Notes and Editorial Reviews
CHILL WITH BACH comprises superb Johann Sebastian Bach interpretations selected for their soothing properties. For example, pianist Hae-won Chang plays "Siciliano" from Bach's Piano Concerto in E Major with incredible sensitivity and melodic flow. Her version of this piece relies on subtle dynamic shifts, which in turn create a wonderful depth in the music. Chang's interpretation of this slow movement is profound because of its expressiveness. She avoids the motoric tendency of lesser players and instead brings out the understated symmetry of this melody.
Chen Pi-Hsien's pianistic skills are equally engaging. Performing two themes from the Goldberg Variations, Hsien reveals the harmonic congruity of these themes by also avoiding a
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mechanized approach. Indeed, Hsien embraces the ebb and flow of Bach's counterpoint; this is essential since Bach's music is so openly fugal. In addition to all the tremendous excerpts found here, this collection also contains Bach's famous piece, "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring." Performed by a solo pipe organ, this work contains one of Baroque's most contagious melodies. Read less
Works on This Recording
1.
Goldberg Variations, BWV 988: Theme "Aria" by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performer:
Chen Pi-hsien (Piano)
Period: Baroque
Written: 1741-1742; Nuremberg, Germany
Notes: The work presented here is the aria (the theme) as it appears at the conclusion of the set of the Goldberg Variations, and it is played without the repeats.
6.
Saint Matthew Passion, BWV 244: no 47, Erbarme dich by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performer:
Judit Németh (Alto)
Conductor:
Géza Oberfrank
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Hungarian Radio/TV Children's Chorus,
Hungarian State Symphony Orchestra,
Hungarian Festival Chorus
Period: Baroque
Written: ?1727; Leipzig, Germany
Language: German
8.
Magnificat in D major, BWV 243: Ex exultavit by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performer:
Jayne Whitaker (Soprano)
Conductor:
Jeremy Summerly
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Schola Cantorum Oxford
Period: Baroque
Written: circa 1728-1731; Leipzig, Germany
Language: Latin
10.
Ave Maria by Charles Gounod
Performer:
Nora Shulman (Flute),
Judy Loman (Harp)
Period: Romantic
Written: 1859; France
Notes: This work is based on J.S. Bach's Prelude no 1 in C from 'The Well-Tempered Clavier.'
13.
Suite for Orchestra no 2 in B minor, BWV 1067: Sarabande by Johann Sebastian Bach
Performer:
Karl Kaiser (Flute)
Conductor:
Helmut Müller-Brühl
Orchestra/Ensemble:
Cologne Chamber Orchestra
Period: Baroque
Written: Leipzig, Germany
Notes: Composition written: Leipzig, Germany (1738 - 1739).
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