COMPOSERS: Bach
LABELS: Teldec Das Alte Werk
WORKS: Viola da Gamba Sonata in G, BWV 1027; Viola da Gamba Sonata in D, BWV 1028; Viola da Gamba Sonata in G minor, BWV 1029; Trio Sonata in G, BWV 1039
PERFORMER: Nikolaus Harnoncourt (viola da gamba, cello), Frans Brüggen, Leopold Stastny (flute), Herbert Tachezi (harpsichord)
CATALOGUE NO: 0630-13583-2 ADD (1969)
Harnoncourt’s current status as superstar conductor ought not to make us forget his gifts as a cellist, on both modern and period instruments. These 1968 readings of Bach’s three gamba sonatas (and the alternative version of the G major sonata for two flutes and continuo) are soberly projected and precisely articulated, lacking in fantasy perhaps but nonetheless deeply satisfying, and are further enhanced by a recording balance which, quite rightly, accords the harpsichord equal status with the gamba. A welcome reissue despite the short playing-time. Antony Bye
Bach: Viola da Gamba Sonata in G, BWV 1027; Viola da Gamba Sonata in D, BWV 1028; Viola da Gamba Sonata in G minor, BWV 1029; Trio Sonata in G, BWV 1039
Harnoncourt’s current status as superstar conductor ought not to make us forget his gifts as a cellist, on both modern and period instruments. These 1968 readings of Bach’s three gamba sonatas (and the alternative version of the G major sonata for two flutes and continuo) are soberly projected and precisely articulated, lacking in fantasy perhaps but nonetheless deeply satisfying, and are further enhanced by a recording balance which, quite rightly, accords the harpsichord equal status with the gamba. A welcome reissue despite the short playing-time. Antony Bye
Our rating
5
Published: January 20, 2012 at 1:23 pm