Bach, J.S.: The Welltempered Clavier, Book 1, BWV 846-869
3/26/2021, 48 Tracks, 1:55:43
Featuring
Luca Guglielmi
Johann Sebastian Bach
Did you know?
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Recording & Production
This recording uses an original 1737 harpsichord by Christian Zell, one of only three surviving instruments by the renowned German builder.
Performer Biography
Luca Guglielmi, the harpsichordist, is also a conductor, composer, and musicologist, known for historically informed interpretations and a wide repertoire.
Interpretation
The term 'Wohltemperirt' (well-tempered) in Bach's time referred to various subtly unequal temperaments, not necessarily equal temperament, allowing keys to have distinct 'colors'.
Composition History
Bach continuously revised The Well-Tempered Clavier, keeping it as an 'open manuscript' on his harpsichord until his death in 1750, adding corrections and performance instructions.
Interpretation
This recording applies the insights of Bach's pupil Johann Philipp Kirnberger, who believed fugues were based on dance rhythms, to inform the rhythmic accentuation.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Bach stated his purpose for composing The Well-Tempered Clavier was for the profit of musical youth and the pastime of those already skilled.
Composition History
Bach's The Well-Tempered Clavier, completed in 1722, expanded on Johann Caspar Ferdinand Fischer's Ariadne Musica by including all 24 existing keys.
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