Customer Reviews

Bach: Six Trio Sonatas

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There are a number of recordings that take Bach's set of trio Sonatas for Organ (BWV 525- 530) and transcribe them for other instruments. Bach often did that himself, and with a variety of instrumental combinations. The structure of the pieces lend themselves well to multi-instrument groups; they may have been written as "practice pieces" for one of Bach students/sons, but they are not simple or straighforward; they are quite intricate and have a number of separate discernible parts. King's Consort use of Oboe, oboe d'amore and theorbe add extra color and dimension to these pieces. They're really beautiful, and beautifully played. Additionally, because it is likely Bach used contemporary italian sonatas as his model, they tend to be more roundly crafted and sunnier than some of Bach's other chamber works. The wind instruments highlight this disposition.

This is not a cheap CD (when is Hyperion going to get into the 21st century with their pricing?) but I was easily won over by the quality and beauty of the music making. The CD is 70 minutes long, which is nice as well. The King's Consort is a first class band; I also have their Vivaldi recording of concerti con molti strumenti which is dynamite.

The Bach Trio Sonatas are written for organ. This recording is a transcription of all 6 Trio Sonatas for various combinations of instruments including oboe, violin and organ. Listening to this CD is like discovering riches in this music I didn't know were there! If you like Bach organ music, try it. If you like Bach but not necessarily his organ music, try it! One of the most enjoyable CDs I've heard this past year.

This is one of my favorite pieces...I would definitely recommend this recording. It is a perfect match of performer and music. I listen to it all the time.