Customer Reviews

J.S. Bach: Cantatas, Vol. 2

5 star:		(2)
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Yes, slower tempi when compared to the Erato editions, which are fading slowly from eBay and other sources; however, this slower speed is not bothersome (except for "Kreuz und Krone," which benefited from being a bit faster) when you consider the legitimacy of such in Baroque performances. Perhaps, all will eventually acclimate to authentic performances.

Other than that, choose ye a series. Koopman devotees will argue these cantatas are better than all others, and I shall not challenge them. Hey, if you've got $1200, then plan to get the entire series.

A glorious, full-blooded, rich account of a handfull of great cantatas, set out on three discs. As usual, Koopman's tempi are always excellent, his direction bringing out clarity and color as well as great depth of feeling and a real sense of joy. Soloists' performances are mostly superb, some excellent arias and recitative always very free, never dull. This set or volume one are great for anyone yet to experience the wonder of a Bach cantata.