Bach: Inventions & Sinfonias; Prelude, Fugue & Allegro

On this CD:

1. Two-Part Inventions (15) for keyboard
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by William Dowd, Dom Andre Laberge

2. Three-Part Inventions (Sinfonias) (15) for keyboard
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by William Dowd, Dom Andre Laberge

3. Prelude, Fugue and Allegro for lute (or keyboard) in E flat major, BWV 998
Composed by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performed by William Dowd, Dom Andre Laberge

Bach: Inventions & Sinfonias; Prelude, Fugue & Allegro, Music, Johann Sebastian Bach, Dom Andre Laberge, William Dowd, Chamber, Classical, Classical Composers, Keyboard, Lute Solo, Music for Keyboard

Inventions & Sinfonias - 70th Anniversary Edition
Average customer rating:

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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ASIN: B00006FI9S
Release Date: 2002-09-03

Customer Reviews:

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.

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

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?

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.

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:

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

Fantasies | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000002ZUY
Release Date: 1994-08-30

Tracks:

Fantasia In C Minor, BWV906
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 1 In C Major
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 2 In C Minor
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 3 In D Major
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 4 In D Minor
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 5 In E Flat Major
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 6 In E Major
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 7 In E Minor
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 8 In F Major
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 9 In F Minor
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 10 In G Major
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 11 In G Minor
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 12 In A Major
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 13 In A Minor
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 14 In B Flat Major
Fifteen Two-Part Inventions, BWV772-786: Invention 15 In B Minor
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 1 In C Major
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 2 In C Minor
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 3 In D Major
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 4 In D Minor
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 5 In E Flat Major
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 6 In E Major
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 7 In E Minor
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 8 In F Major
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 9 In F Minor
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 10 In G Major
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 11 In G Minor
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 12 In A Major
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 13 In A Minor
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 14 In B Flat Major
Fifteen Three-Part Sinfonias (Inventions), BWV787-801: Sinfonia 15 In B Minor
Chromatic Fantasia And Fugue In D Minor, BWV903: Fantasia
Chromatic Fantasia And Fugue In D Minor, BWV903: Fugue

Customer Reviews:

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.

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:

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

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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Inventions & Sinfonias - 70th Anniversary Edition

ASIN: B0000041PL
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

Two-Part Inventions: No. 1 In C Major
Two-Part Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor
Two-Part Inventions: No. 3 In D Major
Two-Part Inventions: No. 4 In D Minor
Two-Part Inventions: No. 5 In E-Flat Major
Two-Part Inventions: No. 6 In E Major
Two-Part Inventions: No. 7 In E Minor
Two-Part Inventions: No. 8 In F Major
Two-Part Inventions: No. 9 In F Minor
Two-Part Inventions: No. 10 In G Major
Two-Part Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor
Two-Part Inventions: No. 12 In A Major
Two-Part Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor
Two-Part Inventions: No. 14 In B-Flat Major
Two-Part Inventions: No. 15 In B Minor
Three-Part Inventions: No. 1 In C Major
Three-Part Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor
Three-Part Inventions: No. 3 In D Major
Three-Part Inventions: No. 4 In D Minor
Three-Part Inventions: No. 5 In E-Flat Major
Three-Part Inventions: No. 6 In E Major
Three-Part Inventions: No.7 In E Minor
Three-Part Inventions: No. 8 In F Major
Three-Part Inventions: No. 9 In F Minor
Three-Part Inventions: No, 10 In G Major
Three-Part Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor
Three-Part Inventions: No. 12 In A Major
Three-Part Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor
Three-Part Inventions: No. 14 In B-Flat Major
Three-Part Inventions: No. 15 In B Minor

Customer Reviews:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Average customer rating:

Glen Gould Magical Performance
Brilliant

Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions

Manufacturer: Sony
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B000F5FPZA
Release Date: 2006-06-06

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, BVW 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, BVW 781
Sinfonia No. 10 in G Major, BWV 796
Invention No. 15 in B minor, BWV 786
Sinfonia No. 15 in B minor, 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
Sinfonia No. 8 in F Major, BWV 794
Sinfonia No. 15 in B Minor, BWV 801
Sinfonia No. 9 in F Minor, BWV 795
Unedited Studio Session Takes from June 6 & 9, 1955 from Inventions and Sinfonias, BWV 772-801; Sinfonia No. 8 in F Major, BWV 794
Unedited Studio Session Takes from June 6 & 9, 1955 from Inventions and Sinfonias, BWV 772-801; Sinfonia No. 15 in B Minor, BWV 801
Unedited Studio Session Takes from June 6 & 9, 1955 from Inventions and Sinfonias, BWV 772-801; Sinfonia No. 9 in F Minor, BWV 795

