that his music is still beloved enough to suggested as a piece for background in a barbecue. I can't say enough good things about the Set Your Life To Classical Music Series. The cover art on these CD's are so cute, hilarious and witty and are the most perfect introduction to classical for young people. And for adults who would otherwise never hear classical.

Barbeque Chilling.......2004-02-08

This CD is one of the best CDs to listen to when you are a classical fan and you need some nice fast music. This CD is a really classical, very nice played CD. This CD is a Must Buy Product for Classical Music Fans.

Average customer rating:

The 20th Century Maestros (Box Set)

Manufacturer: History
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Waltzes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Improvisation | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

Modern & 20th Century | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

Compilations | Classical | Styles | Music

Baroque (c.1600-1750) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Romantic (c.1820-1910) | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

French | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

German | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Italian | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Passions | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music

Tracks:

Allegramente - Bernstein
Adagio Assai - Bernstein
Presto - Bernstein
Prophecy - Bernstein
Profanation - Bernstein
Lamentation - Bernstein
Solo - Bernstein
Pas De Deux - Bernstein
Pas De Trois - Bernstein
Coda - Bernstein
Allegro Con Brio - Kubelik
Adagio - Kubelik
Allegretto Grazioso - Kubelik
Allegro Ma Non Troppo - Kubelik
The Moldau - Smetana
Hakon Jarl - Smetana
Molto Allegro - Von Karajan
Andante - Von Karajan
Menuetto Allegretto - Von Karajan
Presto - Von Karajan
Adagio - Von Karajan
Allegro Con Grazia - Von Karajan
Allegro Molto Vivace - Von Karajan
Finale Adagio Lamentoso Andante - Von Karajan
Allegro Non Troppo - Celibidache
Andante Moderato - Celibidache
Allegro Giocosco - Cilibidache
Allegro Energico - Celibidache
Overture - Celibidache
March - Celibidache
Variations - Celibidache
Trepak - Celibidache
Danse Arabe - Celibidache
Danse Chinose - Celibidache
Danse De Mirlitons - Celibidache
Valse Des Fleurs - Celibidache
Largo E Maestoso - Dorati
Lento - Dorati
Andantino Quasi Allegretto - Dorati
Allegro Molto - Dorati
Allegro Molto Moderato - Dorati
Adagio - Dorati
Allegro Moderato Molto E Marcato - Dorati
Andante Allegro Con Anima - Fricsay
Andante Cantabile Con Alcuna Licenza - Fricsay
Valse Allegro Moderato - Fricsay
Finale Andante Maestoso - Fricsay
Rosen Aus Dem Suden - Fricsay
Wiener Blut - Fricsay
Un Poco Sostenuto Allegro - Bohm
Andante Sostenuto - Bohm
Un Poco Allegretto E Grazioso - Bohm
Adagio Piu Andante Allegro Ma Non Troppo Ma Con Brio - Bohm
Overture Der Fliegende Hollander - Bohm
Ouvertue Le Nozze Di Fiigaro - Bohm
Allegro Moderato - Jochum
Allegro Sehr Feierlich Und Sehr Langsam - Jochum
Scherzo Bewegt - Jochum
Finale Bewegt Doch Nicht Zu Schnell - Jochum
Allegro Affetuoso - Steinberg
Intermezzo Andantino Grazioso - Steinberg
Allegro Vivace - Steinberg
Allegro Moderato - Steinberg
Canzonetta (Andante) - Steinberg
Finale Allegro Vivacissimo - Steinberg
Allegro Brillante E Molto Vivace - Kondrashin
Andante Non Troppo - Kondrashin
Allegro Con Fuoco - Kondrashin
Allegro Man Non Troppo - Kondrashin
Adagio Ma Non Troppo - Kondrashin
Finale Allegro Giocoso Ma Non Troppo - Kondrashin
Komm SuBer Tod BWV 478 - Stokowski
Adagio (From Taccata) Adagio And Fugue In C - Stokowski
Mein Jesu Was Fur Ein Seelenweh Bwv 487 - Stokowski
Es Ist Vollbracht - Stokowski
A Night On The Bare Mountain - Stokowski
Romeo And Juliet Fantasy Overture - Stokowski
Tanz Der Sieben Schleier - Stokowski
No 1 - Stokowski
No 3 - Stokowski
Allegro Ma Non Troppo - Ormandy
Intermezzo Adagio - Ormandy
Finale Alle Breve - Ormandy
Andante Ma Non Troppo Allegro Energico - Ormandy
Andante - Ormandy
Scherzo Allegro - Ormandy
Finale Quasi Una Fantasia - Ormandy
Adagio Allegro Molto - Szell
Largo - Szell
Molto Vivace - Szell
Allegro Con Fuoco - Szell
Allegro Non Troppo - Szell
Scherzando - Szell
Andante - Szell
Rondo - Szell
An Der Schonen Blauen Donau - Szell
Allegro Maestoso - Barbirolli
Romance Larghetto - Barbirolli
Rondo Vivace - Barbirolli

Album Description

German digitally remastered box-set features one disc apiece from some of the 20th century's greatest composers including, Arturo Toscanini, Leopold Stokowski, Herbert Von Karajan, Leonard Bernstein, Otto Klemperer, Eugene Ormandy & many more. 20 slimline

Average customer rating:

I love this set
What's the reason for this box set?
A Glen Gould Extravaganza by Eugene Coreno
Average Price...Great Recording
A rip-off, possibly, but a sumptuous rip-off

Glenn Gould Plays Bach

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

Fugues | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Improvisation | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Suites | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Toccatas | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music

Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music

Classical Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music

Classical Instrumental Music | The Sony BMG Masterworks Store | Amazon.com Label Stores | Stores | Music
Similar Items:

The Glenn Gould Edition - Bach: The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book II
Gould Meets Menuhin
Bach: Well-Tempered Clavier
Bach: Complete Works - 155 CD Box Set
A State of Wonder: The Complete Goldberg Variations (1955 & 1981)

ASIN: B000031X12
Release Date: 1999-11-16

Tracks:

The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Aria
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 1 a 1 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 2 a 1 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 3 a 1 Clav. Canone all' Unisuono
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 4 a 1 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 5 a 1 ovvero 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 6 a 1 Clav. Canone alla Seconda
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 7 a 1 ovvero 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 8 a 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 9 a 1 Clav. Canone alla Terza
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 10 a 1 Clav. Fughetta
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 11 a 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 12 Canone alla Quarta
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 13 a 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 14 a 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 15 a 1 Clav. Canone alla Quinta in moto contrario. a 1 Clav. Andante
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 16 Ouverture a 1 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 17 a 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 18 - Canone alla Sesta a 1 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 19 a 1 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 20 a 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 21 Canone alla Settima
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 22 Alla breve a 1 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 23 a 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 24 Canone all' Ottava a 1 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 25 a 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 26 a 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 27 Canone alla Nona
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 28 a 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Variation 29 a 1 ovvero 2 Clav.
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Quodlibet
The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Aria da capo

Tracks:

Partita No. 5 In G Major, BWV 829: I. Preambulum
Partita No. 5 In G Major, BWV 829: II. Allemande
Partita No. 5 In G Major, BWV 829: III. Courante
Partita No. 5 In G Major, BWV 829: IV. Sarabande
Partita No. 5 In G Major, BWV 829: V. Tempo di Minuetto
Partita No. 5 In G Major, BWV 829: VI. Passepied
Partita No. 5 In G Major, BWV 829: VII. Gigue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book II: Fugue In F-Sharp Minor, BWV 883
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book II: Fugue In E Major, BWV 878
Partita No. 6 In E Minor, BWV 830: I. Toccata
Partita No. 6 In E Minor, BWV 830: II. Allemande
Partita No. 6 In E Minor, BWV 830: III. Courante
Partita No. 6 In E Minor, BWV 830: IV. Air
Partita No. 6 In E Minor, BWV 830: V. Sarabande
Partita No. 6 In E Minor, BWV 830: VI. Tempo di Gavotta
Partita No. 6 In E Minor, BWV 830: VII. Gigue

Tracks:

Italian Concerto In F Major, BWV 971: I. ( )
Italian Concerto In F Major, BWV 971: II. Andante
Italian Concerto In F Major, BWV 971: III. Presto
Partita No. 1 In B-Flat Major, BWV 825: I. Praeludium
Partita No. 1 In B-Flat Major, BWV 825: II. Allemande
Partita No. 1 In B-Flat Major, BWV 825: III. Courante
Partita No. 1 In B-Flat Major, BWV 825: IV. Sarabande
Partita No. 1 In B-Flat Major, BWV 825: V. Menuet I; Menuet II
Partita No. 1 In B-Flat Major, BWV 825: VI. Gigue
Partita No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 826: I. Sinfonia
Partita No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 826: II. Allemande
Partita No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 826: III. Courante
Partita No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 826: IV. Sarabande
Partita No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 826: V. Rondeaux
Partita No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 826: VI. Capriccio

