BACH:
Violin Concerto in A minor
Violin Concerto in E major
Concerto for 2 Violins in D minor
Concerto for Violin & Oboe in C minor
Kennedy (Nigel); Albrecht
Mayer (oboe); Daniel Stabrawa (violin)
Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra
EMI CDC5 57019-2
[59
minutes]
Crotchet
There is no question that Kennedy believes Bach is the greatest of composers.
He has said so when giving his inimitable introductions to encore items at
concerts, and his commitment to Bach's cause is the foundation upon which
these recorded performances is based.
Bach is the most indestructible of composers, and only die-hard 'original
instrument' purists would reject the virtuoso, big-boned style of these
performances. The virtuosity is apparent throughout, both of the soloist(s)
and of course the orchestra. But it is virtuosity in the service of Bach,
not virtuosity for its own sake. Tempi are direct and quick, but articulation
remains clear, so that details are projected. The fine balancing of textures
allows for details to be heard in fully scored passages too.
With the resonant properties of this ensemble, it is no surprise that broad
tempi prevail in the slow movements. Phrasing is sensitively done, and there
is close adherence to dynamic shadings. The pianissimo playing is beautifully
sensitive.
The two double concertos are true partnerships; in neither case does one
sense rivalry between the players. Such an approach would be inappropriate
in Bach, to whom Kennedy and his colleagues pay splendid treatment in this
fine compilation.
Terry Barfoot
