Classical Editor: Rob Barnett                               Founder Len Mullenger: Len@musicweb-international.com


JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH (1685 - 1750)
Trio Sonatas BWV 525 - 530
Sonata 1 in G major [10.06]
Sonata 2 in e minor [10.14]
Sonata 3 in d minor [10.56]
Sonata 4 in a minor [8.39]
Sonata 5 in F sharp major [12.35]
Sonata 6 in C sharp major [11.07]
Duo Fraal - Jacques Lesburgueres, flute, Hans-Wolfgang Brassel, Harpsichord
rec August 1991
ANTES EDITION BM-CD 31.9005 [63.37]

Bach's trio sonatas, originally written for organ, represent some of his finest music. The unique interplay of the three voices (left hand, right hand, pedal) contains some of his most interesting melodic material. Like many of Bach's instrumental works, performers have made arrangements of these sonatas for various instruments.

This recording makes a massacre of this fine music. Not only is the recording itself poor - the flute is too present, drowning out the harpsichord, and making it difficult to hear all three voices - but the flautist sounds as if he is in a hurry to keep up with the music. The use of a modern flute is in harsh combination with the harpsichord, and leads to a very quick loss of interest. No joy or pleasure can be heard here. It reminds me of students trying desperately to play their assigned works and keep from making mistakes.

There is absolutely nothing in this recording to recommend it. It lacks feeling, is recorded poorly, and makes a mockery of some great music. To be avoided.

Kirk McElhearn

 

CONTACT DETAILS

Bella Musica Edition

distribution@bellamusica.de

Bella Musica Edition (Antes Edition)

Eisenbahnstr. 30

D- 77815 BÜHL

Telephone: +49 (0)7223-98550

Telefax: +49 (0)7223-985566

Return to Index

Reviews from previous months
We welcome feedback on our reviews. Please use the Bulletin Board.  Please paste in the first line of your comments the URL of the review to which you refer.This is the only part of MusicWeb for which you will have to register.


You can purchase CDs, tickets and musician's accessories and Save around 22% with these retailers: