Search - Johann Sebastian Bach, Rosalyn Tureck :: Bach: Well-Tempered Clavier, Book 1

A revelation!!

05/16/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I can't agree with the two previous reviews, which I personally find miss the point of this glorious recording. Both books of Tureck's WTC on the BBC Legends series are outstanding, and for me, these set new standards of excellence, even in such illustrious company as Richter's. The recorded sound is actually fine, and I don't notice any disturbing hiss mentioned by the previous reviewer (perhaps is he/she mistaken with Tureck's 1957 survey on Deutsche Gramaphone?).Tureck's conception of Bach is monumental. She treats each Prelude and Fugue as the grand masterpiece that it is. Whether her interpretations are bold, reverant, ethereal, or lyrical, she gives the impression that Bach can be played no other way. With playing as imaginative, sophisticated, and convincing as Tureck's, one experiences that rare instant when music transcends pleasurable sound to approach philosophy.If I have any reservation, it might be that her tone becomes a bit harsh at times. However, when there is such revelation in these pieces (that have been played and heard so often), one quickly loses oneself in Tureck's world - or Bach's, which arguably are the same thing!By all means, enjoy Richter's magisterial account, but do not miss out on Tureck's greatness!"

Alan in Taiwan

Alan Lee | Taiwan | 03/10/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is definitely among the best performances of WTC. To me, it is top choice if I can only afford one set of WTC. Though the sound is not perfect, the artistic excellence more than makes up for the sound quality. And, as many Bach fans know, a silver sound is not required to bring forth the beauty and glory of Bach's keyboard music. I heartily recommend this set!"

Bach virtuoso

Barbara Mullinix | Buena Vista, VA United States | 01/15/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I was lucky enough to hear her play in concert a long time ago, but I have never forgotten it. These recordings cannot equal the impact of a live performance,of course, but they are a pleasure. She is the musician who made Bach come alive for me."