Search - Henryk Szeryng :: J.S. Bach: Sonatas & Partitas for Solo Violin [Germany]

Szeryng - The best for Bach - His best recording of these ma

J. Myers | 11/05/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"It is difficult to argue with Henryk Szeryng's interpretation of the Bach Sonatas and Partias. His tone, intelligent phrasing, and heart wrenching musicality bring an incredibly satisfying performance to the table. Mr. Szeryng's playing was always well thought and always tasteful. His performance of the Chaconne is divine and deeply moving which is why I believe this to the definitive recording of the monumental Chaconne. Szeryng recorded two full sets of the Sonatas and Partitas (CBS - 1955) (DGG - 1968). This is the 1955 CBS recording. I own both sets and finds this to be much more enjoyable. Though the recording quality is better in the DGG set, Mr. Szeryng's tone is unsurpassed in the earlier CBS recording. I highly suggest that you invest in these legendary performances. Even if there is a slight price difference between the DGG set and this set it is worth the money."

Slightly more exciting than the later recording

socratic muser | Philadelphia, PA United States | 03/07/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The recording quality is not as good, but the musicality is slightly better and the tempi faster than the later recording. These are recordings that become more and more compelling as you listen to them more and more. Szeryng's expansive tone is quite suitable for Bach, and the care and thoughtfulness with which he interpreted Bach has always impressed me. The later recording gives you a better sense of his tone, but the earlier recording gives you a slightly more musical performance. Szeryng's Bach is like finding a seemingly commonplace but exquisite art. You are fascinated by its cathedral-like beauty and only find more and more to wonder at as time goes on. Recommended for those who listen to Bach often."