Tracks:

The Art Of The Fugue, BWV 1080 (Excerpts): Contrapunctus I
The Art Of The Fugue, BWV 1080 (Excerpts): Contrapunctus II
The Art Of The Fugue, BWV 1080 (Excerpts): Contrapunctus III
The Art Of The Fugue, BWV 1080 (Excerpts): Contrapunctus IV
The Art Of The Fugue, BWV 1080 (Excerpts): Contrapunctus V
The Art Of The Fugue, BWV 1080 (Excerpts): Contrapunctus VI (a 4, im Stile francese)
The Art Of The Fugue, BWV 1080 (Excerpts): Contrapunctus VII (a 4, per Augmentationem et Diminutionem)
The Art Of The Fugue, BWV 1080 (Excerpts): Contrapunctus VIII (a 3)
The Art Of The Fugue, BWV 1080 (Excerpts): Contrapunctus IX (a 4, alla Duodecima)

Tracks:

The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 1 In C Major, BWV 846: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 1 In C Major, BWV 846: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 847: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 847: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 3 In C-Sharp Major, BWV 848: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 3 In C-Sharp Major, BWV 848: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 4 In C-Sharp Minor, BWV 849: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 4 In C-Sharp Minor, BWV 849: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 5 In D Major, BWV 850: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 5 In D Major, BWV 850: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 6 In D Minor, BWV 851: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 6 In D Minor, BWV 851: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 7 In E-Flat Major, BWV 852: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 7 In E-Flat Major, BWV 852: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 8 In D-Sharp Minor, BWV 853: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 8 In D-Sharp Minor, BWV 853: Fugue

Tracks:

Partita No. 3 In A Minor, BWV 827: I. Fantaisie
Partita No. 3 In A Minor, BWV 827: II. Allemande
Partita No. 3 In A Minor, BWV 827: III. Courante
Partita No. 3 In A Minor, BWV 827: IV. Sarabande
Partita No. 3 In A Minor, BWV 827: V. Burlesca
Partita No. 3 In A Minor, BWV 827: VI. Scherzo
Partita No. 3 In A Minor, BWV 827: VII. Gigue
Partita No. 4 In D Major, BWV 828: I. Overture
Partita No. 4 In D Major, BWV 828: II. Allemande
Partita No. 4 In D Major, BWV 828: III. Courante
Partita No. 4 In D Major, BWV 828: IV. Aria
Partita No. 4 In D Major, BWV 828: V. Sarabande
Partita No. 4 In D Major, BWV 828: VI. Menuet
Partita No. 4 In D Major, BWV 828: VII. Gigue
Toccata In E Minor, BWV 914

Tracks:

The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 9 In E Major, BWV 854: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 9 In E Major, BWV 854: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 10 In E Minor, BWV 855: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 10 In E Minor, BWV 855: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 11 In F Major, BWV 856: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 11 In F Major, BWV 856: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 12 In F Minor, BWV 857: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 12 In F Minor, BWV 857: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 13 In F-Sharp Major, BWV 858: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 13 In F-Sharp Major, BWV 858: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 14 In F-Sharp Minor, BWV 859: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 14 In F-Sharp Minor, BWV 859: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 15 In G Major, BWV 860: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 15 In G Major, BWV 860: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 16 In G Minor, BWV 861: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 16 In G Minor, BWV 861: Fugue

Tracks:

Invention No. 1 In C Major, BWV 772
Sinfonia No. 1 In C Major, BWV 787
Invention No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 773
Sinfonia No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 788
Invention No. 5 In E-Flat Major, BWV 776
Sinfonia No. 5 In E-Flat Major, BWV 791
Invention No. 14 In B-Flat Major, BWV 785
Sinfonia No. 14 In B-Flat Major, BWV 800
Invention No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 782
Sinfonia No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 797
Invention No. 10 In G Major, BWV 781
Sinfonia No. 10 In G Major, BWV 796
Invention No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 786
Sinfonia No. 15 In B Manor, BWV 801
Invention No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 778
Sinfonia No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 793
Invention No. 6 In E Major, BWV 777
Sinfonia No. 6 In E Major, BWV 792
Invention No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 784
Sinfonia No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 799
Invention No. 12 In A Major, BWV 783
Sinfonia No. 12 In A Major, BWV 798
Invention No. 3 In D Major, BWV 774
Sinfonia No. 3 In D Major, BWV 789
Invention No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 775
Sinfonia No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 790
Invention No. 8 In F Major, BWV 779
Sinfonia No. 8 In F Major, BWV 794
Invention No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 780
Sinfonia No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 795

