Customer Reviews

Bach: Flute Sonatas

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This CD features Rampal at the height of his solo career. Surface listening reveals perfect intonation and rhythm. If one digs a little deeper, one appreciates subtleties of playing that can't be mimicked without considerable talent, e.g. pure tone perfect for Baroque music, perfect attacks and releases, vibrato that varies from fast to slow at just the right moments, delightful phrasing and articulation. I do think that Rampal plays a bit fast in the allegro sections, simply because he can, and is not as true to Baroque flute playing in that regard. The sound quality of the CD itself is very good. I would recommend this to any classical music/flute fan.

This was one of the first CDs I purchased when converting from vinyl back in the dawn of recorded history (well, okay, 1986). Its been treasured ever since. Rampal, in his prime, plus his long-time accomplice Robert Veyron-LaCroix, and several others. After ignoring the program notes for all these years, I was surprised and pleased to discover no less than Jordi Savall as one of these "others"...hardly an "other"!

The playing is tremendous, sprightly and spirited. The total antidote to those who perpetuate the perception of Bach as a dour old man.

I can't comment proficiently on Rampal's tempi or tone relative to more "authentic" renditions of baroque flute music. While his speeds may be faster than typical authentic performances and modern flute timbre different(evident even to a layperson) this doesn't detract in the slightest from its tremendous appeal. Anyway, I've always kindof perceived this CD as a "JS Bach/JP Rampal production." Purists mightn't think they should get equal billing, but they really do.

Lastly, can't beat the price and the generous length. If you like Flute, Bach and Rampal, what's stopping you?

This is a well done recording. Rampal goes through even the most technical parts without almost no signs of struggle. The tone is very expressive and bright. However, the interpretation and overall balance can be better. Many pieces seems to be very fast (especially unaccompanied suite), and harpsichord and viola da gamba are totally dominated by the flute.

I think Frans Bruggen's recording is the best for JS's flute sonatas with more balanced accompaniment.

Hi,

I bought this cd and I love it.
The sound is great, the music is great, this cd is great.
But you should buy this if you realy like Flute, and if you pretend to learn Flute.