Amazon.com

This new reissue of Glenn Gould's recording of Bach's Inventions enshrines one of his finest ventures into the work of the composer with whom Gould is indelibly identified. In the hands of most other keyboard artists these miniatures sound like student exercises, but Gould gives each one an individual profile, finding more to savor. As always with Gould, you'll notice details and secondary accompaniments often buried in a welter of notes. But you'll also find charm, as in the Sixth Invention; introspection, as in several of the Sinfonias, and lightening finger work, each note precisely articulated. The net result is a vivacity and listenability not always associated with these pieces. Gould's reading of the Sinfonia No. 9, played with spare beauty, is, like so much else here, very special for the intimacy it evokes. Fillers include some previously unreleased Sinfonias and unedited takes from the recording sessions that illustrate the pianist's perfectionism. Perhaps best of all, the remastered sound is much better than that on previous issues of the disc. --Dan Davis

Customer Reviews:

Glen Gould Magical Performance.......2007-01-18

Gould shows these tradtional pieces played by every serious piano student can be interpretted more than one way. Some that are usually played very fast, he plays slowly, and some that are usually played fast, are played really fast - as though with super human ability. He uses legato on some that often are played stacatto, and others that are usually legato are played stacatto. An old recording that is still fresh and imaginative.

Brilliant.......2006-06-24

Although the miniature Inventions and Sinfonias aren't the colossal technical masterworks of other Bach pieces like The Art of Fugue and the Goldberg Variations, they're just as emotional and thoughtful in their own way (you wouldn't criticize a sonnet for not having the narrative sweep of an epic poem). As always, Gould has great clarity and breathtaking virtuosity. But on this particular album, it has a musicality and charm that I sometimes find lacking in his other recordings; he seems to be having a great time performing these pieces. The extra material provides some interesting rethinking of three of the sinfonias, and the outtakes allow you to hear how Gould put them together

A great recording that is both emotionally and intellectually satisfying.

Bach: The Two and Three Part Inventions & Sinfonias [SACD]

Average customer rating:

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

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

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ASIN: B00000K4HZ
Release Date: 1999-09-07

Customer Reviews:

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.

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.

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).

...

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!

Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)

Average customer rating:

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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Musettes | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Polonaises | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

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Similar Items:

Bach: Piano Works
J. S. Bach: Favourite Piano Works
Keyboard Music
Bach: Two part Inventions/Three Part Inventions
Bach: The Keyboard Album

ASIN: B0000013W7
Release Date: 1994-02-15

Tracks:

Inventions: No. 1 In C Major, BWV 772
Inventions: No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 773
Inventions: No. 3 In D Major, BWV 774
Inventions: No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 775
Inventions: No. 5 In E Flat Major, BWV 776
Inventions: No. 6 In E Major, BWV 777
Inventions: No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 778
Inventions: No. 8 In F Major, BWV 779
Inventions: No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 780
Inventions: No. 10 In G Major, BWV 781
Inventions: No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 782
Inventions: No. 12 In A Major, BWV 783
Inventions: No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 784
Inventions: No. 14 In B Flat Major, BWV 785
Inventions: No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 786
Sinfonias: No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 786
Sinfonias: No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 788
Sinfonias: No. 3 In D Major, BWV 789
Sinfonias: No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 791
Sinfonias: No. 5 In E Flat Major, BWV 791
Sinfonias: No. 5 In E Flat Major, BWV 791
Sinfonias: No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 793
Sinfonias: No. 8 In F Major, BWV 794
Sinfonias: No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 795
Sinfonias: No. In G Major, BWV 796
Sinfonias: No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 797
Sinfonias: No. 12 In A Major, BWV 798
Sinfonias: No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 799
Sinfonias: No. 14 In B Flat Major, BWV 800
Sinfonias: No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 801
Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In G Major, BWV Anh. 114
Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In G Minor, BWV Anh. 115
Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In G Major, BWV Anh. 116
Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Polonaise In G Minor, BWV Anh. 119
Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: March In D Major, BWV Anh. 122
Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Polonaise In G Minor, BWV Anh. 125
Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Musette In D Major, BWV Anh. 126
Fragments Of Anna Magdalena's Notebook: Minuet In D Minor, BWV Anh. 132

Customer Reviews:

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!

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.

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).