Tracks:

The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 17 In A-Flat Major, BWV 862: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 17 In A-Flat Major, BWV 862: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 18 In G-Sharp Minor, BWV 863: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 18 In G-Sharp Minor, BWV 863: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 19 In A Major, BWV 864: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 19 In A Major, BWV 864: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 20 In A Minor, BWV 865: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 20 In A Minor, BWV 865: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 21 In B-Flat Major, BWV 866: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 21 In B-Flat Major, BWV 866: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 22 In B-Flat Minor, BWV 867: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 22 In B-Flat Minor, BWV 867: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 23 In B Major, BWV 868: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 23 In B Major, BWV 868: Fugue
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 24 In B Minor, BWV 869: Prelude
The Well-Tempered Clavier, Book I: Prelude & Fugue No. 24 In B Minor, BWV 869: Fugue

Tracks:

Concerto No. 3 For Piano And Orchestra, BWV 1054: I. (Allegro)
Concerto No. 3 For Piano And Orchestra, BWV 1054: II. Adagio e piano sempre
Concerto No. 3 For Piano And Orchestra, BWV 1054: III. Allegro
Concerto No. 5 For Piano And Orchestra, BWV 1056: I. (Allegro)
Concerto No. 5 For Piano And Orchestra, BWV 1056: II. Largo
Concerto No. 5 For Piano And Orchestra, BWV 1056: III. Presto
Concerto No. 7 For Piano And Orchestra, BWV 1058: I. (Allegro)
Concerto No. 7 For Piano And Orchestra, BWV 1058: II. Andante
Concerto No. 7 For Piano And Orchestra, BWV 1058: III. Allegro assai

Tracks:

Toccata In D Major, BWV 912
Toccata In F-Sharp Minor, BWV 910
Toccata In D Minor, BWV 913

Tracks:

Toccata In C Minor, BWV 911
Toccata In G Minor, BWV 915
Toccata In G Major, BWV 916
Toccata In E Minor, BWV 914

Customer Reviews:

I love this set.......2006-02-25

I probably own most everything that is available by Glenn Gould on CD. I bought this box set several years ago and have never looks back. I love every minute of it. The acid test of any CD is how long before you tire of it or outgrow it and I can say with this set never. I am well aware of the comments about picking up individual CDs but here there is no hassle and you own a great Bach set played by Gould with very little effort. The set is definitely worth the price. If you like Back, if you like Gould, if you are intelligent or so daft you buy anthing at all, then you will love this set.

What's the reason for this box set?.......2005-10-03

I can't understand the rationale for this box set: or more precisely, I can't understand the criteria for putting it together. It is a box set- 12 cds, with original covers in tiny versions. But what exactly were the criteria? If it's Glenn Gould's Bach, then it's incomplete. It contains 12 cds, but a second volume with another 14 cds (by my count) would be required to complete it- if it is meant to be GG's 'complete' Bach. What's missing?

1. WTC, Volume 2: [3 cds].(according to the "original cover" Lp release criteria).
2. KYBD. CTI, Vol. 2: [1 cd]
3. English Suites: [2 cds; the original Lp was a double album, but won't fit on 1 cd, so 2 "little lps" would be required]
4. French Suites: [ 2 cds: threse would fit on 1 cd, but, according to the set's criteria, 2 little lp covers would have to be reproduced, so: 2 cds]
5. Goldbergs 1982: [1cd]
6. Violin Cti.: [2 cds: originally, a double album, but won't fit on 1 cd, so: 2 little lps]
7. Viola cti.: [1 cd]
8. Preludes, Fugues and Fuguettas:[1 cd]
9. Unreleased (until 1997) "Italian" works and fugues:[ 1 cd]: At Gould's death, he had recorded half of 2 Bach albums: together, they would make one cd: an imaginary, "what if" LP cover would have to be designed- if this was going to be the "complete" Gould's Bach. Or does this stretch the criteria?
10. "Tim Page interviews Glenn Gould" on the Goldbergs: [1 cd]: This was an Lp orginally included with the first issue of the 1982 Goldbergs: It would make a nice "bonus disc", but a little Lp cover would have to be designed.

