Search - J.S. Bach, Van Tricht :: Bach: Organ Music / Kate van Tricht

The romantic side of Sebastian Bach

Mitchell Crawford | New York, NY | 08/22/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This recording displays five pinnacles of Bach's Organ Works in a vivid, decidedly Romantic, light. Kate van Tricht was an organist who trained with the legendary virtuoso and pedagogue Karl Straube, whose creative edition of some of the great works of Bach had been published by Peeters in the early part of the 20th century. Straube, influenced by the myriad of diverse colors typically available on organs of the period, cultivated performances of Bach that exhibited the utmost in variety, color, and style.



Tricht's interpretation is crafted and molded in the example of her teacher. The performances were recorded when the organist was 89 years old and, while not perfect, are stunning displays of the art of organ playing and interpretation. Her ever changing registration never detract from the notes that Bach sat down onto paper; indeed, they greatly enhance the natural drama of the music.



The value of 'authentic' or 'period' performances can not be underrated. This having been said, I would assert that this recording absolutely affirms that the music of Bach remains monumental, regardless of whether or not it is played on a German Baroque mechanical action instrument, as long as it is played with expressive conviction. Tricht makes this music sing, dance, and soar - and everything in between. Buy it, and prepare to be awed."