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:

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

Minuets | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

Preludes | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Classical | Styles | Music

General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music
Similar Items:

J.S. Bach: The Seven Toccatas
Bach: Six Partitas / Richard Troeger
Art of Fugue/Violin Transcriptions/Fantasias (Bach on Clavichord Vol. 4)
Playing Bach on the Keyboard: A Practical Guide
Bach: Inventions and Sinfonias (Complete)

ASIN: B00004Y6MJ
Release Date: 2000-10-24

Tracks:

Two-Part Invention No.1 in C, BWV772
Two-Part Invention No.2 in c, BWV773
Two-Part Invention No.3 in D, BWV774
Two-Part Invention No.4 in d, BWV775
Two-Part Invention No.5 in E flat, BWV776
Two-Part Invention No.6 in E, BWV777
Two-Part Invention No.7 in e, BWV778
Two-Part Invention No.8 in F, BWV779
Two-Part Invention No.9 in f, BWV780
Two-Part Invention No.10 in G, BWV781
Two-Part Invention No.11 in g, BWV782
Two-Part Invention No.12 in A, BWV783
Two-Part Invention No.13 in a, BWV784
Two-Part Invention No.14 in B flat, BWV785
Two-Part Invention No.15 in b, BWV786
Little Prld No.1 in C, BWV924
Little Prld No.2 in C, BWV939
Little Prld No.3 in c, BWV999
Little Prld No.4 in D, BWV925
Little Prld No.5 in d, BWV926
Little Prld No.6 in D, BWV940
Little Prld No.7 in e, BWV941
Little Prld No.8 in F, BWV927
Little Prld No.9 in F, BWV928
Menuet & Trio (Prld No.10, BWV929)
Little Prld No.11 in g, BWV930
Little Prld No.12 in a, BWV942
Sinf No.1 in C, BWV787
Sinf No.2 in c, BWV788
Sinf No.3 in D, BWV789
Sinf No.4 in d, BWV790
Sinf No.5 in E flat, BWV791
Sinf No.6 in E, BWV792
Sinf No.7 in e, BWV793
Sinf No.8 in F, BWV794
Sinf No.9 in f, BWV795
Sinf No.10 in G, BWV796
Sinf No.11 in g, BWV797
Sinf No.12 in A, BWV798
Sinf No.13 in a, BWV799
Sinf No.14 in B flat, BWV800
Sinf No.15 in b, BWV801
Little Prld No.1 in C, BWV933
Little Prld No.2 in c, BWV934
Little Prld No.3 in d, BWV935
Little Prld No.4 in D, BWV936
Little Prld No.5 in E, BWV937
Little Prld No.6 in e, BWV938

Customer Reviews:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 781
Invention No.15 In B Minor, BWV 786
Sinfonia No.15 In B Minor, 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
I. Prelude
II. Allemande
III. Courante I
IV. Courante II
V. Double I
VI. Double II
VII. Sarabande
VIII. Boouree I
IX. Bouree II (With Da Capo I)
X. Gigue

Customer Reviews:

that's how it's supposed to be.......2006-11-13

This is an excellent showcase of Gould's talent and his true passion, playing the works of Bach. One reviewer commented on the pace of the pieces, that was Gould's claim to fame. The level of expertise that Gould could play a Bach piece at break-neck speed was what made him famous. This is an excellent disk that any Gould fan should own!

Educatioinal Experience.......2006-07-11

I was somewhat disappointed with this purchase. Many of the pieces played were at different speed that I had come to learn them. Some pieces were so fast, I thought that it was unreal, others were slower than I anticipated. I realized that music is open to personal interpretation, but I feel that about half of the pieces were off tempo. Admittedly, I am not a Bach expert, or an Elliot Gould fan, I feel that this purchase was almost not worth the time and effort I spent looking for it.

Average customer rating:

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

Inventions | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music

General | 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
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Peter Serkin: Beethoven Sonatas
Inventions & Sinfonias - 70th Anniversary Edition
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French Suites - 70th Anniversary Edition

ASIN: B000003G5E
Release Date: 1997-02-11

Tracks:

15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 1In C Major, BWV 772
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 773
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 3 In D Major, BWV 774
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 4 In D minor, BWV 775
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 5 In E-Flat Major, BWV 776
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 6 In E Major, BWV 777
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 778
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 8 In F Major, BWV 779
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 780
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 10 In G Major, BWV 781
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 782
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 12 In A Major, BWV 783
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 784
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 14 In B-Flat Major, BWV 785
15 Inventions, BWV 772-786: Invention No. 15, In B Minor, BWV 786
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 1In C Major, BWV 787
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 2 In C Minor, BWV 788
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 3 In D Major, BWV 789
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 4 In D Minor, BWV 790
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 5 In E-Flat Major, BWV 791
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 6 In E Major, BWV 792
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 7 In E Minor, BWV 793
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 8 In F Major, BWV 794
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 9 In F Minor, BWV 795
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 10 In G Major, BWV 796
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 11 In G Minor, BWV 797
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 12 In A Major, BWV 798
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 13 In A Minor, BWV 799
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 14 In B-Flat Major, BWV 800
15 Sinfonias, BWV 787-801: Sinfonia No. 15 In B Minor, BWV 801
4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 1 In E Minor, BWV 802
4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 2 In F Major, BWV 803
4 Duets, BWV 802-805: Duet No. 3 In G Major, BWV 804
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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.