So: IF this is going to be a complete Gould's Bach, and even if one doesn't count the Page interview, then a second volume would have to have, by the above count, another 14 discs. Which is do-able. But then one is forced to ask: what was the original reason for the box set, if it wasn't to be a complete Gould's Bach? I thought that perhaps it was possibly to collect only the wonderful portrait covers of Gould's original Lps, but then why would it not include the 1982 Goldbergs,the English Suites, the Preludes,Fuguettas and fugues album,the WTC vol. 2, or the violin and viola da gamba Lps, all of which have wonderful portraits, not to mention many other non-Bach Gould albums. Was the idea for the box to only include solo recordings of Bach by Gould? Well, it can't be that either, because it contains Vol. 1 of the Keyboard Cti with orchestra, and doesn't contain many other of Gould's solo Bach. No, the theme seems to be: Gould's Bach, with originals covers. So finally, one can only hope that Sony plans to release a 14 or 15 cd box set sometime in the future- but this box has been out for seveal years now.

One is forced to conclude that the reason for ths box is a mystery. One star subtracted for mystery aspect.

A Glen Gould Extravaganza by Eugene Coreno.......2004-12-26

I absolutely love this set of recordings, which I loved back when I heard them on vinyl. For me and apparently many others, Gould brings a blazing intelligence and clarity to these works. I believe I prefer his recording of these pieces to any 'urtext ausgabe' type of recording. Reccommended to those who wish to see deeply into these works.

Average Price...Great Recording.......2004-05-26

Some people might think this is a rip-off, but I think otherwise, I got these 12 CD'S about 6 months ago, and am still enjoying every one of them. But then again if you think about it, this really isn't a rip-off...first off you must remember that these are the original jackets, therefore you may think things in this collection are pointless, such as the Well-Tempered Clavier split onto three CD'S...but its not pointless considering the fact that this is the ORIGINAL Jacket collection. The origanal Masterworks records sold the Glenn Gould Well Tempered Clavier in THREE seperate volumes, which is why they have THREE seperate volumes of CD's in this box set. And then again im sure that if you bought all these CD's separatly they would come to about (maybe more) than 120 dollars, I havnt calculated it out, im just estimating. I would highly reccomend this collection, its well worth having if you like Glenn Gould playing Bach, which you MOST LIKELY will like. You wont ever regret buying these CD's...they are something to cherish.

A rip-off, possibly, but a sumptuous rip-off.......2000-06-07

You'd be dead right in suspecting that this set doesn't contain the complete Bach recordings of Glenn Gould. What it does contain is ten discs, representing the original album releases of ten Gould/Bach performances, in facsimiles of the original sleeves. It doesn't include the English and French Suites, Book 2 of The Well-Tempered Clavier or any number of fugues that have since been scattered around the enormous Glenn Gould Edition. (And for all I know, there are other things it doesn't include either.)

Still, I've worked it out, and it would cost you slightly more to buy all these recordings in the Edition format than it would to buy this set. At least, it would in Ireland, and if you were to buy them all individually from an online shop the packing costs would go through the roof. Here, you have them in a compact enough cardboard box (teeny bit flimsy, perhaps) and with the benefit of the _deeply_ moody original sleeves. They've also been remastered, not that it makes much difference with a recording like the legendary 1955 Mono version of the Goldberg Variations, which for all its performative verve and dash is always going to sound woody and faintly muffled compared to the far more crisp (but entirely differently-interpreted) 1981 digital version. But with Gould, the King of Annoying Crooning, crystalline audio fidelity has always to be weighed against interpretive genius.

I took one star away because I'm still not entirely convinced of the economic values of this set. But if you're a Gould fan who wants a whole lot in one go without being a total completist, and you've got a hundred bucks burning a hole in your pocket, this really is what you should get.

And it's not like there aren't some brilliant performances on here. The late version of the Toccata in C Minor is ravishing; the 2- and 3-Part Inventions are sprightly and fun, even if the piano has a weird wobble in the mid-range (urbanely apologised for by Gould in a sleevenote). Also, the Art of the Fugue CD is enhanced, and includes half an hour of some great video of Gould playing and talking. It's up to you: either proceed with caution and accumulate your Gould in a responsible manner, or go mad for a moment and forfeit your dog's dental bills for this really rather luxurious 400-odd minutes of sublime music.

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